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While one of 2014's tallest residential developments looks to have been brought down to size, another has stepped forward to avail itself as 2015's first 200 metre plus proposal. Breaking the apparent inner-city lull in large-scale proposals during recent months, Southbank may well host one of Melbourne's tallest structures with a 280 metre residential tower proposed according to project architect Crone Partners.

Conversely images have been published online of a revised residential scheme for 54-64 A'Beckett Street in Melbourne's CBD which show a drastically reduced tower as the likely outcome. Sans 30% of its original height, the proposal still maintains its distinctive pinkish facade as envisaged by architects Elenberg Fraser.

<h2>295 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/image30_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="295 City Road. Image © Tim Kirkhope"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="369" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image30_1.jpg?itok=LniU3vYI" title="295 City Road. Image © Tim Kirkhope" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>295 City Road. Image © Tim Kirkhope</figcaption></figure>Appearing on architect Crone Partners website in the latter part of 2014, 295 City Road is a residential tower at 261 metres over a 1,161sqm site in Southbank, diagonally opposite the 244 metre <a href="/new-apartments/elysium-54-clarke-street-southbank">Elysium Tower</a>, a planning application for 295 City Road was shown as lodged with the State government two weeks ago.

Featuring 532 apartments and retail space fronting City Road, Maretree Pty Ltd has been listed as the applicant with Urbis acting on their behalf. 

<blockquote>
The project has been rigorously designed in accordance with preliminary advice from the Planning Ministers department and is soon to be lodged for approval with the DPTLI. The development is targeting 532 apartments and seeks to maximise amenity for the residents, neighbours and the broader Southbank community. Crone Partners has worked closely with a team of top tier consultants to ensure the design is robust and functional.

The design skilfully works within the irregular site to optimise the yield, while ensuring the apartments are carefully planned to avoid overlooking whist maximising the spectacular views. Externally, a delicate seraphic frit is applied to a high performance curtain wall to create a diaphanous skin, which cloaks the apartments to offer protection, shade and glare control.
<cite>Crone Partners website</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>54-64 A'Beckett 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/image34_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Then and now. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="538" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_1.jpg?itok=PG3vB_tp" title="Then and now. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Then and now. Image © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Also lodged during December 2014, a revised 54-64 A'Beckett Street's renders have recently surfaced. <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Australia 108</a> developer Aspial - World Class Land is also behind the A'Beckett Street project, with the initial scheme seeking approval for a 253 metre residential tower yielding 300 one bedroom and 450 two bedroom apartments.

Situated over a 1,280sqm site, Elenberg Fraser have visually condensed the initial scheme from 81 levels to 56 levels, bringing the project in line with the neighbouring MY80 Silver Skies at approximately 175 metres in height. The decrease in scale for the project is in response to feedback from planning authorities, where a Melbourne City Council report stated:

<blockquote>
The key issues of concern are the excessive scale, height and built form of the proposed building, inadequate internal amenity and failure to appropriately respond to development of adjoining sites. A lack of setbacks to site boundaries and limited tower separation to adjacent developments will result in an exceptionally poor outcome for current and future residents.
<cite>Report to the Future Melbourne Committee </cite>
</blockquote>

Both projects are in the long queue of planning applications awaiting a decision from Minister Richard Wynne's office.
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silvermb

One up, one down in the residential tower stakes

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Travel past 12 Queens Road at the moment and massive banners adorn the existing car park highlighting one of Melbourne's premier apartment developments in the making. The latest project by developer Kangoala, Queens Domain will be aimed toward apartment buyers seeking large living areas and exceptional internal finishes featuring a number of firsts.

Urban.com.au recently spoke with PDA Australia Development Manager Andrew Rice who has once more teamed with Kangoala following the success of the recently completed Emporia Apartments in Prahran. At the heart of discussions is the role which PDA Australia plays within the development process and how this translates to innovative outcomes within Queens Domain.

As a development management company PDA Australia offers essentially a one stop consulting service encompassing roles such as site analysis &amp; acquisition, project feasibility analysis, planning permit application submissions, project management and various property related negotiations. In this way Kangoala has entrusted PDA Australia with the bulk of Queens Domain's development process.

<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/228-0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queens Domain. Image courtesy dKO"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1031" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/228-0.jpg?itok=QiRTRFk2" title="Queens Domain. Image courtesy dKO" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queens Domain. Image courtesy dKO</figcaption></figure>Andrew Rice explains that by doing so PDA Australia maintains an integral role in the design process, appointing dKO Architecture with the principal design of Queens Domain, MDG landscape architects for external areas and Nexus Designs for the interiors. Describing each project as a stepping stone toward greater use of technology and innovation, emphasis is placed on the delivery of 238 distinct homes within Queens Domain rather than a generic apartment block.

With intense application to the cause and scrutiny over all aspects of the project's design, PDA Australia have implemented a number of intriguing design features within the project. These features are not price driven, but guided by sourcing quality, efficient products that can be easily installed during the construction process.

In describing his many overseas sojourns in order to research interior solutions for the project, Andrew Rice settled upon a number of European suppliers in order to provide Queens Domain with a point of difference. Chief amongst these are the Snaidero modular kitchens custom designed for Queens Domain.

Manufactured in northern Italy and present in the display suite, the Snaidero units are of an excessively good quality, larger than most traditional apartment kitchens and maintain an organic feel. While the form is impressive, it's the functionality during installation which leads to savings in both time and trades.

<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_5406.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Snaidero kitchen finishes"><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_5406.jpg?itok=KOOoJ8Ty" title="Snaidero kitchen finishes" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Snaidero kitchen finishes</figcaption></figure>PDA Australia also approached Asko to provide appliances; quality in nature but with limited exposure to residential apartment projects, Andrew Rice reinforces that PDA Australia's stance was to source the best available products regardless of location or public profile. Also based in northern Italy, Pianca wardrobes were chosen to provide functionality to storage spaces while prefabricated doors, stone tiles sourced and pre-cut in Athens plus moulded bathroom sinks add to the list of innovative interior solutions.

A feature of the overall apartment floor plan is dKO Architecture's tailored design responding to what are traditionally large blocks fronting Queens Road with built form set back from all boundaries. With views and natural light emphasised, dKO have provided bedrooms with windows to two directions. In doing this Queens Domain maximises natural light penetration to all apartments; no apartments with borrowed light here!

Single bedroom apartments begin at 47sqm with two and three bedroom dwellings also included. The largest apartment on offer holds 166sqm, adding to PDA Australia's stance that large, liveable spaces are what is desired in the marketplace.

<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_5409.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Display suite views never to be built out"><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_5409.jpg?itok=CFkJKsD9" title="Display suite views never to be built out" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Views never to be built out</figcaption></figure>As of last week in excess of 100 apartments within the 238-apartment project have sold with modest sales to overseas clients. With a focus toward the owner-occupier, Queens Domain's onsite elevated display suite is expected to see strong visitor numbers, while also providing prospective buyers with an accurate representation of the vista on offer.

In a novel method to generate project interest, viewers of the Queens Domain website can <a href="http://www.queensdomainmelbourne.com.au/competition">register their details</a> with the knowledge that a 2015 Grand Prix Experience is on offer which includes corporate tickets for two, a nights accommodation at The Langham Hotels and Resorts and dinner at Southgate’s Pure South.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MhTakzg965k" width="100%"></iframe>
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Queens Domain a showcase for quality apartment design

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Since resuming normal operations post the festive period, Apartments.com.au's <a href="/developments">project database</a> has averaged one additional new project entry per day during 2015. Updated existing entries aside, no less than 50 new residential projects have taken their place within the database.

While a select few new developments added during 2015 are either at sales or under construction, the vast majority of new listings are either seeking or have recently obtained planning approval. Combined these 50 projects have the potential to pump approximately 4,520 new dwellings into the Melbourne residential sector.

<h2>By the numbers</h2>

2015's new listings show that no less than 15 Melbourne municipalities have had at least one project added to their ranks. Stonnington, Port Phillip and Moreland are the most popular municipalities, accounting for 23/50 listings.

While this is expected given the popularity for high-density living in these areas, it's also a reflection of the ease in which information can be sourced online for the three nominated councils above. Conversely certain other councils have scarce little easily accessible planning documents available online. There are for instance 15 sizeable planning applications located within City of Whitehorse's boundaries that have little recognition online via the council's webpage.

Overall there are currently 677 listings within Apartments.com.au's project database; 344 are shown to be either under assessment or approved with the balance split between registrations/sales and construction.

<h2>The newest entry</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/image15_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="81A Bell Street. Image courtesy Taylors"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="221" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15_0.jpg?itok=5_gVLYK_" title="81A Bell Street. Image courtesy Taylors" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>81 Bell Street. Image courtesy Taylors</figcaption></figure>Most recent to enter the database is the latest incarnation for the what was once Coburg High School. Subject to a distinct doughnut-shaped, JCB-designed proposal in recent years, the site is now before Moreland City Council. Expected to be delivered in stages, <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">81 Bell Street</a> consists of five separate buildings with 8-11 levels the requested outcome.

Holding 391 apartments overall, 81 Bell Street's scheme is distributed over an approximately 12,000sqm site which has been vacant for the best part of a decade. In its recommendation to Moreland's Urban Planning Committee, council officers suggest a planning permit be issued for the first stage of the development.

<h2>Looking ahead</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/image46.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="555 Collins, 280 Queen Street &amp; 104 Mount Street, Heidelberg"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image46.jpg?itok=IISMyH_E" title="555 Collins, 280 Queen Street &amp; 104 Mount Street, Heidelberg" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>555 Collins, 280 Queen Street &amp; 104 Mount Street, Heidelberg</figcaption></figure>With a healthy backlog of projects awaiting entry into the project database, it seems that Melbourne's apartment sector will continue to march on unabated.

Seen above are but three of the many projects that will appear in the database over coming weeks. While 555 Collins Street is well known, 280 Queen Street at 250-odd metres and 104 Mount Street, Heidelberg are examples of projects that have escaped the public gaze to date.

Combining the burgeoning number of apartment projects Melbourne-wide and expanded research capabilities of Apartments.com.au, the Apartments.com.au project database will continue to grow at a rapid pace in the months to come; the expectation is that it will comfortably exceed a hefty 800 listings in the not too distant future.
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Urban.com.au's Project Database booms

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555 Collins Street has been reported as having a variety of uses post its <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/worlds-tallest-buildings-proposed-for-melbournes-cbd/story-e6frf7jo-1226627911154">first public appearance</a> close enough to two years ago. At that stage is was envisaged as a purely commercial tower, and at 404 metres would have put it firmly into the world's tallest buildings club.

<a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/multipurpose-super-tower-planned-to-rise-to-new-heights-above-melbournes-collins-street-20141007-10rej5">Recent reports</a> alluding to a mixed-use proposal with roughly half the tower dedicated to commercial space have been superseded once more, with the scheme under consideration heavily reliant upon apartments. With the project's available office space relegated to the podium, 555 Collins Street's Singaporean developer has chosen to include over 1000 apartments within the tower; a number which not all that long ago would have been considered impossible, but which has been achieved by a number of recent towering Melbourne proposals.

While the merits of approving 555 Collins Street are subject to deliberation, what is not up for debate is the design merit of the proposal which is explored below.

<h2>555 Collins Street planning application</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/image102.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Indicative model included within the town planning document. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="396" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image102.jpg?itok=aQi0kPCT" title="Indicative model included within the town planning document. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Indicative model included within the town planning document. Image © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current 2,292sqm site use: multi-level commercial tower</li>
	<li>Planning application submitted August 2014</li>
	<li>Proposed 91 level mixed-use tower</li>
	<li>6 commercial levels, 15 level hotel, 60 residential levels</li>
	<li>11,280sqm office space, 300 hotel rooms, 1,020 apartments</li>
	<li>203 car parking spaces &amp; 301 bicycle bays within five basement levels</li>
	<li>Total GFA: 134,557sqm</li>
	<li>RL 302.9m</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design rationale</h2>

<blockquote>
The design of the proposal will introduce a world class architectural response into the Melbourne CBD, one that captures the energy of the city, particular Collins Street and King Street. This sculptural form will be of a truly iconic nature, something entirely unique in comparison to anything that has been approved of constructed in Melbourne’s CBD.
<cite>Urbis, 555 Collins Street Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

From concept to firm design the process makes for interesting reading within the town planning document, where the best part of 40 pages were dedicated to the design process. Initially Melbourne's penchant for fashion, celebration and nature provided the impetus to create a flowing tower befitting of a prominent location.

<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/image110.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cited design influences. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image110.jpg?itok=Wt76jp1i" title="Cited design influences. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cited design influences. Image © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Following a meeting with wind engineers, where it was suggested that softening sharp corners were required to deal with wind conditions, we started exploring a softer expression of the two slipped soft forms.

Where the peel or fold occur between the two slipped forms of the tower, this could signal balconies or openings. As it meets and morphs with the podium, this could celebrate the entry and change in uses.
<cite>Bates Smart, town planning report</cite>
</blockquote>

Consequently a soft, flowing tower with subtle variances in movement was created where the podium to tower transformation is most evident. By doing so Bates Smart have sought to effectively 'channel' the energy from street level and continue it up the height of the tower, particularly from the Collins Street aspect.

<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/image114_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Concept to creation. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="274" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114_0.jpg?itok=esZoX0iL" title="Concept to creation. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Concept to creation. Image © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>Hand in hand with the soft form architecture is the facade treatment which brings a unique finish to the proposal's exterior. From bubble wrap to art installations and existing buildings, many examples were cited in explaining the tower's unique skin. With varying window sizes over the tower, the effect is to create a wave-like pattern shifting from solid to transparent over the height of the tower.

<h2>From the ground up</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image107.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Internal configuration. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="661" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image107.jpg?itok=ZSETQRNw" title="Internal configuration. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Internal configuration. Image © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>A split ground level is in play where lower ground will encompass vehicle entry, loading bays, services and hotel porte cochère. Upper ground fronts King and Collins, with three separate entry points consisting of a residential lobby fronting Collins Street at 215sqm, office lobby fronting Collins Street at 320sqm and hoitel lobby fronting King Street at 440sqm. Dual retail spaces of 90sqm and 70sqm are also present.

Level 1 holds hotel amenities with the following 6 levels dedicated to office space. Level 8 is a dedicated plant level with level 9 providing further hotel amenities including pool, gym, lounge, spa and terrace. Levels 10-24 feature the 300 hotel suites while level 25 is dedicated to plant. Level 26 ushers in the apartment component with a sky lobby, followed by 27-66 which hold 680 apartments, or 17 per level.

Plant area once more for level 67 while 68 is split between amenities including a lap pool, spa and sauna plus five apartments. Further apartments are over levels 69-88, providing another 340 dwellings. Crowned with further plant levels, 555 Collins Street is at its highest point RL 302.9 metres with an RL of 3.1 metres at ground level, being the passageway to the rear of the site. Thus overall height is 299.8 metres or 295.9 from Collins Street.

<h2>As it stands</h2>

During November 2014 an officers report was prepared for the Future Melbourne Committee concerning amendments to the existing incorporated document in the Melbourne Planning Scheme entitled ‘Shadow Controls, 555 Collins Street, February 2013.

<blockquote>
The amendment seeks to allow the consideration of a planning application for the construction of a tall mixed use building that will significantly overshadow the south and north banks of the Yarra River. The amendment will not provide any public benefit, or any additional contribution to the public realm. The removal of conditions means that there will be no built form constraints imposed on the development site and there will be no expiry of the exemption provided by the incorporated document.
<cite>Report to the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

As such advice to the Future Melbourne Committee/Melbourne City Council at the time was that Council should not support the request to amend the Incorporated Document Shadow Controls, 555 Collins Street, Melbourne, February 2013.

Since its submission during September 2014, no changes have been logged for 555 Collins Street's application status on the Minister for Planning Permit Application Register; perhaps the project's proponents are waiting for an official edict from Planning Minister Richard Wynne prior to making their next move? Then again perhaps the may be surprised with a favourable outcome?

<h2>555 Collins Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Fragrance Group</li>
	<li>Urban Context Report: Bates Smart Architects</li>
	<li>Development plans: Bates Smart Architects</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>​Aviation Report: Airport Consultancy Group Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering Assessment: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Sustainability: NDY</li>
	<li>Wind assessment: Mel Consultants</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Land sales agent: Mark Wizel, CBRE.</li>
</ul>
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Softly does it: 555 Collins Street in detail

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Yesterday marked another step in the long road to gaining a revamped Queen Victoria Market. The third stage of community engagement regarding the redevelopment has commenced, which coincides with the release of the <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/files/6414/2493/0317/QVM_Precinct_Renewal_Draft_Masterplan.pdf">Queen Victoria Market Precinct Renewal Draft Master Plan</a>.

The Draft Master Plan follows a period of consultation in which the community and those with vested interests in the market utilised the opportunity to inform Melbourne City Council as to what they would consider an ideal revamp of the institution. Following a period of further public consultation beginning this Monday coming, it's expected a final master plan will be delivered toward the end of 2015, with detailed design commencing thereafter.

And it's the final master plan which will outline the scope of works to be undertaken, where the current expectation is that the renewal may generate 9000 new jobs at the market, 12,000 jobs in the surrounding precinct and thousands of construction jobs.

<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/image2qvm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Precinct Location and Staging Plan and quadrant divisions"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="263" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2qvm.jpg?itok=RNW2BZ3a" title="Precinct Location and Staging Plan and quadrant divisions" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Precinct Location and Staging Plan subsequently split into quadrant divisions</figcaption></figure>According to the Draft Master Plan "Queen Victoria Market will be a ‘market of markets’, with a distinctive offer and experience in each of its main trading quarters, interlinked by a network of attractive public spaces and connected to the surrounding city by high quality streetscapes."

While Quarter 1 covers the existing halls of Lower Market, Quarter 2 or Upper Market with its Victorian sheds is due for substantial change. A new frontage to Peel Street will be created while the quadrant is still listed as a possible location for an underground car park.

Quarter 3 will consist of open-air sheds and new public open spaces capable of handling changing markets and events. Quarter 4 involves the recently purchased Munro site and will see new development including a restored Mercat Cross Hotel, fine grained retail, hospitality and community uses that complement Queen Victoria Market. The new mixed-use building will also carry a mid-block pedestrian link between Franklin Street and Therry Street, in turn providing easier access to the market for the thousands of apartments under construction on or near Franklin Street.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
In 2013, Melbourne City Council committed to the largest investment in its history: up to $250 million to renew the Queen Victoria Market (QVM) precinct.

After 18 months of speaking with traders and the community about what the renewal might look like, we now have an ambitious master plan which will bring the market into the 21st century while preserving its unique character and heritage. It will retain what we all love about the market, such as the fresh meat and produce and speciality shops, while facilitating a contemporary retail offer, new public spaces and the realignment of Franklin Street to create an important East-West connection.

I invite the community to have their say on the draft plan which divides the seven-hectare market site into four quarters, each with its own unique characteristics, opportunities and potential future use. The quarters intersect at the Market Cross, a new meeting place in the heart of QVM.
<cite>Lord Mayor Robert Doyle</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The purchase of the Munro site has been a game-changer. It gives us more options when we look at locating car parking and community facilities within the market.

This is the third and most critical round of community engagement to date. We’ve laid out a vision for each of the market quarters, but we need to test that vision with traders, shoppers, visitors and residents of the precinct to find out what’s important to them.
<cite>Councillor Stephen Mayne, Chair of Council’s Finance and Governance Portfolio</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_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne City Council's envisaged timeline for the project"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="294" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_3.jpg?itok=4gy4eykJ" title="Melbourne City Council's envisaged timeline for the project" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne City Council's envisaged timeline for the project</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

Noted in The Age yesterday was a piece outlining certain traders displeasure with the revamped market <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/queen-victoria-market-traders-fear-extended-hours-will-threaten-family-businesses-20150226-13pi9z">trading seven days a week</a>. While not fundamentally against the changes that a redeveloped market would bring, their concerns lay primarily with the envisaged 6am-10pm trading hours.

Those gripes aside, Melbourne is a <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/CommunityServices/CommunitySafety/Pages/24HourCitypolicy.aspx">24 hour city as championed</a> by Melbourne City Council. QVM as one of Melbourne's premier tourist and shopping hubs absolutely should seek to trade as long as possible, bringing it in line with many other retailers throughout the CBD and surrounds. Provided there are sufficient ancillary entertainment options designed into the revamp, QVM should aspire to be of Melbourne's premier after dark drawcards, much like it is during the day... for five days a week at least.

Community engagement on the Queen Victoria Market Precinct Renewal Draft Master Plan is open from Monday March 2 to Sunday 29 March, 2015. For more information, see <a href="http://melbourne.vic.gov.au/participate">melbourne.vic.gov.au/participate</a> or visit the engagement hub at 452 Queen Street at the market.
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Queen Vic set to become the 'market of markets'

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Some times little projects are capable of creating a sizeable impact upon their surrounds. Fitzroy-based <a href="http://aaarchitects.com.au/">Adrian Amore Architects</a> are behind a current planning application which intentionally or inadvertently will do precisely that given its incredible form that will juxtapose with its immediate historic surrounds.

Currently before City of Melbourne, a planning application for 346 Drummond Street seeks to demolish the current small-scale office complex onsite in favour of a new ultra contemporary, two-storey structure featuring an exposed bent vertical enclosure and canopy. Combining this contemporary architectural expression and a host of ESD initiatives, 346 Drummond Street is certainly a departure from the norm.

<h2>Design Description</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/35_2b.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of 346 Drummond Street. Image © Adrian Amore Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/35_2b.jpg?itok=ICpscHrY" title="Aerial perspective of 346 Drummond Street. Image © Adrian Amore Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of 346 Drummond Street. Image © Adrian Amore Architects</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The concept for this building evolved though looking at the context of this site, and its immediate relationship to the former police building to the south, which is a building of heritage significance, on the heritage register (1878). The siting of the former police station, with its front setback, and flanking driveways, opened opportunities for our design , because it became more than about how to treat a street facade.

It was also about the south facade to the driveway which made the site legible in 3-dimensions, which in turn opened the opportunity for the building to become sculptural. The sculptural form of the building, with its bending, twisting webs, which appear contorted and intertwined, can be likened to a bird cage, which has been torn open.

The nature of this form of the building is contrasting to the massing of the former police building, which is important to mention, as it is this contrast which highlights the inherent character and individuality of both buildings, standing side by side.

Essentially there are two facades or skins to the front and side of the building. The external skin being composed of a webbing of steel, which is to be clad in ochre BROWN coloured Zinc. Between the webs is to be perforated ochre zinc sheet at a lower level which bleeds off as the building gets higher. This skin of webbing rises, bends and twists to become a canopy to the roof garden and travels through the length of the building, bunching, becoming tighter as the building constricts, then running vertically down the rear facade.

It is intended that the webbing is sculptural, and also that it integrates with the roof garden.
<cite>Design description, 346 Drummond Street planning application</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Exterior finishes</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/image71.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Inspiration to execution. Images © Adrian Amore Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="254" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image71.jpg?itok=cTMBYHKB" title="Inspiration to execution. Images © Adrian Amore Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Inspiration to execution plus expected project materials. Images © Adrian Amore Architects</figcaption></figure>With recent extensions to Bombay Sapphire's UK distillery (above left) noted as a point of reference, 346 Drummond Street's exterior will feature a variety of finishes including off form concrete, preweathered zinc which will shroud the frame, perforated charcoal and brown sheet metal elements in addition to glazing glazing.

Behind the woven exterior will be a rooftop garden. Described as "Luscious and Utopian", the heavy amount of greenery is expected to eventually cover adjoining walls and spill over and hang from the exterior framework/webbing. This will in turn provide a sharp contrast to the buildings exterior whilst also enhancing amenity for the office space inhabitants.

<h2>Heritage impact</h2>

<blockquote>
The proposed new building satisfies the expectations of the local heritage policy (Clause 22.05) in terms of its height, scale, and setbacks, however, in a direct application of the policy the unusual form of the building does not strictly comply with the requirement for a more conventional building form in a heritage setting.

The sculptural form of the building will present as a visually prominent element, but will not dominate the surrounding streetscape context, nor detract from the former Carlton Police Station, Court House or commercial building (all included on the Victorian Heritage Register). These iconic buildings, and the nearby C and D graded heritage buildings, will continue to contribute to the heritage character of the streetscape, albeit diminished.

The juxtaposition between the new and old built form in the Drummond Street streetscape will not detract from the architectural form and setting of the nearby heritage buildings, and can be accommodated in this area where the historic character has been diminished by substantial infill development. The proposed building adopts an elegant design, and will not have an adverse heritage impact on the heritage character, presentation or significance of the broader Carlton Precinct
<cite>Lovell Chen, heritage statement</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

From small projects such as 346 Drummond Street to Republic Tower, exemplary designs don't come along every day. With tight development budgets generally holding sway, it's not all that often that architects are given what looks to be complete architectural license to design as they please, and even then there's no guarantee that a given design won't be pared-back beyond planning approval.

346 Drummond Street looks to be a project where proponent GMP Nominees (Vic) Pty Ltd has given free reign to Adrian Amore Architects, and the result the outcome couldn't be more interesting. But will the design respect the heritage aesthetic of its surrounds? As evidenced above the answer is generally yes, although it's clear 346 Drummond Street is in sharp contrast to the existing built form of the area.

Regardless 346 Drummond Street is such a rare, unique, almost manic design you can't help but want it to be built!
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Beating the drum for exceptional design

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A recent Friday 13th article published by the Australian Financial Review carried news that Walker Corporation's 2-12 Batmans Hill Drive or Tower 5 had <a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/lang_walker_collins_square_tower_YNKR2WnpgqywfnnWEm6OsJ">received approval</a> from the Victorian State Government. Inauspicious dates aside and somewhat incredulously the Monday thereafter, deep foundation contractor Vibropile was on site, beginning construction on what is the sixth building within the Collins Square precinct.

This miraculously quick turnaround suggests that Walker Corporation's dialogue with government representatives had been positive prior to public approval, prompting the developer to ready the necessary contractors to begin works immediately upon approval. While piling has commenced, a head contractor has not been announced as yet.

<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_5416_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Piling underway at 2-12 Batmans Hill Drive"><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_5416_0.jpg?itok=uRp0vyGj" title="Piling underway at 2-12 Batmans Hill Drive" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Piling underway at 2-12 Batmans Hill Drive</figcaption></figure>Covered by Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/and-then-there-were-five-tower-5-collins-square">when at planning</a>, 2-12 Batmans Hill Drive features a swale taken from the tower's most prominent aspect facing Wurundjeri Way. Described as a 'signature' tower in a key location and visible to the masses of commuters entering Melbourne via the Westgate Freeway, 2-12 Batmans Hill Drive will stand at 111 metres upon completion and add 34,700sqm of premium office space to the Melbourne market.

2-12 Batmans Hill Drive joins fellow Collins Square tower 727 Collins Street at construction, with the latter destined to be one of Docklands tallest buildings at 145 metres upon completion. Together the two towers will add 90,000sqm of commercial space to the precinct.

Further both buildings when complete will see contiguous retail spaces joined to create a cavernous and highly activated retail precinct at ground level, including a new internal passage dubbed Walker Laneway.

<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_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="727 Collins Street's progress as compared to a project render"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image57_1.jpg?itok=fPoEwIjy" title="727 Collins Street's progress as compared to a project render" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>727 Collins Street's progress as compared to a project render</figcaption></figure>Spotted in recent days atop Collins Square Tower 1 are the initial test facade panels which will eventually provide 727 Collins Street with its distinctive facade and 'crown'. Far from silver in appearance, the seemingly blue faceted panels will clad the top volume of the tower and are quite similar to the Sissons-designed <a href="http://www.sissonsarchitects.com/project/?p=0010&amp;type=c">Lantern Building</a> seen above, which acts as the entry point to the Collins Square precinct.

<blockquote>
Externally the building exhibits two distinctive forms with a rich façade expression resulting from the varied materials and finishes. The lower east elevation offers a particularly well resolved and carefully detailed façade proving a strong presence to Village Street.

To the upper levels the building provides an overhang to the north and west, providing an interesting architectural form.
<cite>727 Collins Street Planning report</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0103_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Test facade panels atop Tower 1, Collins Square"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0103_0.jpg?itok=zAAtEXdK" title="Test facade panels atop Tower 1, Collins Square" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Test facade panels atop Tower 1, Collins Square</figcaption></figure>While no tenants have been made public for 2-12 Batmans Hill Drive, a number of organisations are seeking new office digs with the Sate Government (25,000 sqm) and Herald Weekly Times (11,000-13,000sqm) headlining the list. It could be that Walker Corporation intend to press ahead with construction of 2-12 Batmans Hill Drive in the hope that they may steal a march on competing prospective office developments.

727 Collins Street on the other hand has both KPMG (27,000sqm) and Maddocks (6,000sqm) as signed tenants although the AFR article cited earlier suggests that the tower will not be ready until the early stages of 2017, a delay of some months.
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Collins Square approved one day, under construction the next

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Life has been breathed into a dormant <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> development site with Hampton East-based BPM on the verge of proceeding with a reworked development scheme located at <a href="/buildings/shadow-play-105-clarendon-street-southbank">105 Clarendon Street</a>. Designated Shadow Play, the tower sitting on a 1,260sqm site will feature 52 levels of apartment living above a 9 level podium; both of which will carry a subtle rippling facade to which the project's name references.

Designed by <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a> and with internals by Hecker Guthrie, Shadow Play is expected to hold 150 car spaces within the podium and 546 apartments within the tower above. While a restaurant may be the ground level drawcard, Shadow Play's top floor will host an entire resident amenities level.

<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/image19_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of Shadow Play"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_1.jpg?itok=SGaKBy7y" title="Artist's impression of Shadow Play" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of Shadow Play</figcaption></figure><h2>BPM on Shadow Play</h2>

<blockquote>
Standing tall on the corner of City Rd &amp; Clarendon St, ’Shadow Play’ will form a landmark ‘gateway’ to Melbourne’s South Melbourne and CBD. Constantly morphing and changing as the viewer moves around the building, the sculptural form creates a beautiful ephemeral experience. Undulations in the façade give the illusion of movement across the building skin whilst also practically working to maximise views out across Melbourne.

The podium design is activated through residential apartments to the Clarendon St and City Rd corner. A layered and semi-transparent articulated mesh is stretched across the main corner of the building which is designed to provide privacy to the apartments and allows for a highly effective natural ventilated car park to Haig Lane and City Rd.

Working in harmony with the natural environment ’Shadow Play’ will create an iconic &amp; animated sculpture for the city of Melbourne.
<cite>BPM website</cite>
</blockquote>

As mentioned Shadow Play will replace the approved scheme onsite also devised by Elenberg Fraser. Approved during September 2011, the tower consisted of a 42 level, 133 metre high residential complex with three ground floor retail tenancies and above ground parking through the podium. With a GFA of 37,000sqm the then 308-320 City Road would have contained 360 one and two bedroom residential apartments.

Readers with an even longer memory may equate the current Shadow Play design to that of architect Ivan Rijavec's early Prima Tower design seen below. While there's more than a decade between the two, both carry splaying 'wings' of sorts emanating from a rounded leading form, producing a very agreeable 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/image21_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The initial Prima Tower with 308 City Road inserted. Images courtesy Rijavec and Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="724" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_0.jpg?itok=jH9bayBL" title="The initial Prima Tower with 308 City Road inserted. Images courtesy Rijavec and Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The initial Prima Tower with 308 City Road inserted. Images courtesy Rijavec and Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Shadow Play represents a sizeable leap in project scale for BPM, with low and mid-rise residential projects their forte to date. <a href="/buildings/collins-queen-40-collins-street-essendon">Collins &amp; Queen</a> in Essendon represents BPM's largest Melbourne project with 111 apartments and 6 retail tenancies currently under construction.

Nonetheless BPM look to be on a rapid expansion curve with Shadow Play joined by pending Richmond, Collingwood and South Melbourne projects, in addition to three Brisbane apartments developments in the pipeline.

Shadow Play's project briefing suggests the tower is aiming at a 2018 completion date.
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Out of the shadows and into the light

South Yarra is experiencing an apartment construction boom at the moment with no less than thirteen major apartment developments sprouting skyward. Comfortably surpassing the established might of Southbank, South Yarra is second only to Melbourne&#39;s CBD in terms of the number of major projects under construction.

Combined, these thirteen projects are according to the Apartments.com.au Project Database delivering 1,784 new dwellings to South Yarra, with an assumption that this would equate to approximately 3,500 additional postcode 3141 residents.

<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_5330.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The epicentre that is Forrest Hill"><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_5330.jpg?itok=Hi6lYAVY" title="The epicentre that is Forrest Hill" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>The epicentre that is Forrest Hill, as seen from Claremont Street</figcaption>
</figure>

At the core of South Yarra&#39;s apartment success is Forrest Hill; the once low-rise industrial and commercial pocket was earmarked as an urban renewal precinct during 2005. While a steady trickle of projects have seen tower cranes populating the precinct ever since, it&#39;s only a decade later in the early stages of 2015 where Forrest Hill&#39;s full might is on display.

Seven of the current crop are located within Forrest Hill precinct, including <a href="/buildings/lucia-chiara-4-daly-street-south-yarra">Lucia/Chiara</a> and <a href="/buildings/central-south-yarra-3-yarra-street-south-yarra">Central South Yarra</a> who between them account for 782 of the overall 1,784 apartments under construction. The image above capturing Forrest Hill&#39;s Claremont Street holds <a href="/buildings/prime-tower-47-claremont-street-south-yarra">Prime Tower</a>, <a href="/buildings/claremont-manor-7-claremont-street-south-yarra">Claremont Manor</a>, <a href="/buildings/district-apartment-hotels-10-claremont-street-south-yarra">Alto</a> and <a href="/buildings/ella-2-claremont-street-south-yarra">Ella</a>; all at varying stages of construction and cumulatively contributing a further 668 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/img_5344.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Central South Yarra rising above it all"><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_5344.jpg?itok=2nrVnope" title="Central South Yarra rising above it all" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Central South Yarra rising above it all</figcaption>
</figure>

<a href="/buildings/yarra-house-18-yarra-street-south-yarra">Yarra House</a> also finds itself in Forrest Hill precinct, with the remaining projects under construction spread throughout the suburb. Projects west of Chapel Street include <a href="/buildings/six-murphy-6-murphy-street-south-yarra">6 Murphy Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/eight-murphy-8-murphy-street-south-yarra">8 Murphy Street</a>, The Hill Apartments and <a href="/buildings/her-majestys-apartments-52-davis-avenue-south-yarra">Her Majesty&#39;s Apartments</a>. <a href="/buildings/gisele-300-toorak-road-south-yarra">Gisele</a> and <a href="/buildings/pure-apartments-42-wilson-street-south-yarra">Pure Apartments</a> find themselves to the east of Chapel Street with the latter located in the emerging Garden/Wilson Street area.

While the current level of construction is robust in South Yarra, the next wave of projects heading toward construction in the near to medium term is impressive in itself. Of those apartment projects at registrations or sales, the list is headlined by LK Property&#39;s <a href="/buildings/capitol-grand-241-toorak-road-south-yarra">Capitol Grand</a> which at 193 metres in height would be South Yarra&#39;s signature built form.

Others included at registrations or sales are <a href="/buildings/wil-co-34-wilson-street-south-yarra">Wil&amp;Co</a>, <a href="/buildings/ralston-22-toorak-road-south-yarra">Ralston</a>, <a href="/buildings/essence-35-wilson-street-south-yarra">Essence</a> and The Elfin. Also watch out for <a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra">661 Chapel Street</a> progressing in the not too distant future.

<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/image19_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Capitol Grand, 661 Chapel, Wil&amp;Co. Images courtesy Bates Smart, BDLC, McLaren"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="283" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_0.jpg?itok=NfMaG6ly" title="Capitol Grand, 661 Chapel, Wil&amp;Co. Images courtesy Bates Smart, BDLC, McLaren" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Capitol Grand, 661 Chapel, Wil&amp;Co. Images courtesy Bates Smart, BDLC, McLaren</figcaption>
</figure>

With many projects still to be added, the current overall list of 28 apartment projects within South Yarra can be found on the Apartments.com.au <a href="/developments">Project Database</a>.

South Yarra in full b(l)oom

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City of Stonnington are currently assessing the merits of a mixed-use, staged development that would replace the Victoria House Medical Imaging complex fronting Malvern Road, Prahran. Included within the proposal is a hospital, enhanced medical hub and two residential buildings combining to provide in excess of 150 apartments.

Rothelowman have designed the project with Victoria House Nominees Pty Ltd the proponent and long time onsite operator. Initially lodged during May 2014, enhanced plans were put forward again during November 2014.

<h2>310-324 Malvern Road and 99 Bendigo Street summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the Malvern Road frontage. Image © Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9.jpg?itok=4w7-srnO" title="Artist's impression of the Malvern Road frontage. Image © Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the Malvern Road frontage. Image © Rothelowman</figcaption></figure><table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1">
<thead><tr>
<th>Medical</th>
			<th>Apartment building A</th>
			<th>Apartment building B</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>6 levels / 25.03</td>
			<td>7 levels / 23.05m</td>
			<td>7 levels / 23.05</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>NSA 5,517.6sqm comm</td>
			<td>90 apartments</td>
			<td>64 apartments</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>GFA 12,149.3sqm</td>
			<td>39*1BR + 51*2 BR</td>
			<td>40*1 BR + 24 * 2BR</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>77 car spaces</td>
			<td>GFA 11,058.6sqm</td>
			<td>GFA 7,229.5sqm</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cafe 266.6sqm</td>
			<td>97 car spaces</td>
			<td>56 car spaces</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>Design impetus</h2>

Running north-south, the elongated site's most visible aspect is that facing Malvern Road. Consequently this frontage carries a large degree of articulation and is a reflection upon the existing and prospective tenants that will utilise the facility.

<blockquote>
The design for the new Medical Centre loosely draws inspiration from concepts of 'motion' and 'body imaging'. Vertical blades, which also act as functional sun shading devices, shift across the facade, sculpting the upper levels. While the lower street wall explores the notion of transparency, the apartments buildings and townhouses have been designed to have a unique but complimentary character to the medical centre.

The Medical Centre and Apartments buildings explore notions of rhythm, density, reflectivity and flow to create an architecture that is distilled and clear.
<cite>Rothelowman: Town Planning Report</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/image11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The envisaged development with surrounding context. Image © Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11.jpg?itok=hYkEj3G_" title="The envisaged development with surrounding context. Image © Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The envisaged development with surrounding context. Image © Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>The site in question also shares Essex Street with an existing DHS Housing Estate which is earmarked for development as part of the <a href="http://prahranrenewal.com.au/">Prahran Estate Renewal</a>. It's highly likely a number of new buildings in the 6-9 level range will be conceived for the DHS site immediately west of 310-324 Malvern Road in the medium term.

Rothelowman have provided the development with a public pedestrian link that as envisaged will continue through the DHS Estate development with direct access to Princes Gardens. In this way 310-324 Malvern Road also supports DHS' key principles for redeveloping their site which includes maximising amenity, improving safety and security plus supporting social interaction.

<h2>Medical mix</h2>

While only six levels, the medical centre manages to include a diverse number of uses within its walls. Atop three levels of basement car parking will sit a day procedure private hospital (basement 1, ground, level 2) while a dispensary/cafe is also located at ground level.

Level 1 involves a GP Clinic with levels 3 and 5 dedicated to specialist medical suites, leaving level 4 to Victoria House Medical Imaging. Stage 1 of the development involves relocating current medical centre tenants to existing buildings onsite in order to facilitate demolition and construction of the new Medical Centre. The apartment buildings would follow thereafter.

<h2>Comment</h2>

Rothelowman have continued their stellar run of creating multi-building developments with 310-324 Malvern Road. Attractive and considerate of the public domain, this Prahran design joins the award winning <a href="/news/public-permeability-and-the-tip-top-brunswick-east-development">Tip Top Brunswick</a>, <a href="/news/we-deliver-australia-post-and-185-rosslyn-street-west-melbourne">185 Rosslyn Street</a> and <a href="/news/planning-application-310-324-malvern-road-prahran">60-82 Johnson Street</a> as recent Rothelowman offerings that tick many design boxes.

<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/image10rl.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of apartment building A. Image © Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10rl.jpg?itok=qjnb1pEl" title="Artist's impression of apartment building A. Image © Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of apartment building A. Image © Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>While not mesmerising in its beauty, an historic 1893 double storey structure is one of two fronting Malvern Road slated for demolition. According to the planning report no Heritage Overlay applied to the site, with permission not required to demolish existing structures.

Heritage structures don't grow on trees and it seems a shame that Prahran is set to lose a slice of its heritage, albeit for a highly impressive new development.
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Planning Application: 310-324 Malvern Road, Prahran

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 

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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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Mark Baljak

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