<html><body>
Tim Gurner may well need to be referred to as the man with the golden touch soon enough as another of his development firm's projects has sold out almost immediately. GURNER had little trouble in finding buyers for all apartments within <a href="/buildings/28-stanley-street-collingwood">28 Stanley Street</a>, reaching 100 percent sales within 48 hours.

Registrations of interest were taken prior to the project's launch, resulting in a bias toward owner occupier purchasers intent on securing an apartment within Collingwood's Foy and Gibson precinct. 28 Stanley Street joins a fellow GURNER endeavour nearby at 107 Cambridge Street which has progressed quickly to construction after a brisk sales campaign.

Overall 28 Stanley Street is Tim Gurner’s 14th project within a two kilometre radius of the Collingwood site, taking into account projects from fellow developer Urban Inc. in which Tim Gurner has an interest.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gurn87921.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 28 Stanley Street. Image courtesy GURNER"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="709" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gurn87921.jpg?itok=5jGREBAU" title="Artist's impression of 28 Stanley Street. Image courtesy GURNER" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 28 Stanley Street. Image courtesy GURNER</figcaption></figure>With a project value of $30 million, 28 Stanley Street is a design of New Zealand architecture practice Warren and Mahoney, who have recently opened a Melbourne office. 40 large loft style apartments are included within the development, with retail and entertainment spaces at ground level.

Single bedroom apartments account for near on 20% of dwellings, with the project being reconfigured prior to launch in order to accommodate increased apartment sizes pitched toward owner occupiers. Apartment sizes range between 55sqm for single bedroom dwellings to up to 150sqm for three bedroom penthouses, all of which fetched prices in excess of $1.5 million.

<blockquote>
The interest from owner occupiers has been absolutely astounding. Our large apartment offerings have been the first to sell, with many purchasers buying two apartments and customising them to suit their lifestyle – a new trend in Collingwood that only two years ago would have been unheard of.

Based on the sales of our previous sell out Collingwood project, 107 Cambridge Street, we knew the owner occupiers demanded larger apartments, so we completely redesigned this project to offer larger-than-average, luxury apartments.
<cite>Tim Gurner</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Tim Gurner on the folly of minimum apartment guidelines</h2>

Citing the success of 28 Stanley Street as a project that has directly responded to the wants and desires of potential customers, Tim Gurner believes 28 Stanley Street also reveals flaws in the proposed minimum design standards for apartments in Victoria.

<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/gurn87922.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A market-driven product. Image courtesy GURNER"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="349" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gurn87922.jpg?itok=NVRmsYkZ" title="A market-driven product. Image courtesy GURNER" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A market-driven product. Image courtesy GURNER</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Had we offered these large apartments in the CBD or West Melbourne, it would have been a totally different story as the market in these locations has very different demands and desires. That’s why it is so important to assess each and every project on its own merits using its extremely local buyer profile as a guide, rather than using a blanket formula across the board.

What works for one location is absolutely not going to be the right mix for another location, which is why I strongly believe that applying apartment standards across Victoria is a flawed premise that simply won’t be able to keep up with our rapidly moving market trends.

This is evident of the market dictating appropriate product and we as developers must be flexible in order to adapt and deliver what the market wants.
<cite>Tim Gurner</cite>
</blockquote>

If implemented, the binding guidelines would effectively hamstring architects and developers from adapting to future fluctuating market trends according to Tim Gurner. Expecting the guidelines to quickly become outdated in the event they are implemented, he also expects they would severely limit supply and increase costs across the board.

<blockquote>
The proposed apartment standards guidelines could have a devastating effect on Victoria’s affordability and supply, just as it did in Sydney when New South Wales introduced the SEPP 65 over a decade ago. The implications of those policy changes caused 10 years of under supply which pushed up prices to unsustainable levels, which has now resulted in a property market which is simply unaffordable for anyone trying to enter the market for the first time.

Under the proposed changes, a development site which would currently house 100 apartments, may in the future be limited to just 60 or 70 under the new laws. This means less apartments are delivered but at a greater cost to the end user as developers will still need to recoup development costs.

This is coupled with Melbourne’s restrictive new neighbourhood planning laws which have placed severe restrictions on development in many of Melbourne’s desirable inner suburbs, which is already having a marked effect on supply in our most in-demand locations. The combination of these two policy changes together would absolutely have a lasting negative effect on supply which would ultimately push up prices to unsustainable levels.
<cite>Tim Gurner</cite>
</blockquote>
</body></html>

silvermb

Going Going Gurner! 28 Stanley Street and minimum apartment guidelines

<html><body>
Samma Group may not be recognised instantaneously as an established Melbourne residential developer, but the Cremorne-based company has a number of subsidiaries under its umbrella which maintain a higher public profile. Chief amongst them is SPEC Property which continues to expand its portfolio of development sites throughout metropolitan Melbourne.

Hand in hand with SPEC sits in-house architecture, planning and design agency Inhabit Design which is responsible for the group's two most recent projects located in Fishermans Bend and Camberwell. Both projects shape as medium term development opportunities for the developer, which currently has a healthy workbook of residential developments.

<h2>51-59 Thistlethwaite Street and 476-486 City Road, 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/image55_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="51-59 Thistlethwaite Street and 476-486 City Road, South Melbourne. Image courtesy Inhabit Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image55_1.jpg?itok=4gyvFQ_4" title="51-59 Thistlethwaite Street and 476-486 City Road, South Melbourne. Image courtesy Inhabit Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>51-59 Thistlethwaite Street and 476-486 City Road, South Melbourne. Image courtesy Inhabit Design</figcaption></figure>Lodged with City of Port Phillip during January 2015, the project has already moved to an appeal setting according to Council's online planning portal. Ranging between 4 and 16 levels, the development seeks the approval of 258 apartments split between one, two and three bedroom options, with retail and commercial tenancies and community facilities included.

As part of the application, Soho dwellings, a 40sqm toy library and a 93sqm tenancy for a start-up business would be present at ground level, while an enhanced public realm would see the creation of a pedestrian/bicycle access lane adjoining the site.

Even though City of Port Phillip failed to decide upon the merits of the application within the prescribed 60 day limit, they have indicated via online documents that they were hesitant to support the proposed development in its current form. Concerns with building height and setbacks, and inconsistencies with the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan Policy and Design Guidelines were cited as major issues.

<h2>Prosper Apartments - 699 Burke Road, Camberwell</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/image80.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="699 Burke Road, Camberwell. Image courtesy Inhabit Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image80.jpg?itok=TNNyrxyp" title="699 Burke Road, Camberwell. Image courtesy Inhabit Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>699 Burke Road, Camberwell. Image courtesy Inhabit Design</figcaption></figure>Across town and 699 Burke Road has been dubbed Prosper Apartments according the SPEC's <a href="http://www.specproperty.com.my/">Malaysian website</a>. Purchased during mid 2014, the 836sqm site which is a stone's throw from Camberwell Junction is now subject to an Inhabit Design scheme seeking a 14 level apartment complex. 23 single bedroom and 42 dual bedroom dwellings constitute the apartment mix, which sit above a first floor dedicated to 635sqm of commercial office space.

Key to the tower's design is inclusion of a sizeable light well which abuts the adjoining Aerial apartment complex. With a depth in excess of 24 metres, the light well will utilise Aerial's boundary wall by transforming it into a heavily landscaped feature wall running upwards from a common outdoor area located on level 2.

The project was subject to a VCAT hearing earlier this month, with the result as yet unknown.

Other projects at planning under SPEC's guidance include <a href="/buildings/flagstaff-green-15-batman-street-west-melbourne">15-31 Batman Street West Melbourne</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/3-15-shiel-street-north-melbourne">3 Shiel Street North Melbourne</a> which if approved would produce approximately 300 dwellings for the developer. Wasting no time post approval via VCAT, the developer is poised to launch Trilby Smith Street at <a href="/buildings/trilby-466-smith-street-collingwood">466-482 Smith Street Collingwood</a>.

The work of Inhabit Design, Trilby is expected to feature 47 single bedroom, 20 single+study, 44 dual bedroom and six three bedroom dwellings over a 1,340sqm site.

<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/image3inhabit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Trilby apartments. Image courtesy Inhabit Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="297" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3inhabit.jpg?itok=iiwv4aRZ" title="Trilby apartments. Image courtesy Inhabit Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Trilby apartments. Image courtesy Inhabit Design</figcaption></figure>Recently Samma Group formed two construction subsidiaries, namely BuildID and TriUrban Construction which undertake construction on behalf of SPEC Property. The two-pronged approach currently sees BuildID constructing <a href="/buildings/the-maybloom-7-riversdale-road-hawthorn">The Maybloom</a> and <a href="/buildings/billy-co-368-burnley-street-richmond">Billy &amp; Co</a> while TriUrban Construction are concerning themselves with the 111-apartment <a href="/buildings/helio-91-flemington-road-north-melbourne">Helio</a> on Flemington Road, which is due for completion come 2016.
</body></html>

Samma Group increases its residential development portfolio

<html><body>
Further light can now be shed on the proposed 'Queens Place' development which is expected to eventually consume a sizeable and underutilised CBD corner site. Developer 3L Alliance has found a new home within the existing 350 Queen Street office complex onsite, that will eventually be flanked by dual high-rise residential towers.

With a nominal value of $750 million, the project will see an expansive five level podium topped with two towers terminating at 246 metres in height. Having only purchased the site during late 2014, 3L Alliance instated Cox Architecture and Fender Katsalidis as joint project architects following a limited design competition.

The sheer size of the development will likely see the residential towers delivered over two stages, with the current planning application seeking approval for Towers 1 and 2, with Tower 2's building envelope subject to further detailed development plans which will be provided by the development team for assessment at a future point.

Aviation exclusion zones has seen a separate Stage 1 plan for a 206 metre tower included, although for all intents and purposes the planning application focuses almost exclusively upon the dual 246 metre design.

<h2>350 Queen 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/image60a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="350 Queen Street aspects. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="398" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image60a.jpg?itok=YdSZwfYA" title="350 Queen Street aspects. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>350 Queen Street aspects. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Planning application lodged April 2015</li>
	<li>Site area: 7,295sqm with existing 20L office complex retained, other structures to be demolished</li>
	<li>Application seeks full approval for Stage 1 and envelope approval for Stage 2</li>
	<li>Dual 79 level residential towers at 246.23 metres envisaged, with secondary Stage1 design of 206 metres included (non-OLS incursion)</li>
	<li>Total GFA sought: 176,217sqm</li>
	<li>554 car parking &amp; 603 bicycle spaces (154 bay commercial car park included within basement)</li>
	<li>1,925sqm of retail space and 120-space child care facility</li>
	<li>Strata offices suites between 174sqm and 647sqm</li>
	<li>Stage 1 apartment total: 864</li>
	<li>Amenities: Pools/spas, gym, saunas, home theatre, kitchen/lounge, yoga studio, karaoke area</li>
</ul>
<h2>COX and FK on 350 Queen Street</h2>

<blockquote>
‘Queens Place’ is a compelling opportunity to re-engage the site at 350 Queen St into the precinct. Using a finer grain of public connections and amenity paired with taller elements of urbane city proportions; the site is redefined to offer Melbourne’s CBD an activated, connected and enlivened precinct.

The design process has given rise to a concept that enriches the ground plane with new connections and an enhanced public realm within the Queen Victoria Market Precinct. In the podium, a variety of uses such as retail, childcare and commercial suites provide activation to the critical ‘first 25m’.

Atop the podium are positioned two towers, shaped and sculpted by design drivers from within and around the site. They step as they ascend, forming a dynamic pairing on Melbourne’s continuously evolving skyline. At both the ground plane and in the sky, this development has real potential to enliven and enrich the liveability and character of Melbourne’s CBD.
<cite>Cox Architecture and Fender Katsalidis, architectural report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Overs and unders: OLS / PANS-OPS a consideration</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/image57_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="OLS Diagram. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="303" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image57_2.jpg?itok=f5I03ufG" title="OLS Diagram. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>OLS Diagram. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA</figcaption></figure><a href="/news/aviation-impact-on-building-development-in-the-melbourne-cbd">Obstacle Limitation Surface</a> (OLS) exclusion zones have been taken into account within the 350 Queen Street planning documents. OLS is essentially a series of height limits for objects surrounding a particular aerodrome, with Essendon Airport the major consideration.

As the preferred 246 metre outcome would breach the OLS ceiling of 228.5 metres, an alternative scheme of 206 metres has been included within the planning documents for comparisons sake (and for approval should the 246 metre version fail). While various CBD towers already penetrate the OLS ceiling, including the nearby Aurora Melbourne Central, they do not penetrate the more rigid PAN-OPS ceiling.

350 Queen Street is no exception in this regard with the development team citing constructability and PAN-OPS limitations as halting their advance skyward.

<h2>The first 25</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/image59_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression from Queen and A'Beckett. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image59_0.jpg?itok=1hA3XQuO" title="Artist's impression from Queen and A'Beckett. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression from Queen and A'Beckett. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA</figcaption></figure>Numerous references have been made to 'The first 25 metres' within the planning documents, alluding to the weight placed upon creating a dynamic podium structure.

<blockquote>
The importance of the first 25m to the human experience at ground level and contribution to the City’s fabric is crucial. Queens Place makes a clear separation between tower and podium, providing a highly detailed vibrant base and a calm simple tower above.

Rather than treat the public space as the space left over from the development, the design team approached the task from the opposite direction, designing the public realm first responding to existing conditions, through site connections and solar access and then placed the buildings around this space.
<cite>Cox Architecture and Fender Katsalidis, architectural report</cite>
</blockquote>

The result is a highly articulated podium both externally and internally, with a large covered central plaza included at the heart of the project. Transparent glazing wraps ground level frontages while site entry points are discerned with distinctive bamboo plantings which supplements hanging greenery over the podium structure.

The curved podium is veiled with operable, contoured timber louvres which respond to prevailing weather conditions.

<h2>Two towers</h2>

Both Melbourne City Council and the The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning have been consulted with regard to the size and nature of the proposed development. Based upon the joint discussions a twin tower outcome was considered most appropriate for 350 Queen Street.

Setbacks and tower separation has been considered, with a distance of between 15 and 33 metres representing the void between both buildings while a boundary setback of at least 4.5 metres are present above the podium.

The towers present in a clean and simple form, and this has been continued over the plant levels atop each structure. Described as a 'visual flourish' within the architecture report, the crown of each tower has been integrated into the tower form and will be glazed in bronze finishes thus providing a focal point from many surrounding angles.

<h2>350 Queen Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: 3L Alliance Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architecture, Urban Context Report: Cox Architects and Fender Katsalidis Architects</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Project Manager: Gallagher Jeffs</li>
	<li>Aviation Report: Airport Consultancy Group Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Landscaping: Rush\Wright Associates</li>
	<li>Wind Assessment: Mel Consultants</li>
	<li>Heritage Assessment: prepared by Lovell Chen</li>
	<li>Sustainability, Lifts and Services: Aurecon</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Geotechnical Report: Golder Associates</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: McKenzie Group</li>
	<li>Structural Report: WSP Group</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Bosco Johnson</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

3L Alliance pushes for twin 246 metre towers at 350 Queen Street

<html><body>
Apartments.com.au has contributed <a href="/tag/footscray">many an article</a> toward the seismic shift occuring within Footscray, there's a raft of large-scale apartment developments in the pipeline set to transform the area over the next decade. No less than <a href="/new-apartments/footscray-vic-3011">21 current apartment project listings</a> for postcode 3011 are in the Apartments.com.au project database, with the sum of 4,900 plus apartments a distinct possibility.

Even the likes of local stalwart Franco Cozzo has sought to vacate his premises as the lure of development takes effect.

But what will keep these thousands of new residents occupied in Footscray proper, rather than seeking the entertainment and retail options of for instance, the CBD?

<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_3602_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Barkly Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="373" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_3602_0.jpg?itok=hf4Lrhrl" title="Barkly Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Barkly Street</figcaption></figure>On a recent walking tour of Barkly Street and surrounds it became apparent there's a tremendous sense of place in Footscray. The diverse mix of cultures, fashion and cuisine provides an outcome unique to Footscray, but it's also coupled with a street level history and scale that is comparable in many ways to Collingwood or Richmond.

Whether it's the 'rough' (in some areas) urban realm or the general bustle, Footscray is an intriguing locale with all the fundamentals in place to cope with a massively expanded population in years to come. Should contemporary venues such as Barkly Street's Littlefoot Bar proliferate and provide the area with a new dimension of dining and entertainment venues to compliment the super-strong ethnic cuisine offerings from South East Asia and the Horn of Africa, Footscray will become a destination all its own. A new Smith Street in the offing.

I can only hope the above notion is conveyed through the following images. Click on the main image below to expand and as always enjoy.
</body></html>

Where else but Footscray!

<html><body>
If Rob Adams were to nominate a prime example for his <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/AboutMelbourne/Statistics/Documents/TransformingCitiesMay2010.pdf">Transforming Australian Cities</a> blueprint which was presented over the 2009-2010 period, I wonder if Essendon would be the most appropriate locale today? Advocating medium density housing along major transport corridors, with tram lines to the fore, the document was designed to address the pending population squeeze while also increasing patronage on public transport.

Much discussion ensued post the document's release, with Ivan Rijavec <a href="/expert-insights/buying/ivan-rijavec-on-a-question-of-urban-character">writing an article</a> for Apartments.com.au touching upon the problems of containing development purely along transport corridors. While differing opinions on the document were prevalent, Essendon would surely be the closest fit to what was envisaged five years ago.

With the bulk of the suburb's development occurring in the past five years, the mixed-use nature of Essendon has seen commercial, hotel/serviced apartment, residential and low-cost housing uses delivered; all within metres of rail, tram and bus services.

If general development activity along Mt Alexander Road and Keilor Road is any indicator, the area is well and truly doing its bit to accommodate an increasing population in line with the principles of Transforming Australian Cities. Seen below are a selection of current projects in the area ranging from planning assessment to under construction.

Currently Mt Alexander Road, Keilor Road and the immediate surrounds sees six major apartment developments under construction, with Accord Property Group's Alexa at 1048 Mt Alexander Road currently at site demolition.

<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/image45_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="a selection of current projects along tram line 59"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="649" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_0.jpg?itok=AoQeVyOe" title="a selection of current projects along tram line 59" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A selection of current projects along the Tram 59 line</figcaption></figure>Two fresh proposals are looking to reinforce the successes of Essendon while also pushing the boundaries for their respective developers.

First up is Russendon Holdings Pty Ltd seeking approval of a ten level apartment complex directly opposite Essendon Station; with an address of 13-21 Russell Street it would be the tallest building in the suburb if approved. Within the Essendon Junction Activity Centre, the apartment building designed by Plus Architecture would carry 99 dwellings over a 1,196sqm site.

At 34.5 metres in height the design features a 296sqm commercial tenancy at ground level in addition to a 197sqm communal garden while a 192sqm rooftop garden will crown the 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/photo_2_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Plus Architecture's 13-21 Russell Street."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="305" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/photo_2_0.jpg?itok=_rf4F_VQ" title="Plus Architecture's 13-21 Russell Street." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Plus Architecture's 13-21 Russell Street.</figcaption></figure>More ambitious in terms of apartment numbers is established developer Blue Earth Group's proposal for 144-160 Keilor Road. Nearby to the developer's previous project on Keilor Road and with Tram 59 at its doorstep, the proposed six level complex designed by CHT Architects is looking to add 260 dwellings over a sizeable 5,306sqm site.

To be delivered over two stages, the project would consist of two distinctive buildings finished externally in either cream or black, located above a 296 basement car park. The large site has allowed CHT Architects to deliver three separate northern-facing communal courtyards totalling 829.5sqm while five retail tenancies will front Keilor Road, further enhancing an emerging retail strip found at the base of the numerous higher-density developments completed along Keilor Road during recent years.

<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/image131_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="144-160 Keilor Road designed by CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="292" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image131_0.jpg?itok=921rUqDd" title="144-160 Keilor Road designed by CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>144-160 Keilor Road designed by CHT Architects</figcaption></figure>The stretch of land bookended by Essendon Station and the Keilor Road Activity Centre has certainly seen its fair share of development in recent years, much in line with Rob Adams' Transforming Australian Cities model. With an abundance of development sites along the roughly three kilometre stretch which fronts multiple modes of transport, higher-density development along the corridor is no longer a trend but now the norm.
</body></html>

Essendon's high density development a model example

<html><body>
Cast your eyes over the northern reaches of Melbourne's CBD and a not-too-subtle marker is taking its place. Brady Group's Vision has motored past the 150 metre mark on its way to 226 metres and in doing so is acting as a vanguard project of sorts for the rash of new residential towers set to redefine this section of Melbourne.

With a host of new proposals joining the ranks of late, now presents as an opportune time to provide an overview of these residential towers that promise to remodel the northern areas of the CBD beyond recognition.

<h2>The current drop</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/image43_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A host of projects are early into their construction cycle"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image43_0.jpg?itok=hXuuDiC-" title="A host of projects are early into their construction cycle" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A host of projects are early into their construction cycle</figcaption></figure>Clockwise above are <a href="/buildings/eporo-tower-279-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Eporo</a>, <a href="/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Light House</a>, <a href="/buildings/eq-tower-127-abeckett-street-melbourne">EQ Tower</a>, <a href="/buildings/victoria-one-452-472-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Victoria One</a> and <a href="/buildings/empire-melbourne-398-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Empire</a>, the most advanced of which has risen two levels above ground. Joining these projects in the early stages of construction are <a href="/new-apartments/the-trillium-36-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Trillium</a> and <a href="/buildings/la-trobe-tower-323-la-trobe-street-melbourne">La Trobe Tower</a>.

Near on 3,100 apartments are contained within the above seven projects, demonstrating the sheer pace at which this section of the CBD is evolving into a high-rise residential hub. With Vision, <a href="/buildings/the-carlson-321-la-trobe-street-melbourne">The Carlson</a> and part of <a href="/buildings/fulton-lane-151-franklin-street-melbourne">Fulton Lane</a> also under construction, the number of apartments under construction is inflated by a further 1,460.​

It's a staggering number, yet such is the volume of upcoming projects north of La Trobe Street and south of Victoria Street that it can easily be surpassed by those projects in waiting.

<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="400" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" msallowfullscreen="msallowfullscreen" oallowfullscreen="oallowfullscreen" src="https://charts.datawrapper.de/abxpa/index.html" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>Incoming</h2>

A master sales agent has been assigned to <a href="/buildings/swanston-central-168-victoria-street-carlton">8 Bouverie Street</a>, with its sales campaign imminent. Snapped up by Hengyi, the project is set to follow the current project Light House, albeit with a greater apartment yield exceeding 1,000 dwellings; the final numbers for the project will be revealed shortly.

Also pushing up the development chain are two separate projects for student accommodation provider Scape Student Living. <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">212-222 La Trobe Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/scape-melbourne-393-swanston-street-melbourne">393 Swanston Street</a> between them are capable of providing in excess of 1,500 dwellings and have a completion date spread over 2018-2019. These are joined by the approved 377 La Trobe Street scheme which would essentially sit between the two nominated projects above, although its delivery timeframe is unknown.

<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/image38_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Side by side and set for reshape the La Trobe Street landscape"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="223" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image38_2.jpg?itok=VkDr756g" title="Side by side and set for reshape the La Trobe Street landscape" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Side by side and set for reshape the La Trobe Street landscape</figcaption></figure>Also maintaining a 2019 completion timeline is <a href="/buildings/aurora-melbourne-central-224-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Aurora Melbourne Central</a> which is due to begin site demolition at present while <a href="/buildings/97-franklin-street-melbourne">97 Franklin Street</a> remains the only major approved development in the CBD's northern precinct without publicly known development plans. The 200 metre plus golden tower is value at approximately $200 million and would carry 551 apartments and 144 serviced apartments.

Looming is <a href="/buildings/conservatory-9-23-mackenzie-street-melbourne">Conservatory</a> with in excess of 450 apartments; it will be UEM Sunrise's next Melbourne venture post the sales success of Aurora Melbourne Central.

The projects at planning are equally as imposing with four towers in excess of 200 metres on the radar. Headlining the show is <a href="/buildings/queens-place-157-a-beckett-street-and-370-queen-street-melbourne">Queens Place</a> with 1,700 dwellings over two hulking towers, the tallest of which is 267 metres. Nearby 293 - 303 La Trobe Street Melbourne is shaping up for a slender residential tower with 370 dwellings over what is the Duke of Kent hotel.

Most recently submitted for assessment is <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">478 Elizabeth Street</a> with a 68 storey mixed-use development envisaged. 399 apartments and 196 hotel suites would constitute the development's yield.

<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/ldo_cbd.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Laurence Dragomir"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="497" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ldo_cbd.jpg?itok=EAaBuHpN" title="Image © Laurence Dragomir" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image © Laurence Dragomir</figcaption></figure>Perhaps the most poignant indicator as the the rapid change and sheer volume of projects sweeping through the northern parts of the CBD is the render created by Laurence Dragomir above. Barely a year old the image depicts six of the tallest proposals with Aurora Melbourne Central being the only project not at construction.

If nothing else the dynamism of this pocket of the CBD provides impetus for an updated Apartments.com.au render.
</body></html>

Northern lights: the incredible rate of change in Melbourne's northern CBD

<html><body>
It seems almost counterintuitive that a venue slated for inclusion on Australia’s National Heritage List is due for a mass redevelopment. That's the case though with last week's announcement that Queen Victoria Market (QVM) is to be nominated by Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt for the prestigious inclusion.

The announcement was music to the ears of Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle, who has become the public face of QVM's forthcoming redevelopment. On the potential National Heritage Listing Lord Mayor Robert Doyle stated:

<blockquote>
Today’s announcement is a major milestone for the QVM renewal project on the path that will protect and preserve the market for future generations. If QVM qualifies, there is scope to then add it to the ‘Tentative List’ to be considered for UNESCO World Heritage listing.

QVM has traded continually as a market since 1878 and predates Melbourne’s only current UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens. In the last 30 years alone, half the city has been rebuilt or redeveloped, but for 143 years QVM has been a constant in the story of our society and economy, a story which will continue well into the future.

We’re planning an appropriate and respectful acknowledgement of the market’s history as our city’s first cemetery and as a site that is significant to Melbourne’s Indigenous people, including the Wurundjeri.
<cite>​Lord Mayor Robert Doyle</cite>
</blockquote>

And it's QVM's long and varied history that will make its redevelopment all the more interesting. How will "Appropriate and respectful acknowledgement" translate into a modern facility catering for the immediate area's booming population and the needs of Melburnians at large?

QVM has in days gone by served as a cemetery, where as many as 10,000 people were buried onsite from 1837 to 1917. A small section of the cemetery was approved for the purposes of a market during 1859 and has flourished ever since to become the last surviving market in the municipality.

According to City of Melbourne, QVM provides significant architectural attributes worthy of recognition via the following structures:

<ul>
<li>The two storey and single level shops on Victoria Street and Elizabeth Street have intact timber shopfronts. The Dairy Produce Hall arch between the two groups of shops on Elizabeth Street is unusual, and the facade of the Meat Market is a design by noted architect William Salway.</li>
	<li>The Dairy Produce Hall is in a restrained stripped classical style, with an interior that is notable for the intact stall fronts timber surrounds and marble counters. F Shed and the cemetery wall demonstrate an innovative approach to the division of market and cemetery functions.</li>
	<li>The market buildings comprise the Meat Market (1869), Sheds A-F (1878), Sheds H and I (1878), Sheds K and L (1923), Elizabeth Street Stores, Victoria Street Shops (1887, 1891, and 1923), Dairy Produce Hall (1928), Franklin Street Stores (1929-1930), M Shed (1936), John Batman Memorial (1881) and the site of the Old Melbourne Cemetery (1837-1917) (Source: Victorian Heritage Register).</li>
</ul>
<h2>QVM's social character</h2>

<blockquote>
QVM was a place apart from the city proper, separate from the business and commercial activity of the growing city. It was removed from the ornate facades of city buildings in the main thoroughfares, where buildings were on show and at times were ostentatious, especially during the boom years of the 1880s.

The market, by contrast, represented the back door of the city, characterised by its mess and smell and noise.

QVM also served as an interface of society; a meeting ground; an unstructured social place, unlike other places in the city where rules and codes of conduct applied; like parks and gardens the market was a liminal space between order and disorder in the city, a place of encounter. Situated on a marginal site at the edge of the city, the market attracted the marginalised of society: the poor, the homeless, the hungry.
<cite>City of Melbourne</cite>
</blockquote>

Still a popular meeting place (albeit under different circumstances) and gaining additional popularity by way of expanded night market activities, QVM's pending redevelopment master plan is at a <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/projects/queenvictoriamarket">final draft stage</a>, with said master plan due to be reviewed for approval by the Future Melbourne Committee on July 28th.

According to the master plan all land designated to QVM has been divided into four quarters, interlinked by a market cross that will act as the precinct's main thoroughfare. The differing quarters will reflect the unique characteristics and purpose of each area within the new QVM, while still respecting the grand history of the institution.

Further details on QVM's redevelopment that will flow in coming months will be dissected on Apartments.com.au as they are made public.

Lead image courtesy Museum Victoria.
</body></html>

Queen Victoria Market considered for national heritage listing

<html><body>
After the best part of six months at planning the lid is being lifted on Sydney-based DEXUS Property Group's intentions for their prized 32-44 Flinders Street site. Superseding an earlier proposal of 56 levels, the current 65 level proposal represents another entry into the burgeoning list of 200 metre plus residential towers in Melbourne.

Constructed during 1998, DEXUS have seen it fit to replace the onsite multi-level car park with a residential development which holds four separate frontages. Key to the proposal is the provision of heightened amenity to the public realm which seeks to draw in street level activity; a far cry from the current dynamic which sees the immediate area somewhat lacklustre and isolated.

Should approval be granted, it provides DEXUS with an opportunity to diversify beyond its established office and industrial portfolio. Conversely selling the asset may be an option as outlined within this <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/property/capital-gain-dexus-submits-even-more-ambitious-skyscraper-proposal-20150206-136rnc">article</a>.

<h2>32-44 Flinders 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/image13_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Preliminary perspectives of 32 Flinders Street. Image courtesy SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="173" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_1.jpg?itok=5KaWzX6n" title="Preliminary perspectives of 32 Flinders Street. Image courtesy SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Preliminary perspectives of 32 Flinders Street. Images courtesy SJB Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged December 2014</li>
	<li>2,087sqm site</li>
	<li>Current use: 561-bay Wilson Car Park over 10 levels</li>
	<li>Seeking approval for two buildings with a combined 625 dwellings</li>
	<li>65 level tower @ 212.1 metres and 11 level building @ 44.05 metres</li>
	<li>​427 vehicle and 216 bicycle bays with four basement levels</li>
	<li>Frontage to Flinders Street, Flinders Lane, Spark Lane &amp; Sargood Lane</li>
	<li>Three separate amenities levels</li>
	<li>Three ground floor commercial tenancies: 194sqm total</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design intent</h2>

<blockquote>
The configuration of the development is that of a podium and tower form that ensures that the street edge of the Hoddle Grid is strongly articulated and held. This development is envisioned as a catalyst for the rejuvenation of the urban realm in this portion of the CBD, providing a net community benefit.

The proposed development will provide key pedestrian network connections, activation visible from laneway entrances and increased amenity on Flinders Lane by way of the removal of car parking access to the site from this location and gifting the private portion of Spark Lane to MCC.

In addition, the 5 level car parking link bridge that spans the Spark Lane alignment on the site is to be removed to ensure that sunlight penetration is given to the laneway in this area as well as to articulate the two addresses as separate but related built form.
<cite>SJB Architects, Planning Submission</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Shape and style</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/image34_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Intended Flinders Street frontage. Image courtesy SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="218" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_2.jpg?itok=4lBKXnbB" title="Intended Flinders Street frontage. Image courtesy SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Intended Flinders Street frontage. Image courtesy SJB Architects</figcaption></figure>The project's podium is designed in both scale and composition to slot into the existing landscape by employing a monolithic yet articulated finish. Dedicated for the most to car parking, the podium will feature an active edge to Flinders Street by way of three apartments per level masking the car parking facilities. 
Whilst the podium is strong and features a composite stone and concrete finish, the tower itself is describes as "An eye catching beacon on the edge of the CBD" within planning documents. This is both a reflection of the form and exterior finish employed where the tower is lobed and bifurcated in its shape.

<blockquote>
The form of the tower responds to all accepted setback conditions to the neighbouring buildings. Where there is close proximity to the Herald and Weekly Times tower to the west, the tower form minimises the amenity impact by curving away to open view corridors. This allows occupants of the adjacent tower tangential views away from the proposed tower face and allows residents of dwellings in the proposed tower excellent views to the south.
<cite>SJB Architects, Planning Submission</cite>
</blockquote>

Externally the tower's intended cladding begins with darker glazing over the lower levels which progressively morphs into a lighter crown defined by fins and metalic/fritted glazing, whilst a vertical bronze/burnt orange slither bisects the height of the tower.

<h2>Activation down low and apartments up high</h2>

Spark Lane and Sargood Lane stand to benefit from the redevelopment with the activation of their laneway edges expected. By creating separate podium structures, the subsequent additional public space is expected to bring new/additional activity to the enhanced laneway network by way of:

<ul>
<li>Providing a new pedestrian connection from Flinders Lane to Sargood Lane</li>
	<li>Providing new retail activation &amp; interfaces</li>
	<li>Consolidating vehicular access at Flinders Street, away from the laneways</li>
	<li>Allowing Spark Lane to be optimised by removing the existing 5 level car parking link bridge above</li>
	<li>Providing a new lobby address to Spark Lane by gifting MCC with private land</li>
	<li>Allowing for greater passive surveillance throughout the area</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/image11_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level rebirth. Image courtesy SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="170" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11_1.jpg?itok=tdWsNIJA" title="Ground level rebirth. Image courtesy SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level rebirth. Image courtesy SJB Architects</figcaption></figure>Seven basic dwelling types are included within the proposal, ranging from 1bed/1bath to 3bed/3bath. Single bedroom apartments constitute approximately 40% of the overall count of 625, whilst 250 dual bedroom options are also present.

The balance of dwellings are split between 97 three bedroom apartments and 30 triple bedroom SoHo options located within the 11 level building facing Flinders Lane. 117 triple bedroom options are held within 32-44 Flinders Street which accounts for near on 20% of overall dwelling numbers; a healthy figure relative to many other similar sized apartment developments.

<h2>32-44 Flinders Street application team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: DEXUS Funds Management</li>
	<li>Architect &amp; Planning: SJB Architects</li>
	<li>Interior design: Bates Smart</li>
	<li>Project Manager: APP</li>
	<li>Town Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: Webber Design</li>
	<li>Services Engineer: Wood and Grieve</li>
	<li>Engineer: ARUP</li>
	<li>Landscape Consultant: Tract</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineer: GTA consultants</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Wind assessment: MEL Consultants</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

DEXUS seeking a Nexus: 32-44 Flinders Street planning application

<html><body>
This winter shapes as a boom period for Melbourne's commercial builders if the number of projects beginning their construction cycle is any indicator. Sweeping through the Apartments.com.au <a href="/developments">project database</a> and limiting a project to its early works stage, specifically piling, site retention and bulk excavation, there are no less than 42 projects spread throughout metropolitan Melbourne in their infancy.

Apartments.com.au's project database is currently tracking 207 projects in the broader 'Under Construction' category, with the aforementioned 42 projects accounting for an impressive 20% of all projects under construction.

While the line between early and main works can be blurred, the sheer number of projects about greater Melbourne commencing construction points toward the overall strength and underlying demand of the apartment sector, considering the sector account for the vast majority of construction projects underway.

<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_2337.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Botanica Balwyn's progress during late May"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_2337.jpg?itok=R1Gml1mO" title="Botanica Balwyn's progress during late May" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Botanica Balwyn's progress during late May</figcaption></figure>While the major construction firms content themselves with big ticket builds in and around the CBD, it's the proliferation of medium and smaller sized apartment projects in middle and outer suburbs which has led to the spike in construction starts and the rise of a new breed of builders.

As previously small constructors such as Hacer, Hamilton Marino and ABD Group expand in size and capabilities to fill the void left by the multitude of projects attracting Melbourne's biggest builders, so do smaller builders step up to fill the void in the tiers below. Relatively new names such as Lexicon, Orange Building Solutions, Team Building, TriBuild Constructions, Project Group and Shangri-La can be seen across Melbourne building sites.

While 42 projects are identified at an early works stage, they're located in no less than 31 separate Melbourne suburbs which points toward the tremendous spread of apartment living options now available throughout the metropolitan area. Doncaster for example holds four projects at early works, namely <a href="/buildings/magnolia-doncaster-hill-22-hepburn-road-doncaster">Magnolia</a>, <a href="/buildings/88-doncaster-hill-88-tram-road-doncaster">88 Tram Road</a>, <a href="/buildings/8-hepburn-road-doncaster">8 Hepburn Road</a> and <a href="/buildings/83-on-tram-83-tram-road-doncaster">83 on Tram</a> while the Melbourne is represented by <a href="/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Light House</a>, <a href="/buildings/la-trobe-tower-323-la-trobe-street-melbourne">La Trobe Tower</a>, <a href="/buildings/royal-elizabeth-151-berkeley-street-melbourne">Victoria One</a> and <a href="/buildings/royal-elizabeth-151-berkeley-street-melbourne">Royal Elizabeth</a>.

Notable projects set to rise this winter include the long stalled and almost forgotten <a href="/buildings/echo-33-simmonds-street-south-yarra">Echo</a> South Yarra which is in the hands of Hutchinson Builders while piling continues on La Trobe Tower which will feature a new building technology, namely Hickory Group's integrated Hickory Building System.

Overall the 42 projects sum to in excess of 4,900 apartments with all the projects set to begin rising skyward in the near future. Not to be forgotten is Collins Square Tower 5 which as the sole commercial development is at bulk excavation and will eventually provide Docklands with another 34,000 plus square metres of premium commercial space.

<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_2362.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Toorak Park's 450 plus apartments under the guidance of Lend Lease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_2362.jpg?itok=0UIU6Nl4" title="Toorak Park's 450 plus apartments under the guidance of Lend Lease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Toorak Park's 450 plus apartments under the guidance of Lend Lease</figcaption></figure>The count of 42 doesn't include the array of sites that have been cleared in preparation for construction. Recent sites to be cleared include <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">8 Hopkins Street Footscray</a>, <a href="/buildings/heidi-apartments-120-burgundy-street-heidelberg">Heidi Apartments</a> in Heidelberg, Pellicano's <a href="/developments/dandenong-vic-3175">Quest Dandenong</a> development, <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">80 Collins Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/11-central-avenue-moorabbin">11 Central Avenue Moorabbin</a>, with the latter quartet having their builders waiting in the wings.

Of course the largest of all, <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Australia 108</a> is in the same position with Brookfiled Multiplex poised to initiate piling on what will be Melbourne's tallest building upon completion.
</body></html>

A winter of construction content

<html><body>
The CBD's west end is set to receive an ultra-luxury development with plans afoot for a 70 level mixed-use tower carrying in excess of 1,100 apartment and hotel rooms. Based on St Kilda Road, established developer Vic Investments Management Group (VIMG) is behind the plan which is expected to crown their expanding development workbook.

Formed near on a decade ago the firm is active in both the Melbourne and Sydney apartment markets, and has seen both the frequency and size of their projects increase over time.

The subject site of VIMG's intended blue ribbon development is 600 Collins Street which was <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/investors-move-into-collins-street-as-values-build-up-in-central-melbourne-20150324-1m667g">reported</a> as sold during late 2014 to a syndicate of Chinese, Malaysian and German investors for $60 million. Currently a low-rise commercial office and day care facility, the expansive site sits alongside the under construction 568 Collins Street which is due for completion in coming months. 600 Collins Street looks set to eclipse its neighbour for height, with a tower of between 220 and 240 metres a likely outcome.

<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/image228.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site as is and as expected. Images courtesy 600collinsstreet.com.au and VIMG"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image228.jpg?itok=SgArD5Q0" title="The site as is and as expected. Images courtesy 600collinsstreet.com.au and VIMG" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site as is and as expected. Images courtesy 600collinsstreet.com.au and VIMG</figcaption></figure>VIMG have stated via their <a href="http://vimg.com.au/portfolio/collins-street-melbourne/">website</a> that the tower will carry an end value in excess of $1 billion, with a tentative completion date set for 2021. While other pending projects in the immediate area such as <a href="/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">250 Spencer Street's Ritz Carlton</a>, <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">555 Collins Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/premier-tower-134-160-spencer-street-melbourne">Premier Tower</a> and <a href="/news/besgate-group-readies-their-surge-into-the-melbourne-apartment-market">640 Bourke Street</a> jockey for position in the market, 600 Collins Street's $1 billion price tag may well usurp the aforementioned projects and pit it against <a href="/new-apartments/one-queensbridge-street-1-23-queensbridge-street-southbank">1 Queensbridge Street</a> as Melbourne's most opulent current development.

At the opposite end of the CBD the developer is pursuing another tower, albeit more modest. With the site in question sold during August 2014, a planning application was submitted during October 2014 seeking the approval of a 52 level residential tower. Covering 141-149 La Trobe Street and 25-27 Bennetts Lane, the proposal would see Bennetts Lane Jazz Club make way for 210 apartments over 51 floors with two retail tenancies at ground level.

According to VIMG 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments will constitute the living options within the tower. City of Melbourne currently have the proposal listed at an 'appeal' stage.

<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/8941dd5b118085c844a249414324433a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 141-149 La Trobe Street . Image courtesy VIMG"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/8941dd5b118085c844a249414324433a.jpg?itok=FAdYO9Z_" title="Artist's impression of 141-149 La Trobe Street . Image courtesy VIMG" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 141-149 La Trobe Street . Image courtesy VIMG</figcaption></figure>Nearby Hamilton Marino Builders have taken VIMG's <a href="/buildings/metrolitan-melbourne-137-bourke-street-melbourne">Metropolitan</a> on Bourke Street above ground level, on the way to delivering the 19 level dKO Architecuture-designed tower midway between Russell and Exhibition.

The remaining local VIMG project has just reached construction tender. <a href="/new-apartments/coventry-haus-33-coventry-street-southbank">Coventry Haus</a> on Southbank will see a JCB Architects-designed 20 level residential tower slot into the popular residential precinct.

Hamilton Marino Builders have also recently completed Central Gardens in Box Hill and Prahran's Scout Apartments for VIMG in addition to Metropolitan, suggesting they may be considered favourite to snare the Southbank build.​
</body></html>

VIMG's latest tower valued in excess of $1 billion 

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

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;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" dir="auto">
<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" dir="auto">
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.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Mark Baljak

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News