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Does anyone doubt that Hopkins Street Precinct on the footstep on Footscray proper will be an unbridled success one day? I don't, but the total lack of action in materialising any of the many projects within the Urban Renewal Area is a concern and points to some fundamental issues within the precinct.

The impetus for this article is news this week the first major apartment project for the area (approved over three years ago) has been put on the market. Then design lead Architecton summed up both <a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-footscray-501317143">10 Moreland Street</a> and Joseph Road Precinct as follows:

<blockquote>
The precinct has historically been used for a mix of industrial activities which are no longer viable or appropriate in this location. The precinct benefits from unrivalled proximity to both the Footscray CAD and the Maribyrnong River environs, and enjoys excellent multi-modal connections to other parts of Melbourne.

The strategic vision is for the area to be revitalised through new and innovative mixed use development. This proposal has received the first planning permit and hence the first step in the revitalisation of the Joseph Road precinct. It is therefore considered a catalyst for change which will assist in the implementation of the State and local government's broader vision for Footscray.
<cite><a href="http://www.architecton.com.au/34556/341918/select-projects/moreland-street-footscray">Architecton: Moreland Street Footscray</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image196.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The current 10 Moreland Street. Image courtesy Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="416" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image196.jpg?itok=U2OI9YZQ" title="The current 10 Moreland Street. Image courtesy Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The current version of 10 Moreland Street. Image courtesy Colliers</figcaption></figure>Unfortunately there has been no catalyst for change within the 17 hectare precinct in recent years, and no prospect of there being so in the short to medium term. Fellow precinct permit holder <a href="/buildings/boat-house-2-joseph-road-footscray">2 Hopkins Street</a> is also currently for sale while <a href="http://www.8hopkins.com.au/">8 Hopkins Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/riverina-22-hopkins-street-footscray">18-24 Hopkins Street</a> successfully <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.starweekly.com.au/story/1811715/footscray-mayor-grant-miles-slams-developers-over-quick-buck-sales/">found buyers</a> earlier in the year, although there are no plans to immediately develop.

<a href="/new-apartments/footscray-vic-3011">4 Neilson Place</a> and <a href="/buildings/liberty-one-1-warde-street-footscray">1 Warde Street</a> are currently at planning with joint developer Urban Inc's Danny Ciarma indicating 1 Warde Street wasn't a priority development during an interview with Apartments.com.au during mid 2014. Whether at planning or approved, Joseph Street Precinct currently has approximately 3150 in just six projects listed on Apartments.com.au's Project Database.

At this point Joseph Street Precinct reminds me of an old adage, "All dressed up with nowhere to go."

<h2>The issues</h2>

From a laypersons perspective, these are the issues Joseph Street Precinct currently face:

<ul>
<li>The sites industrial heritage means it's little more than a decrepit wasteland. Which developer would be the first to deliver their project and have it site in total desolation, condemning residents to barren external environment?</li>
	<li>As evidenced the projects mentioned above, the average development to date in Joseph Street Precinct is huge. Understandable given the lot sizes on offer, but even in staged delivery these projects need to sell hundreds of apartments at a time which for a new residential precinct in this position is quite the ask.</li>
	<li>It seems no developer wants to be the first into Joseph Street Precinct. Taking into account the above and other factors it almost looks like game theory at play where one player is reactionary to other players. If one development is launched will the other immediately follow? Probably not, and therein lies part of the problem.</li>
</ul>
<h2>The solution</h2>

Forget Docklands as an example, in this instance, Dandenong's urban renewal program may just provide the blueprint to lift Joseph Street Precinct out of the development doldrums. <a href="/news/revitalising-central-dandenong-nothing-ventured-nothing-gained">Revitalising Central Dandenong</a> is an ongoing urban renewal project delivered by the State government via Places Victoria, in conjunction with the City of Greater Dandenong.

Critical infrastructure and extensive civic works continue to be delivered to Dandenong's CBD in order to stimulate private investment in the area - a ploy which to date has worked - with increased commercial and residential development the result. A similar program is precisely what Joseph Street Precinct requires in my view.

Joseph Street Precinct absolutely needs an initial infrastructure boost from the State government in order to promote the area as more than a current industrial wasteland. Implementing a road network and delivering some much needed civic works, particularly to Maribyrnong River, may just be the key to unlocking a flow of development that would begin the long sought transformation of the precinct.

Whether it be Places Victoria, City of Maribyrnong or both, Joseph Street Precinct is in desperate need of impetus by way of initial public works investment. To do nothing is to condemn the precinct to further dormancy.

So close to the CBD, yet so far from being reality!
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silvermb

The quandry that is Hopkins Street Precinct

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At roughly the same point in time where two adjoining residential towers gained approval, a planning application for 68-70 Dorcas Street, Southbank was submitted for consideration to State planning body DTPLI. According to the planning report a period of consultation between the development team, DTPLI and City of Melbourne was held prior to the submission of what would be one of the taller towers within this pocket of Southbank.

Located on the corner of Dorcas Street and Dodds Street, the development calls for the 274-apartment building to be crowned by a distinctive metal rooftop feature and a 360 degree communal rooftop facility.

<h2>Application summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Current site use: 3 level commercial building</li>
	<li>Application for development lodged August 2014</li>
	<li>29 levels at 92.2 metres</li>
	<li>Site area: 1,478sqm</li>
	<li>Apartments: 274 (1/2/3 bedroom options)</li>
	<li>Ground floor tenancies of 167sqm &amp; 73sqm</li>
	<li>193 basement car parking spaces &amp; 101 bicycle spaces</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/image165.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artists impression of 68-70 Dorcas Street. Image courtesy SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="709" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image165.jpg?itok=YXNXNGSV" title="Artists impression of 68-70 Dorcas Street. Image courtesy SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artists impression of 68-70 Dorcas Street. Image courtesy SJB</figcaption></figure><h2>External appearance</h2>

68-70 Dorcas Street discerns itself from its neighbours by employing an elliptical tower form, which is in contrast to the unbroken rectangular format of all surrounding buildings. Also noticeable is the lack of horizontal banding common with surrounding apartment buildings, rather a more uniform vertical finish has been applied.

<blockquote>
The defining characteristic of the design is the curved surface of the tower, skinned in a ‘patchwork’ of subtly contrasting facade panels. The panel types are presented in muted tones and have distinct surface qualities notable by texture, reflectivity and transparency.

The blend of panel types, combined with an offset grid arrangement, creates a dynamic surface which makes for a constantly changing experience in relation to the onlooker’s position and the light illuminating the facade.
<cite>SJB Architects - Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

Materials employed would see a mixture of glazing colours, a variety of metal clad finishes and stone veneer cladding with precast elements to less conspicuous areas.

<h2>Public Amenity</h2>

68-70 Dorcas Street is described as an "iconic" design within the planning report, with Urbis stating the development will provide positive benefits to the public realm. With atypical looks and an active street level interface, the tower would be more sympathetic/engaging to its surrounds than the current, dated commercial office building.

<blockquote>
Of key consideration in relation to this proposal is the impact of overshadowing by the development. The submitted Design Proposal prepared by SJB Architects includes shadow diagrams at the equinox which demonstrate that the proposal will not overshadow any significant features or parkland in the area.
<cite>Urbis - 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/image167.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="68-70 Dorcas Street in context. Image courtesy SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="421" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image167.jpg?itok=NyAddvv5" title="68-70 Dorcas Street in context. Image courtesy SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>68-70 Dorcas Street in context. Image courtesy SJB</figcaption></figure>The immediate area surrounding 68-70 Dorcas Street has seen a measured flow of apartment development over the last decade, with 8 on Dorcas the first of the new millennia apartment buildings in the area. More recently Elm by Fridcorp, Guildford by Evolve Development and Premier Capital Developments' Sunday Apartments have added a combined 876 apartments.

Pipeline projects joining 68-70 Dorcas Street nearby include the at sales <a href="/new-apartments/coventry-haus-33-coventry-street-southbank">33 Coventry Street</a> by VIMG and the recently approved <a href="/buildings/the-evermore-southbank-58-66-dorcas-street-southbank">58-66 Dorcas Street</a> which abuts the site in question. Limited sizeable development sites remain in the area making 68-70 Dorcas Street with its uninterrupted Southbank and CBD views a noticeable presence in the area.

<h2>68-70 Dorcas Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: 20Q Development Co P/L</li>
	<li>Architect: SJB</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Traffic: mga.</li>
	<li>Landscaping: Formium</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: 4D Workshop</li>
	<li>Services Engineer: O'Neill Group</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>ESD: ark resources</li>
</ul>
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Planning Application > 68-70 Dorcas Street, Southbank

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A supermarket at the base of a high-density residential or mixed-use development is nothing particularly new; the Apartments.com.au database has many an example allowing for full line venues in inner-city growth areas such as Fishermans Bend and the like.

However a trend that continues to be borne out is the push of large retail/supermarket chains adding value to their land allotments by inserting apartments above their intended future outlet. The highest profile exponent of this in recent times was Woolworths who successfully gained planning approval for 101 Canning Street, North Melbourne.

<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/news_nrth_melb.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of Woolworths' Canning Street development. Image courtesy Buchan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/news_nrth_melb.jpg?itok=FsIzXzQr" title="Aerial perspective of Woolworths' Canning Street development. Image courtesy Buchan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of Woolworths' Canning Street development. Image courtesy Buchan</figcaption></figure>The permitted scheme sees a mixed-use retail, residential and office development principally consisting of 300 residential apartments over two towers. Woolworths promptly sold off the site upon approval while maintaining the right to operate a full line supermarket of 4400m² should the scheme materialise.

Another large inner-city development sees Coles Group Property's existing Richmond Plaza at <a href="/buildings/261-271-bridge-road-richmond">271 Bridge Road, Richmond</a> subject to an approved, SJB-designed redevelopment plan which would include 333 apartments located above a revamped Coles full line outlet. 12,000sqm or retail space and 573 car parking bays are also envisaged within the eclectic design as seen below.

<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/273_10-04-2014_8060.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Richmond Plaza. Image © SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="283" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/273_10-04-2014_8060.jpg?itok=ack5M93L" title="A new Richmond Plaza. Image © SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Richmond Plaza. Image © SJB</figcaption></figure>Apartments above supermarkets is almost a given within arms reach of Melbourne's CBD, but as the practice extends into middle ring suburbs it demonstrates that apartments/mixed-use developments are not solely the domain of property developers. As of mid this year Aldi Foods received in principle approval for an five level Aldi store topped with 34 dwellings.

Located at 313 Doncaster Road, Balwyn North, the five level structure over a 2,167sqm site looks likely to be the first taste of substantial higher density living for the suburb dominated by detached housing. Across town Coles Group Property have also instigated construction of 180 Gaffney Street, Coburg North which will feature a Coles outlet in addition to commercial office space and a medical centre.

Coles Group Property parent company Wesfarmers have further shown their propensity to value add to their intended developments, this time utilising Bunnings as an anchor for a large mixed-use development at <a href="/buildings/north-eastern-tower-659-669-doncaster-road-doncaster">659-669 Doncaster Road, Doncaster</a>. Architecture firm Hayball have designed the approved complex which would feature podium space carrying a 10,532sqm Bunnings outlet and 1,598sqm of retail space, in addition to 887 car parking bays and 385 apartments spread over three separate buildings above.

<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/art-bunnings-620x349.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The expected Bunnings Doncaster Hill. Image © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/art-bunnings-620x349.jpg?itok=hvXknauG" title="The expected Bunnings Doncaster Hill. Image © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The expected Bunnings Doncaster Hill. Image © Hayball</figcaption></figure>The trend reaches further with Mimmo Holdings Pty Ltd seeking approval for a mixed-use complex at <a href="/buildings/pace-of-doncaster-east-3-mitchell-street-doncaster-east">3-11 Mitchell Street, Doncaster East</a>. A 2,378sqm supermarket, reception centre, 688sqm restaurant and 65 one and two-bed apartments round out the proposed development that once more seeks to set a height precedent in an otherwise low-rise area.

<h2>Comment</h2>

Whether it be opportunism, shifting with the times or a concerted push to diversify a business model, the practice of adding additional uses atop a traditional supermarket or the like is growing. Is it fair to assume that most future build supermarkets aside from those on the periphery of Melbourne will incorporate a degree of apartment living above? Most likely.

That chains such as Aldi and Coles are leading the charge shows how lucrative large tracts of land within metropolitan Melbourne have become.
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Is the stand-alone supermarket consigned to history?

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This week marked practical completion of developer Hengyi's maiden <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> project located within the CBD's legal precinct. Completed during 1966 and formerly known as Communications House, <a href="/buildings/the-william-199-william-street-melbourne">The William</a> has undergone a mass redevelopment after laying dormant for years on end.

August 2012 signified commencement of works which included gutting the internal structure and paring back the original facade. With a <a href="/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a> as the head Architect,  Built acted as head contractor for the project while Nash Management acted as project manager and client representative.

With The William's settlement stage in sight, Apartments.com.au visited The William in recent days and was given a guided tour with <a href="/developers/hengyi-australia">Hengyi</a>'s Stephen Speer and Nash Management's Simon Manley providing insight into the building attributes.

<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/image157.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A transformed 199 William Street. Image courtesy Marcus Wong"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="220" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image157.jpg?itok=9ji3KCZH" title="A transformed 199 William Street. Image courtesy Marcus Wong" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A transformed 199 William Street. Image courtesy Marcus Wong</figcaption></figure><h2>Project summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Originally dual 20 level commercial towers dated 1966.</li>
	<li>Redeveloped as The William: expanded to 24 levels (eastern or William tower).</li>
	<li>Ground level: 12 retail tenancies dual entrance points (30-300sqm).</li>
	<li>86 serviced apartments over levels 1-4 titled Wyndham on William.</li>
	<li>443 apartments: 1 &amp; 2 bedroom options from level 5 and above (near on sold out).</li>
	<li>Level one amenities: gym, meeting rooms, conference space, open plan library/lounge area.</li>
	<li>Rooftop pool on William tower, with BBQ facilities.</li>
	<li>3 commercial spaces: one contract in progress.</li>
	<li>3 basement car parks accessed via Little Bourke Street.</li>
</ul>
<h2>External metamorphosis</h2>

<blockquote>
The transformation includes a new façade system and updated building services, as well as the introduction of significant environmental initiatives such as photovoltaic cells that will generate power back into the grid and rainwater harvesting.

The building is expected to achieve an impressive 7-star energy rating.
<cite>Bruce Henderson Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0797.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level perspective"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0797.jpg?itok=Hd_Bnney" title="Ground level perspective" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level perspective</figcaption></figure>Gone is the dated cream facade of a bygone era, replaced by a contemporary skin of glass, louvred wintergarden spaces and aluminium composite panelling. A standout feature is the 'studded' southern facade as seen above which when illuminated during night hours will cast light via its triangular protrusions.

William Street and Little Bourke Street both hold pedestrian entry points, with Little Bourke Street connected to a remodelled Guests Lane. Guests Lane and surrounds will hold 10 retail outlets, with a number of contracts in process. Coupled with the revamped adjoining Owen Dixon Chambers West Building, the common area between the two buildings will act as a new retail and social hotspot.

<h2>From the ground up</h2>

The residential lobby fronting William Street holds a certain brooding yet refined tone owing to the colours and materials chosen. A product of Carr Design, the area features granite paving, dark wood finishes and walls of leather surrounding the lift area, all contrasted by light ceiling finishes.

<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_0799.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The William's residential foyer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0799.jpg?itok=xfyt9I59" title="The William's residential foyer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The William's residential foyer</figcaption></figure>Seven lifts service The William, split between four dedicated residential lifts, two dedicated Wyndham lifts and the ever present goods lift. Level one holds a variety of common areas over its sprawling layout, amplified by the lack of furniture during Apartments.com.au's visit; the area has since been fitted.

Separate recycling and garbage chutes are a feature, adding to other initiatives such as PV cells and rainwater harvesting which according to Bruce Henderson Architects will propel The William to a 7-star energy rating, although this has yet to be confirmed.

All apartments have access to either wintergardens or balconies over all aspects, with living areas generally abutting these areas. A portion of apartments carry second bedrooms that are reliant upon borrowed light, perhaps due to the depth of the existing structure while the overall apartment finishes are light and all in all very impressive.

The William is topped by an open yet heated pool with immaculate views of Melbourne skyline which would no doubt be well used during summer, perhaps less so during the winter months. Nonetheless an impressive space and one of the few open air pools available in Melbourne's CBD.

<h2>Comment</h2>

The William both externally and internally is quite competent in its proportions and finishes. Apartments.com.au's first visit to a refurbished building rather than new build threw up some perceptible differences. The William's <a href="/new-apartments">apartment</a> sizes would be mid range yet felt much larger; visually apartment ceilings felt higher than usual owing to the former commercial use of the tower. Communal spaces and passageways within the building were also more than ample, verging on massive relative to new build communal spaces.

I'd suggest The William's best feature is what it provides back to this area of Melbourne's CBD. The influx of retail space and residents/hotel guests will go a long way in activating a pocket of Melbourne's CBD that's dominated by commercial space and hence sees comparatively little street life outside work hours. All in all The William looks to be the right project in the right position.

See below an image slideshow of The William's internal spaces, apartment finishes and external form.
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In Focus - The William @ 199 William Street, Melbourne

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Last week Meinhardt Australia held their <a href="http://practicalimagination.info/imagin8/skyscraper-trends-in-melbourne-from-super-skinny-to-prefabulous/">Skyscraper Trends In Melbourne: From Super Skinny To ‘Prefabulous’</a> seminar which brought together a select group of Melbourne's development industry elite to consider the influences shaping the future direction of Melbourne's built form. The latest in a string of successful seminars held under the <a href="http://practicalimagination.info/">Practical Imagination - imagin8</a> banner, Apartments.com.au was present to cover the informal yet highly relevant gathering.

Speakers included three Meinhardt representatives with National Director - Land Development Jon Brock commencing proceedings, Managing Director of CBRE Residential Projects Andrew Leoncelli and Hickory Group Joint Managing Director George Argyrou. All presentations gave a synopsis of the current Melbourne market from their respective positions and explored likely future trends and innovations.

Followed by a lengthy open forum discussing all matters relevant, the evening provided great insight into Melbourne's trend of building taller buildings, and the fundamentals/technologies that underpin it. While further in depth articles will appear on Apartments.com.au in coming weeks, the most pertinent information for Apartments.com.au's readers were within the presentations of Jon Brock and George Argyrou; summaries of both are found below.

<h2>Jon Brock: the Victorian town planning context</h2>

Leading off Jon Brock spoke of the context in which Melbourne's tall towers have been allowed to flourish, alluding to strong population growth and Plan Melbourne's focus upon urban renewal. Also sighted within the presentation was the Metropolitan Planning Authority (MPA) whose role was effectively described as Melbourne's "Tall tower decider."

Given Menhardt's extensive catalogue of projects, urban renewal areas such as Fishermans Bend and Arden-Macaulay were discussed at length with Jon Brock citing <a href="/new-apartments/60-82-johnson-street-south-melbourne">60-82 Johnson Street, South Melbourne</a> and 114-116 Haines Street, North Melbourne (seen below) as prime examples where negotiations with the relevant planning body let to agreed upon development outcomes that benefited all parties.

Paraphrasing Jon Brock in relation to 60-82 Johnson Street, no one particularly cared that an additional four levels were added to the tower, of primary concern is podium interaction and increased public space. Also discussed was Arden-Macaulay where higher density is envisaged, and likely to be implemented via the <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/BuildingandPlanning/Planning/planningschemeamendments/Pages/AmendmentC190.aspx">C190 amanedment</a> which has been delayed to a degree due to East West Link.

<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/image137_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images taken from Jon Brock's presentation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="317" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image137_1.jpg?itok=lKHDbQy0" title="Images taken from Jon Brock's presentation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images taken from Jon Brock's presentation</figcaption></figure>Melbourne's new residential zones were also discussed, along with potential implications for existing high density areas due to tracts of land being locked away from redevelopment. Tips and pitfalls for successfully gaining project approval were also discussed in what was a comprehensive talk delivering a lot of otherwise unattainable information to the assembled audience.

A comprehensive overview of Jon Brock's presentation can be viewed online via the <a href="http://practicalimagination.info/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/imagin8_presentation-Tall-Buildings-3.pdf">practical imagination</a> website.

<h2>George Argyrou: Hickory Group leads the industry with HBS</h2>

Co-founder of Hickory Group and Managing Director George Argyrou was on hand to explain how Hickory has strived to make itself the industry leader in terms of pioneering new construction technologies. Providing a timeline of company achievements which includes the widespread use of Unitised Building, George Argyrou went on to speak of the unbridled success of Sync bathroom pods which now holds Australian orders in the thousands.

<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/image134_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Hickory Building Sytstem module. Image courtesy Hickory"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image134_0.jpg?itok=ZWMW-VcY" title="The Hickory Building Sytstem module. Image courtesy Hickory" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Hickory Building Sytstem module. Image courtesy Hickory</figcaption></figure>While the Sync bathroom system goes from strength to strength, Hickory have devised a new unitised construction technique aimed purely at high-rise structures which they believe has the best tolerances and quality control of any construction method currently employed worldwide. Constructed offsite, the new <a href="http://www.hickory.com.au/what-we-do/our-systems/hickory-building-systems/">Hickory Building System</a> begins with an engineered concrete floor requiring no human intervention.

Load bearing columns, fully fitted wet areas and a building facade are subsequently applied in what resembles a manufacturing production line process. Trucked to site, the integrated system locks together and provides exceptional structural stability and enabling fit-out to quickly progress due to the pre-attached facade; a traditional poured lift well is a thing of the past.

As George Argyrou stated, "We've taken existing technology and turned it into the best in the world." Hickory have been designing schemes and validating engineering for high-rise towers in Melbourne with the expectation it will make its debut shortly.

<h2>Next imagin8 seminar</h2>

While further articles for Skyscraper Trends In Melbourne: From Super Skinny To ‘Prefabulous’ will appear shortly, Future imagin8 seminars will consider trends in the Higher Education and Retail sectors.

You can register your interest to receive information on these by emailing <a href="mailto:Emily.lau@meinhardtgroup.com?subject=upcoming%20imagin8%20seminar">Emily.lau@meinhardtgroup.com</a>.
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Meinhardt's 'Skyscraper Trends in Melbourne' seminar reviewed

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It may not be as fluid a market as Melbourne's CBD, but much can change in the course of a week in West Melbourne. Last week's article <a href="/news/west-melbourne-the-new-southbank">highlighting a handful of the taller proposals</a> is complimented by a handful of new projects discovered in recent days.

Here is a revised standing for a number of new West Melbourne residential projects:

<h2>The Delukian - 91 Dudley 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/image111.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="91-95 Dudley Street. Imames courtesy 1:1 Architects &amp; Phooey"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="285" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image111.jpg?itok=t2b1lpfH" title="91-95 Dudley Street. Imames courtesy 1:1 Architects &amp; Phooey" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>91-95 Dudley Street. Images courtesy 1:1 Architects &amp; Phooey</figcaption></figure>City of Melbourne are currently assessing the merits of a revised scheme located at 91-95 Dudley Street. Design firm <a href="http://www.one2one.net.au/">1:1 Architects</a> mark their high-rise debut with the design which is in close proximity and abuts the now under construction <a href="/new-apartments/419-421-spencer-street-west-melbourne">Duo Apartments</a>.

Designed for Dudley Street (Vic) Developments Pty Ltd, the project aims to deliver 48 apartments with one, two and three bedroom layouts. Some readers may recognise the site as once being subject to a unique design conceived by Phooey Architects which was to have employed recycled shipping containers in the construction process.

<h2>Ikebana - 130 Dudley 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/image114.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ikebana. Image courtesy PBG Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="267" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114.jpg?itok=xi7aNNzc" title="Ikebana. Image courtesy PBG Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ikebana. Image courtesy PBG Property Group</figcaption></figure>What was preparing for launch last week has just moved to registrations and pre-sales.  Ikebana West Melbourne's agent 360 Property Group is preparing for an imminent project launch with the display suite completed this week.

Ikebana will consist of an Elenberg Fraser-designed complex holding 241 apartments over 9 levels.

<h2>15-31 Batman 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/image115.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A revised 15-31 Batman Street. Image courtesy Inhabit Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="374" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image115.jpg?itok=VQcgo7Cl" title="A revised 15-31 Batman Street. Image courtesy Inhabit Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A revised 15-31 Batman Street. Image courtesy Inhabit Design</figcaption></figure>Touched upon last week 15-31 Batman Street was initially designed at 99 metres in height and holding 299 apartments. Subsequently City of Melbourne have since published revised plans which would see SPEC Property Group's future project lowered to 79 metres and be subject to a reduction of 56 apartments, allowing for 243 overall.

City of Melbourne's preferred height limit for the site is 40 metres, although owing to the developments size it falls under control of State planning body DTPLI. The 15-31 Batman Street planning application will be subject to a separate article in due course.

<h2>398 Spencer 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/image2a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A petential new skyscraper? Image courtesy TCI"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2a.jpg?itok=Ircu9yCO" title="A petential new skyscraper? Image courtesy TCI" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A petential new skyscraper? Image courtesy TCI</figcaption></figure>The Carron is touted as ripe for high-rise conversion according to sales agent TCI Teneketzis. The 458sqm site is offered as suitable for residential development or as a going concern/conversion into a showroom premises.

Given 420 Spencer Street is approved at 131 metres to the north of The Carron and the approved 123 metres <a href="/buildings/melbourne-village-377-spencer-street-west-melbourne">371 Spencer Street</a> is directly opposite, a precendent of height looks to have been set for 398 Spencer Street.

<h2>113-137 Rosslyn 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/image2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rossyln Street concept. Image courtesy Buchan Gtroup"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="400" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2.jpg?itok=vL5TxD6V" title="Rossyln Street concept. Image courtesy Buchan Gtroup" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rossyln Street concept. Image courtesy Buchan Gtroup</figcaption></figure>Also freshly listed for sale are two adjoining development sites in Rosslyn Street, divided by a laneway. Covering 3086sqm, the joint sites are accompanied by a Buchan Group concept design, both spanning nine levels.

191 apartments are penciled in for the above scheme that would see liberal retail/cafe offerings fronting Rosslyn Street and a distinctive brick facade.

Urban.com.au will continue to look closely at West Melbourne, provide insight into some of the larger planning applications on offer, while also reveal as yet unseen projects.
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West Melbourne apartment projects continue to flow

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Previously covered by Apartments.com.au regarding its excellent <a href="/news/public-permeability-and-the-tip-top-brunswick-east-development">public permeability</a>, <a href="/buildings/tip-top-brunswick-170-edward-street-brunswick-east">Tip Top Brunswick</a> can now boast the 2014 Property Review Australia, Heritage Property Award for the integrated six building complex of 411 dwellings. Developer <a href="/developers/little-projects-co">Little Projects</a>' Managing Director Michael Fox was on hand to provide a tour of Tip Top Brunswick, pointing out some of the lesser known qualities for the development while also providing guidance for upcoming projects.

Originally occupied by Northern Bakeries, the <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-east-vic-3057">Brunswick East</a> development provides for 32,088sqm of gross floor area over buildings rising up to eight levels. Initially encountering stiff opposition from locals, Michael Fox maintains the local perception of the project has changed appreciably now that the <a href="/architects/rothelowman">ROTHELOWMAN</a>-designed development is complete.

A highly walkable ground plane, retained heritage facades to both the Weston/Edward Street, stepped development maintaining sight lines, free public parking spaces within the underground car park and a 1,400sqm childcare centre have contributed to the Tip Top Brunswick's success and acceptance. Michael Fox was particularly proud of the Little Seeds childcare centre which consumes an entire floor of the westernmost apartment building and is the first of its kind in Brunswick East.

<blockquote>
ROTHELOWMAN sought inspiration from the original Dutch Modernist architecture throughout the development. With only the highest quality finishes and fixtures throughout, this clever redevelopment surpasses any other project in the area.
<cite>Little Projects</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_0767a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The retained northern facade of Tip Top Brunswick"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="827" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0767a.jpg?itok=ztVz3L38" title="The retained northern facade of Tip Top Brunswick" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The retained northern facade of Tip Top Brunswick</figcaption></figure>Since 2012, Little Projects has completed no less than 1,200 apartments, with inner city suburbs such as <a href="/new-apartments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/st-kilda-vic-3182">St Kilda</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">Port Melbourne</a> and Brunswick East favoured over <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's CBD</a>. Little Projects’ current <a href="/buildings/central-south-yarra-3-yarra-street-south-yarra">Central South Yarra</a> tower has sold out and is now midway through construction, with focus turning toward forthcoming developments.

Last week a planning application was submitted for <a href="/buildings/dux-richmond-hill-153-bridge-road-richmond">153-177 Bridge Road Richmond</a>, with the 2,700sqm site slated to host 191 apartments atop Richmond Hill.

Currently serving as a Thomas Dux grocer, the existing buildings are to make way for a ROTHELOWMAN-designed apartment complex save for the existing heritage facade which will be incorporated into the new build. The third collaboration between architect and developer, 153-177 Bridge Road Richmond was snapped up by Little Projects for near on $20 million in an off-market transaction.

<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/littleprojects_bridgeroadrichmond_newdevelopment_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="153-177 Bridge Road, Richmond. Image courtesy Little Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="374" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/littleprojects_bridgeroadrichmond_newdevelopment_3.jpg?itok=bX0mN9Aw" title="153-177 Bridge Road, Richmond. Image courtesy Little Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>153-177 Bridge Road, Richmond. Image courtesy Little Projects</figcaption></figure>Another forthcoming Little Projects development may just deliver the Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area its tallest tower to date. A revised planning application for <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">85-93 Lorimer Street</a> is under consideration which would see a 233 metre residential tower soar above the adjoining Yarra's Edge residential precinct.

Initially conceived by architects <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a> as dual residential towers, the scheme has since been revised to a single tower of 900 apartments in order to accommodate increased public open space at ground level. Asked of Little Projects' intentions for the Lorimer Street development, Michael Fox replied by stating the project upon approval would proceed to sales quickly thereafter.

<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/image105.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Preliminary image of 85-93 Lorimer Street. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="306" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image105.jpg?itok=GxAgm6Hn" title="Preliminary image of 85-93 Lorimer Street. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Preliminary image of 85-93 Lorimer Street. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>See below images taken from Apartments.com.au's visit to Tip Top Brunswick, beginning with the westerly Seeds apartment building/Little Seeds childcare centre and culminating with a look at the newly released Malt tri-level townhouses.

Lead image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN and Elenberg Fraser.
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Little Projects: current success and future intent

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Choosing from the immense range and sheer number of apartments on the market for the uninitiated buyer may seem a daunting prospect, but Melbourne-based developer <a href="http://www.hamton.com.au/">Hamton</a> has launched a new apartment configuration they believe will give their current <a href="/buildings/sanctuary-abbotsford-681-victoria-street-abbotsford-vic-3067">Sanctuary on the River</a> apartment project a glowing point of difference.

Designed by <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a> and dubbed ‘Convertible Spaces,’ a select number of one bedroom apartments within Sanctuary will feature a bedroom space capable of being incorporated into living space as required, with functional areas such as corridors becoming usable space without compromising apartment access.

Based on a system of integrated joinery placed through the open plan layout, ‘Convertible Spaces’ allows for a highly flexible, multi positioning option for dining, bedroom and lounge areas that otherwise would be fixed in position. In turn, living area can increase by 70% at the owners whim. This is best illustrated via the below video:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/f2mVxRq6vHA" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We're constantly striving to innovate with our product and ‘Convertible Spaces’ is the result of much research both domestically and abroad. Locations such as New York, London and Tokyo were studied given their high population and multiple compact living options available.

‘Convertible Spaces’ essentially delivers bang for buck in terms of utilising a compact apartment to its full potential; creating one large living space and maximising functionality. We believe that ‘Convertible Spaces’ has stepped into a gap evident in the market and we have only now released the product once we've been fully satisfied with its merits.

Sanctuary will feature only five apartments with ‘Convertible Spaces’ - an option exists for twenty existing purchasers to upgrade if the desire, with an element of that cost worn by Hamton.

Although Sanctuary is scheduled to be completed by July 2015, we're pushing contractor LU Simon to a completed ‘Convertible Spaces’ apartment finished in the new year which will act as a display suite.
<cite>Paul Hameister, Hamton Joint Managing Director</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
'Convertible Spaces’ allows you to make the most of your space. By day you can have a studio apartment and by night you can maximise your entertainment capacity by increasing your living areas.

By including a fold-down bed and moveable wall we add several metres to the apartment and offer occupiers an enormous amount of flexibility. When the bed is hidden away and the wall moved across into the bedroom area, the result is a 70% increase in living area".

The movable walls that transforms the apartment is itself a joinery unit continuing the Scandinavian theme whilst importantly providing useful functionality with a pull out pantry, soft close drawers and ample additional storage accessible from both sides.
<cite>Chris Hayton, ROTHELOWMAN principal</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Paul Hameister on 'Convertible Spaces' and the current marketplace</h2>

Asked by Apartments.com.au on the state of the current Melbourne apartment market from a developers perspective, Paul Hameister began by suggesting that the recent changes to zoning and certain councils' stance toward development has led to an imbalance 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/sanctuary_v09_hero_balcony-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The right location can still sell itself. Image courtesy Hamton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sanctuary_v09_hero_balcony-1.jpg?itok=ENRmBjNj" title="The right location can still sell itself. Image courtesy Hamton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The right location can still sell itself. Image courtesy Hamton</figcaption></figure>Describing the current Melbourne CBD apartment market as "cooked", Paul Hameister asserts Hamton will continue to develop in inner city locations while avoiding the CBD. He elaborates that while certain areas are in or face a pending glut of generic apartments, other well positioned inner and middle-ring locations offering innovative, attentive living options are subject to under supply.

It's these locations that developers such as Hamton will continue to be drawn to, with 'Convertible Spaces' a likely key platform to future projects.
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Convertible Spaces: the next innovation in apartment living

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Some pizazz has re-entered the top end of the Melbourne apartment market with a handful of penthouse offerings jostling to take centre stage. Far from the investor-driven stock of Melbourne's CBD towers, two current projects are showing their wares in the pedigree stakes.

Perhaps a sign of South Yarra's still exceptional pulling power, the two current projects are located within the locality maintaining differing but spectacular penthouses on offer for.

<h2>Washington 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/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="278" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000.jpg?itok=Sb8Skl-G" title="Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure>Jolson Architecture have conceived a fresh project for developer Orchard Piper titled Washington Street. Six oversize dwellings will be located within the three level complex, including a 'super penthouse' expected to fetch in excess of $15 million. A breakdown of internal area size speaks toward the luxury status of Washington Street.

Dual ground floor residences range between 589sqm and 648sqm, including large external terrace/gardens in excess 200sqm. Three first floor abodes average 260sqm of internal living while the 'super penthouse' is precisely that: 570sqm of internal space complimented by a 372sqm external terrace. A total of 942sqm ranks Washington Street's penthouse as one of the largest penthouse apartments available in Melbourne.

<blockquote>
Luxury to us is about making the most of the intangibles, such as light, proportion and aspect, not just the combination of the most expensive items available. We achieve a greater outcome by focusing on creating value through relentless and obsessive design.

Saving money through value management is a fruitless task when compared to the benefit of a truly design led outcome. It’s very rare to find a site where you can completely take the brakes of your design team. Washington Street is a true expression of the collaborative talents we have employed on this project.
<cite>Luke McKie, Orchard Piper</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/140908_-_washington_-_r013_-_bed_20001.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's prowess. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_-_r013_-_bed_20001.jpg?itok=r9Mbngzy" title="An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's prowess. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's grandeur. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure><h2>Yarra House</h2>

On a smaller land plot yet with height and never-to-be-built-out views to burn, the under construction Yarra House aims to bring dual penthouses to the South Yarra's Forrest Hill precinct. Designed by Scott Walker of Hassell Studio, the ‘North East Penthouse’ and ‘North West Penthouse’ together act as the crowning glory for the 26 level tower.

Refined stone benchtops, bespoke ensuites, fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling glazing, extensive walk-in robes, designated studies, kitchen walk-in pantries and entertaining space are included in the either three or four-bedroom residences, depending upon the buyers preference. At up to $3.995 million the penthouses represent a departure from the norm in Forrest Hill.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/yate8000_yarra_hp_v19_penthouse_01_to_view.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/yate8000_yarra_hp_v19_penthouse_01_to_view.jpg?itok=I9jZVw5X" title="The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co</figcaption></figure>Closer to the CBD a number of other prestige penthouse apartments and developments have appeared on the radar. Apartments.com.au highlighted what will likely be Melbourne's most exclusive development at <a href="/news/is-this-melbournes-most-exclusive-and-expensive-apartment-development">502 Albert Street, East Melbourne</a> with its massive sky homes, each of which could be considered a penthouse in its own right.

That a handful of luxury penthouses have been released to market loosely around the same time tends to suggest that the top end of the apartment market is still quite healthy with perceived underlying demand; the proof is in the penthouse (so to speak).
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Return of the luxury penthouse

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Asked once why I disliked fringe Melbourne housing estates so vehemently I replied those residing there were 'existing without living'. That is of course not the fault of those residents as for one reason or another (generally socioeconomic), they have found themselves at Melbourne's periphery.

Arcing from Tarneit to Cranbourne, far too many pathetically designed new housing estates have been created with little regard to good design and amenity - and no a lake doesn't count! The reprehensible aspect to all this is the lack of vital services and transport options that have not accompanied the urban sprawl, ensuring these peripheral suburbs rely too heavily upon vehicles in order to travel distance for essential services; I'm not referring to McDonalds either.

<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/housing_4_gallery_600x377.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="So close yet so far. Image courtesy The Age"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="364" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/housing_4_gallery_600x377.jpg?itok=eDjwPEwe" title="So close yet so far. Image courtesy The Age" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>No services and no hope? Image courtesy The Age</figcaption></figure>Thankfully there are signs that this trend of 'suburban destruction' is coming to an end as developers recognise that truly vibrant communities need to offer much more than shiny street lights and paved roads. Last year I wrote of Lyons Capital's plan to implement hundreds of apartments around their <a href="/expert-insights/buying/wyndham-harbour-a-precursor-to-how-the-west-might-be-won">Wyndham Harbour development</a> beyond Werribee, including multiple residential towers of up to ten levels.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image86.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Merrifield's envisaged City Centre. Image courtesy MAB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="194" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image86.jpg?itok=l8HRVw40" title="Merrifield's envisaged City Centre. Image courtesy MAB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Merrifield's envisaged City Centre. Image courtesy MAB</figcaption></figure>In addition new locales such as Merrifield 30 kilmetres north of the CBD have included City Centres in their master planned community, with towers of up to 20 levels expected. In all this the dual approach of increased density around retail/transport/essential services plus having architects of note design town centres and associated services may just prove to be the solution.

And so it came to be recently that St Germain Village was announced as a new master planned community within City of Casey - although this development would be like no other. At the heart of the $270 million development is an employment catalyst in the shape of a state of the art medical precinct.

Designed by ClarkeHopkinsClarke, the St Germain Village medical hub will include therapeutic suites for heart specialists, psychologists, plastic and general surgeons and pediatric consultants. With a healthy amount of retail and commercial offerings also envisaged, 1500 dwellings will surround the medical hub and town centre, providing the development with a distinct sense of place.

ClarkeHopkinsClarke urban designer and partner Dean Landy highlights some of the objectives under which include: addressing the need for local and diverse employment options, developing strategies to engender greater social inclusion, initiatives and incentives to attract business and investment and early delivery of diversified housing options.

<blockquote>
The majority of locals now travel outside their municipality to work but injecting a variety of health services supports a diverse and vibrant community [...] to ensure the community remains interconnected and a healthy walkable place is created.
<cite>Dean Landy, ClarkeHopkinsClarke</cite>
</blockquote>

Spot on!

<h2>The St Germain checklist and what makes master planned communities work</h2>

What St Germain Village includes that many other greenfield/master planned communities don't:

<ul>
<li>A reputable architect creating a cohesive town/village centre.</li>
	<li>An employment driver at the heart of the development - between 3450 and 3590 new jobs created.</li>
	<li>Higher density living options around village square.</li>
	<li>Mixed use facilitators: medical and retail in this case.</li>
	<li>Local council input into the design process​.</li>
</ul>
The only element absent is a public transport link but in due course it's a fair assumption that at the very least bus services will extend to St Germain Village from other City of Casey hubs such as Narre Warren.

<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/urban_st-germain_04.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Germain's medium density component. Image courtesy CHC"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="284" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/urban_st-germain_04.jpg?itok=zOof7VQt" title="St Germain's medium density component. Image courtesy CHC" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Germain's medium density component. Image courtesy CHC</figcaption></figure>As a Metropolitan Planning Authority Demonstration Project, St Germain Village will be a test case and hopefully a benchmark for future master planned developments to follow. All going as envisaged St Germain Village's blueprint will be replicated elsewhere in future greater Melbourne greenfield site developments.

Without being melodramatic the significance of St Germain Village and other developments such as Merrifield cannot be passed over; these projects are critical in righting the many wrongs perpetrated throughout Melbourne's existing peripheral suburbs. Put simply the livability or quality of life for a substantial slice of Melbourne's future population may just depend upon it.
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Turning the tide in the badlands

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

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"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

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Joel Robinson

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

By the time S&amp;S Projects began planning <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia</a>, the developer already had three Rainbow Bay projects from which to draw.

Flow, Awaken and Esprit had given <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Projects</a> experience developing in the southern Gold Coast enclave, as well as buyer feedback that could be carried into its fourth project, a boutique collection of 38 residences at 271 Boundary Street.

“We have experienced a lot of success in this location and as this was our fourth building we had taken all of the learnings and buyer feedback from previous projects to arrive at a design and apartment mix that we believe had captured all of that experience and remained a true S&amp;S Project in its design and amenity,” the developer said.

That experience has translated into a collection of two, three, four and five-bedroom residences including two penthouses positioned on an elevated corner in Rainbow Bay, where the site opens to multiple coastal view corridors and the area's distinctive north-facing bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284542]

S&amp;S Projects says the Boundary Street site took years to assemble, having previously comprised six units, a house and a duplex. The developer worked individually with the existing owners to bring the properties together after an earlier attempt to sell the site had been complicated by the number of parties involved.

“We are constantly looking for properties that meet our brand standards of location, views, and sites that are rare with unique aspects that we can develop to maximise the lifestyle of residents who live in our buildings,” S&amp;S Projects said.

The Boundary Street site gave <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a> a different set of conditions to work with.&nbsp;

“Our design brief was to design a building that took advantage of its unique elevated corner siting offering a range of spectacular view corridor opportunities,” Cottee Parker said.

“The design had to reinforce the strong brand pillars of S&amp;S which are quality, luxury and superior resident amenity.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284543]

Cottee Parker responded with a sculptural floorplate and strong horizontal banding, with continuous balconies and landscaped planters wrapping the building. Operable screens along the balcony edges allow residents to manage light and shade while creating an additional layer of pattern across the facade.

The tower rises above a heavily landscaped podium incorporating the entry lobby and recreational level, while the broader architectural expression takes cues from Rainbow Bay's coastal environment through its organic forms and light material palette.

Cottee Parker says the design has also been developed to complement S&amp;S Projects’ three previous Rainbow Bay developments while retaining its own architectural identity.

Inside, the residences continue that coastal response through two interior schemes centred on warm timbers and neutral tones, alongside patterned natural stone and fluted detailing.

Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors connect open-plan living areas to wraparound balconies, while natural stone is used across benchtops, splashbacks and bathroom walls. Specifications also include light-washed timber flooring, gas fireplaces, integrated bar and wine fridges, freestanding stone baths and 100 per cent wool carpet.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284559]

Cottee Parker Director Sandra Brown said the intention was to create an architectural response closely connected to its surroundings.

“Imagine architecture that breathes with the rhythm of nature, where every curve and line flows seamlessly – creating spaces that dance with the elements, where sunlight kisses every surface and the gentle sea breeze fills every space,” Brown said.

The lessons S&amp;S Projects carried into Radia also extend to its resident amenity, with a substantial collection of shared facilities planned for just 38 residences.

A dedicated Residents Club will include a lap pool and spa, gymnasium, ice bath, sauna, steam room and hot rocks sauna. A residents' lounge, private dining room, outdoor dining and barbecue area and business centre are also planned, along with storage and dedicated surfboard and beach lockers.

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the facilities were also designed around the project's Rainbow Bay setting.

“Each amenity is designed to capitalise on the lifestyle of Rainbow Bay, ensuring residents can enjoy the relaxed coastal experience the enclave is famous for,” Gedoun said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284555]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> says purchasers to date have predominantly included local downsizers, interstate lifestyle investors and families, alongside a strong contingent of repeat S&amp;S purchasers.&nbsp;

According to the project sales team, feedback has centred on the natural stone and joinery, generous floorplans, natural light and the ability for residences to capture views in multiple directions. The completed Flow, Awaken and Esprit developments have also provided prospective purchasers with an existing reference point for S&amp;S Projects' delivery in Rainbow Bay.

There has also been interest from high-profile surfers and people connected to the surf community, with the elevated building providing outlooks towards several of the area's recognised surf breaks.

Radia continues S&amp;S Projects' concentration of development in a tightly held part of the southern Gold Coast, close to Rainbow Bay Beach, Snapper Rocks, Duranbah Beach, Greenmount Beach and the Tweed River. The neighbourhood also includes a growing collection of hospitality venues, while Coolangatta Airport provides connections beyond the southern Gold Coast.

Hutchinson Builders is now delivering Radia, continuing the project from early works privately funded by S&amp;S Projects. The $250 million development is expected to reach completion in the third quarter of 2027.

“With our history in Rainbow Bay, we have been fortunate to be heavily involved in how the development landscape has unfolded and this project slides into the property landscape comfortably and will feel like it was always there,” the developer said.

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How three Rainbow Bay projects shaped S&S Projects' fourth, Radia

Nearly 40 years after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sheida-group">The Sheida Group</a> began working on the northern Gold Coast, the family-owned developer is continuing its involvement in Hope Island with Marina Point Apartments, where apartment scale has been a central part of the development.

Across the 235-apartment waterfront community, the developer has prioritised larger floorplans, substantial open space and marina access, responding to a purchaser base that has predominantly comprised local owner-occupiers and downsizers moving from larger homes.

"Having already delivered Anchorage nearby, we also understood this particular market and how people live here," developer Rick Sheida said.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marina-point-apartments-hope-island-66-view-line-terrace-hope-island-qld-4212">Marina Point&nbsp;Apartments</a> gave us the opportunity to build on those lessons and create the next evolution of our work in Hope Island."

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The Sheida Group acquired the Marina Point land around 2018. Its appeal, Sheida says, went beyond having a waterfront address.

"What attracted us was not simply that the site was waterfront, but the way it meets the water," he said.

"It sits at the junction of broad waterways, creating long sightlines, changing views and a sense of movement throughout the day. Its shape also allowed us to orient the buildings outward, improve privacy between residences and make better use of natural light and breezes."

The buildings have subsequently been positioned around the perimeter of the site, allowing most apartments to take in water views while others look across the resort amenity or hinterland. Once all four buildings are complete, approximately one hectare of the site is expected to remain as open space.

The waterfront also provides the potential for up to 50 marina berths, with berths ranging from 15 to 24 metres and options designed to accommodate wider vessels including catamarans. Access from the marina to the Gold Coast Seaway is bridge-free.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293149]

The developer says purchasers to date have predominantly been owner-occupiers and downsizers from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marina-point-apartments-hope-island-66-view-line-terrace-hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a> and elsewhere on the Gold Coast, generally aged between 45 and 70. Many have sold larger family homes or properties requiring significant upkeep.

That purchaser profile informed a design brief centred on retaining the space and functionality of a larger home within an apartment format.

"Many of our buyers are coming from large, well-appointed homes in Sanctuary Cove and the surrounding area," the project team said.

"They are accustomed to generous spaces and thoughtful design, so it was important that the apartments delivered the same sense of comfort and functionality.

"Every room needed to feel well proportioned, every space needed a clear purpose and nothing could feel compromised."

Residences range from 139 sqm through to 319 sqm penthouses, with two car spaces provided to apartments and three to penthouses. Minimum 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, entertainer's kitchens with butler's pantries, substantial storage and balconies ranging from 18 sqm to 37 sqm further reflect the emphasis on space.

One purchaser from Sanctuary Cove has taken the concept further, combining two of Marina Point's largest apartments to create a 552 sqm residence with raked ceilings reaching up to 4.5 metres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293155]

With Building 1 now complete, the developer is also seeing its original design assumptions tested against purchaser feedback.

Three completed display residences allow prospective purchasers to compare apartment sizes, layouts, finishes and outlooks in person. The sales team says one of the most consistent responses has been to the scale of the apartments, with visitors describing them as feeling more like homes than conventional apartments.

The first stage of resident amenity is also operational, including a 25-metre heated lap pool, Technogym-equipped gym, infrared sauna, golf simulator and yoga room. Future facilities are set to include a resort-style pool and spa, waterfront barbecue area and a residents' lounge with a library, fireplace, pool table, kitchen and bar.

Rather than treating the four buildings independently, the design brief called for a complete waterfront neighbourhood, balancing private residences with landscaping, open space, marina access and shared amenity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293152]

For Sheida, Marina Point Apartments is ultimately an extension of the developer's longer-term involvement in Hope Island and its view of how the suburb is evolving.

"We were equally interested in the long-term future of Hope Island," he said.

"Its position between Brisbane and the central Gold Coast gives residents access to both, while improving transport connections are making the northern Gold Coast increasingly attractive as a permanent place to live."

Hope Island Marketplace is 1.3 kilometres from Marina Point, while Sanctuary Cove and Paradise Point are within six kilometres. Links Hope Island, The Pines and The Palms golf courses are also nearby, and the new Hope Island train station is under construction around five kilometres from the development.

Building 2 is under construction, with completion scheduled for 2027.

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Marina Point Apartments continues The Sheida Group's 40-year Hope Island story

Sydney-based fund manager and developer EG is seeking to turn part of the former Roche pharmaceutical campus in Cromer into a 130-home residential community, introducing a mix of low-rise apartments, townhouses and duplexes to the tightly held Northern Beaches market.

The SJB-designed masterplan has been prepared for the 3.2-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/100-south-creek-road-cromer-nsw-2099">100 South Creek Road</a>, part of the former Roche landholding that EG acquired for $55 million in 2017 through its Yield Plus Infrastructure Fund No. 2.

EG is proposing what SJB describes as a new "urban village" set within the site's significant existing tree canopy.

<img alt="Cromer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="482c9a58-49f1-4c53-a12e-aaa02336229f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-24%20at%2011.20.57%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=hZP8_XfPnfNq500dbcjlpVwYU1ebhF9_" />

Around three hectares of the site is considered developable, with the balance incorporating a riparian corridor that would be rehabilitated and revegetated as part of the proposal.

The indicative masterplan comprises approximately 72 apartments in low-rise residential buildings and another 58 townhouses and duplexes.

The apartment component would include around five one-bedroom, 37 two-bedroom and 30 three-bedroom residences, while the townhouse and duplex component would be spread across several different housing typologies. The overall scheme would deliver around 19,500 sqm of gross floor area at an FSR of 0.6:1.

Parking for the apartment component is currently estimated at around 112 resident spaces and 14 visitor spaces, while the townhouse and duplex component would have 116 resident and 12 visitor spaces.

A significant part of the masterplan revolves around retaining the established landscape character of the former Roche campus.

SJB's plans show heavily treed setbacks along both Campbell Avenue and South Creek Road, a centrally located collection of significant native and exotic trees retained as communal open space, and the regeneration of the northern bushland area.

The existing creek corridor along the site's western edge would also be rehabilitated and revegetated, creating additional separation between the new homes and the neighbouring Northern Beaches Business Park.

A heritage-listed cottage and its garden setting would be retained and restored, with SJB flagging its potential adaptive reuse as communal space.

The proposal also includes new communal recreation areas, pedestrian connections to Campbell Avenue and South Creek Road, and a contribution toward improvements to the adjoining Michele Reserve.

Vehicular access would be restricted to South Creek Road, with no vehicle entry proposed from Campbell Avenue. The main internal road would largely follow the site's existing driveway to minimise the impact on established trees.

SJB said residential redevelopment presented an opportunity to retain the majority of the site's heritage-listed mature trees while delivering a broader range of housing types than typically seen across the Northern Beaches.

"The site being 3.27 hectares in area represents one of the largest vacant sites in common ownership in the Cromer and Dee Why area capable of residential renewal," SJB noted in the masterplan.

The architect said the proposal would particularly target housing diversity through townhouses and other "missing middle" typologies suitable for singles, young families, downsizers and retirees.

<img alt="Cromer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e3f5d841-8491-427e-8ada-c70d3d03d6bc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-24%20at%2011.21.02%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=xTV7r.q8lrTzC9vKzMS9zMbjm9wKwhgm" />

The site emerged following the subdivision of the former Roche campus into eastern and western parcels.

EG has already transformed the western portion into the Northern Beaches Business Park, which incorporates heritage-listed office space, modern warehouses and indoor recreation facilities.

The proposed residential community, referred to as Cromer East in SJB's plans, adjoins established housing to the north, east and south-east, while the business park sits beyond the creek corridor to the west.

It is also within 250 metres of Pittwater House School and Northern Beaches Secondary College, while bus stops within a three-to-five-minute walk provide connections to Dee Why, Brookvale and express services to the Sydney CBD. Cromer Park and the South Creek open space corridor are also nearby.

EG acquired the broader 7.5-hectare former Roche campus in 2017 for $55 million through its Yield Plus Infrastructure Fund No. 2. The campus at the time comprised more than 25,000 sqm of industrial and office buildings set within landscaped grounds.

The current residential site represents the eastern portion of that original holding.

EG's investment strategy for the fund has centred on acquiring income-producing real estate with longer-term rezoning and repositioning potential, particularly assets benefiting from infrastructure and changing land-use patterns.

EG also has an established residential track record across Sydney, including Bosco in Five Dock, Tempo in Drummoyne, The Flour Mill in Summer Hill and Pindari in Randwick.

The developer says it has delivered more than 1,000 homes to date, with a further 3,000-plus residences across its development pipeline.

First look: EG plans 130 apartments on former Roche pharmaceutical campus in Cromer

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

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