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South Melbourne is poised to host a new hotel on the corner of Moray and Dorcas Street, with developer Perri Projects planning to launch the luxury development.

Having gained a footprint onsite during 2005, subsequent land purchases were made allowing Perri Projects to push ahead with the hotel scheme, which entered planning mid last year. With approval in place, Perri Projects are now ramping up their intentions for the site to coincide with a high time in Melbourne's hotel sector, which is enjoying buoyant occupancy rates.

Not too far from the mass of hotels in Melbourne's CBD, but far in terms of design ethos, Perri Projects are positioning the new hotel facility as alternative experience in an urban setting.

Aimed principally at the premium business market, the intended hotel at 185-197 Moray Street will include a pool, gym and business centre, in addition to café/restaurant and bar spaces at ground level. A rooftop function and events centre will crown the six level building.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/south_melbourne_hotel.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hotel accommodation set above an active street frontage. Image: Perri Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="677" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/south_melbourne_hotel.jpg?itok=cDnGBW-C" title="Hotel accommodation set above an active street frontage. Image: Perri Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hotel accommodation set above an active street frontage. Image: Perri Projects</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
There is a distinct lack of new, luxury hotel offerings in this area. The majority of existing hotel stock around St Kilda Road and South Melbourne is now ageing considerably so we’ve identified a real gap in the market for quality, bespoke hotels for business and high-end leisure travellers

The move into the boutique hotel space is closely aligned with our brand and business strategy; we have been working towards this for the past three years. More than a hotel, we envisage this mixed-use development to be a lifestyle destination in South Melbourne including retail, food and beverage, and a rooftop function and events centre.

Our current strategy is to develop and retain a significant portfolio of the retail and commercial facilities in our mixed-use masterplanned developments so we view investing in hotels as an extension of that.

Perri Projects is in early discussions with some of Australia’s premium hospitality groups for partnerships in the restaurant and functions centre. We’re looking at only the best operators to reinforce the sophistication of the precinct
<cite>David Scalzo, Managing Director, Perri Projects</cite>
</blockquote>

Plus Architecture designed the futuristic building which will see the exterior present as a mix of exposed concrete and treated glazing. A special application to the glazing will provide the development with a unique finish across a clean, simple form.

Transitioning from white and solid to clear and luminous, the tiled facade is a novel look with Plus Architecture also intending for these lines and forms to <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au/portfolio/moray-street/">directly relate to their corresponding internal suites</a>.

Moray Street will be Perri Projects' first Melbourne hotel development, with intentions in place to acquire suitably zoned development sites that will add to their local hotel portfolio. Active across Melbourne and Brisbane, Perri Projects have also broken the ice in Queensland with their South City Square development to also include a boutique hotel.
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silvermb

Perri Projects diversify into the hotel sector

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A trio of apartment projects are before City of Melbourne, all seeking the right to add to the inner north's apartment stock. Lodged during September, the trio are also looking to bring a heightened design perspective to their surrounds.

First up and Piccolo Developments are seeking another statement project, with 341-347 Queensberry Street subject to a 13 storey application encompassing 59 apartments. On the back of their award-winning Upper House project, Jackson Clements Burrows Architects have been utilised once more with a similar design outcome.

<blockquote>
The composition of the building mass was conceived through a series of urban design gestures. The first conceptual gesture was based on the acknowledgement of the prominent corner position of the site. 

Punching through the facade are a series of projecting balconies that graduate in depth and width as they travel up the building.
<cite>Town Planning Report: Jackson Clements Burrows Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

On the corner of Queensberry and Peel Streets in North Melbourne, the design has taken inspiration from a handful of existing forms such as Milan's Bosco Verticale and The Bauhaus Building; a 1925 design-based building in the German city of Dessau.

Piccolo Developments intends to split the dwelling numbers between 36 single bedroom and 23 dual bedroom apartments.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image1pic.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Piccolo's next landmark development. Planning image: JCB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="430" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1pic.jpg?itok=ithvqwve" title="Piccolo's next landmark development. Planning image: JCB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Piccolo's next landmark development. Planning image: JCB</figcaption></figure>Plus Architecture are on the radar once more with an angular design effort for 419-421 Spencer Street, West Melbourne. Located within an emerging high-rise precinct, the proposal is of a larger nature and seeks approval for 181 apartments, with internals ranging from 48sqm to 111sqm.

On the corner of Spencer Street and Batman Street, and created for Yarrabank Developments Pty Ltd, the 22 level tower's design is described as follows: 

<blockquote>
The building is split into three to create building separation from the heritage component thus distinguishing it from the tower beside and above. The towers peel away from the heritage building increasing separation, and celebrates the bakery chimneys that line the lobby entrance. This also gives the apartments above the heritage a better view beyond the parapets. 

The two parts of the tower are differentiated in size, form and material. One side facing west, is smaller, angular and brick, which reflects the smaller scale of west Melbourne and its industrial lineage. The other, larger smooth and glazed faces towards the city. This site is therefore a culmination of contradictory relationships between fast and slow, active and inactive, big and small, old and new.

The design response seeks to make best use of and contribute to these context features and fit respectfully within the urban fabric. 
<cite>Plus Architecture : Design Response</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image9_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spencer Street will see additional development. Planning image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="332" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_10.jpg?itok=SPmNdNVK" title="Spencer Street will see additional development. Planning image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Spencer Street will see additional development. Planning image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Finally an existing approved development scheme has gone back to planning as Fridcorp seeks to increase the yield of its development site at 3-15 Shiel Street, North Melbourne.

Total apartments within the scheme have essentially doubled to 124, with a mix of one and two bedroom options planned. Consequently, the overall size of the project has increased, with Elenberg Fraser conceiving a 12 storey building which is similar is size to a number of surrounding projects which have been approved.

<blockquote>
The building has also been designed with reference to ‘Artemis’ - the goddess of the hunt and wilderness. Artemis’ character and fables form the basis of a holistic design narrative which is carried through the architecture, lighting installations and landscape architecture.

The bronze colouring and earthy tones contained in the depictions of Artemis in the design concept inspire the materiality of the architectural expression, and also references the red brick and industrial elements commonly found in the area. 
<cite>Meinhardt: Town Planning Submission</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image15_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new look for Shiel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="380" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15_7.jpg?itok=gnCc4jO1" title="A new look for Shiel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new look for Shiel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>
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City of Melbourne field three high quality development applications

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What to do when there's a crush of apartment developments along Queens Road and St Kilda Road, with each claiming to capture the luxury apartment market?

Go super luxury, of course.

JD Group's Victoriana at 20-22 Queens Road is nearing its launch to market, with the developer looking to tap into the still bubbly luxury apartment market. Victoriana's website is taking registrations of interest from prospective buyers, with one, two, three, four, five and six bedroom apartments on offer.

As seen below, the higher echelon apartments within the development will be something to behold, in sheer size alone.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image49_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="JD Group imagery for Victoriana"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="143" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_4.jpg?itok=tpFrHYQ7" title="JD Group imagery for Victoriana" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>JD Group imagery for Victoriana</figcaption></figure>With advertising hoardings onsite and a display suite in the works, Victoriana will insert itself into a super active development scene along St Kilda Road and Queens Road. At present seven residential towers are at construction, with two additional projects at sales.

20-22 Queens Road holds approval for a 245 lot subdivision, reflecting the number of apartments expected within Victoriana. Set over a 4,598sqm site overlooking the northern tip of Albert Park Lake, Victoriana has a frontage in excess of 60 metres to Queens Road.

The result of the double site is a curving tower designed by RotheLowman. Setbacks to upper levels have allowed for the inclusion of a squadron of individual pools and spas, pointing toward the levels the developer has gone to in order to attract the premium buyer.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9293.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Opera, Arthur and Queens Domain in shot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9293.jpg?itok=BuAEqRjQ" title="Opera, Arthur and Queens Domain in shot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Opera, Arthur and Queens Domain in shot</figcaption></figure>Once Victoriana does launch, it will find itself in an immediate apartment market which has hit top gear.

Such is the popularity of the dual boulevards, six apartment projects are well into construction. While works proper have yet to commence, New Charsfield can be added to the list with builder Hamilton Marino signage onsite, signifying its imminent start.

New Charsfield included, there is in excess of 1,400 apartments under construction along St Kilda Road and Queens Road, with the balance split between The Arthur, Queens Domain, Opera St Kilda Road, Parque, Lakeside and The Fawkner. Both The Arthur and New Charsfield are supplemented by serviced apartment components.

Victoriana joins Palatia and St. Boulevard which are at registrations and/or sales; combined they add another 700 plus dwellings.

Urban.com.au is also tracking a further five developments along St Kilda Road that pump more apartments and serviced apartments into the area. Add the likes of Growland's pending 613 St Kilda Road development and St Kilda Road in particular continues to transform from a commercial strip into a residential developer's paradise.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/st-kilda-rd-1000-e1460537838333.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Growland are seeking a piece of the St Kilda Road action"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/st-kilda-rd-1000-e1460537838333.jpg?itok=4h_6B6In" title="Growland are seeking a piece of the St Kilda Road action" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Growland are seeking a piece of the St Kilda Road action</figcaption></figure>
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Victoriana looks to trump the competition along Queens Road and St Kilda Road

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Not too long after the site was successfully sold, Delta Property Group have moved to launch their latest project dubbed The Point Doncaster Hill.

Formally 600 Doncaster Road, the relevant planning application encompassing 174 apartments was approved by Manningham City Council during May of this year. The permit and site were promptly offered for sale, with Colliers International and GormanKelly sealing the deal during August.

After a short turn around, Delta Property Group have opened registrations of interest for the project which adds to the Footscray-based developers expanding project catalogue.

The design is that of BKK Architects, with landscaping provided by Oculus. A key design feature of The Point Doncaster Hill will be the mature trees placed over the centre of the western facade, with these outdoor spaces set to double as common areas. The plantings will continue down to ground level, where an 'orchard' of sorts will frame the landscape.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image34_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="On point. Image: BKK Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_8.jpg?itok=V4sgVVQf" title="On point. Image: BKK Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>On point. Image: BKK Architects</figcaption></figure>Following on from <a href="/buildings/the-riverside-1-moreland-street-footscray">Riverside</a> on the banks of the Maribyrnong River which is all but complete, The Point Doncaster Hill joins East Brunswick's <a href="/buildings/the-vic-50-victoria-street-brunswick-east">The Vic</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/422-426-riversdale-road-hawthorn-east">422 Riversdale Road</a> within Hawthorn as projects within Delta Property Group's current pipeline.

Approved with 84 one-bedroom, 83 two-bedroom and 7 three-bedroom apartments, The Point Doncaster Hill will be rejigged to include 4 bedroom abodes as well. 

As the project has a commanding position with views over the CBD which are likely to remain long-term, it seems that Delta Property Group has ramped up the project's appeal to what they hope will be a higher end buyer. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image33_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bunnings expected Doncaster outlet. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="263" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image33_8.jpg?itok=7XncpHas" title="Bunnings expected Doncaster outlet. Image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bunnings expected Doncaster outlet. Image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>In other news atop Doncaster Hill, test drilling has commenced on the long-vacant development site owned by Bunnings at 659-669 Doncaster Road. Soil survey is generally a good indicator that a given project is nearing a start.

According to Manningham City Council's planning register, the proposal holds a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit although the final outcome is still listed as in progress. Post its planning submission during 2013, the application has been revised in order to meet a number of concerns, with parking and traffic congestion fears at the forefront of thinking.

Development is likely to <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/east/doncaster-bunnings-to-be-built-next-to-westfield-doncaster/news-story/2a1804f835ce56da0dc9a4cd44c1d8d3">occur over three stages</a>, and it remains to be seen if Bunnings will go it alone in developing the apartments, buddy up with a recognised developer or sell off the development/air rights whilst maintaining a presence over the lower levels.

Not too far away and CEL Australia have recently seen a tower crane adorned with their logo hoisted into the Doncaster skyline. It's been a longer than expected stint between cranes for the developer post the completion of 33M in the CBD. 

CEL Australia's premier development, Tower Melbourne, has been bogged down in legal proceedings for some years, leaving Willow Doncaster as the Singapore-backed firm's sole Melbourne project at construction, with Canny Projects carrying out the construction works.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9624.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Willow Doncaster on the rise"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9624.jpg?itok=8EIDQDNw" title="Willow Doncaster on the rise" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Willow Doncaster on the rise</figcaption></figure>
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Delta gets to the point on Doncaster Hill

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Essendon Station is making a good fist of attracting its fair share of apartment developments. Much like the plethora of apartment projects sprouting up along the Tram 59 route which slices through Essendon/Essendon North, the emergence of multiple apartment projects surrounding Essendon Station speaks to the success of the suburb in attracting new investment and people willing to call the suburb home.

With the mass of investment within Essendon Fields also radiating throughout neighbouring suburbs, Essendon in particular has seen a solid boost to apartment development in recent years, This, coupled with the Essendon Junction Structure Plan has given apartment developers confidence to seek higher density outcomes around the junction/station precinct.

Largest of all is Linc at 15 Russell Street which is mere metres away from Essendon Station's entrance.

Revel Development Group Director, Daniel Caspar recently spoke of the merits of Essendon via circulated comment:

<blockquote>
The gentrification of the Melbourne’s inner ring may have taken some decades to reach suburbs like Essendon, but now that it has, we are seeing greater opportunities for positive, high-density development with a focus on owner occupiers.
We are experiencing strong interest amongst buyers within a three to five-kilometre radius of the inner north-west, who are looking to either upgrade, downsize or enter the market for the first time and are willing to move to Essendon to do so because of its relative affordability.
Acclimatised to the idea of apartment living, these buyers are favourably comparing the suburb’s proximity to the city and quality of amenities with equivalent suburbs in the east and bayside.
<cite>Daniel Caspar, Director, Revel Development Group</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image30_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Linc's outdoor entertaining area. Image: Revel Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image30_9.jpg?itok=1o2HJVgn" title="Linc's outdoor entertaining area. Image: Revel Development Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Linc's outdoor entertaining area. Image: Revel Development Group</figcaption></figure>Linc as the tallest apartment development within Essendon will also boast a number of enhanced features, including a rooftop terrace with views toward the CBD; one of three three separate garden areas within the project. Plus Architecture are responsible for Linc's internal and overall design, with Jack Merlo in charge of outdoor areas.

Linc is not the only development looking to capitalise upon its immediacy to Essendon Station.

Another sizeable planning application is before Moonee Valley City Council, with interests controlling 27 Russell Street looking to replace an Edwardian/Bungalow style house with 61 new apartments set over 9 levels.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image28_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="27 Russell Street seeks to add to the area's increased apartment activity. Image: John Demos Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28_5.jpg?itok=IbZdoAMz" title="27 Russell Street seeks to add to the area's increased apartment activity. Image: John Demos Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>27 Russell Street is at planning. Image: John Demos Architects</figcaption></figure>John Demos Architects has created a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments within the proposal, supported by a new ground floor cafe of 130sqm.

In the immediate area, 93-97 Rose Street is all but complete, Alexandria at 952 Mt Alexander Road has launched its sales drive while 118-120 Buckley Street's display suite is taking shape.

The remainder of the development pipeline surrounding Essendon Station consists of the approved 23-25 Russell Street and the at appeal 81 Rose Street. 47 Rose Street which consisted of a five level residential building was withdrawn from the approvals process last week.

Savills recently moved on a development site at 95 Buckley Street which is capable of accommodating an apartment building under the Essendon Junction Structure Plan. Also in the wings is the possible rejuvenation of the sprawling car park adjoining Essendon Station as part of VicTrack's station precinct development program.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/rose-st-3d-photomatch-left.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rose Street has been subject to increased development activity. Image: Point Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/rose-st-3d-photomatch-left.jpg?itok=_kREX1do" title="Rose Street has been subject to increased development activity. Image: Point Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rose Street has been subject to increased development activity. Image: Point Architects</figcaption></figure>
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Essendon Station fast becoming a magnet for apartment developments

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Minister for Planning Richard Wynne will speak later on today at MPavilion as part of a discussion regarding Melbourne's architectural design and the policy which guides it.

The event is set for a 6:15pm start this evening, and is free for those wanting to attend.

In light of recent discussion surrounding apartment design standards, the direction of Fishermans Bend and so on, Minister Wynne's attendance for the event titled <a href="http://mpavilion.org/program/high-density-happiness-developing-policy/">High Density Happiness: Developing Policy</a> is set to further advance the current debate.

Readers will recognise High Density Happiness as a term coined by progressive Melbourne developer Neometro. Certified as a B-Corporation, Neometro has championed High Density Happiness which essentially highlights the positives that can flow when good design is allowed to flourish in a high density living sense.

Indeed Neometro's James Tutton will form part of the speaking panel, as will Simon Knott of BKK Architects and MAArchitects director Karen Alcock.

Along with Minister Wynne, the primary point of discussion will surround suggested improvements to the design review process, minimum size standards and aesthetic guidelines that would support quality, adaptable and sustainable housing.

The discussion is set to provide insight into how Melburnians will live, in light of pending policy implementations.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/44084961_richardwynne_cr_delwp-copy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Richard Wynne will provide insight at this evening's talk"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/44084961_richardwynne_cr_delwp-copy.jpg?itok=QU9Wn4N4" title="Richard Wynne will provide insight at this evening's talk" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Richard Wynne will provide insight at this evening's talk</figcaption></figure>MPavilion is found within the Queen Victoria Gardens, opposite Southbank's Arts Precinct.

Acting as an events hub and architectural landmark, this years MPavilion is the design of Bijoy Jain from Studio Mumbai. <a href="http://mpavilion.org/program/high-density-happiness-developing-policy/">High Density Happiness: Developing Policy</a> is one of many ebvents to be held at the venue over the coming months.

MPavilion's schedule sees it operate through to February 2017.
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Richard Wynne to speak on design policy at MPavilion this evening

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City of Port Phillip have fielded a fresh planning application that seeks to further expand the footprint of high-density towers away from St Kilda Junction.

Bound by St Kilda Road and Blanche Street, 331-335 St Kilda Road would sit south of Inkerman Street, and appear as the only building of its size in the area. Immediate apartment projects that have come to fruition along Inkerman Street sit within the 5-7 level range.

Developer Beacon Builders are behind the proposal which was submitted during August, and see architects Bird de la Coeur take the design lead. Thus far Moonee Ponds' LEX Apartments with 56 dwellings ranks among Beacon Builders more notable projects.

<h2>331-335 St Kilda Road application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image9_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the proposed building. Plannin image: BDLC"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="353" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_9.jpg?itok=rFR7HoG6" title="Artist's impression of the proposed building. Plannin image: BDLC" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the proposed building. Plannin image: BDLC</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>2,543sqm site currently utilised as a Habitat HQ hostel</li>
	<li>Proposed dual buildings of 6 and 13 levels/39.6 metres</li>
	<li>156 dwellings: 3 x studio, 51 x 1BR, 99 x 2BR, 3 x 3BR</li>
	<li>Single retail/cafe space of 61sqm</li>
	<li>Three basement levels include 157 car parks, 175 bicycle bays, nine motorcycle bays and 156 stores</li>
	<li>Outdoor recreational area to the western boundary</li>
</ul>
In preparing the application's town planning report, Meinhardt Group assert the following:

<blockquote>
The proposal is consistent with the strategic planning policy for the area established by the relevant State and Local Policies of the Port Phillip Planning Scheme. The development addresses the strategic directions and policy objectives through supporting a diversity of housing on a strategic redevelopment site within good proximity to transport, services and facilities, and respecting the residential interface along Blanche Street through a lower built form and responsive articulation and design to reference the streetscape rhythm.

The overall height is considered reasonable having regard to the strategic significance of St Kilda Road, the limited amenity impacts caused by the proposed height, the context of the surrounding area which includes land identified for significant redevelopment within the Mixed Use Zone and Commercial 1 Zone, the existing apartment buildings approved within the precinct, the quality design aesthetic.
<cite>Town planning report for 331-335 St Kilda Road, Meinhardt Group</cite>
</blockquote>

Visually 331-335 St Kilda Road is broken to represent a solid base, which transitions to a perforated top. Brick is prevalent over lower levels and is reflective of the surrounding urban context. The proposal's upper levels feature vertical fins assembled across the facade with a series of colour changes designed to break the building's bulk and appearance.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image16_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="331-335 St Kilda Road compared to the area's tallest approved tower"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="288" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16_8.jpg?itok=M24kPiTT" title="331-335 St Kilda Road compared to the area's tallest approved tower" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>331-335 St Kilda Road compared to the area's tallest approved tower</figcaption></figure>In recent years a crop of mid and high-rise apartment buildings have sprung up closer to St Kilda Junction. At present the largest approved building in the area is Plus Architecture's <a href="/new-apartments/8-12-punt-road-st-kilda">8-12 Punt Road</a> which covers 96m and encompasses 203 dwellings.

331-335 St Kilda Road's height and location well south of the Junction makes it a trailblazer of sorts.

Should it gain approval it would likely set a precedent for future developable plots in the vicinity, in terms of height expectations and overall density. Beacon Builders at the very least hope that their application may well become a new design beacon within St Kilda.
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A new beacon for St Kilda?

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One of the city's more significant design contributions has taken its place within the grounds of Melbourne University.

In the heart of the <a href="/new-apartments/parkville-vic-3052">Parkville</a> campus, the new Arts West Redevelopment was unveiled at the turn of September and primarily consists of a new $66 million teaching and learning building. Arts West also shapes as a key placemaking project, allowing the immediate area to tie-in by way of a newly landscaped plaza which references surrounding buildings.

The building itself which is the work of both <a href="/architects/arm-architecture">ARM Architecture</a> and <a href="/architects/architectus">Architectus</a>, is adorned by flat metal bands that are seen as a topographical form from ground level. When viewed from a distance, a relief over the facade depicts <a href="https://arts-west.arts.unimelb.edu.au/arts-west-exterior/arts-west-facade-competition">artefacts typical of the bronze work found in the Luristan region</a> of Iran dating between 900 and 700 BC.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9382.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Arts West exterior"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9382.jpg?itok=l6yCcx5F" title="Arts West exterior" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Arts West exterior</figcaption></figure>With sections of the building yet to open, the seven-level complex provides a new home of the Bachelor of Arts. According to the <a href="https://arts-west.arts.unimelb.edu.au/#teaching-and-learning">project's webpage</a>, "The new spaces have been purpose designed, and include facilities for collaborative and project-based learning, interactive learning (including a cinema- quality interactive theatre), a media laboratory, and lecture and discursive spaces.

There are two specialised teaching rooms to combine the great potential for object-based learning presented by the Cultural Collections with our responsibilities for the care and conservation of these precious objects."

Arts West has also eyed off a 5 star Green Star Education v1 Design rating.

A recessed ground level looks to reference existing stone archways within the Parkville campus, albeit with more modern materials.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9378.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Arts West's recessed ground level"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9378.jpg?itok=hnKEULlO" title="Arts West's recessed ground level" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Arts West's recessed ground level</figcaption></figure>The surrounding area consists of new spaces, with extensive seating and planting softening the project's edge. Visible along the Arts West perimeter is an embossed concrete path which references the Wurundjeri people.

The new landscape works are in the process of being extended to the Melbourne Brain Centre, providing an enhanced link between the two buildings.

In terms of sustainability, Arts West reflects Melbourne University's drive to become a far more sustainable campus. Initiatives such as natural ventilation, water capture and thermal control all aid the building in its goal of achieving a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to an equivalent BCA code compliant building.

See further images of Melbourne University's Arts West redevelopment below.
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Arts West fits best for Melbourne University

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The last week has seen two noteworthy commercial leasing deals unveiled as major tenants secure space for their operations.

The latest sees Cbus Property add another premium tenant to their Collins Arch project, with HWL Ebsworth Lawyers taking near on 6,500sqm of space alongside initial tenant King &amp; Wood Mallesons. Following last week's official ground breaking ceremony held onsite, HWL Ebsworth Lawyers' arrival now sees 30% of total commercial space within the project accounted for.

Securing levels 8-10, the HWL Ebsworth Lawyers deal leaves roughly 30,000sqm of commercial space as still available within the uniquely shaped skyscraper. Cbus Property will seek to secure further commercial commitments for Collins Arch which will be completed during 2019.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cbusproperty_collinsarch_hero_image1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Collins Arch's commercial component has received a further boost"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="416" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cbusproperty_collinsarch_hero_image1.jpg?itok=dwUr2GL9" title="Collins Arch's commercial component has received a further boost" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Collins Arch's commercial component has received a further boost</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We are delighted to have committed to what we believe will be the most impressive building to be constructed in Melbourne in recent memory, clearly a future landmark. Collins Arch will boast amenities and environmental credentials that mirror the standards expected by a firm like ours and by our quality clients.

447 will offer both the high quality and attractive location we want for our staff.
<cite>Juan Martinez, Managing Partner, HWL Ebsworth Lawyers</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Securing our second tenant, resulting in 30% of the commercial space already committed, really solidifies the importance business leaders are placing on workplaces of the future,

Targeting Melbourne’s first WELL-rated building, we are proud to offer a truly remarkable precinct, with leading design at all levels
<cite>Adrian Pozzo, Chief Executive Officer, Cbus Property</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
This prestige site is easily the most envious location for office space in Melbourne right now, if not Australia.

An external terrace on level nine fronting onto Collins Street presented a rare opportunity for the new tenants who have shown they value not only location but amenities, which will enhance the working environment and assist them in attracting and retaining leading legal talent.
<cite>Andrew Beasley, National Director of Office Leasing, Colliers International</cite>
</blockquote>

The HWL Ebsworth Lawyers deal follows on from <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/commercial/qic-wins-macquarie-for-landmark-collins-st-tower-20161005-grvceu#ixzz4MFzmw1l9">last week's reporting</a> that QIC are poised to land Macquarie Group for their long-delayed 80 Collins Street.

With Multiplex signage adorning the vacant site for some time, construction now looks increasingly likely to begin in earnest following AFR's reporting of the lease deal. Macquarie Group is expected to have firmed on 6,000sqm within the Woods Bagot-designed commercial tower, which shapes as being on of the tallest delivered in Melbourne since the commercial boom of the early 1990's.

The pending deal with Macquarie Group bolsters the project, which also features a reworked retail podium surrounding Nauru House and a hotel fronting Little Collins Street. Singapore-based SilverNeedle have taken rights over the hotel component, with the suites to be operated under their NEXT Hotel brand.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0241.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="664 Collins Street moving on up"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0241.jpg?itok=aIJ7CwZ_" title="664 Collins Street moving on up" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>664 Collins Street moving on up</figcaption></figure>Melbourne's commercial construction activity is tracking on an upward curve.

Rialto's regeneration and Mirvac's 664 Collins Street have been the only projects of note under construction and north of the Yarra for some time, with Mirvac also approaching completion for PwC's tenancy at 2 Riverside Quay on Southbank.

With a host of commercial projects in the pipeline, the commencement of Collins Arch and the likelihood of 80 Collins Street forging ahead will also serve to boost commercial construction activity which has taken a back seat to Melbourne's residential boom in recent years
</body></html>

Commercial intentions fall into place as Cbus Property secures another tenant for Collins Arch

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It's a great time if you happen to be in the market for an ultra-luxury abode withinin one of Melbourne's premier apartment projects. There's no shortage of choice, with some of the more recent releases to the market looking to set new benchmarks for size, price and overall luxury.

Hot on the heels of Mirvac unveiling The Grand Pavilion Penthouse within their Eastbourne development, Optimus Developments are preparing to release K1 Residences.

What makes the K1 Residences unique is that every dwelling within the project spans an entire floor; 13 levels and 13 apartments. Located off St Kilda Road, Optimus Developments have chosen to put the rare offering to market.

The project's smallest residence measures a spacious 175sqm, with every apartment afforded 360 degree views. K1 Residences' penthouse will also include a 135sqm terrace and rooftop lap pool.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image18_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="K1 Residences. Images: DE atelier Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="404" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_11.jpg?itok=gye5IlXb" title="K1 Residences. Images: DE atelier Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>K1 Residences. Images: DE atelier Architects</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Fully delivered by Optimus Developments, we believe that K1 Residences will set a new benchmark for innovation and elegance in Melbourne. These are sophisticated and generous homes, with a sense of expansiveness that will embrace you upon arrival.

The apartments will feel like grand established mansions with private gardens.
<cite>Andrew Karpati, Chief Executive Officer, Optimus Developments</cite>
</blockquote>

While K1 Residences shapes as a project devoted entirely to penthouse-style dwellings, Mirvac's Grand Pavilion Penthouse shapes as the ultimate offering to the market. Set above the Eastbourne which will account for what is now the Dallas Brooks Centre, the Grand Pavilion Penthouse is a collaboration between Bates Smart and Mirvac Design.

The numbers for the Grand Pavilion Penthouse are impressive with 507 square metres of internal living space, supplemented by a 301 square metre terrace. Outdoor features include an 11 metre long transparent perspex sided pool and spa, and 50m frontage to the Fitzroy Gardens.

Set 11 levels above the street, Mirvac have now opened a tender process for the dwelling, with interested buyers having until mid-November to log their interest.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image21_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Grand Pavilion. Image: Mirvac"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="246" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_10.jpg?itok=D5E5DIaL" title="The Grand Pavilion. Image: Mirvac" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Grand Pavilion. Image: Mirvac</figcaption></figure>Split between two wings, the Grand Pavilion Penthouse's west wing holds the master bedroom, walk in robes, ensuite, study, retreat and gym which can adapt to become a 5th bedroom. With either wing split between a central living/dining area, the eastern wing is devoted to the three remaining bedrooms, each with its own en suite and an additional bathroom.

The Grand Pavilion Penthouse also comes with parking for six vehicles and a Living Collection experience which includes an all-inclusive butler service, Pet au Pair and art curator provided over the course of a year.
While Mirvac's Grand Pavilion Penthouse shapes as Melbourne's best, competition is likely to come by way of Crown Resorts/Schiavello's One Queensbridge project. According to <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property/knight-frank-to-market-one-queensbridge/news-story/5607dcec8e5f8731963edd4b9e3111a8">The Australian</a>, the tower set for the banks of the Yarra will become Melbourne's first super prime development.

With a six star hotel included, One Queensbridge's private residences are also set to attain a similar level of luxury.
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Melbourne's new rash of penthouses continue to set the benchmark

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a> has officially lodged plans for its first Gold Coast apartment project since the departure of the Abedian family from the company three years ago, unveiling a new high-rise proposal for a prominent Broadbeach corner site on Old Burleigh Road.

The application was submitted by an entity directed by Tom Jamieson, stepson of longtime Sunland leader Soheil Abedian, and Riaz Rezvanipour, brother-in-law of Sahba Abedian, Soheil’s son.

Sunland acquired the 1,283 sqm site on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Armrick Avenue for $9.5 million late last year and is now seeking approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-101-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">42-storey tower with 81 apartments</a>.

<img alt="First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fea2946d-90ee-4cfc-babe-2a8ad5db2cb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers.png?VersionId=BV0fihJw31nDIQ8ozY_h3GbS8mxDyhnm" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, the proposed tower at 99-101 Old Burleigh Road would deliver a predominantly larger-format apartment mix aimed at the owner-occupier market. Plans include 17 two-bedroom apartments, 55 three-bedroom apartments, and nine four-bedroom residences across 35 residential levels.

The development also incorporates three basement levels, four podium parking levels, two levels of communal recreation facilities, and rooftop plant and equipment. A total of 189 car spaces are proposed, significantly exceeding the 90 spaces required under the planning scheme.

The architecture adopts a sculpted, curvilinear form, with deep wraparound balconies and integrated landscaping intended to soften the tower’s vertical expression. The planning report states the building’s “slender footprint/form provides a complimentary yet varied built form within the local streetscape” and contributes to “a varied, yet ordered skyline.”

Contreras Earl noted in its Architectural Statement that from the early stages, the project addressed a fundamental challenge: how to accommodate the required residential yield while avoiding the conventional model of a tower sitting on a rigid, fully resolved parking podium.

“The most direct response would have been to consolidate parking into a singular, flat podium and extrude a repetitive tower above,” the statement said. “While efficient, this approach would result in a consolidated built form with limited engagement with the surrounding landscape and public realm.”

Instead, the conventional podium model was “deliberately rejected”. The architects described the base of the building as “a landscaped architectural condition where structure, planting and circulation are integrated”.

“Rather than presenting a continuous built mass, the base of the building is articulated through a series of concrete planter elements that organise the podium into a fragmented system,” the statement said. “This approach reduces the perceived bulk of the lower levels while establishing a more permeable interface with the streetscape and adjacent open space.”

<img alt="Sunland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="923fad8d-c960-4527-8fbe-975cf1ddf88d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%2010.32.03%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pngwb0hYOIUpq9vDw6F2EsOiVuHF3DiX" />

&nbsp;

The site sits within the High Density Residential Zone and inside the City of Gold Coast’s unrestricted “HX” building height area, where the planning framework anticipates intensified residential development tied to the expanding light rail corridor. The planning report notes the area is undergoing “transition toward more intense development forms” given its proximity to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and high-frequency public transport infrastructure.

Positioned directly opposite Broadbeach Park and within walking distance of Florida Gardens light rail station, the development would sit among a rapidly evolving stretch of Old Burleigh Road that has become one of the Gold Coast’s most active apartment development corridors.

The application joins a growing pipeline of luxury residential projects reshaping Broadbeach, including nearby developments by 5Point Projects, Polycell, and Graya.

The planning report argues the project contributes toward the Gold Coast’s long-term housing targets under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, which forecasts the need for more than 100,000 additional high-rise dwellings across the city by 2046.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-4" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-1" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-1" dir="auto">
The Abedian family departed Sunland Group in late 2023, ending a four-decade association with the company, and subsequently established the private development firm Abedian &amp; Co. The group is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/greenmount-residences-cnr-hill-street-and-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Greenmount Residences</a> at Rainbow Bay and recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/18-mary-avenue-14-18-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">18 Mary Avenue</a> in Broadbeach.
</section>

Joel Robinson

First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach new apartment market with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans

The Minns Labor Government has established the new Bays West Delivery Authority to lead the development&nbsp;of the Bays West Precinct and Blackwattle Bay Precinct.&nbsp;

The Authority is charged with creating Sydney’s newest precinct, a thriving, connected, sustainable hub with White Bay Power Station as its cultural heart. Its vision is to build on the area’s natural, cultural and industrial history to shape a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The precinct will deliver up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes. Combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years, while retaining important deep-water facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

The Bays West Delivery Authority,&nbsp;an agency of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, will report to the NSW Minister for Lands and Property who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo.

As part of the broader Bays West transformation, the Minns Government recently announced that a proposal from Lendlease to redevelop part of the Bays West Precinct has progressed to Stage 2 of the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ed71eb9-d8e8-4fa7-b9d1-de4531dcf2f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%209.42.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=IDryFIbped9SNDg72LEN_EecvhUsOPvp" />

The Minns Labor Government has also confirmed the Bays West precinct will have a new suburb name. This will be the first major suburb built in close proximity to Sydney’s CBD in decades and will encompass the area currently being referred to as Bays West, including Glebe Island and the White Bay Power Station. Served by a new Metro station just five minutes from the CBD, it will become one of the most populous suburbs in the Inner West and one of Sydney’s premier cultural destinations.

An early works program is taking shape, which&nbsp;includes the first stages of an international design competition.&nbsp;

The aim of the Bays West&nbsp;International&nbsp;Design Competition is to&nbsp;ensure design excellence is embedded in the project from the start. The competition will deliver an&nbsp;urban framework that defines the character, ambition and long-term identity of&nbsp;this&nbsp;former industrial precinct as it transitions to a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable residential&nbsp;neighbourhood.

The competition will be led by the Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW.&nbsp;

It will launch with an invitation for a global Expressions of Interest, before moving to an invitation-only stage that will be assessed by a panel that&nbsp;will provide advice to Cabinet who will select a winner.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns said the establishment of the new Authority is the first step in transforming the Bays West precinct into a vibrant, livable suburb minutes from the Sydney CBD and two stops from Hunter St Station on the Metro West line.

“The Authority will deliver well-located homes close to the heart of the city and integrate the new precinct with Blackwattle Bay and the new Sydney Fish Market.

“This is a generational opportunity to build a new suburb on the city’s edge and open the harbour foreshore to the public for the first time in a century.”&nbsp;

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the new Bays West Delivery Authority established by the Minns Government will turbocharge the development of Sydney’s newest suburb.

“The Authority is working at a record pace to deliver an international design competition, planning pathways and a financial model so that this development benefits Sydney with well-designed homes in a central location, close to public transport, jobs, entertainment and essential services.

“If we want Sydney to stay liveable and affordable, we need to be bold about using underutilised government-owned land to deliver homes for the future while making sure essential working harbour functions can be accommodated.”

Bays West Delivery Authority established to "turbocharge" Sydney’s newest suburb

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

Mark Baljak

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