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City of Melbourne have removed two entrants from the race to secure the right to develop the prized Munro site which forms part of the Queen Victoria Market redevelopment. Located at the corner of Queen and Therry streets, the development site which is expected to accommodate a 200 metre residential tower is now a race of three.

Alongside entrenched developers PDG Corporation and Cbus Property, Hansen Yuncken has been named as the third vested party with a chance to partner with City of Melbourne on the project. Traditionally a construction contractor, Hansen Yuncken shapes as the surprise contender of the trio given they have not made their reputation as a developer.

After City of Melbourne purchased the site for $76 million during late 2014, the wheels are now in motion to deliver a landmark development.

<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/site_network_connections_diagram-01_0.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The Munro site shaded in purple can be seen to the left of image"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="419" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/site_network_connections_diagram-01_0.png?itok=5Wm02leH" title="The Munro site shaded in purple can be seen to the left of image" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Munro site shaded in purple can be seen to the left of image</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
This is a rare opportunity for the private sector to partner with Council to deliver an exemplary mixed-use development with all the hallmarks of what we consider smart development: residential apartments, including affordable housing, childcare, family services, commercial and retail uses and the latest in environmental sustainability.

There is significant public interest in the Queen Victoria Market project and we believe it is important to be transparent with the community about the renewal of this iconic site. In 2013, Council committed to the largest investment in its history: up to $250 million to renew the Queen Victoria Market. The development of this site will help fund the renewal program.
<cite>Lord Mayor Robert Doyle</cite>
</blockquote>

An evaluation panel will sit into early next year in order to consider the merits of the three bids. Design, planning, finance, law, sustainability and governance, as well as several other fields will determine which bid will be victorious although City of Melbourne expect a final development agreement will not be in place until mid 2016.

As seen above the expected tower is located adjacent to a section of the CBD which is under intense redevelopment. Nine towers in excess of 200 metres in the immediate vicinity are in development with only Vision Tower close to completion. Proceeds from the mixed-use Munro development will aid City of Melbourne in financing the remainder of Queen Victoria Market's overhaul.

<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_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Projects attributable to PDG Corporation, Cbus Property and Hansen Yuncken"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="347" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_2.jpg?itok=B-EffIo7" title="Projects attributable to PDG Corporation, Cbus Property and Hansen Yuncken" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Projects attributable to PDG Corporation, Cbus Property and Hansen Yuncken</figcaption></figure>With 15 years of progressive expansion under their belt, PDG Corporation are no strangers to large scale projects with Prima Pearl on Southbank the jewel in their crown. Cbus Property too have embarked upon numerous large Melbourne developments although they of late have swung their attention to residential projects with a stable of current and upcoming developments in progress.

Hansen Yuncken which was first established in Melbourne during 1918 is one of the nation's major construction firms. Their current noteworthy build in Melbourne is the revamp of the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, although previous projects have included high-end builds such as Council House 2, Aerial Camberwell and the recently completed $126 million Deakin University Burwood Highway Frontage Building.
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silvermb

Munro site's shortlist throws up a surprise contender

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The recent <a href="/news/2015-architeam-winners-announced">2015 Architeam Awards</a> resulted in a string of projects receiving commendations, with one project in particular appealing to Apartments.com.au. Designed as a 9-star apartment complex in Thornbury, Steffen Welsch Architects received a Commendation for Sustainability for their Wohnen Morgen project.

Translated as Living Tomorrow, the small scale design would transform a standard suburban block with a single dwelling into ten highly environmentally credentialed apartments and townhouses above ground floor commercial tenancies.

<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/image2wm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="9-star apartments: Wohnen Morgen (Living Tomorrow)"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="402" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2wm.jpg?itok=JsSI4gmB" title="9-star apartments: Wohnen Morgen (Living Tomorrow)" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>9-star apartments: Wohnen Morgen (Living Tomorrow)</figcaption></figure>Located at 409 St Georges Road, the project has yet to advance past the schematic design stage. Currently within a General Residential Zone, the site and surrounds are to be re-zoned into Commercial 1 Zone which will facilitate the delivery of higher density living in the area.

The development team held pre-application meetings with City of Darebin staff with the developer awaiting re-zoning prior to proceeding with a planning application. In the meantime the design found favour with the Architeam Awards judging panel during November.

Asked by Apartments.com.au if Wohnen Morgen is a site-specific design response from Steffen Welsch Architects, or would they look to implement these sustainability ideals across all their projects, the simple answer was both.

<blockquote>
The design response is site-specific as it takes into consideration the east-west orientation of the block, access from St Georges Road, links to neighbourhood, amenity impacts onto adjoining lots and likely future development of adjoining lots.

However, the underlying principles we do plan to implement across our projects, that is value adding through focus on identity and community, keeping community facilities at a manageable scale, creating comfort through energy efficient design and managing cost through space efficiency.
<cite>Steffen Welsch, Principal, Steffen Welsch Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Wohnen Morgen design highlights</h2>

LID Consulting's Craig Harris worked with Steffen Welsch Architects on the project in an advisory capacity, providing advice throughout the initial design process which allowed the project to gradually build up to the nominated 9-star rating.

As Steffen Welsch explained an apartment building has an advantage over single houses since each unit has less external surface area and therefore less heat exchange between inside and outside. The measures to increase the rating are relatively simple, and in the case of Wohnen Morgen included:

<ul>
<li>Each unit has direct sunlight access into living areas for passive heating.</li>
	<li>Windows are located to optimize cross ventilation in summer.</li>
	<li>The floor above is slightly cantilevered to provide fixed sunshading from mid-spring to mid-autumn but allow winter sun access.</li>
	<li>Glazed areas are not excessive and double glazed high performance glazed units.</li>
	<li>Highly insulated external floors, walls and roofs.</li>
	<li>Thermal mass in floors that can receive direct sunlight.</li>
	<li>Installation of suitable mechanical, hydraulic and electric systems like louvre vents to exhausts, water and energy saving devices, rainwater collection in the basement, PV collectors and solar hot water on the roof.</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/image9_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground and first floor layouts"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="188" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_3.jpg?itok=uNgJoqvn" title="Ground and first floor layouts" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground and first floor layouts</figcaption></figure><h2>A blueprint for the future</h2>

<blockquote>
This is a very important project to us as it is an attractive, high density residential development on a regular size suburban block.

With the right mix of units, yield and outdoor space it can be a very manageable model in terms of planning, cost and community development once it is occupied.

We are very proud to have received this award as a recognition that this can be a sustainable model for the future.
<cite>Steffen Welsch, Principal, Steffen Welsch Architects</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/image4_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Solar penetration is limited to Winter months"><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_4.jpg?itok=TnMgI9AS" title="Solar penetration is limited to Winter months" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Solar penetration is limited to Winter months</figcaption></figure>
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Wohnen Morgen: setting a benchmark with 9-star higher density living

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Touched upon by Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/taller-projects-and-better-design-outcomes-on-southbank">last week</a>, Southbank is set to receive a new skyscraper in the form of a refashioned City Road mixed-use building. Moull Murray Architects are the design practice behind the project, teaming with Altus Development once more after the rapidly expanding Clayton-based developer secured the 1,265sqm site.

Appearing initially on Apartments.com.au during 2013, the scheme for the then <a href="/buildings/home-southbank-256-260-city-road-southbank">256-260 City Road</a> was the work of Hayball for proponent Apex Vic Pty Ltd. Under the initially approved scheme 431 apartments were included within a $120 million project, with 104 car spaces and 215 bicycle spaces in tow.

<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/cam_02_low_res_copy-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new City Road landmark. Image courtesy Moull Murray Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="756" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cam_02_low_res_copy-1.jpg?itok=y6jSH1HS" title="A new City Road landmark. Image courtesy Moull Murray Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new City Road landmark. Image courtesy Moull Murray Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Design statement</h2>

Apartments.com.au spoke with Moull Murray Architects Director, Andrew Murray, regarding 258 City Road with the following project description offered:

<blockquote>
The new architectural treatment, designed by Moull Murray Architects, reinforces the tall, slender nature of the approved development envelope with an emphasis on vertical forms.

The proportions of the tower have been treated in the classic skyscraper proportions of a base, middle tower, and expressed top. The podium utilises a grid framework to set up visually scaleable proportions that relate to the streetscape, in addition to the pattern overlaid over the tower.

The podium is also veneered with apartments on both frontages to reinforce a sense of human interaction with the public realm.

The building is a mix of serviced apartments up to level 18, with private apartments above, served with independent foyer and lifts.
<cite>Andrew Murray, Moull Murray Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

Still at 193 metres to parapet, the tower has been given a sharper exterior relative to its predecessor, with a higher degree of articulation introduced over the facade. Solid elements to the western facade have been introduced, with a <a href="/news/two-giants-round-out-central-equitys-massive-development-pipeline">planning application for a similarly sized tower</a> under assessment for the immediate western site.

Spanning 62 levels, the initial 18 levels will be dedicated to 130 one and two bedroom serviced apartments operated by Pan Pacific Hotels Group, the second such venture between developer and hotel operator. Thereafter 323 private apartments will round out the tower consisting of one and two bedroom options, with penthouse dwellings configured as three bedrooms absorbing the highest 12 levels.

258 City Road's mixed-use nature also allows for a multitude of facilities within the building. Ground floor will see all day dining with meeting rooms above, while the podium top pool deck with hold a gym, cinema, health spa and outdoor BBQ entertainment area and terrace bar.

The project is expected to be released during the first quarter of 2016.

<h2>258 City Road consultant team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Architects: Moull Murray Architects</li>
	<li>Developer: Altus Development Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Project Managers: Gallagher Jeffs</li>
	<li>Structural Engineers: WSP Structural</li>
	<li>Civil Engineers: WSP Structural</li>
	<li>Building services: MacCormack</li>
	<li>ESD: Sustainable Development Consultants</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineers: Traffix</li>
	<li>Building Surveyors: BSGM</li>
	<li>Hospitality Consultant: LeisureCorp Enterprises</li>
</ul>
<h2>Double delight</h2>

In further news Moull Murray's initial design for Altus Development will proceed to construction after a lengthy pause in proceedings. Dubbed Altus Tower and located within Docklands, the 37 level building will see 266 PARKROYAL-designated hotel suites and 331 residential apartments included.

<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/image7altus.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Altus is a go in the new year. Images courtesy Moull Murray"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="263" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7altus.jpg?itok=Vx5m94Sw" title="The Altus is a go in the new year. Images courtesy Moull Murray" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Altus is a go in the new year. Images courtesy Moull Murray</figcaption></figure>After a ground breaking ceremony held during October 2014, the site has seen little action since. A start on works is now expected in the new year with a build time of roughly 24 months for the project, meaning the opening of PARKROYAL Melbourne will be at least one year behind the initially anticipated completion date.

In addition to Altus Tower, Probuild will also undertake works on 258 City Road according to the developer's website.
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Moull Murray unveil a striking new 258 City Road

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The Southbank development scene is forever in a state of flux, with last week no exception. News has flowed through concerning three of postcode 3006's biggest and best high rise projects, with all three demonstrating a high level of design ability relative to their stubby neighbours.

Surrounded by a host of smaller residential towers (some of which have little to no aesthetic design merit), 258 City Road, 93-119 Kavanagh Street and Australia 108 at 70 Southbank Boulevard are set to further enhance the look of Southbank. While looks are one thing, 93-119 Kavanagh Street in particular is set to fundamentally change the feel of its surrounding street level public domain; a boost for what is currently an unappealing and underutilised area.

A brief overview events of the past week reads as follows:

<h2>258 City Road</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/alt2343_cam_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Altus Developments' new City Road endeavour."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="237" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/alt2343_cam_01.jpg?itok=jkAwH6kg" title="Altus Developments' new City Road endeavour." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Altus Developments' new City Road endeavour.</figcaption></figure>Altus Developments has unveiled itself as the developer behind <a href="/buildings/home-southbank-256-260-city-road-southbank">256-260 City Road</a>. Moved on by Apex Vic Pty Ltd who gained approval for the skyscraper, the site is now set to host a 190 metre plus mixed use tower with a development value in the vicinity of $330 million.

12 levels of penthouses will crown the tower which was initially designed by Hayball and has since seen exterior adjustments to its appearance, resulting in a edgier design outcome. In addition Pan Pacific Hotels Group have committed to 130 serviced apartments within the project according to the developers website, with the balance set to be sold as private dwellings.

Probuild has been secured as the builder while Bella Charlton will handle project sales; identical to the team which Altus Developments put in place for their initial Melbourne high rise within Docklands.

<h2>93-119 Kavanagh Street</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/image49_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kavanagh Street is set for some activation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="301" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_2.jpg?itok=s2618pGL" title="Kavanagh Street is set for some activation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kavanagh Street is set for some activation</figcaption></figure>Arguably Southbank's most impressive development in waiting, 93-119 Kavanagh Street has taken a leap toward approval. Last night the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee sat with the knowledge that Melbourne City Council planners have recommended the six tower project for approval..

Subject to conditions sought by Melbourne City Council planners, the $1.15 billion project championed by Malaysian firm PJ Development Holdings is one step closer to replacing a long vacant block. Planning Minister Richard Wynne will have the final say regarding approval, although a green light from Melbourne City Council tends to be a very good indicator in the current environment.

93-119 Kavanagh Street's numbers are impressive: <a href="/news/southbank-set-to-gain-a-new-park">7,000sqm of open space</a>, 2,610 dwellings, 59,000sqm of commercial office space, 687 hotel suites, 10,090sqm of leasable retail space and 894 podium car parking spaces.

<h2>Australia 108 officially commences construction</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/image48_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Australia 108 is on the rise. Image courtesy genesis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_2.jpg?itok=lcFAD4_b" title="Australia 108 is on the rise. Image courtesy genesis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Australia 108 is on the rise. Image courtesy genesis</figcaption></figure>Although equipment has been onsite for some time, yesterday marked the official launch of construction for the city's tallest building. The 319 metre Australia 108 will be delivered over five stages, with the final stage of the $500 plus build slated for delivery during 2020.

<blockquote>
This is a major milestone for the southern hemisphere’s tallest building, which will go where no development has ever gone before. The construction process will be complex, which is why we are proud to be working with Brookfield Multiplex – arguably Australia’s most experienced skyscraper builders.
<cite>Koh Wee Seng, Aspial CEO</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Our appointment follows a fruitful Early Contractor Involvement process with World Class Land where we were able to build a partnership during the planning phase of the project and achieve the project deliverables. We look forward to successfully constructing this landmark tallest tower in the southern hemisphere for World Class Land.
<cite>Graham Cottam, Brookfield Multiplex Regional Managing Director</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

It didn't seem all that long ago that Southbank received Planning Scheme Amendment C171 which cemented mandatory buildings heights in some areas, discretionary separation distances between towers and urban design provisions among other changes. At the time it was expected that the amendment would provide a more uniform tower height across Southbank.

Mercifully height variations have remained and many of the recent taller Southbank proposals are far superior in design and aesthetics to the earlier generic shorter Southbank 'boxes'. I suspect I am in the minority but a well designed tall tower should always usurp a squat, poorly designed building that adheres to a set height limit.

<a href="/new-apartments/elysium-54-clarke-street-southbank">Elysium</a> below is the prime example. Derided by Lord Major Robert Doyle as far too tall for its location, it is leaps and bounds ahead in terms of design ingenuity and quality. Elysium along with the three towers outlined above and projects such as Crown's <a href="/new-apartments/one-queensbridge-street-1-23-queensbridge-street-southbank">Queensbridge Tower</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/38-freshwater-place-southbank">38 Freshwater Place</a> maintain both height and exceedingly good design

Sometimes, just sometimes, height is not the devil it is made out to be.

<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/image1_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elysium is not just another Southbank box"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_1.jpg?itok=GPqUDC6R" title="Elysium is not just another Southbank box" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elysium is not just another Southbank box</figcaption></figure>
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Taller projects and better design outcomes on Southbank

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A string of new entries has pushed the Apartments.com.au Project Database to 1,000 listings. That is 1,000 projects which have a status of planning assessment, approved, registration &amp; sales or are under construction throughout metropolitan Melbourne.

2015 has seen the Project Database subject to expanded criteria and a subscription service, with both having aided in the database reaching the 1,000 listing milestone. The primary criteria for adding projects to our public database is that a medium or high-density project must have at least three levels, or at least 10 dwellings contained within.

Broken into its constituent parts, the current 1,000 listings are surprisingly even. 240 projects are at planning, 262 are listed as approved, 249 at registrations of interest or sales and a further 249 are under construction.

The Project Database also continues to shed more light upon lesser known participants within Melbourne's property development industry. In the past week alone, builders Aspekt Construction Group and EyeQ Constructions have been added for the first time, along with architecture firm DesignWorx Studio.

Overall the database sees 90 builders and 216 architecture firms represented within Melbourne's medium to high density development sphere.

<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/image31_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="9 Prospect Street, Havenlea and Voyager are new Project Database additions"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="252" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image31_0.jpg?itok=QS3Hw6fR" title="9 Prospect Street, Havenlea and Voyager are new Project Database additions" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>9 Prospect Street, Havenlea and Voyager are new Project Database additions</figcaption></figure>Notable recent additions to the Project Database have been generally residential in nature, headlined by Mirvac's 43 level Voyager project at Yarra's Edge. Glen Iris, Pascoe Vale, West Melbourne, Moonee Ponds, South Yarra and Box Hill have also seen new project additions in recent days, with Box Hill's 9 Prospect Street also a stand out listing.

It is perhaps fitting that the 1,000th listed project is a residential development located within what is a typical infill suburb. Cairnlea's first taste of apartment living is in the form of MakShaq's Havenlea project which will see dual buildings and 192 apartments inserted into an area that was the domicile to detached housing thus far. Times do indeed change!

<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_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Projects that have yet to enter the Project Database"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image33_3.jpg?itok=8I6eDsHW" title="Projects that have yet to enter the Project Database" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Projects that have yet to enter the Project Database</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au's shadow or holding database also keeps tabs on upcoming projects which have yet to hit planning or have yet to be publicly sourced. In excess of 100 projects are expected to be added to the Project Database over the coming months, with Fishermans Bend for example subject to as many as 15 new entries.

Seen above as examples are Elenberg Fraser's 488 Elizabeth Street giant and AZX Group's intentions for 28-78 Bouverie Street, Carlton, with the former set to join the official database shortly.

Subscribers to the Apartments.com.au Data Portal gain access to an expanded number of categories over and above what is publicly available on Apartments.com.au. Subscribers also have the ability to export the entire database to allow for deeper research and analysis.

To view more information about the Data Portal, see the sign up page.
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The Urban.com.au Project Database hits 1000!

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City of Port Phillip are set to consider the merits of a handful of proposed apartment buildings within Fishermans Bend, representing the next tranche of projects due for a planning outcome within the precinct. Council will provide feedback on five separate projects that when combined are capable of adding 1,750 dwellings to the urban renewal zone.

While two of the projects under consideration are present on the Apartments.com.au project database, the three remaining applications are new to the public sphere.

Seen below are the projects which City of Port Phillip will consider during their December sitting.

<h2>261-281 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne</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/image126.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new face for Ingles Street? Image courtesy Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image126.jpg?itok=boeZt65W" title="A new face for Ingles Street? Image courtesy Bruce Henderson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new face for Ingles Street? Image courtesy Bruce Henderson Architects</figcaption></figure>APN Property Group's plans for its 23,011sqm Ingles Street land parcel have been revised since first landing with the Metropolitan Planning Authority at the start of the year. The Bruce Henderson-designed project consists of three residential towers with the tallest at 52 levels or 155.69 metres.

1290 dwellings are included, consisting of 474 x 1 bedroom apartments, 719 x 2 bedroom and 97 x 3 bedroom apartments. Plans for the project show an intensely activated ground plane with 2,822sqm of retail space and a further 1,123sqm of mixed retail and/or commercial space.

1101 car spaces and 1447 bicycle spaces are included within the development.

<h2>163-169 Ferrars Street, Southbank</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/image128_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="CHT Architects' design for Ferrars Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="377" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image128_0.jpg?itok=2Mxxwznf" title="CHT Architects' design for Ferrars Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>CHT Architects' design for Ferrars Street</figcaption></figure>Also new is CHT Architects' work at 163-169 Ferrars Street. Auto shop Corso Body Works are currently onsite and have initiated the development which would see an 18 storey residential building approved, consisting of 68 x 1 bedroom, 28 x 2 bedroom and and 2 x 3 bedroom apartments.

An open-ended covered pedestrian breezeway will link Ferrars Street and Railway Place with two ground level commercial/retail tenancies included. Patterned and plain precast concrete with an off-white finish will act as an undulating feature wall to the site's boundary.

Incidentally 163-169 Ferrars Street is diagonally opposite 134-142 Ferrars Street which was subject to a 49 level building which during October was amended to an application for an 18 and 23 storey mixed use set of buildings, in line with imposed height restrictions over the precinct.

<h2>31-37 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</h2>

Developer Alpha 14 Property Group has ventured into Fishermans Bend for the first time with a residential building on Buckhurst Street. What is currently a warehouse is poised to become an 18 level building carrying 121 dwellings with studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom options.

Dual commercial tenancies cover 293sqm at ground level with 83 car spaces located within the podium.

Should it find approval 31-37 Buckhurst Street will likely proceed to construction at pace. Alpha 14 Property Group's West Melbourne residential project titled Bond Quarter received planning approval during October and is already subject to early site works.

<h2>51-59 Thistlethwaite Street, South Melbourne</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/image144_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Inhabit Design have included a public thoroughfare within their project"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="617" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image144_0.jpg?itok=d-AQx0Qx" title="Inhabit Design have included a public thoroughfare within their project" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Inhabit Design have included a public thoroughfare within their project</figcaption></figure>SPEC Property's attempt to gain a foothold in Fishermans Bend continues with plans for their Thistlethwaite Street project redesigned once more. The development which also faces City Road will top out at eight levels, half the initial 16 level tower proposed.

Despite the changes, 51-59 Thistlethwaite Street is bound for VCAT where its fate will be decided upon. 161 dwellings are proposed for the development, as is 1,278sqm of communal space.

As part of the development's slant toward community facilities a public toy exchange will be included.

<h2>15-35 Thistlethwaite Street, South Melbourne</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/image146_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Initial and revised schemes. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image146_1.jpg?itok=monYVBni" title="Initial and revised schemes. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Initial and revised schemes. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>15-35 Thistlethwaite Street is representative of the change thrust upon Fishermans Bend via the introduction of reworked height controls. The initial design of 30 levels has made way for a far more modest project at 8 levels, also the handy work of firm ROTHELOWMAN.

Planning documents also show Linkon Pty Ltd as the developer behind the amended application, a change from Circa Property Group who initiated the taller development.

The 8 level complex would see 49 single bedroom and 34 dual bedroom dwellings above three retail tenancies and car parking provisions for 72 vehicles.
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Further Fishermans Bend projects revealed

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Melbourne-based developer Capital Alliance has continued with its successful Docklands formula of combining both residential apartments and a luxury hotel within the same building by announcing operator Marriott has committed to its forthcoming project at 3-43 Waterfront Way.

Within close proximity to the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and Harbour Town retail complex, the tower of some 37 levels will represent the first newly built Marriott hotel in Australia for almost 20 years. While the project is currently at planning, it is expected that the tower will proceed quickly upon receiving approval.

Valued at $250 million, 3-43 Waterfront Way will include 200 Marriott-branded suites in addition to 260 residential apartments. Included will be an rooftop infinity pool with expansive views toward Melbourne's skyline, bar area and dining area which will be open to the public.

<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/capital_alliance_docklands_development-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of Marriott Docklands"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="697" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/capital_alliance_docklands_development-1.jpg?itok=gsd4Jxxc" title="Artist's impression of Marriott Docklands" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of Marriott Docklands</figcaption></figure>Designed by Docklands-based DKO Architecture, 3-43 Waterfront Way will also see a ground level pedestrian link with Docklands Drive, allowing for a previously inactive street frontage to become permeable. Planning documents show 3-43 Waterfront Way's exterior studded with pop-out facade panels which will be complimented by LED highlights applied to the facade.

Approximately 500 jobs are to be created during the build, with 100 permanent jobs created upon completion.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We are extremely proud to be able to deliver yet another hotel project to Melbourne. We believe that mixed-use developments are the right direction for development in our city and provide the stimuli Docklands needs to flourish. Our vision is to deliver a hotel and apartment project that will be celebrated and draw tourists both internationally and locally to the area.

We envisage the rooftop amenities will provide a unique experience and complement a range of amenities in the building that will be open to both residents, guests and the general public.
<cite>Mohan Du, Capital Alliance Managing Director</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
There is a real demand for hotel accommodation within Melbourne and this hotel will help service the many people looking for accommodation in Docklands, be they tourists or business travellers. Securing the first new-build Marriot hotel in nearly two decades is testament to the capabilities of Capital Alliance and the demand for quality hotel accommodation in the precinct.
<cite>Simon Wilson, General Manager Precincts at Places Victoria</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We’re really excited to be working alongside Capital Alliance. Melbourne is fast becoming one of the most popular travel destinations throughout the world.

The vibrant culinary scene and unique culture makes this property an ideal addition to our Australian portfolio of properties. Australia will continue to be a vital part of our growth strategy and the Marriott brand will continue with further expansion in 2016.
<cite>Raj Menon, Chief Operating Officer, Asia Pacific for Marriott International</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>The big picture</h2>

While the Marriott signing paves the way for Capital Alliance's next project, the developer is approaching the finish line for their first Docklands foray at 679 La Trobe Street. Consisting of both apartments and Melbourne's first Peppers Hotel outlet, M Docklands as it is known will be fully completed in the new year.

Capital Alliance is also expected to deliver a sister development to 3-43 Waterfront Way, namely 26-38 Pearl River Road nearby which will hold in excess of 400 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/mdocks.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="M Docklands is nearing completion. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mdocks.jpg?itok=eYFLd1EV" title="M Docklands is nearing completion. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>M Docklands is nearing completion. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>The Marriott announcement adds further to Melbourne's blossoming hotel sector with a sizeable number of new projects in the pipeline. Only last month both <a href="/news/new-ibis-and-novotel-hotels-for-melbournes-cbd">Ibis and Novotel committed to a new CBD tower</a> while construction continues on QT Hotel on Russell Street and the Four Points by Sheraton also in Docklands.

Above these as many as a dozen new hotels are mooted for varying developments around Melbourne over the next decade.
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Marriott Docklands adds to the Melbourne hotel mix

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In hindsight it seemed like such an obvious choice that Box Hill would be sit at the peak of high density living in greater Melbourne. A natural hub with multimodal transport options, established health, retail and entertainment offerings and a diverse population, it has the ingredients to underpin what is an now unprecedented boom in apartment living within postcode 3128.

In all actuality Box Hill's rise has been a long process to this point, with a string of unrealised projects over the past decade. While Whitehorse City Council have been proactive in accepting measured higher density living within Box Hill's core, the market dynamics were such that various projects never actually proceeded to construction.

It has only been in the last 12 to 18 months that Box Hill has asserted itself as the dominant suburban apartment hot spot, with the exclamation mark coming in the form of Whitehorse Towers. With its 511 apartments selling in no time and its taller tower soon to reach 115 metres, Whitehorse Towers is the first in a new batch of buildings that will transform Box Hill.

<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/image93_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A selection of Box Hill projects that never saw the light of day"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="430" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image93_2.jpg?itok=LO2wjXCX" title="A selection of Box Hill projects that never saw the light of day" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A selection of Box Hill projects that never saw the light of day</figcaption></figure>A sweep through the Apartments.com.au Project Database shows 23 current residential apartment projects within Box Hill, with in excess of 2,250 apartments in play. Of these 23 projects, 9 are currently under construction with the latest to join the ranks being Elland Avenue which began piling during November.

Further to these a number of other noteworthy projects are also on the Box Hill radar, the most prominent being 12-14 Nelson Road which is seeking approval for a 22 storey building containing 164 dwellings. Whitehorse City Council have indicated 12-14 Nelson Road is satisfactory in its site context and two further apartment developments at 5 Rodgerson Road and 9-11 Bruce Street received planning permits during October, the latter project advancing via VCAT.

Factoring in the projects that have yet to enter the Apartments.com.au Project Database, the overall count of current apartment projects centred around Box Hill's core would exceed 30; a massive number in context.

<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/image95.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Box Hill's largest to date - Sky One and Whitehorse Towers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="376" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image95.jpg?itok=xoGp0-pA" title="Box Hill's largest to date - Sky One and Whitehorse Towers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Box Hill's largest to date - Sky One and Whitehorse Towers</figcaption></figure>The smaller projects underpin Box Hill's apartments success story, it's the tall projects surrounding Whitehorse Road that garner public attention. The latest to break cover is the most recent incarnation of 545 Station Street which has appeared in many guises, but is now known as Sky One.

Expected to be Box Hill's tallest development, Sky One is championed by Golden Age Group after their purchase of the site from AXF Poperty. Registrations of interest are open for the project which will be officially launched during early 2016.

The northern side of Whitehorse Road will likely also receive a substantial tower with plans afoot for a mixed-use building tower for the Spotlight Box Hill outlet that may well usurp Sky One as the suburb's tallest 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/image91_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title=" 9-11 Ellingworth Parade and 701 Station Street. Image courtesy Lindellas and Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="259" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image91_2.jpg?itok=PJ_T2YO_" title=" 9-11 Ellingworth Parade and 701 Station Street. Image courtesy Lindellas and Artisan Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>9-11 Ellingworth Parade and 701 Station Street. Image courtesy Lindellas and Artisan Architects</figcaption></figure>Box Hill's popularity has also flowed into land sales with multiple development sites currently on offer. The buoyant residential sector has evidently given vendors confidence to hit the market with the expectation of receiving top dollar for their respective sites.

Seven large residential development land parcels are currently on offer within Box Hill, with two holding approval for residential schemes, namely 701 Station Street and 9-11 Ellingworth Parade. These sites follow hot on the heels of 820 Whitehorse Road which was sold recently with the onsite commercial complex expected to make way for a tower in excess of 25 levels.

The frequency and scale of the residential projects flowing into Box Hill have seen it become the apartment hot spot right now. A time of intense change is upon the suburb.

The following is a list of all Box Hill projects we have added to the Apartments.com.au project database to date.
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Box Hill: The new suburban apartment powerhouse

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2015 shapes as a pivotal year for Central Equity with three current sizebale planning applications for the Southbank-based developer set to underpin their intentions for the coming years. After highlighting <a href="/news/central-equity-breaks-the-mould-71-87-city-road-southbank">71-87 City Road during October</a>, the wraps are now off 268-274 City Road on Southbank and 556-558 Lonsdale Street within Melbourne's CBD.

The latter two if delivered in their initial form would have a joint development value approaching $350 million. Coupled with 71-87 City Road the three proposals which are still before the Minister for Planning and DELWP would all comfortably surpass the 200 metre height benchmark, a first for Central Equity which has for years elected to stick with towers of lesser height.

While the towers will almost invariably be subject to design refinements as they pass through the planning process, they do represent Central Equity's next tranche of high density projects. In recent years Central Equity like many other developers in the Melbourne apartment market has enjoyed robust demand for its product which has seen a handful of their projects sell heavily in next to no time.

The towers at planning are a continuation of Central Equity's penchant for not tinkering with their winning formula. Doig Architecture and Guilford Bell &amp; Graham Fisher Architects are the design firms behind either tower highlighted below, each having an established relationship with the prolific developer which has yielded many residential projects over recent years.

<h2>268-274 City Road development 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/image73_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Doig Architecture's 268-274 City Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="876" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image73_2.jpg?itok=AM3omSa9" title="Doig Architecture's 268-274 City Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Doig Architecture's 268-274 City Road</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Design: Doig Architecture</li>
	<li>Proposed: 70 level tower at 222 metres</li>
	<li>Historic building onsite retained within podium structure</li>
	<li>570 apartments: 237 x 1BR, 271 x 2BR, 62 x 3BR</li>
	<li>273sqm ground floor retail tenancy</li>
	<li>Provision for 221 vehicles and 309 bicycles</li>
	<li>Level 10 amenities including terrace, pool, cinema and gym</li>
	<li>Estimated development cost: $120 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>556-558 Lonsdale Street development 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/image74.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="556-558 Lonsdale Street in its initial form"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="983" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image74.jpg?itok=VMIiJIQ3" title="556-558 Lonsdale Street in its initial form" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>556-558 Lonsdale Street in its initial form</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Design: Guilford Bell &amp; Graham Fisher Architects</li>
	<li>Likely to be titled Melbourne Grand Apartments</li>
	<li>Site area: 2,187sqm</li>
	<li>Proposed: 67 level tower at 233 metres to top</li>
	<li>889 apartments: 100 x studio, 262 x 1BR, 366 x 2BR, 161 x 3BR</li>
	<li>3 ground floor retail tenancies</li>
	<li>Provision for 308 vehicles and 275 bicycles</li>
	<li>Amenities including pool, gym, theatre room, function room and common area</li>
	<li>Estimated development cost: $200 million</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/image75_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="71-87 City Road, 54-68 Kavanagh Street and 1 Balston Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image75_0.jpg?itok=UegcAPRs" title="71-87 City Road, 54-68 Kavanagh Street and 1 Balston Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>71-87 City Road, 54-68 Kavanagh Street and 1 Balston Street</figcaption></figure>556-558 Lonsdale Street and 268-274 City Road join 71-87 City Road as Central Equity's projects which are still at planning, with all three lodged just prior to the implementation of the Metropolitan Planning Levy which commenced on 1 July 2015. In addition, 54-68 Kavanagh Street was granted a planning permit in recent days, allowing for a further 597 dwellings.

Brookfield Multiplex has established itself as Central Equity's builder of choice, with three builds for the developer in progress. Southbank's 1 Balston Street is at piling while 612 Lonsdale Street and 601 Little Lonsdale Street are well into construction.

Overall Central Equity has approximately 1,410 apartments currently under construction, 597 approved by way of 54-68 Kavanagh Street and 2,241 seeking approval as per the initial planning submissions mid year.
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Two giants round out Central Equity's massive development pipeline

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A string of recent planning approvals throughout inner Melbourne has allowed for the addition of some 750 dwellings. Spread over eight separate projects, the residential schemes further add to Melbourne's pipeline while not being confined to one particular postcode or municipality.

Strictly the only non residential approval, Southbank's 64-68 Clarendon Street, has seen its permit issued during November after being lodged during February of this year. Designed by Bruce Henderson Architects, the 27 level tower will accommodate 161 serviced apartments.

Located diagonally opposite Crown Metropol Hotel, the approved tower is now likely to be touted to prospective operators.

Also in Southbank and Evolve Development look to have gained final approval for 25-27 Coventry Street with all public applications for the intended 20 level tower noted as approved. 25-27 Coventry Street shapes as Evolve Development's next major inner city project following Jewel Apartments heading to construction and the firm's sale of Williamstown's high density Waterline Place project.

<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/image68_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="25 Covenrty Street and Southbank's latest hotel"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="414" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image68_4.jpg?itok=rF9W3xFd" title="25 Covenrty Street and Southbank's latest hotel" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>25 Covenrty Street and Southbank's latest hotel</figcaption></figure>Two projects have found favour north of the CBD. Alpha 14 Property Group are poised to receive final planning approval for 386-394 Spencer Street, West Melbourne after receiving a notice of decision to grant a permit during November.

Set behind retained historic buildings, the new 16 level apartment building will rise with a distinctive pink motif applied to the facade if initial plans for the project are realised. The Hayball creation is likely to consist of 105 apartments split between one and two bedroom options.

Arden-Macaulay Precinct has received another approval with 114-116 Haines Street given the green light during October. It joins a number of other immediate residential projects which will transform the pocket of North Melbourne into a high density, mid-rise enclave.

A creation of Kyriacou Architects, 114-116 Haines Street will present as a 10 level building with in excess of 30 apartments included.

<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/image70_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Haines Street and Spencer Street will receive new residential buildings"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="412" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70_1.jpg?itok=ccKo2WfH" title="Haines Street and Spencer Street will receive new residential buildings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Haines Street and Spencer Street will receive new residential buildings</figcaption></figure>VCAT have ruled on two noteworthy projects within City of Port Phillip.

Highlighted on Apartments.com.au during the early stages of 2015, a <a href="/news/designed-to-inspiire-k1-union-street-melbourne">unique tree-laden proposal</a> has been given the green light at K1 Union Street adjacent to St Kilda Road. KMK Developments received their permit for the project this month, allowing for the delivery of a 13 level apartment building with 13 whole floor apartments split between 3 or 4 bedroom options.

<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/image59_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="K1 Union's unique exterior and viewline along with 550 Williamstown Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="379" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image59_1.jpg?itok=ZcQO1I2f" title="K1 Union's unique exterior and viewline along with 550 Williamstown Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>K1 Union's unique exterior and viewline along with 550 Williamstown Road</figcaption></figure>Also gaining approval is 550 Williamstown Road with VCAT issuing a permit for the 967sqm site that borders but is not within the Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area. The Jackson Clements Borrows design will see 33 apartments created within a six level building that sits opposite Port Melbourne Cricket Ground.

A permit for the project was issued within the last two weeks.

Slightly further afield and 649 Chapel Street has progressed after a number of failed proposals for the site. During October a notice of decision to grant a permit was advertised for the project which Malaysian developer Mitraland has slated as <a href="/news/malaysias-mitraland-looks-to-enter-the-melbourne-apartment-market">their first Melbourne project</a>.

Valued at $50 million, the project will deliver 72 apartments within a narrow 20 level residential building designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects. At 488sqm, the site and subsequent tower will eventually be wedged in between appreciably larger residential developments.

<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/image63_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="649 Chapel Street and Brunswick West's 350-364 Moreland Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image63_3.jpg?itok=Tw4Vrn16" title="649 Chapel Street and Brunswick West's 350-364 Moreland Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>649 Chapel Street and Brunswick West's 350-364 Moreland Road</figcaption></figure>VCAT has also ruled on a deceptively large apartment development in Brunswick West. 350-364 Moreland Road presents as a four level building to the street, yet is large enough to carry in excess of 70 apartments over a 2,082sqm site. In planning for over a year, the project was given the green light during September.
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Key residential projects gain approval

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
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SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

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Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

<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.

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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.
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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.”

Mark Baljak

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