<html><body>
It is a sign of the current segmented apartment market that many of Melbourne's entrenched apartment developers have sought to tap into the luxury top tier of the market in favour of further rolling out larger projects.

Indeed there is something of a crush for the premuim buyer as developers seek to differentiate their projects in what is a smaller yet more lucrative and prestigious sector. Enter Perri Projects who have sought to instill a new level of innovative design within their new project dubbed The Englefield.

Urban.com.au recently spoke with Perri Projects'  ‎Managing Director David Scalzo on what it takes to lure luxury buyers, and on the future intent of the developer which has greatly expanded its property portfolio over recent years.

In the face of stiff competition within the premium apartment market, Perri Projects have initiated Tailored Living Solutions (TLS); applied to The Englefield the developer expects that it will provide a point of difference in the marketplace. Targeted at high-end owner-occupiers, TLS centres around the relationship between technology and service.

Created after a period of research on high-end apartment buildings both locally and overseas, David Scalzo believes that TLS is most appropriate for small, high-end residences where a concierge is not cost effective. This is the case for The Englefield with only seven oversized apartments on offer.

<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/image51_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Woods Bagot have created The Englefield"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image51_3.jpg?itok=SyafIu8d" title="Woods Bagot have created The Englefield" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Woods Bagot have created The Englefield</figcaption></figure>Whilst not new in its fundamentals, TLS is unique in how it packages a variety high-end mod-cons together with a valet service.

Essentially each apartment will have valet access where the technology inside each dwelling allows the occupant to organise valet services such as dry cleaning, item delivery or the like. This is achieved via a valet cabinet where service providers are given a one-time code which unlocks the valet cabinet.

David Scalzo believes that the TLS system provides residents with ease of convenience, yet without the ongoing costs of a permanent concierge that are not justified in a project of limited apartment numbers. 

Hand in hand with the valet service is the implementation of technology control to all apartments. Heating, cooling and lighting are controlled by remote access, whilst also being capable of interfacing with other areas of the building, allowing for state-of-the-art automation which affords residents the ability to create a perfectly attuned environment.

It's the considered implementation of the finer points which David Scalzo believes discerns one luxury project from the other, and shrewd prospective buyers are well aware of this.

<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/image50_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Melbourne shapes as a future project"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="461" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image50_0.jpg?itok=tmdbNzcK" title="West Melbourne shapes as a future project" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Melbourne shapes as a future project</figcaption></figure>Asked if Tailored Living Solutions would be applied to all future projects, David Scalzo states it will be but in varying degrees. 

West Melbourne Waterfront is a pending development which will have a high amount of retail and the tailored living concept will be altered to fit accordingly. Residents will in all likelihood have the ability to interface with the development's tenancies allowing for the ordering of goods and services. 
Also on the radar is another project within South Yarra and a proposed hotel located on Moray Street, South Melbourne. Along with numerous Brisbane apartment projects, the expected 4.5 Star boutique 80 South Melbourne room hotel forms the backbone of Perri Projects' future development pipeline.
</body></html>

silvermb

In the pursuit of luxury: Urban.com.au talks to Perri Projects

<html><body>
The Federation Square of Melbourne's east? When put in those terms City of Casey's Bunjil Place takes on a project of strong social significance for both the municipality and Melbourne at large.

With as many as 12 individual spaces within the Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp-designed civic project, the construction process is naturally as intricate as the building itself. Under the guidance of Brookfield Multiplex construction has hit full stride a second tower crane recently installed.

Additionally, the <a href="http://bunjilplace.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Construction-update-May-2016-WEB.pdf">official May project update</a> shows that the concrete structure for a large part of the site has reached ground level.

<blockquote>
Next up we’ll be pouring the studio slab, first level of the theatre seating and first suspended slab, including the function centre, kitchen and part of the City of Casey Customer Service Centre. Work is also being undertaken to prepare for the below ground substation and tank room slabs and the first of the pre-cast panels for the fly tower are being installed.
<cite><a href="http://bunjilplace.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Construction-update-May-2016-WEB.pdf">Bunjil Place Construction Update 05</a></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/img_4155.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bunjil Place under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4155.jpg?itok=kFbum3TK" title="Bunjil Place under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bunjil Place under construction</figcaption></figure>According to Root Projects which is acting as project manager and superintendent, spaces and services slated for $125 million Bunjil Place include:

<ul>
<li>An 800 seat performing arts centre covering 3,500sqm with associated front of house and foyer, green rooms, fly tower, orchestra pit, rehearsal and technical services.</li>
	<li>500sqm art gallery and 500sqm multi-purpose studio.</li>
	<li>Community library and meeting rooms and civic customer service centre covering 1950sqm.</li>
	<li>Cafe and kitchen.</li>
	<li>Basement and at-grade car parks, loading docks, service areas and storage.</li>
	<li>Council service area incorporating reception service desk, call centre, meeting booths, meeting rooms and foyer.</li>
	<li>Council office accommodation.</li>
	<li>Council function venue and support spaces capable of seating 350 people.</li>
	<li>5000sqm open space are and community plaza.</li>
</ul>
<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/fjmt.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a completed Bunjil Place. Image: Architecture AU"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fjmt.jpg?itok=EpA8p-cN" title="Artist's impression of a completed Bunjil Place. Image: Architecture AU" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a completed Bunjil Place. Image: Architecture AU</figcaption></figure>As part of a AECOM event held yesterday outlining timber construction applications, Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp Principal Geoff Croker outlined the extensive role that timber will play in the final appearance of Bunjil Place.

Most prominent is the continuous timber lamella that will span the building's ground level ceiling with the project's foyer also framed by the dipping structure. The lamella shapes as a feat of engineering with a Swiss firm also involved in the design and engineering of the prefabricated structure which will be assembled onsite.

With timber and steel prominent externally, the building will also employ a curved glass façade allowing for a high degree of transparency.

A community plaza will be the centrepiece of Bunjil Place's external amenities.

<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/image4_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bunjil Place under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="237" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_6.jpg?itok=AKYXqZGA" title="Bunjil Place under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bunjil Place under construction</figcaption></figure><a href="http://www.brookfieldmultiplex.com/bunjil-place-ready-to-rise-with-brookfield-multiplex/">Brookfield Multiplex</a> expect the 24,500sqm building to create more than 1,200 job opportunities while at construction and inject approximately $83.5 million into the regional economy plus $151.8 million into the Victorian economy.

Bunjil Place is due for completion in late 2017 and will reportedly attract in excess of 1 million visitors per annum.

The civic precinct is not the only project of note under construction in Casey with the nearby $120 million St John of God Berwick Hospital also sporting dual tower cranes in addition to those of Bunjil Place's; a rare sight indeed for the municipality which is 50 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD.
</body></html>

The Federation Square of Melbourne's east takes shape

<html><body>
In the truest sense it may not be a skyscraper yet a revised proposal located at 696-708 Elizabeth Street most definitely fulfills the 'squeezy' criteria.

<a href="/news/at-arms-length-696-708-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Previously covered by Urban.com.au in its initial guise,</a> the proposed residential building was and remains remarkable for its proximity to a neighbouring residential building currently under construction. Whilst the initial version fell short of both Council and VCAT's expectations, a revised design by ARM Architecture is seeking planning approval.

Located on a gateway site fronting Haymarket roundabout with sight lines directly down Flemington Road, ARM Architecture's response to the initial ruling has been to refine the building's exterior with the intention of creating a landmark project.

<h2>696-708 Elizabeth Street 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/image6_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 696-708 Elizabeth. Planning image: ARM Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="305" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_7.jpg?itok=0UiqGC2l" title="Artist's impression of 696-708 Elizabeth. Planning image: ARM Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 696-708 Elizabeth. Planning image: ARM Architecture</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current use: two storey heritage building utilised as commercial space spread over a 380sqm site</li>
	<li>Proposed: 22 level residential tower at 75 metres</li>
	<li>Restoration of 708 Elizabeth </li>
	<li>80 apartments: 61 x 1BR, 19 x 2BR</li>
	<li>Ground: 48sqm café &amp; 148sqm office space</li>
	<li>Zero car parking and provision for 25 bicycles</li>
	<li>Anticipated project value: $15 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>VCAT provides hope</h2>

In its ruling on the initial design which was submitted during September 2014 for prospective developer Jobs Australia Pty Ltd, VCAT did leave the door ajar for site development acknowledging 696-708 Elizabeth Street as “a unique opportunity to make a valuable contribution to one of Melbourne’s gateways, building on the role played by the heritage building and the emerging built form character.”

According to VCAT two key factors led to the rejection of the application:

<ul>
<li>The integration of the proposed tower building with the retained sections of the bank did not produce an acceptable heritage outcome</li>
	<li>The relationship between the proposed development and the Royal Elizabeth apartment building was not an acceptable urban design response as the two buildings “appear to be attached.”</li>
</ul>
Conversely, VCAT in its ruling made reference to the growing number of projects within the ‘City North’ precinct, citing 696-708 Elizabeth Street as a site capable of development whilst enhancing the heritage elements of the current structure onsite.

<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/image5_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The tyranny of distance. Planning image: ARM Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="300" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5_6.jpg?itok=e6bwe6tZ" title="The tyranny of distance. Planning image: ARM Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The tyranny of distance. Planning image: ARM Architecture</figcaption></figure><h2>Design highlights</h2>

With a revised planning application currently under consideration, projects highlights as defined within planning documents include:

<ul>
<li>Architecturally designed wind amelioration structure to skirt the bottom of level 5 of the building, above a heritage setting.</li>
	<li>The podium levels have an active presence to Elizabeth Street and Pelham Street with office space and retail </li>
	<li>The façade of the existing heritage building will be retained and restored, with a significant ‘gap’ between the heritage building ensuring that the tower form is separated from the heritage building element</li>
	<li>Services have been located within the roof of the building which will ensure no adverse impacts on the streetscape. </li>
</ul>
Externally the building would see a metal diagrid weave employed over a curved tower form, designed to mimic the form of the nearby Haymarket roundabout.

<h2>Heritage considerations</h2>

Revised plans for the project have sought to better amplify the presence of the existing Commercial Bank of Australia heritage building relative to the initial development proposal.

A more pronounced difference between the existing and proposed built form appears by way of an apron set above the existing building. The form of the proposed tower is also setback further in order to aid in visual separation.

"The proposal seeks to reinforce the prominence of this 19th century corner building which is an important part of the overall design response. The design has sought to locate the residential lobby towards Elizabeth Street, effectively opening up the building to this main street and surrounding public spaces." 

Along with a revised tower shape and external appearance, the development team hopes to gain a different planning outcome on their second attempt.

<h2>696-708 Elizabeth Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Jobs Australia Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: ARM Architecture</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Wastech</li>
	<li>Wind Assessment: Vipac Engineers &amp; Scientists</li>
	<li>Environmentally Sustainable Design: Simpson Kotzman</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering Assessment: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Heritage Advice: Bryce Raworth</li>
	<li>Environmental Site Assessment: Kleinfelder</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Elizabeth Street's squeezy scraper returns to planning

<html><body>
Australian Catholic University (ACU) have begun the process of major renewal for their Fitzroy campus by way of seeking development plan approval for a comprehensive overhaul that will cater for expanding student and staff numbers.

Currently before Yarra City Council and created in conjunction with architecture firm Lyons, the development plan is set to act as a guide for future planning permit applications covering approximately half the sprawling site which has principal frontages to both Victoria Street and Brunswick Street.

115 Victoria Street which also fronts Napier Street encompasses the first stage of the campus development, with a new multi-level building set to replace a current at-grade car park.

<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/image1acu.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aeriaql perspective of ACU's Fiztroy campus. Planning image: ACU"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="639" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1acu.jpg?itok=63iP6rtS" title="Aeriaql perspective of ACU's Fiztroy campus. Planning image: ACU" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aeriaql perspective of ACU's Fiztroy campus. Planning image: ACU</figcaption></figure>Up to seven basement car park levels will replace the existing 50 car parking spaces onsite, with 15 levels expected above. The lower floors of the tower will be dedicated toward teaching and learning purposes, with office and conference absorbing the remaining space.

115 Victoria Street is also expected to be linked to the adjoining Mary Gowery Building, with 5 additional levels to that building also in the works. Also on the agenda is an air bridge that will connect the revamped Mary Gowery Building with ACU's most recent build, the <a href="http://ttthinc.com.au/projects/australian-catholic-university/">Daniel Mannix Building</a> which was completed during 2012.

A low-rise building fronting Young Street and Little Napier Street is also slated for construction as part of the development plan.

Outlined in the above aerial but not covered in the current development plan is 81-89 Victoria Parade which currently sees modular tutorial rooms in place. The prime site on the corner of Brunswick and Victoria site is also expected to eventually hold a tower, with previous approval in place for a 14 level mixed-use development which was never acted upon.

<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/image2acu.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected massing for 115 Victoria Street. Planning image: ACU"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="215" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2acu.jpg?itok=hYLGp-Ty" title="Expected massing for 115 Victoria Street. Planning image: ACU" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Expected massing for 115 Victoria Street. Planning image: ACU</figcaption></figure>Hand in hand with ACU's new built form will be a fundamental change to the precinct's ground level format in order to facilitate a better public realm experience.

Vehicle access may be altered to both Young Street and Napier Street while a new internal campus hub will be created at ground level within the precinct, in order to facilitate improved pedestrian movements around the campus and link the campus together and to the surrounding street network. ACU expects this will provide a safer and more inviting environment.

The campus hub will be at the intersection of north-south and east-west spines which will act as pedestrians thoroughfares. A comprehensive landscape master plan has also been created for the campus.

It's expected that changes to ACU's Fiztroy campus are to be implemented over the next decade.
</body></html>

ACU lays out its future growth plans

<html><body>
Cbus Property has appointed agent Savills to handle the sale of the hotel portion of their pending 447 Collins Street development.

With the overall value of the urban renewal project tipped to exceed $1.25 billion, Cbus Property will look to capitalise upon the booming Melbourne hotel sector by offering the pre-purchase of a new 294 room 5 star luxury hotel which forms part of the overall development.

The project has maintained a high degree of public interest of late owing to the project's design impetus and the altogether public manner in which its planning process has transpired.

With the hotel component designated a 435 Collins Street address, the successful buyer will inherit the freehold title over the property and can expect Cbus Property to oversee the turn-key delivery of the hotel with a targeted completion date of Q4 2019.

<h2>Hotel facilities</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/imagepreview_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a typical hotel suite. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imagepreview_1.jpg?itok=_eDy9xyR" title="Artist's impression of a typical hotel suite. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a hotel suite. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure>As noted 435 Collins Street will hold 294 hotel suites with three separate configurations on offer: Standard, Junior Suite and King Suite. The smallest suites within the project begin at 37sqm and increase to 86sqm for the largest King suite.

An average of 24 suites are spread over each floor, with 12 levels dedicated to hotel accommodation which will be set above a double height vaulted lobby with multiple entrances.

435 Collins Street's indicative hotel area schedule also sees a raft of facilities attached to the hotel. An all-day restaurant and hotel bar are slated for ground level while Level 1 will include a 529sqm ballroom, function room and meeting room.

More typical amenities such as 223sqm pool deck, sauna, fitness centre and a 202sqm business lounge are also included over lower 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/imagepreview_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the hotel lobby. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="604" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imagepreview_3.jpg?itok=BvU_CCNT" title="Artist's impression of the hotel lobby. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the hotel lobby. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure><h2>A clearer picture of the overall development</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/image4coll.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the project's exterior. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="185" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4coll.jpg?itok=Ywy_qLmh" title="Artist's impression of the project's exterior. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the project's exterior. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure>In addition to the 5 star hotel, the mixed-use development will also hold approximately 49,000sqm of premium commercial office with typical floorplates of between 1,800sqm and 2,300sqm, and in excess of 200 luxury apartments.

Supporting the expected 5 star NABERS Energy Rated - 5 star Green Star Rated commercial space will be 130 car parking spaces and extensive end of trip facilities which include 500 lockers, 500 bicycle parks and 50 showers.

As has been reported extensively near on 2,000sqm of highly activated public realm will surround the tower footprints. A retail emporium with an approximate NLA of Net lettable area of 800sqm is also designed into the project's lower levels, supplementing the dedicated hotel facilities.

Savills agent Michael Simpson is handling the sales process which will close at 4pm on Friday 17 June 2016.
</body></html>

Cbus Property seeks to sell part of 447 Collins Street

<html><body>
The CBD's northern end is in full bloom so to speak as a variety of high-rise projects rapidly progress from paper designs to reality.

So much so one only needs to crane one's head skyward to see multiple tower cranes dotting the skyline in all directions. Hand in hand with this fundamental change to the look and feel of the CBD's northern reaches is the injection of purple facades over certain skyscrapers as design practice Elenberg Fraser seek to break the ubiquitous blue of many a Melbourne skyscraper. 

No less than 12 towers are under construction in the area, with the combined numbers as follows: 723 new student accommodation beds, 208 serviced apartments and 5,475 apartments.

See below a pictorial update of the CBD's emerging 'new face' 

<h2>Elizabeth Street's Big Four</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/image8_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Having all your ducks in a row along Elizabeth Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1244" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8_5.jpg?itok=KJKRql3C" title="Having all your ducks in a row along Elizabeth Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Having all your ducks in a row : Empire, Light House, Victoria One and Vision Tower</figcaption></figure>They are indeed the 'Big Four' with Empire the shortest at 198 metres. Seen in the top image above, Brady's Vision Tower is all but externally complete whilst Victoria One, Light House and Empire's visible jump forms round out the quartet.

Under the guidance of Probuild both Victoria One and Empire's jump forms have skipped ahead of their respective floor plates, whilst Brookfiled Multiplex's Light House has employed a common placing boom to pour both floor plate and core, thus the difference in appearance.

In terms of physical finishes Light House shapes as being the most striking, with the undulating Elenberg Fraser-designed tower already showing some unique purple design features over its early levels. Victoria One has received its first glazed facade panels whilst the golden fins of Empire continue to rise rapidly.

<h2>La Trobe Street bulks up</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_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="La Trobe Street also maintains strong construction activity"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="719" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_6.jpg?itok=vZDKtJ1o" title="La Trobe Street also maintains strong construction activity" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>La Trobe Street also maintains strong construction activity</figcaption></figure>La Trobe Street has a case of the blues with three towers nearing completion and sporting predominantly blue facades. Hickory Group's La Trobe Tower build is racing toward its structural completion thanks to the Hickory Building System whilst nearby Eporo Tower is also close to topping out.

Further along La Trobe Street and the ultra thin Trillium Tower is also approaching its final height under the guidance of head contractor Built.

Whilst not on La Trobe Street but in close proximity, EQ Tower is approximately half way to its ultimate height. Sporting a uniform purple facade, the highly overt build has brought another shade of Elenberg Fraser purple to the area.

<h2>Down and dirty</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/image7_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Projects yet to break ground level"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_8.jpg?itok=0Cxw9SjQ" title="Projects yet to break ground level" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Projects yet to break ground level</figcaption></figure>Aurora Melbourne Central, Avant, Scape Swanston Street and Conservatory are all currently at a preliminary stage of construction centred around site ground works.

Avant seen above left will have its core soon enough with footings in place whilst Scape Swanston has made rapid progression over the last month, with its tower crane starter already in place.

<h2>Future builds on the radar</h2>

Future builds for the area are headed by the twin-towered Queens Place development and Scape La Trobe Street which are well into their respective development processes.  

Future paper developments such as 48-52 La Trobe Street, the expected 200 metre Munro site tower, 98-102 Franklin Street, 97 Franklin Street and 111-125 A'Beckett Street as well as the extension to Melbourne Central Station as part of the Melbourne Metro Rail project will ensure Melbourne's Northern CBD will continue to see healthy levels of construction for some years to come.
</body></html>

The CBD's northern construction boom in colour

<html><body>
Approval is being sought for a mixed use Southbank skyscraper that will assume the form of a flower. Designed by Elenberg Fraser, 51-65 Clarke Street would surpass the 200 metre mark in a pocket of Southbank nestled alongside the West Gate Freeway.

Developer Newcity Group has also sought to add a unique feature to the project; a dedicated business and cultural exchange centre atop the tower that would seek to strengthen ties between Melbourne and southern China's economic powerhouse city of Guangzhou.

Documents within the planning application also indicate that the project would create thousands of construction jobs over the life of the project and 140 ongoing jobs linked to the hotel element within the tower.

The plans for 51-65 Clarke Street follows on from the site's successful sale during 2014, where <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property/cbd-site-snapped-up-for-304m/news-story/d7a0f65128861186f3ecab846e6bddd5">CBRE City Sales were able to secure the vendor $30.4 million</a> for the tri-fronted development plot.

<h2>51-65 Clarke Street planning 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/image2sbef.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="51-65 Clarke Street as seen within the project Town Planning Report"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="800" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2sbef.jpg?itok=pCCbqTxq" title="51-65 Clarke Street as seen within the project Town Planning Report" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>51-65 Clarke Street as seen within the project Town Planning Report</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 1,787 square metres</li>
	<li>Current use: three storey commercial building</li>
	<li>Proposed 73 level tower at 245.05 RL to top of architectural feature</li>
	<li>112 hotel suites</li>
	<li>512 apartments: 166 x 1BR, 318 x 2BR, 28 x 3BR</li>
	<li>Business Hub: 1,042 square metres</li>
	<li>Level 8 &amp; 54 facilities and amenities</li>
	<li>Retail and function centre: 1,541 square metres</li>
	<li>120 car parking spaces and 327 bicycle spaces</li>
</ul>
<h2>Newcity for an old relationship</h2>

Newcity Development (One) Pty Ltd is behind the proposal, one of many Chinese-backed developers that have descended upon Melbourne in recent years.

According to the application's Town Planning Report, "The Newcity Group and more relevantly Cao Zhiwei, the Chairman of ‘Newcity Group’ is a member of the political advisory body of Guangzhou. This development, and in particular the exchange hub is seen as a significant step in establishing a destination and beacon for commerce between Guangzhou and Melbourne."

Thus far the following businesses have been noted as providing support for the intended business and cultural exchange:

<ul>
<li>The People’s Government of Guangzhou Municipality</li>
	<li>Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Guangzhou Committee</li>
	<li>Guangzhou Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries</li>
	<li>Guangzhou University</li>
	<li>Guangzhou Real Estate Association</li>
	<li>Department of Culture Guangzhou Municipality</li>
	<li>Guangzhou Women’s Federation</li>
</ul>
<h2>Seeking exemption</h2>

The site is subject to Design and Development Overlay Schedule 10 (DDO10), which was introduced into the Melbourne Planning Scheme during September 2015 as part of the broader C262 amendments implemented by Minister Wynne.

As initially submitted, the Elenberg Fraser design complied to podium height, street setback and tower setback requirements, although a plot ratio of 35:1 results. Above the discretionary desired plot ratio of 24:1, the development team has in turn requested a variation to allow the tower to proceed as planned.

It is worth noting that the development team sought and was granted an extension of time request for the submission during February 2016; what results from subsequent projects refinements remains to be seen.

<h2>Shaping Southbank</h2>

51-65 Clarke Street's form which is based upon the shape of a Bombax Ceiba Flower is the latest of a number of shapely Southbank talls to create headlines of late.

Last week it was widely reported that Crown Limited and Schiavello have formally submitted a proposal for their 1 Queensbridge Street tower. <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/james-packer-proposes-australias-tallest-building-at-crown-in-melbourne-20160511-gosg43#ixzz48Nj5iVTC">According to Fairfax</a>, the tower would hold 306,666 of Gross Floor Area and maintain a plot ratio of 57:1.

<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/image5clarke.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="54-56 Clarke Street markeying material. Image: CBRE City Sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5clarke.jpg?itok=Gs8Nm91w" title="54-56 Clarke Street markeying material. Image: CBRE City Sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>54-56 Clarke Street markeying material. Image: CBRE City Sales</figcaption></figure>Also in the news is the flowing 54-56 Clarke Street project created by BKK Architects which has been placed on the market with planning approval in tow.

At 240 metres 54-56 Clarke Street shadows 51-65 Clarke Street for height, with both future towers opposite one another.

<h2>51-65 Clarke Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Newcity Group (Newcity Development (One) Pty Ltd)</li>
	<li>Architectural plans: Elenberg Fraser Architects</li>
	<li>Urban Context Report: Elenberg Fraser Architects</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering Assessment: One Mile Grid Traffic Consultants</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Wastech</li>
	<li>Sustainability Management Plan: Norman Disney and Young</li>
	<li>Economic Investment Impact Analysis: ShineWing</li>
	<li>Landscape and Masterplan: Aspect Landscape Architects</li>
	<li>Environmental Wind Assessment: MEL</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

51-65 Clarke Street shapes as a Southbank tower with a twist

<html><body>
Following news last week that <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/deloitte-to-move-to-mirvacs-collins-street-tower-20160503-gokw2w#ixzz47dSTkXYT">Deloitte has all but signed up</a> to Mirvac's 477 Collins Street project, another large-scale commercial office build is nearing reality with a construction tender released for the new Victoria Police Complex.

Located alongside the near new Melbourne West Police Station, the Victoria Police Complex at 311 Spencer Street would consist of approximately 40,000sqm of office space. With the calling for construction tenders, Cbus Property and project partner Australia Post now look set to realise the project following extensive negotiations with the Victorian government.

Both the Melbourne West Police Station and Victoria Police Complex share an 11,750sqm site which was previously utilised by Australia Post.

<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_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective of the Victoria Police Centre. Image: Department of Treasury and Finance"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="372" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image30_6.jpg?itok=vxx5Zufa" title="Street level perspective of the Victoria Police Centre. Image: Department of Treasury and Finance" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective of the Victoria Police Centre. Image: Department of Treasury and Finance</figcaption></figure>Created by architecture firm Woods Bagot, the new $300 million police headquarters has been designed to complement its $240 million neighbour which was completed during 2015.

According to <a href="http://www.dtf.vic.gov.au/Infrastructure-Delivery/Market-led-proposals">Department of Treasury and Finance details</a>, 311 Spencer Street was cleared during February 2016 to move to phase four of the development process after first being put forward during May 2015. Phase four involves the negotiation and assessment of a final offer between the State government and development team.

The market-led development would see Cbus Property and Australia Post fund and develop the new Victoria Police Centre in return for a substantial long term lease from Victoria Police, given the force's current lease within Docklands' World Trade Centre expires during 2020.

<blockquote>
The proposed development creates a unique opportunity for Victoria Police to co-locate and consolidate their Melbourne CBD operations into one stand-alone precinct.

The features of the site combined with landscaping, urban design interventions, built form initiatives and invisible technologies will provide Victoria Police with a secure facility that remains integrated into the wider streetscape. The site is within close proximity to Southern Cross Station and provides excellent access and egress to arterial road networks.

The precinct will be a Melbourne landmark, creating new opportunities for the Victoria Police to engage with the community, whilst also enabling more effective services to be delivered to the community. 
<cite>Market-led Proposals Guideline: Victoria Police Centre Project Overview</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/cbus.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="313 Spencer Street with the adjoining vacant 311 Spencer Street. Image: DCWC"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cbus.jpg?itok=O32_Gx9D" title="313 Spencer Street with the adjoining vacant 311 Spencer Street. Image: DCWC" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne West Police Station with the adjoining vacant 311 Spencer Street. Image: DCWC</figcaption></figure>Incidentally 412 St Kilda Road which formerly served as the St Kilda Road Police Complex has been subject to a separate development process with ARM Architecture heading plans to convert the commercial building into luxury apartments.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-mayfair-412-st-kilda-road-melbourne">Outlined by Urban.com.au earlier in the year</a>, the project is the latest local foray for Malaysian developer UEM Sunrise with approximately 180 apartments set within the refashioned building, which will be clad largely in bronze coloured cladding. According to City of Port Phillip's Online Planning Register, 412 St Kilda Road received a council-issued permit during March 2016.
</body></html>

The new Victoria Police Centre looks set to become reality

<html><body>
City of Melbourne's draft 2016-17 Annual Plan and Budget was released late last week, with public submissions set to be accepted up until the Future Melbourne Committee decides upon the budget on 16 June 2016.

With total spending of $495.89 million, $399.41 million is expected to be dedicated toward programs and services, while $108.48 million is earmarked for infrastructure programs.

Council's headline project, the Queen Victoria Market, is likely to receive a further $8.45 million, in addition to the $76 million outlaid on acquiring the adjoining Munro site which forms part of the overall project.

<blockquote>
The $250 million renewal of the Queen Victoria Market Precinct is the largest project in Council’s history: a world-class regeneration of a much-loved market that will improve the trader, customer and visitor experience.

We’re now moving from planning to project delivery and this $8.45 million will allow us to implement the Queen Victoria Market Master Plan.

We will soon release a detailed plan outlining how key renewal projects will be managed. In the initial stages, this will include upgrades to trader facilities to address safety issues and better meet trader requirements.
<cite>Lord Mayor Robert Doyle</cite>
</blockquote>

In addition to Queen Vic's redevelopment, a host of further infrastructure projects slated for the forthcoming financial year include:

<ul>
<li>Energy efficient street light renewal: $5 million</li>
	<li>Major streetscape improvements and design: $4.35 million</li>
	<li>Urban landscapes climate adaptation (new streets and associated open spaces): $2.656 million</li>
	<li>Lady Huntingfield Child Care Centre Upgrade: $2.2 million</li>
	<li>Tree planting program (3000 trees): $1.5 million</li>
	<li>Bicycle Improvement Program: $1.56 million</li>
	<li>Green Your Laneway Pilot Project: $1.3 million</li>
	<li>Hawke and Adderley Street open space: $1.1 million</li>
	<li>Flood mitigation new works: $1 million</li>
	<li>Implementation of Docklands Community and Place Plan: $1 million</li>
	<li>Southbank Boulevard upgrading: $1 million</li>
</ul>
The Draft 2016-17 Annual Plan and Budget accommodates for population growth and according shifts in demand for council support and services.

<blockquote>
Melbourne has changed dramatically in the last four years and population growth is one of the biggest challenges we have faced.

Last year our city experienced a 5.5 per cent increase in population growth - an additional 6800 people brought our total population to more than 129,000 people. This is the final budget of this Council and it is focused on smart and sustainable investments.

This will ensure we have a well-planned city to meet the needs of our growing community without compromising its character and liveability.
<cite>Councillor Ken Ong, Chair of the Planning portfolio</cite>
</blockquote>

As elections will be held on Saturday, 22 October 2016 to determine Melbourne's City Council's leadership team, the Draft 2016-17 Annual Plan and Budget is the last under the current leadership regime. This final budget also concludes Council's four year vision, with an emphasis on growth, prosperity and liveability.

According to City of Melbourne, the final budget also cements the current Council’s legacy: one of a Melbourne that is a great place to work, live and visit.
</body></html>

Queen Victoria Market advances as part of City of Melbourne's 2016-17 budget

<html><body>
Urban.com.au recently took the opportunity to talk with Fridcorp's founder and director, Paul Fridman, in order to understand what lies ahead for the developer which has made a reputation for elevating design integrity.

With works completed on Fridcorp's most recent Melbourne project, Morton Avenue located in Carnegie, Fridcorp is in the process of once more ramping up its development pipeline. Of late it has been widely reported that Fridcorp secured a permit approved development site within North Melbourne's Arden-Macaulay precinct.

3 and 5-15 Shiel Street came with approval for 65 residences under the previous scheme created by Inhabit Design. Feeling the apartment mix to be out of line with Fridcorp's expectations, the Shiel Street project has been handed to long time collaborator Elenberg Fraser.

<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/fridcorp_3_5-15_shiel.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fridcorp's North Melbourne development site"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fridcorp_3_5-15_shiel.jpg?itok=2aILl2i0" title="Fridcorp's North Melbourne development site" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Fridcorp's North Melbourne development site</figcaption></figure>Former pursuits between developer and architect have resulted in highly regarded residential projects such as South Yarra's Lilli and Avenue. Paul Fridman explains that Elenberg Fraser have an understanding of Fridcorp's expectations in terms of design aesthetics and tailoring a particular design toward the target purchaser.

Set over a 1,311sqm site, Fridcorp are intending to create approximately 120 apartments across 12 levels, with the project set to enter planning shortly. Quizzed on the ideal buyer for North Melbourne, Paul Fridman sees the project as attracting owner-occupiers and what he refers to as the "sophisticated investor."

While expected release to market is slated for 2017, Fridcorp are now also closing in on securing a Fitzroy development site; the first for Fridcorp in what is one of Melbourne's most sought after suburbs.

100 apartments are expected for the Fitzroy development, a number in which Paul Fridman feels is a highly manageable development size in terms financing, ease of apartment sales, construction delivery and "time spent on the balance sheet." Smaller projects in the circa 100 block are cited by Paul as necessary in terms of maintaining momentum when considered in relation to large scale projects.

<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/166_06-10-2015_9863.gif" rel="gallery-all" title="South Yarra will remain a favoured suburb for Fridcorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="305" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/166_06-10-2015_9863.gif?itok=yDmVyjPa" title="South Yarra will remain a favoured suburb for Fridcorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>South Yarra will remain a favoured suburb for Fridcorp</figcaption></figure>And Fridcorp do indeed have a hulking project on the radar in the form of 627 Chapel Street. By far the developer's largest project, it signals a return to South Yarra for Fridcorp which has enjoyed previous success within the suburb's Forrest Hill precinct.

Asked on the progression of the planning application, Paul expects the project to be publicly advertised within weeks.

Containing 450 apartments over 40 levels, 627 Chapel Street is tentatively valued at $500 million.

Keen to champion the public benefits of the intended development which Paul Fridman describes as creating a nexus between South Yarra Station and Chapel Street, the tower is to be set atop a highly activated ground level. Restaurants and bars are set to feature, further drawing patronage to the area which is currently experiencing a concerted development push.

<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/159_03-12-2015_8176.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fridcorp's former Wonder Erskenville development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/159_03-12-2015_8176.jpg?itok=WSTN7PV1" title="Fridcorp's former Wonder Erskenville development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Fridcorp's former Wonder Erskenville development</figcaption></figure>Nationally Fridcorp are active across Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. With depth across all markets, Paul Fridman is especially bullish on the Sydney apartment sector.

Sydney in particular is maintaining positive fundamentals and excellent yield as evidenced by Fridcorp's sale of an approved development scheme in Erskenville to B1 Group; as Paul Fridman stated "It was an offer we just couldn't refuse." As to whether Fridcorp would move into other capital cities, Adelaide and Perth were mentioned in dispatches with lack of market depth and distance cited as prohibitive factors.

Nonetheless with an expanding workbook, Fridcorp are looking to once again press on with delivering high-end apartment projects.
</body></html>

Paul Fridman talks to Urban.com.au

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Mark Baljak

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News