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<blockquote>
The quality of the ‘Melbourne Experience’ is closely aligned with the level of amenity at all campuses of the University. Programs that upgrade teaching spaces, develop student facilities, increase the functionality of research infrastructure and improve the presentation of the external campus environments are a critical component of this experience for students, staff and visitors.
<cite>UoM Enabler Strategy: Building Infrastructure</cite>
</blockquote>

Those are the opening words from the University of Melbourne's (UoM) 2011 Building Infrastructure document which provided an overview to the University's largest infrastructure upgrade since inception. At the time, UoM's portfolio consisted of more than 300 buildings over a number of campuses, with Parkville naturally the largest.

The University’s property portfolio during 2011 was valued in excess of $2.575 billion with a total replacement cost of the buildings alone approaching $2.65 billion.

<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/image38uom.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Peter Doherty Institute &amp; School of Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="251" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image38uom.jpg?itok=lRUTV5Wo" title="Peter Doherty Institute &amp; School of Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Peter Doherty Institute &amp; School of Architecture</figcaption></figure>During the last decade multiple new, landmark buildings have been delivered by UoM either solely or in partnership, they include:

<ul>
<li>
<a href="http://www.designinc.com.au/projects/david-penington-bio21-institute" target="_blank">Bio21 - David Penington Building</a> (itself subject to expansion plans)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.grollohistory.com.au/History/2000/University-Square-The-University-of-Melbourne" target="_blank">University Square</a></li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.metier3.com.au/workplace/faculty-of-business-and-economics-uom" target="_blank">Business and Economics Building</a> aka The Spot (seen below)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.a-r-m.com.au/projects_MTCTheatre" target="_blank">Melbourne Theatre Company</a> (MTC)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.hickory.com.au/projects/leicester-street/" target="_blank">100 Leicester Street</a></li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.brookfieldmultiplex.com/projects/australasia/vic/construction_and_development/health/under_construction/peter_doherty_institute/" target="_blank">Peter Doherty Institute</a> (above left)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.johnwardlearchitects.com/projects/project/40-faculty-of-architecture-building-and-planning" target="_blank">Faculty of Architecture, Building &amp; Planning</a> (above right)</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/5945136250_0c509a32b3_b.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Spot aka Law &amp; Business by Metier 3. Images © Ben Kreunen"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="489" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/5945136250_0c509a32b3_b.jpg?itok=va1SZE83" title="The Spot aka Law &amp; Business by Metier 3. Images © Ben Kreunen" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Spot aka Law &amp; Business by Metier 3. Images © Ben Kreunen</figcaption></figure>University Square and Bio21 were the vanguard of new generation developments with Metier 3 Architects' Business and Economics Building reaching completion during early 2009. According to the Enabler Strategy document, Melbourne University is in the midst of its most extensive program of building works ever, with total value of projects recently completed, in progress or in design well in excess of half a billion dollars.

As construction of the Faculty of Architecture, Building &amp; Planning nears completion, new projects have emerged to maintain the tertiary institution's forward momentum.

<h2>Current build - Leicester Street Student Accommodation</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/uom.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Leicester Street Student Accommodation. Image © campuslivingvillages.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/uom.jpg?itok=AY69CQBQ" title="Leicester Street Student Accommodation. Image © campuslivingvillages.com" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Leicester Street Student Accommodation. Image © campuslivingvillages.com</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Address: 123-127 Bouverie Street &amp; 116-128 Leicester Street, Carlton</li>
	<li>Operator: Campus Living Villages on behalf of Melbourne University</li>
	<li>Design: Architectus</li>
	<li>Head Contractor: Watpac</li>
	<li>15 levels at 49 metres in height</li>
	<li>648-bed student accommodation facility</li>
	<li>103 bicycle and 0 car parking spaces</li>
	<li>5 star Green Star Rating</li>
	<li>Construction value: $60 million</li>
	<li>Completion: construction commenced and ready for Semester 1, 2016</li>
</ul>
Although not of the same architectural pedigree as the above projects, the mammoth student housing facility has been designed with one eye toward turning the complex and immediate area into a 24 hour venue. Multiple retail spaces, multiple lounges, a large terrace and swimming pool radiate away from a central pedestrian spine which runs to a village square.

Campus Living Villages will operate the facility in in a 38-year Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) arrangement. In addition UoM have also recently purchased the former 11-storey commercial tower at 303-305 Royal Parade with a view to providing an additional 200-300 student beds, further adding to the University's development pipeline.
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silvermb

Melbourne University's building infrastructure upgrade

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In light of last week's <a href="/news/fishermans-bend-strategic-framework-plan-released" target="_blank">Fishermans Bend revised structure plan announcement</a>, it seemed an opportune time to meander through Montague Precinct, more specifically the area east of Montague Street and north of City Road.

This particular slice of Montague Precinct is home to the majority of current planning applications for the Urban Renewal Area, all of which are high-rise in nature. Expected to be a showcase of contemporary urban design, the area currently has little by way of urban character save for the odd structure worthy of retention.

<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_7580.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Remarkably wide roads present an opportunity "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7580.jpg?itok=qxaGsJes" title="Remarkably wide roads present an opportunity " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Remarkably wide roads present an opportunity</figcaption></figure>More than any other factor, the existing road infrastructure became immediately noticeable. Immensely wide roads that seemingly carry comparatively little road traffic.

Could it be that in the existing road network lies the key to avoiding some of the blunders of Docklands? This road network to my way of thinking provides much scope and opportunity to create a cohesive precinct-wide landscape and pedestrian plan, prior to the first tower even gaining approval.

By doing so, Montague Precinct could avoid the haphazard nature of Docklands in terms of road network, urban experience and dotted development which has led to the general malaise surrounding the precinct.

Regardless, enjoy the images below, for the most taken on a quiet Sunday morning.
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What Montague Precinct currently has to offer

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Urban.com.au recently spoke with Ariel Lopez, Design Leader at Spec Property Developments. Having a decade of experience in both his native Buenos Aires and Miami, Ariel made the move to Melbourne during 2003 and has progressed to lead the design team within the integrated property group.

And it's the integrated nature of Spec where all aspects of development, from design through to construction are handled in-house, which has allowed the Cremorne-based developer to provide a differentiated product within Helio Apartments fronting Flemington Road, North Melbourne.

Ariel explains that the integrated nature of Spec has allowed market research and buyer feedback to reach the design team promptly, thus shaping what living options and design features were to be included within their forthcoming project. In addition the firm has a network of repeat clients built over their 20 year history which they can draw upon for opinions while monitoring current trends.

<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/mslider_07_-_kitchen_b_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A genuine kitchen forms part of the Helio design ethos"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="234" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mslider_07_-_kitchen_b_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg?itok=zdx7beEL" title="A genuine kitchen forms part of the Helio design ethos" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A genuine kitchen forms part of the Helio design ethos</figcaption></figure>Consequently Ariel Lopez and his team have provided a handful of living options within Helio to appeal to a spectrum of buyers. The rise of Asian-based investors has not gone unnoticed with Spec seeking to offer prospective investors a departure from the norm. Families, young professional and staff from nearby medical facilities are also expected to feature in the sales, with the latter expected to use their apartments as potential 'crash pads.'

So how does this approach to innovative apartment design manifest itself in this instance? Ariel and his team have included within Helio a healthy number of loft-style apartments which they believe will hit a segment of the market as yet underserved, while also delivering spacious dwellings on an otherwise tight site.

Mini and Maxi lofts have been included within Helio in addition to typical apartments. Maxi lofts which are located over the Helio's top levels see dual bedrooms situated above the open plan living quarters and laundry/power rooms below. These aren't surrogate penthouses, rather a case of placing a product in a unique position given that most developments place loft-style apartments at or near street 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/mslider_08_-_bathrooms_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One particular version of a Helio bathroom"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="481" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mslider_08_-_bathrooms_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg?itok=FCadCOF2" title="One particular version of a Helio bathroom" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One particular version of a Helio bathroom</figcaption></figure>In speaking with Ariel it became evident that the initial concept of a malleable design to suit the location and buyer profile was gradually worked down to address the finer details which they believe give Helio its progressive nature. To that end the majority of dwellings will feature a multi/flexible layout where fixtures and fittings are moveable according to the residents desire.

As Ariel stated, "It's about giving those people who buy in Helio maximum living options."

<h2>Comment</h2>

One developer providing a differentiated product in this case does not constitute an industry-wide shift in thinking, nonetheless it's highly encouraging to see a Spec Property offer greater diversity in their latest project.

Helio's renders show that compact, clever design doesn't need to sacrifice quality useable space. Far too often touted 'high-end' apartments come with impracticably small kitchenettes and barely there bathrooms whereas Helio's kitchens in particular are generous in size and practical in nature.

Ultimately with Helio Spec Property have endeavoured to provide the buyer with greater choice and increased design input both pre and post purchase - and you can't fault that.
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Ariel Lopez on progressive apartment design and Helio Apartments

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Keen observers would have noted the increased media attention surrounding Melbourne-based property developer Golden Age in the lead up to the official launch of their most notable project, the gleaming Victoria One on Elizabeth Street. An informative piece on company head Jeff Xu was published last week in the <a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/melbourne_property_king_jeff_xu_6ZcdmWQNMcJVSstdILZqPI" target="_blank">Financial Review</a>, outlining the rise and rise of both man and company as Golden Age continues to assert itself upon the Melbourne property scene.

From their first modest development of some three levels in Box Hill completed three short years ago, Golden Age have since delivered the 32 level mixed-use 27 Little Collins Street and have witnessed their most recent project, the 20 level <a href="/buildings/emerald-35-albert-road-south-melbourne" target="_blank">Emerald</a> apartment development, reach structural completion in recent weeks.

At the Victoria One launch evening last week, the affable Jeff Xu announced that the soaring tower had financing in place after reaching 60% sales and that a preferred builder had been chosen. Probuild has the task of delivering the 75 level, 241 metre tower from late 2014 , marking the firm's tallest build to date.

<h2>Victoria One at a glance</h2>

<ul>
<li>$350 million dollar project</li>
	<li>115 one bedroom apartments, 482 two bedroom and 32 three bedroom apartments split across a 75 level tower</li>
	<li>Podium apartments feature featuring in-built planting boxes overflowing with greenery</li>
	<li>Apartment sizes range from 41sqm to 91sqm</li>
	<li>One bedroom apartments from $370,000 up to minimum 890,000 fro a three bedroom apartment</li>
	<li>Completion due 2017</li>
</ul>
A technical overview of the project can be seen in an associated <a href="/news/victoria-one-452-elizabeth-street" target="_blank">planning assessment article</a>.

<h2>Ins and Outs</h2>

Leading global colour systems firm Pantone in choosing emerald green as their <a href="http://au.pantone.com/pages/index.aspx?pg=21055" target="_blank">colour of the year</a> provided the following description: "Lively. Radiant. Lush… A color of elegance and beauty that enhances our sense of well-being, balance and harmony." The same could be said for Victoria One's facade as project architect Elenberg Fraser have designed a unique tower which will change consistently as light and shade and traverse the facade.

This is of course due to the prominent silver-white metallic fins cascading down this façade, thus "Creating curves and peeling away at the corner of Elizabeth and Franklin Streets."

A benefit of the curtain facade sees all apartments feature floor to ceiling windows, allowing for excellent natural light penetration. Wintergardens are included, featuring operable windows and built-in breakfast bars which is a bonus not generally included within contemporary designs. Customised lighting, wallpaper, hardware and bathroom accessories are available, while the dual available colour schemes coupled with timber flooring throughout add an earthy feel to internals. This earthy feel in turn flows into the communal areas.

<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/victoria_one_hero_external_render.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria One Melbourne. Image © Golden Age"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1134" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/victoria_one_hero_external_render.jpg?itok=ZVnMcSvd" title="Victoria One Melbourne. Image © Golden Age" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria One Melbourne. Image © Golden Age</figcaption></figure>Victoria One will include a pool, spa, gym and indoor/outdoor entertaining area over level nine. Featuring landscaping and barbecue areas, the podium-top facility is designed to reflect the beaches and rockpools of the coast. Elsewhere the residents facility on level 40 provides two resident lounges, double dining rooms and poker play facilities for private events.

As has become common over Melbourne's taller residential towers of late, an entire floor at a lofty height has been seeded to a communal residents-only retreat. Level 66 is home to the exclusive One Club, a lounge area consuming the entire floor and inspired by the beauty of the Yarra Valley according to Golden Age.

<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/vic5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria One's austere yet sophisticated swimming pool"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="593" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/vic5.jpg?itok=LSCbAfhT" title="Victoria One's austere yet sophisticated swimming pool" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria One's austere yet sophisticated swimming pool</figcaption></figure><h2>A golden year indeed</h2>

The new year will herald the arrival of Golden Age's latest development, a preliminary render of which is seen below. According to <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/property/st-kilda-road-office-space-is-being-turned-into-homes-by-developers-20140513-387rm" target="_blank">Business Day</a>, 450 St Kilda Road was purchased during April, and has since seen Golden Age act briskly to facilitate a Bates Smart-designed tower of 19 levels.

227 luxury apartments are slated for the project that will have an approximate market value of $180 million. The not yet submitted for planning approval scheme sees a streamlined residential building curving mildly away fom the abutting historic Airlie Mansion.

The location and ever increasing prowess of Golden Age should ensure the immediate success of 450 St Kilda Road upon release.

<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/photo111.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A pre-planning render for 450 St Kilda Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="790" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/photo111.jpg?itok=YNTp_uap" title="A pre-planning render for 450 St Kilda Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A pre-planning render for 450 St Kilda Road</figcaption></figure>
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The rise and rise of Golden Age

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Yesterday Meinhardt Australia's James Hargraves explored the growing trend of <a href="/news/the-rise-of-vertical-aged-care" target="_blank">higher density aged care facilities</a> throughout Melbourne. Exploring the changing dynamics within the sector, James outlined a new model where Ageing in Place has become more apparent.

"This is driving the demand for centrally located facilities: closer to the city, closer to existing amenities and closer to the families and children of residents." Consequently vertical buildings have become more prevalent; although not hulking towers they certainly account for an increasing number of tower cranes.

Urban.com.au has chosen to highlight five of the more impressive current vertical age care/retirement designs:

<h2>619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image261.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Image © Smith + Tracey"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image261.jpg?itok=dQ5F5Wp0" title="619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Image © Smith + Tracey" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Image © Smith + Tracey</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Operator: Jewish Care</li>
	<li>Architect: Smith + Tracey</li>
	<li>Ten levels at 36.3 metres</li>
	<li>156 beds and active living centre, fitness and lifestyle facilities</li>
	<li>Medical and allied health service, employment and education centre.</li>
	<li>Café, convenience store, pharmacy and hairdresser servicing residents and the general public.</li>
	<li>Construction start 2015</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
This dynamic development will offer our elders the opportunity to live in state-of-the-art ‘small households’ with their own self-contained lounge, dining, kitchen and recreational facilities.
<cite>Jewish Care</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>97 Elgin Street, Hawthorn</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/33_97_elgin_street_hawthorn_2_ecc98e_med.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="97 Elgin Street, Hawthorn. Image © Edgard Pirrotta"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="188" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/33_97_elgin_street_hawthorn_2_ecc98e_med.jpg?itok=eFB4dtIA" title="97 Elgin Street, Hawthorn. Image © Edgard Pirrotta" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>97 Elgin Street, Hawthorn. Image © Edgard Pirrotta</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Operator: St. Joseph's Aged Care</li>
	<li>Architect: Edgard Pirrotta</li>
	<li>$35 million retirement apartment complex</li>
	<li>Five levels at 19.28 metres</li>
	<li>70 two and three-bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>Construction imminent</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
A disused school adjacent to the site is to be converted into resident facilities including a restaurant, private dining room, lounge, library, coffee bar and billiards room, and support services. The refurbished 1908 building will integrate perfectly with the modern new apartment structure which provides additional facilities such as a theatrette, multi-purpose space and wellness centre.

Sensitive heritage and streetscape issues associated with the former school and the one-hundred-fifty-year-old St Josephs church on the site have to be addressed to ensure the contemporary apartment building complements these historic structures as well as the surrounding 19th century residential architectural style.
<cite>Buxton Construction</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>107-115 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East</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/image244.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="107-115 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East. Image © CHT"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="309" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image244.jpg?itok=YwKq3DUP" title="107-115 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East. Image © CHT" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>107-115 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East. Image © CHT</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Operator: Baptcare</li>
	<li>Architect: Carabott Holt Turnicov</li>
	<li>Six buildings with 142 independent living apartments &amp; 150 aged care beds</li>
	<li>252 car parking spaces</li>
	<li>Resident’s community centre</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
It is considered that the application constitutes a well conceived architecturally interesting development...The proposal fulfils a need for additional aged care and age in place accommodation within The Pines Major Activity Centre and the Manningham municipality in general.
<cite>Manningham City Council</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>39 Livingstone Road, Vermont South</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/livingstone_vermont_drone_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="39 Livingstone Road, Vermont South midway through construction. Image © De Nova Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/livingstone_vermont_drone_01.jpg?itok=4rjiavjQ" title="39 Livingstone Road, Vermont South midway through construction. Image © De Nova Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>39 Livingstone Road, Vermont South midway through construction. Image © De Nova Group</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Operator: BlueCross</li>
	<li>Architect: De Nova Group</li>
	<li>Part 2 and part 4 level aged care facility of 220 beds</li>
	<li>Part 4 and part 6 level building with 68 independent living apartments (Retirement Village).</li>
	<li>Lounges, communal areas, music room, commercial kitchen, hairdresser, physiotherapy</li>
	<li>Café, library, theatre, physic office, visiting practitioners suite, gym, hydro therapy pool</li>
	<li>Completion early 2015</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
The proposed development, together with the proposed supporting services and recreational facilities provide a complete range of services and facilities to ensure a high quality facility for future residents.
<cite>Urbis Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>7-9 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield North</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/image245.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="7-9 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield North. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image245.jpg?itok=_XlqzIjg" title="7-9 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield North. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>7-9 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield North. Image © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Operator: Emmy Monash Aged Care</li>
	<li>Architect: Bates Smart</li>
	<li>94 rooms over four levels</li>
	<li>49 basement car parking bays</li>
	<li>Dining, recreation and care facilities and communal courtyards</li>
	<li>Construction immediate</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
The Shape Tomorrow consultation process highlighted our community’s desire for innovative aged care programs to be seamlessly offered in 21st century architect designed facilities in a convenient Caulfield North location.

The new Hawthorn Road development will represent uncompromising style, whilst offering extensive lifestyle options with levels of care expected by our community.
<cite>Emmy Monash Aged Care</cite>
</blockquote>
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Vertical aged care in action

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Open House Melbourne is up and running with Planning Minister Matthew Guy launching the annual event yesterday at Scots' Church.

This year's event features 30 new sites open for viewing and 100 buildings and places overall open for inspection. New buildings and sites added this year include the Argus, Government House and Young and Jackson Hotel, in addition to working infrastructure such as the Spencer Street sub-station

For a genuinely unique perspective, visitors are also able to access Melbourne Central's glass cone and shot tower for some unique views.

<blockquote>
This is a once-a-year opportunity to explore areas usually hidden from the public eye, discover some of the city's newest and most innovative spaces, or gain a new appreciation of some of our iconic and much-loved buildings.

There are some amazing places and opportunities to learn something new about the city in which we live.

There is a rare chance to walk inside the intricately decorated Queen's Hall, which opened in 1859 but has been closed to the public since 2003. Or you can take the opportunity to visit Australia's first film studio, Limelight Studios, established in 1896. Or why not see the new performance and training facilities for Circus Oz, which has been 10 years in the making?

We are delighted to be associated with an event that is widely embraced by Melburnians and to help open even more doors this year.

Architecture and urban design add so much to our beautiful city, and this event showcases just how much they contribute to Melbourne's status as the world's most liveable city.
<cite>Matthew Guy, <a href="http://premier.vic.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/10546-rediscover-melbourne-s-great-buildings-and-places">"Rediscover Melbourne’s great buildings and places"</a></cite>
</blockquote>

As much as Apartments.com.au would love to employ a fleet of flying monkeys with cameras at the ready, that is not a possibility... at least this year. So if you have a few spare hours on your hands, venture into the inner city and see Melbourne from a different perspective.

http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings
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Open House off and running

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It doesn't exist on the Melbourne City Council register, nor the State register, which represent the two primary methods of monitoring inner Melbourne's major planning applications. Rather a proposed redevelopment of 502 Albert Road, East Melbourne has been listed on DTPLI's heritage register, as the application seeks demolition to part of the adjoining historic East Melbourne Synagogue.

502 Albert Road, East Melbourne served as the Salvation Army Printing Works complex once upon a time and according a report published in the The Age dated 2011, the site was <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/business/property/citadel-handed-over-20111216-1oyop" target="_blank">sold to Chinese-based interests</a> during that year for $9.7 million. The intended plans were bought to light once more by Apartments.com.au forum member, Fedsquared.

<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/image218.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The sites in question with tower rising behind. Image © DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="469" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image218.jpg?itok=30UPNnyj" title="The sites in question with tower rising behind. Image © DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The sites in question with tower rising behind. Image © DCM</figcaption></figure><h2>Application details</h2>

<ul>
<li>502 Albert Road, East Melbourne: existing 1901 three-level Romanesque-style building onsite</li>
	<li>Developer: Woodlink Design and Development</li>
	<li>Architect: Denton Corker Marshall</li>
	<li>27 level residential tower at 88.98 metres</li>
	<li>​66 apartments over 2/3/4 bedroom options</li>
	<li>87 car parking spaces over basement and podium levels, serviced by car vehicle lift</li>
	<li>Facilities include cafe/gallery, pool, gym and common area</li>
</ul>
<h2>Heritage consideration</h2>

<blockquote>
The East Melbourne synagogue is a mid-19th century bluestone and brick building based on the revival Greek Corinthian style. The building is significant as an example of the work of architects Crouch &amp; Wilson, prominent designers of ecclesiastical buildings in Victoria in the nineteenth century.

As the only surviving example of two synagogues designed by the architects, the East Melbourne building demonstrates the denominational diversity that characterised their practice during that time. It is one of a very small number of ecclesiastical buildings that they designed in the Classical tradition.
<cite>Roger Gibbins, Urbis</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>A quid pro quo solution</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/image220.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed ground floor layout. Image © DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="586" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image220.jpg?itok=Poe-yQdO" title="The proposed ground floor layout. Image © DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed ground floor layout. Image © DCM</figcaption></figure>In a solution designed to satisfy both parties, the development calls for the demolition of registered buildings at the rear of the Synagogue at 488 Albert Street East Melbourne in order to provide the intended tower with a viable footprint. The synagogue will contribute part of its land holding to the developer, in return the developer will fully refurbish the East Melbourne Synagogue.

In addition, new facilities over the tower's ground floor will be dedicated to the Synagogue, "Enabling it to provide a comfortable and safe environment for the congregation and visitors. This will enable the synagogue to remain viable, maintaining the congregation into the future."

Furthermore the proposed solution sees three two bedroom apartments, a café and a multi-purpose room seeded to the Synagogue as a means of future income.

<h2>Total luxury</h2>

From upcoming Spring Street giants to 150 Clarendon Street and Jolimont, the Parliamentary Precinct/Fitzroy Gardens are ringed by luxury apartment developments. Those behind 502 Albert Road have positioned the tower to sit within the ultra high-end of Melbourne's apartment market, with apartment sizes far beyond the norm; in fact some are just plain amazing:

<ul>
<li>Smallest 2BR at combined internal/external: 108sqm</li>
	<li>Typical 2BR internal/external: average 160sqm approximately</li>
	<li>Typical 3BR internal/external: average 220sqm approximately</li>
	<li>Penthouse split over two levels: 4BR at 372sqm internal + 170sqm external</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/image263.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed L10-12 layout. Image © DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="476" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image263.jpg?itok=6xwQKE90" title="The proposed L10-12 layout. Image © DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed L10-12 layout. Image © DCM</figcaption></figure>Applying a modest sales price of $9000 per internal square metre as a rough guide to apartment pricing, a three bedroom abode of 255sqm internal over levels 10-12 would sell for in excess of $2.3 million. Evidently the tower has been positioned to compete with Melbourne's elite residential towers, if not usurp them in the pedigree stakes.

<h2>Comment</h2>

The tower externally looks to follow the lead of Denton Corker Marshall's <a href="/news/85-spring-street-and-the-east-enders" target="_blank">85 Spring Street</a> which is also seeking planning consent, with colour palette and finishes quite similar; blue facades contrasted by lighter block elements. I guess this could be construed as an architect exploring a certain design path or lack of initiative, depends upon your perspective.

As for the few who may call this development home one day, half their luck!
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Is this Melbourne's most exclusive and expensive apartment development?

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The latest in a mounting number of apartment developments centred around <a href="/new-apartments/carlton-vic-3053">Carlton's</a> Queensberry Street was launched last night. <a href="/buildings/the-eminence-139-queensberry-street-carlton">The Eminence</a>, which was <a href="/news/planning-application-139-155-queensberry-street-carlton" target="_blank">first highlighted last year</a> by Apartments.com.au as a planning application, celebrated its launch event with all relevant project partners in attendance.

Speaking to project architect Ian Briggs of <a href="/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a>, he explains that the design reflects its location - a marriage of the CBD's vertical nature and the low-rise, finer grain substance of Carlton. Consequently the project is split into three vertical volumes, they being the lower Queensberry or northern volume, central and CBD volumes.

Each of these is in turn broken into blocks of two or three levels by way of white external privacy panels/load-bearing features to signify the street level height of traditional Carlton housing. In another nod to the past street level frontages are broken by the use of cottage reliefs, either consisting of perforated metal as seen below or shotcreted forms along other boundaries according to the architect.

<blockquote>
The design is a delicate balance of its environment, responding to the low line, staccato street fronts of Carlton and the high-rise scale of the city. The building form is separated into three towers to capitalise on light entry, natural ventilation and views to every 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartment and social space. Floor to ceiling glass to capture views, and expressed fins to frame them, wrap around the façade in a modern day interpretation of classic architecture that is carried from the lobby to the rooftop retreat.
<cite>Developer's description</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/image205.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Eminence plays on Carlton's low-rise character"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image205.jpg?itok=cpgoTQON" title="The Eminence plays on Carlton's low-rise character" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Eminence plays on Carlton's low-rise character</figcaption></figure>Near on 30% of the 193 apartments have been sold prior to launch with the owner-occupier market firmly in mind. Paraphrasing what was said last night, an investor may buy in to an owner-occupier focused development yet an owner-occupier will shun an investment driven apartment development, and that's the case with The Eminence as owner-occupiers buyers are represented heavily to date.

In the broader context a search of the Apartments.com.au database shows The Eminence is joined by <a href="/buildings/queens-carlton-106-queensberry-street-carlton" target="_blank">Queens Carlton</a> at the registration and sales stage. In addition <a href="/buildings/81-cardigan-street-carlton" target="_blank">81 Cardigan Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/upper-house-516-520-swanston-street-carlton">Upper House</a> are at varying stages of construction with the latter receiving its finishing touches.

<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_6587.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queensberry Street with 81 Cardigan, Eminence and Upper House in view"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6587.jpg?itok=_6HzeyvK" title="Queensberry Street with 81 Cardigan, Eminence and Upper House in view" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queensberry Street with 81 Cardigan, Eminence and Upper House in view</figcaption></figure>Directly opposite The Eminence, the distinctive facade of <a href="/developments/carlton-vic-3053">152 Queensberry Street</a> is waiting in the wings with planning approval. Together these projects will inject in the vicinity of 430 apartments with little more than 200 metres separating the quartet.

Into the future <a href="/developers/grocon">Grocon's</a> redevelopment of the former CUB site is expected to yield three buildings fronting Queensberry Street. <a href="/news/days-of-future-past-cub-site-carlton-continued" target="_blank">Outlined previously</a>, the three future towers have the potential to yield hundreds of new apartments, but for now The Eminence holds sway over this emerging development corridor.
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The Eminence joins the queue on Queensberry

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Last month City of Sydney implemented a scheme laden with the potential to deliver multiple positive social and environmental outcomes. Two new recycling machines capable of holding 2,000 empty deposited plastic bottles or cans are now available for use, and in return the user will be rewarded with a small donation to charity, a 2-for-1 food voucher from a local food truck or go into a draw to win two tickets to the 2014 Sydney New Year’s Eve Dawes Point event.

When the reverse vending machines are at capacity, they automatically send an email to council informing them it is full.

As the inner city population of Australia's capital cities increases, so too does the amount of waste and particularly littered waste. The basis of the below comment has seen City of Sydney take action.

<blockquote>
Beverage containers now outstrip cigarette butts as the most littered item (taken from the National Top 10 rubbish items collected on Clean Up Australia Day). 15,000 bottles and cans are littered or landfilled in Australia every minute.
It is a fact that a ‘cash for container’ scheme, will reduce litter and increase recycling rates to 80 – 95%. South Australia is leading the way with such a scheme and has double the rate of recycling than the rest of the country.
<cite>City of Sydney</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/10476396_10152262952753892_7723193446631685676_n.jpg.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Science Alert"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/10476396_10152262952753892_7723193446631685676_n.jpg.jpg?itok=6iSNM3iv" title="Image courtesy Science Alert" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>Image courtesy Science Alert</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
People who deposit bottles and cans in the reverse vending machines will not only be keeping the streets and the harbour clean, they will be rewarded with a small gift or charity donation.
The City has tried using recycling bins in public areas, but levels of contamination made it impossible to recycle the materials collected. The beauty of these machines is that they accept only items that can be recycled and reject anything else.
<cite>City of Sydney</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

Although in its infancy, the scheme holds a real prospect of achieving some important social and environmental goals, and not just harbourside. The potential for all citizens, including the homeless, to benefit by using the recycling machine, the potential for a better environmental outcome and potential to increase charitable donations makes the scheme a goer on many levels.

Great ideas such as the recycling machine will invariably need some fine-tuning but I would think it will eventually spread nationwide, including little old Melbourne.

More information is available at the <a href="http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/live/waste-and-recycling/clean-streets/envirobank-reverse-vending-machines" target="_blank">City of Sydney project website</a>.

Lead image courtesy Envirobank.com.au.
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An idea too good to overlook

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Rex Hunt once borrowed the German words and popularised the phrase "shizenhousen" and that's what the weather was on Thursday afternoon. But when an opportunity arises to visit the levels of <a href="/buildings/prima-tower-31-queensbridge-street-southbank">Prima Pearl</a> still under construction, you oblige.

In all fairness, a group of intrepid media types (and Apartments.com.au) ventured up to level 63 for a birds-eye view of Melbourne. With perimeter safety screens encasing the floors above and facade attached to those below, level 63 provided uninterrupted views and the worst weather Melbourne had to offer.

Work on deck had ceased due to high winds, so much so this man's hard hat nearly ended up on Power Street far below. Hand on hard hat and camera in hand, enjoy the views from Prima Pearl.

Click the image below to expand.
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Hold on to your hard hats! Prima Pearl at level 63

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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<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.”

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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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