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City of Melbourne are presented with a good design, verging on a very good design, but one particular aspect of a new planning application involving 529-541 Elizabeth Street is worth questioning. While the Elizabeth Street frontage is transparent and welcoming, the O'Connell Street perspective is anything but.

<blockquote>
The proposed development will provide an engaging response to the Elizabeth Street frontage, as well as the O'Connell Street frontage
</blockquote>

I tend to disagree with this quote from the planning application, as my favoured hobby horse of inactive street frontage rears its head once more with a less than overwhelming scenario depicted below, which fronts O'Connell Street. With services, car park entry and loading fronting O'Connell Street, it is understandable that such a finish has been applied, but highly undesirable at the same time.

<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/Image37_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="O'Connell Street frontage. Image © Crone Partners"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image37_0.jpg?itok=INAJIN6r" style="height:365px; width:580px" title="O'Connell Street frontage. Image © Crone Partners"></a>

This becomes a test for City of Melbourne as much as anything else. More than occasionally they have been known to posture and voice disapproval over tall towers/proposals within the CBD and surrounds, but it is the finer grain public experience that should be paramount and it will be fascinating to see if the council request changes in any form to O'Connell Street's frontage.

Perhaps a static glass-walled art display - similar to the <a href="http://www.azahner.com/images/tmog.bridge.jpg" target="_blank">Tacoma Museum of Glass</a> - would be a simple solution addressing O'Connell Street that highlights the site and site proponent's history. Which brings us to the obligatory details.

529-541 Elizabeth Street is proposed to be the new headquarters for the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF). Designed by Crone Partners, the 46.5 metre tower falls within the City North Precinct and provides ten levels of mixed-use activities. Externally the tower element to both frontages features vertical fins that form a cascading feature which funnels down to the respective entrances.

<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/Image38eliz.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria Street perspective. Image © Crone Partners"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image38eliz.jpg?itok=Jq_EpWAU" style="height:382px; width:580px" title="Victoria Street perspective. Image © Crone Partners"></a>

Internally the building will have office space totalling 7,314 square metres with the three upper levels reserved for the ANMF and the remaining four tower levels are to be leased externally. The podium carries a variety of uses, ranging from education and training facilities (classrooms, labs, meeting rooms and library) with the ability to cater for 200 students.

Ground floor facilities are divided by a pedestrian passage running from Elizabeth to O'Connell and features a 400 seat auditorium which is available to both ANMF and external groups. A retail space of 114 square metres fronts Elizabeth Street while 66 cars and 30 bicycle spaces are accommodated within the basement.

<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/Image39.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected ground floor layout. Image © Crone Partners"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image39.jpg?itok=u0G2yS-L" style="height:605px; width:580px" title="Expected ground floor layout. Image © Crone Partners"></a>

Having recently been submitted, final approval for 529-541 Elizabeth Street is some time away, as tends to be the norm. Apartments.com.au waits with interest to see if the O'Connell Street frontage and overall design proceeds unfettered.

<ul>
<li>Context and Design Report and Architectural Plans: Crone Partners</li>
	<li>Transport Impact Assessment: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Environmental Wind Assessment: Mel Consultants</li>
	<li>Environmentally Sustainable Design: Crone Partners</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Wastech Services Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Heritage Advice: Bryce Raworth</li>
</ul>
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silvermb

Fins and folly > 529-541 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne

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Proponents of a high-rise development located at 371 Spencer Street, West Melbourne will pin their hopes on State Government approval following City of Melbourne once more indicating they will reject the dual tower scheme. Melbourne-based Bennelong Group via subsidiary Bennelong Value Funds Pty Ltd have pushed for approval since early 2012 for the 749 apartment project.

Amended plans put forward earlier in 2014 featuring shortened towers and fewer apartments have failed to curry favour with City of Melbourne, leaving the approval decision in the hands of State planning body DTPLI and Minister Matthew Guy.

<h2>As described by the architect</h2>

<blockquote>
Bruce Henderson Architects’ design response establishes a strong podium base, responsive to the context but modern in its interpretation. This podium supports slender tower forms that respond to the opportunities of the site which include ‘unobstructed’ views in all directions, variation in existing and evolving built form, multiple points of accessibility and good solar exposure.

The design of the towers de-emphasises vertical elements, instead relying on strong horizontal banding via exposed slab edges and smaller scale facade elements set within the horizontal bands. The random arrangement and mixture of facade materials provides a dynamic solution and varies the appearance of the building from surrounding viewpoints.
</blockquote>

<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/371spencer.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The revamped design. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/371spencer.jpg?itok=vT3crVOm" style="height:599px; width:580px" title="The revamped design. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"></a>

<h2>Major changes from the initial application</h2>

Visually, the amended 371 Spencer Street seen above carries a highly similar facade to the initial design, perhaps with the exception of blue glass over earlier renders which were dominated by grey tones. The podium has been refined with the addition of a high awning and additional glazing addressing the Spencer and Batman intersection.

Both towers have been lowered in height considerably with the western tower subject to seven fewer levels or 30 metres. Floor to floor heights have also been reduced from 3.5 metres to 3.1 metres, bringing the intended apartments down to a more conventional dimension.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:100%">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col"> </th>
			<th scope="col">2012 Plans</th>
			<th scope="col">2014 Plans</th>
			<th scope="col">Comment</th>
		</tr></thead>
<caption>Summary of changes (courtesy City of Melbourne)</caption>
	<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Gross Floor Areas</td>
			<td>85,000 sq m (Approx)</td>
			<td>79,206 sq m</td>
			<td>Floor space removed at the upper levels is in part off-set by increased floor area in the west tower.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Number of residential units</td>
			<td>749 (225 x 1-bed and 524 x 2-bed)</td>
			<td>704</td>
			<td>Reduction of 45 units.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>East Tower</td>
			<td>120m (32 levels) and 107.2m (28 levels)</td>
			<td>104.6m (28 levels) and 95.5m (25 levels)</td>
			<td>Reduction of four levels and three levels.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>West Tower</td>
			<td>152m (41 levels) and 139m (38 levels)</td>
			<td>123.4m (34 levels) and 114.1m (31 levels)</td>
			<td>Reduction of seven levels on both parts.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>West tower setback from Batman Street</td>
			<td>6m</td>
			<td>6m</td>
			<td>No change.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Minimum separation between towers</td>
			<td>13.85m</td>
			<td>11.7m</td>
			<td>The average separation is maintained.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Retail floor area</td>
			<td>235 sq m</td>
			<td>235 sq m</td>
			<td>No change.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Car spaces</td>
			<td>548</td>
			<td>537</td>
			<td>Reduction of 11 spaces.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bicycle spaces</td>
			<td>223</td>
			<td>222</td>
			<td>Reduction of one space.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Floor to floor</td>
			<td>3.5m</td>
			<td>3.1m</td>
			<td>0.4m reduction.</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>City of Melbourne says</h2>

Taken from the City of Melbourne's report to Future Melbourne Committee, Council's final recommendation that City of Melbourne advise the Minister for Planning that they continues to object to application based on four principal factors:

<ol>
<li>The height and massing of the proposed building is inappropriate having regard to the built form outcomes and decision guidelines of Design and Development Overlay Schedule 33.</li>
	<li>The lack of activation and design of the ground floor frontages particularly at the north-east corner of the building will have an adverse impact on the public realm and is contrary to the policy objectives of Clause 22.17 Urban Design Outside the Capital City Zone and the built form outcomes and decision guidelines of Design and Development Overlay Schedule 33.</li>
	<li>The height and massing of the proposed building will adversely affect the heritage significance of the adjoining heritage buildings (Sands and McDougall Building) and is inconsistent with the built form outcomes and decision guidelines of Design and Development Overlay Schedule 33.</li>
	<li>The proposed building is expected to generate additional vehicle movements which will have a detrimental impact on the Batman Street, Spencer Street and Franklin Place.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Comment</h2>

This particular pocket of West Melbourne serves to illustrate the gulf between the positions taken by City of Melbourne and the State Government. City of Melbourne have been nothing if not consistent in their disapproval of 371 Spencer Street and surrounding projects that have well and truly breached local built form guidelines.

The State Government on the other hand has earmarked the area is a natural extension of the CBD, with high-rise towers in tow. That there is no consensus between both bodies leads to a bureaucratic back and forth that ultimately will achieve little as State Government maintains final say over any project exceeding 25,000 sq.m in area.

This in turn will encourage developers to super size their proposals to over 25,000 sq.m as evidenced by the recent application at 15-31 Batman Street, with the knowledge that the State Government will be more likely to green light their project. What does this all mean for 371 Spencer Street?

Given the State Government approved 420 Spencer Street diagonally opposite earlier this year at 38 levels and 131 metres, a precedent has been set. I can't see how 371 Spencer Street would gain anything but approval.
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371 Spencer Street finds no favour with City of Melbourne

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Australia on Collins has taken on a different complexion of late as tenants continue to move out in preparation for the centre's <a href="/news/st-collins-lane-vies-for-a-piece-of-the-luxury-market" target="_blank">considerable redevelopment</a> and ultimate rebirth as St. Collins Lane.

Capitalising on a gaggle of lease expiries while negotiating early lease terminations with others, centre operator LaSalle Investment Management finds itself with a unique asset that now resembles more of a ghost town than retail hub.

<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_6201_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Australia on Collins in its final days"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_6201_0.jpg?itok=uKhoWDwp" style="height:387px; width:580px" title="Australia on Collins in its final days"></a>

The centre's hiatus is temporary however, as leading national contractor <a href="http://www.built.com.au/" target="_blank">Built</a> are due to take site control soon enough, enabling the demolition of existing interiors to begin. With the majority of construction staged from Little Collins Street, the complex will be significantly and structurally refurbished according to management.

<blockquote>
St. Collins Lane will be transformed into a 9000 SQM home to highly desirable, international and local designer brands, offering 60 exclusive tenancies in a light-drenched, sophisticated and urbane shopping environment. Rising from the lower ground, with two levels atop, St. Collins Lane aims to become Melbourneʼs new retail ʻpasseggiataʼ in the tradition of Melbourneʼs historic shopping thoroughfares such as The Royal Arcade.

Located at 260 Collins Street, St. Collins Lane is Melbourneʼs new $200M luxury shopping destination, which is expected to bring the European sophistication of the ʻParis end of Collins Streetʼ down the hill, directly into the city centre.
</blockquote>

Triumphing over fellow architecture firms Buchan and NH Architecture, project lead ARM Architecture has conceived a design that draws upon the success of their previous retail experience. While a laneway strategy has been implemented once more akin to nearby ARM project Melbourne Central, the architect has incorporated a high degree of sophistication into St. Collins Lane with the intent of setting it apart from all-comers.

Chosen to convey an understated quality, 'champagne' is considered the dominant colour both internally and externally as the Collins Street frontage will be remodelled extensively to deliver a grand and glamorous yet practical entrance. The generous foyer coupled with terrace/dining options above constitutes a welcoming exterior, far from what is currently presented to street level.

<blockquote>
St. Collins Lane will now provide a direct linkage and clear sightlines from Collins Street to Little Collins Street. Gone are the days when customers were ʻtrappedʼ in shopping malls. St. Collins Lane has been conceived as a series of boutiques for the 21st century. It is not a traditional shopping centre. It is part arcade and part lane. An intimate experience at the centre of St. Collins Lane, integrated with the urban fabric of the city.
</blockquote>

<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/Image268.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The stylings of ARM are evident. Image courtesy ARM Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image268.jpg?itok=a_KiJuQP" style="height:372px; width:580px" title="The stylings of ARM are evident. Image courtesy ARM Architecture"></a>

In discussing the project with LaSalle Investment Management's National Director of Development, Matthew Bailey, he conveyed LaSalle's desire to create a showpiece for St. Collins Lane. This will be by way of the 'lighscape' seen above which will not only act as a focal point but also cast a dynamic shadow pattern through the complex as natural light permeates through the transparent ceiling above.

<blockquote>
An enormous vaulted roof provides natural light throughout. The crowing glory is an undulating and sculptural ʻlightscapeʼ comprised of neon pendants that will cascade down. A dining terrace on level two will be defined by this lightscape, which is reminiscent of an illuminated canopy of leaves, a reflective place to sit and enjoy a meal.
</blockquote>

While Apartments.com.au will tour St. Collins Lane both during and post construction, tomorrow Laurence will highlight a recent <a href="/news/neil-masterton-talks-st-collins-lane" target="_blank">interview with ARM Architecture design director Neil Masterton</a>. Neil will offer first hand knowledge on the design ethos and guiding principles behind St. Collins Lane.
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St. Collins Lane nears construction

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When was the last time a sizable apartment project began construction, only to fall over and remain dormant? It certainly doesn't happen that often, particularly now given current market conditions and a buying/sales frenzy over any viable piece of land throughout inner Melbourne.

I'm sure there have been plenty before, but for the life of me I can't recall any bar one: 392 St Georges Road, Fitzroy North. Taken at the turn of 2012, the lead image shows a sorry state of affairs onsite for Tranquility Apartments as then head contractor Maxcon witnessed a build fizzle into the ether.

Then developer Brooklyn Projects suffered the ignominy of watching their headline development falter, leaving the site an overgrown mess for the best part of three years. Definitely not the norm for 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/image21bro.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="For the sake of posterity, a Brooklyn Projects webpage screenshot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21bro.jpg?itok=VDyJaDCX" title="For the sake of posterity, a Brooklyn Projects webpage screenshot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A Brooklyn Projects webpage screenshot with Tranquility. Image courtesy creativeras.com</figcaption></figure>But as is the case so often, the dormant site had passed hands quietly with revised plans put before Yarra City Council. Studio Antonio Calabro (SACBW) have assumed design duties on behalf of new owner Blue Earth Group and have proceeded with a revised design of 72 apartments over six levels.

Overlooking Merri Creek Reserve, the project looks to make use of existing building footings prepared for Tranquility. With one bedroom apartments beginning from 52sqm, the one and two bedroom complex will be known as Northwood.

In a quirk of sorts the site has gone from one developer - who clearly struggled to advance the build - to another who appears to have little trouble pushing out masses of apartments with minimal fuss. A case in point sees commencement of construction this month on Blue Earth Group's <a href="/news/back-from-the-dead">A Apartments</a> project in East Brunswick without the project ever hitting the mainstream apartment sales channels; they have clearly mastered a winning formula.

<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/image23sac.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="392 St Georges Road reborn. Images courtesy Blue Wealth Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="150" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image23sac.jpg?itok=kt6YnzQ7" title="392 St Georges Road reborn. Images courtesy Blue Wealth Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>392 St Georges Road reborn. Images courtesy Blue Wealth Property</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

Less empty sites doubling as blights on the urban landscape is a more than acceptable outcome, though this question must be asked: who is responsible for allowing a car park access ramp through the retained heritage facade?

A trivial issue in the grand scheme of things, but it does seem to defeat the purpose of retaining the facade to begin with. Certainly not the end of days, but it did bring forth an incredulous smile upon first viewing.
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Back from the dead

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Frankston City Council have taken a proactive step in enabling further investment to flow into the municipality by implementing further changes to their planning framework, designed to expedite planning applications and enhance investment potential in the area.

<blockquote>
Frankston City Council has developed an innovative program, called Priority Planning, to facilitate significant commercial precinct development within the Frankston city centre, and potentially other parts of the municipality, which demonstrate significant economic benefit.

The process seeks to ‘cut red tape’ by ensuring more efficient planning decisions are made on applications that drive employment and/or activate the Frankston city centre, while encouraging high quality developments.
<cite><a href="http://www.investfrankston.com.au/planning" target="_blank">Invest Frankston: Priority Planning</a></cite>
</blockquote>

Priority Planning revolves around pre-application meetings between Council and the applicant in order to communicate issues and mitigate points of difference, thus avoiding these once the application is submitted. Over a five year period average planning process days for delegated planning decisions have tumbled from near on 105 days to just 45 days.

<blockquote>
There are two streams in the streamlined application process. Stream 1 deals with moderate sized applications that can be delegated to Council officers. Stream 2 deals with major applications with a development cost of over $ 5 million and/or three or more levels, which must be considered by Councillors.
<cite><a href="http://www.investfrankston.com.au/planning" target="_blank">Invest Frankston: Priority Planning</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/20934Nepean03_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="446-450 Nepean Highway. Image © Doig Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20934Nepean03_0.jpg?itok=32lMjGUL" title="446-450 Nepean Highway. Image © Doig Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>446-450 Nepean Highway. Image © Doig Architects</figcaption></figure>Ultimately the revised process equates to major projects being resolved within a nominated 60 day period. An example of a Stream 2 project is the above 11-level office tower at which was <a href="/news/planning-application-446-450-nepean-highway-frankston" target="_blank">highlighted by Urban.com.au</a> earlier in the year. 446-450 Nepean Highway has since been approved and stands as an example of Frankston City Council's willingness to generate investment into the city via higher density developments.

<blockquote>
The delivery of prompt processes to prospective developers will send a strong message that Frankston is open for business. We are a city undergoing transformation and we have to capitalise on the interest in our city right now and Priority Planning is already reaping excellent results.
<cite><a href="http://www.frankston.vic.gov.au/Your_Council/Media_and_Publications/Latest_News/Frankston_Council_fast_tracking_city_centre_development" target="_blank">Darrel Taylor, Frankston City Mayor</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

Hats off to Frankston City Council for beating their drum in terms of encouraging investment, although one adage comes to mind: you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink.

While the new $80 million South East Water HQ may act as a generator for investment, some of the good work seems to have been undone by the apparent failure of <a href="/buildings/allure-bayside-12-davey-street-frankston">Airio Apartments</a>. With online sales no longer visible and the project website banished, it seems demand is not quite there for a 14 level apartment tower in Frankston.

Regardless, see the good work of Frankston City Council via <a href="http://www.investfrankston.com.au/home" target="_blank">Invest Frankston</a>.
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Frankston City Council introduces Priority Planning

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Submitted earlier this year to the state planning body DTPLI, only recently have Maribyrnong City Council published the respective reports for 26-34 Buckley Street and 4 Neilson Place online.

Bought to our attention via the Apartments.com.au forum, both projects have seen Maribyrnong City Council provide feedback, although no final decision has been handed down by the State Planning Minister on either.

<h2>26-34 Buckley Street, Footscray</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/image135.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 26-34 Buckley Street, Footscray. Image © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image135.jpg?itok=ZsWPRG1O" title="Artist's impression of 26-34 Buckley Street, Footscray. Image © Rothe Lowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 26-34 Buckley Street, Footscray. Image © Rothe Lowman</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site owner: Dobinson Nominees</li>
	<li>Architect: Rothe Lowman</li>
	<li>16 storey residential building at 50 metres</li>
	<li>182 dwellings with 96 x one-bedroom, and 81 x two-bedroom dwellings plus 5 x townhouses</li>
	<li>Below/above ground car park: 122 spaces &amp; 125 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Ground floor retail at 235.4sqm</li>
</ul>
Maribyrnong City Council have recommended the application be refused by the Minister for Planning on the following basis:

<blockquote>
It is considered that the proposal does not meet the overall intent and objectives of the State and Local Planning Policy Frameworks, including Planning Scheme Amendment C125. It is therefore considered that the application should not be supported and a letter of objection be forwarded to the Minister for Planning
<cite>City Development Special Report Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>4 Neilson Place, Footscray</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/image134.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 4 Neilson Place. Image © SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image134.jpg?itok=AAImENqH" title="Artist's impression of 4 Neilson Place. Image © SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 4 Neilson Place. Image © SJB</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site owner: Adelaide Banner Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: SJB</li>
	<li>15 storey mixed use building at 48.6 metres</li>
	<li>135 dwellings with 55 x one-bedroom, and 80 x two-bedroom dwellings</li>
	<li>Above ground car park: 112 spaces &amp; 96 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Two commercial tenancies at 97sqm food/cafe &amp; 95sqm retail</li>
	<li>Level 5 communal area</li>
</ul>
Maribyrnong City Council have recommended the application be approved by the Minister for Planning on the following basis:

<blockquote>
The proposal, while three storeys in excess of the preferred height is considered to present an acceptable built form and design response for the site given its context adjacent to the railway line. The generous setbacks from the side and rear boundaries enables sufficient light and air into dwellings and enables adjoining properties to be equitably developed without impacting on the buildings own amenity.
<cite>City Development Special Report Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Join the Conga line?</h2>

These two applications have the potential to join the ballooning number of apartment tower proposals in Footscray. Of the developments shown below, only two (top right) are concept images indicative of what is likely to be built, while the remainder represent a fraction of the brigade of developments which have been approved.

Footscray's proximity to the CBD and abundant land zoned for redevelopment such as the Joseph Street precinct should ensure that at some point in the near future the ever increasing queue of apartment development will come to fruition. The area has seen stuttered redevelopment of late, but when will the development dam gates really open - that is the question.

<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/image139.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images copyright to respective parties"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="948" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image139.jpg?itok=bpZWLwtz" title="Images copyright to respective parties" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images copyright to respective parties</figcaption></figure>
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New applications join the queue in Footscray

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Rarely - very rarely - will a planning application come along that resonates on so many levels; a planning application that delivers an amazing design and a few uncomfortable truths simultaneously.

Consider the following planning application excerpts:

<blockquote>
More recent additions reflect the de-skilling of the building industry and the increasing unaffordability of quality construction. These newer buildings are unlikely to age as well as those built prior to 1970, and will possibly be replaced as building fabrics become increasingly disposable. Alternatively the building fabric in this section of Nicholson Street will remain poor.

The need to improve the quality of higher density development in inner suburbs of Melbourne is well known and the city of Moreland has recognised and formalised this in its Higher Design Code and Structure Plans. We seek to work in chorus with these aims.
</blockquote>

These are the words, and truths delivered by project architect and multi-disciplinary design firm <a href="/architects/hachem" target="_blank">Hachem</a>. I like their candour. In fact I admire them for it.

<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_8407.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Noy every persons cup of tea - Gateway on Nicholson"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_8407.jpg?itok=2aoof2qR" style="height:435px; width:580px" title="Not every persons cup of tea - Gateway on Nicholson"></a>

Ever so briefly Hachem have been engaged by a private developer to conceive a high quality apartment development consisting of 17 dwellings, restaurant and retail outlet. Located at 38 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy North the design is of such a quality that I'd expect it wouldn't look out of place in St Kilda or South Yarra - high wealth areas with an almost expected lofty design standard to match.

While deriding developments such as Gateway on Nicholson (seen above) within the planning report, Hachem have designed 38 Nicholson Street as beacon of exemplary design in an area bereft of contemporary quality. With an unique, active, articulated and undulating facade the design is a step - no make that giant leap - above what the area currently has to offer.

Defined by an external polycarbonate cellular wall wrap, and ably accompanied by brickwork, glazing and a lush forecourt I can't help but love the design. But what I love even more is that Hachem have raised the bar for apartment developments within the vicinity.

We all know that developers are experts in extolling the virtues of their projects, yet 38 Nicholson Street is so far beyond the design norm it may just drag future surrounding apartment developments up a cog or two in terms of design for fear or being made to look comprehensively mediocre.

<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/Image108.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective. Image © Hacham"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image108.jpg?itok=3SP1_gtQ" style="height:614px; width:580px" title="Hero perspective. Image © Hacham"></a>

Now I realise there's a wide spectrum of views out there regarding higher density living in <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>; no doubt some people would turn their nose at the prospect of a five level apartment complex in this location. If (and I mean when) higher density living is to infiltrate certain areas of Melbourne, is it fanciful to expect the quality of the built form to be beyond reproach?

Hachem via 38 Nicholson Street have demonstrated a no compromise attitude toward design, thus creating a cracking apartment project that just works on every level. Put simply this is the gold standard for low-rise, inner suburban apartment design that will put many others to shame... more please!

The planning application can be viewed on <a href="https://eservices.moreland.vic.gov.au/ePathway/Production/Web/GeneralEnquiry/EnquiryDetailView.aspx?Id=510989" target="_blank">Moreland City Council's website</a>.

Unfortunately, like many online planning systems in Victoria, it's not easy to directly link to the planning application on Moreland's site - the first draft of this article had a direct link however upon testing returns an error. To view the application, go to the <a href="https://eservices.moreland.vic.gov.au/ePathway/Production/Web/GeneralEnquiry/EnquiryLists.aspx?ModuleCode=LAP" target="_blank">main search page</a>, then select "Planning permit applications advertised" under Enquiry Type and click next, go to the second page (as at time of publishing) and then click on the hyperlink for application number MPS/2013/949.
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Isn't it funny when things just work

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Urban.com.au's chat with Neometro Director James Tutton continues, following the <a href="/news/james-tutton-on-all-things-urban" target="_blank">first part</a> published earlier this week.

Neometro was the first property developer in Australia to gain <a href="http://www.bcorporation.net/" target="_blank">B Corporation</a> status - what are you doing above and beyond the norm?

To become a B Corporation member we really didn't have to change much in terms of what we were doing, although we did need to document a lot of what we were doing by way of community engagement, ESD, governance, equity participation from members, directors and so forth. A great example would be what we call in Australia the HR section of the questionnaires; if a staff member leaves your organisation under good terms - do you welcome them back should they want to return?

We had to document our policy where if a staff member expresses an interest in coming back, even if we don't have a job for them, we kind of just find one for them.

Can the process of gaining B Corporation status be daunting?

The experience can be daunting, there's no two ways about it. I think its quite sensible that the process is broken into two stages.

Initially you jump online, register, complete the questionnaires and I think we came up with roughly 70% - we're now on 86%. Post assessment, B Lab contact the prospective member and identify areas that need to change in your business in order to get certification. Thereafter what is effectively a random audit is conducted prior to certification.

Why is B Corporation status important in Australia?

I've worked quite a lot in the not-for-profit sector and I've seen the lack of entrepreneurialism in the sector. For profit used in the right way can be a massive force for good, ultimately though for-profit tends to attract the hungrier people, smarter people. Leveraging capitalism for positive social, community and environmental outcomes is not necessarily the norm in Australia.

The challenge is there hasn't been a language and metric around that and that's definitely emerging in America and continental Europe more than Australia. Currently there's a real tribe of like-minded entrepreneurs in Australia that aren't satisfied with merely working to climb the corporate ladder - <a href="http://www.bcorporation.net/" target="_blank">B Corporation</a> can give recognition to those people willing to make a difference.

Moving to your current project, 9 Smith Street. You've gone to effort to establish pop-up venues within the existing structure prior to construction. What purpose does this serve when the existing building is to be demolished?

We have <a href="https://www.facebook.com/3000acres" target="_blank">3000 acres</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/slopesprojects" target="_blank">Slopes Gallery</a> and <a href="http://www.broadsheet.com.au/melbourne/food-and-drink/article/place-holder-pops-fitzroy" target="_blank">Place Holder</a> which I feel can create or enhance the sense of community. Our display suite sits in behind Place Holder; personally I take the view that by offering people a well designed, beautiful space to engage and meet, it's a highly desirable outcome, even if they are temporary.

<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/9SMITH_IMAGES_FINAL_1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Neometro"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/9SMITH_IMAGES_FINAL_1_0.jpg?itok=u2IMyYHC" style="height:336px; width:580px" title="Image © Neometro"></a>

<figcaption>Image © Neometro</figcaption></figure>When will construction commence at 9 Smith Street?

We've committed to a twelve month period for the pop-up businesses, so early 2015 is anticipated start.

Will Neometro be in charge of the choice of commercial tenants for 9 Smith Street?

Absolutely, often you could look at some of our leasing decisions and say that's uncommericial. From our perspective if we develop a building and place a KFC down stairs, not only does that not sit well with us in terms of our social views, but when prospective buyers go reference our past projects and see that... it's a terrible impression.

The natural extension then becomes does Neometro have an ideal tenant in mind for 9 Smith Street?

Including retail is a bit of a no brainer, but I feel there's a real risk when you get dominated by hospitality. This precinct hasn't really attracted corporate retailers and I suspect that will be the case for quite some time; if that were change anywhere it might be along Gerturde Street but I think that's unlikely to be honest.

Independent retailers are our target and we're speaking to overseas brands who don't currently have a presence in the Melbourne market. Possibly a publishing or cycling apparel outlet, mind you we're looking to bring a number of brands to this site. In general I think this end of Smith Street is just amazing..it's really interesting. To see brands like Aesop next door, David Bromley doing his thing across the road, Double Monk, its a really positive thing and we're not looking to disturb the vibe of the area by introducing inappropriate retailers.

Clearly Neometro prides itself/beats the drum on the high quality living spaces you deliver?

I personally take the view if you deliver a well designed, beautiful space for people to live in, it has an impact upon their wellbeing and happiness - it's a critical factor which is quite often is overlooked. In saying that I'm not being defensive of the fact that we're selling apartments here between $495,000- $800,000, that is what it is. But I would argue that we're selling homes that people will be happy in as opposed to selling glossy pictures of what apartments might look like and then finding out a large margin exists between render and reality.

Without sounding in any way presumptuous on behalf of Neometro, I think we can play a small role in leading the sector toward a more socially driven outlook, and I think that's something that is possible. It's a sector that has a long way to go.

<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/Image8_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="9 Smith Street, internally and externally. Images © Neometro"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image8_17.jpg?itok=wptQDhiA" style="height:211px; width:580px" title="9 Smith Street, internally and externally. Images © Neometro"></a>

<figcaption>9 Smith Street, internally and externally. Images © Neometro</figcaption></figure>Any plans to upscale to high-rise projects?

I think we would be reluctant to deliver a project over 80 apartments; we want to grow as a business doing more of the same as opposed to doing huge projects. A critical factor is depth of market as we find that with a quality of product, it's difficult to sell 200 units in an efficient timeframe whereas selling 50 units is doable, plus we have a focus on the owner occupier market with our projects which demands more intimate developments.

So brand recognition and hitting the target market are critical to Neometro?

Many developers sell through financial planning channels, we don't at all so sales are largely to owner-occupiers and sold by Neometro, not by some accountant in Wollongong. It's been very interesting in terms of Neometro being able to effectively articulate who we are and what we do to our market.

Neometro is in business to make a commercial return but we're also in business to make homes which we're immensely proud of. From a design perspective and in terms of build quality and amenity, I think we've articulated what we do a bit better in this project than what we have in others.

We're proud of what we do, if you look at our credentials it paints a history of the projects we've completed and it also talks about what we've done from a social and community perspective.

What's next for Neometro?

We're about to start construction on George Corner, it's a great project. We're also halfway through Walsh Street, South Yarra and are about to start construction on a project in Toorak.

Right now we're also looking at three other development sites, one south of the river and two north which in a broad sense are not dissimilar to what we've done here at 9 Smith Street. One in particular has a very substantial community interface to it for a variety of reasons - it will be one interesting project!
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James Tutton on all things Urban (continued)

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The eastern flank of Haymarket roundabout is set to bulk up further, with a planning application lodged with Melbourne City Council during April for 221 Pelham Street, Carlton.

Put forward by developer-builder Vaughans Constructions, below is an image of the proposed development which was sourced via the Vaughans website. If approved, 221 Pelham Street will join a growing number of mixed-use towers surrounding Haymarket roundabout, inline with City of Melbourne's <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/BuildingandPlanning/FutureGrowth/StructurePlans/CityNorth/Documents/City_North_Structure_Plan_2012.pdf" target="_blank">City North structure Plan</a> which seeks to densify the area.

<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/Pelham_1_650x469.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title=" Image © Vaughan constructions"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Pelham_1_650x469.jpg?itok=TS0Y-fJ9" style="height:418px; width:580px" title=" Image © Vaughan constructions"></a>

<h2>Project Summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>205-223 Pelham Street @ 708 sq.m, currently a Reece Plumbing outlet</li>
	<li>Proposed is a 15 level, 50.2 metre residential tower</li>
	<li>Ground floor incorporates 25 bicycle bays, 37 car parking spaces plus a 75 sq.m retail outlet</li>
	<li>82 apartments with 8 x 1BR + 74 x 2BR generally within the 50-70 sq.m bracket</li>
	<li>Podium to boundary with a street wall of 24m, upper levels recessed</li>
	<li>Urban Garden atop the podium included within the proposed development</li>
</ul>
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image68.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Southern wall activation. Image © Jonh Davey Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image68.jpg?itok=ON197SeE" style="height:408px; width:580px" title="Southern wall activation. Image © Jonh Davey Architects"></a>

John Davey Architects design statement:

<blockquote>
Pelham Apartments aims to create a building that, through the use of definable sculptural elements, engages with its surroundings and occupants alike. A repetitive 'zig-zag' sculptural pattern creates a rhythm that envelopes the building along its four facades, transforms in material in response to height &amp; translates internally through fenestration &amp; form. The overall mass of the proposal ties in with the higher built forms fronting University Square, and the uniquely shaped site affords the opportunity for flexible internal layouts with uncompromised access to views &amp; natural light.
</blockquote>

Having said that the planning report also states not all bedrooms are provided with direct source of natural light. To counter this the architect has devised a flexible floor plan layout (via partitions) where second bedrooms can be adapted to other uses; living room, a study etc.

<blockquote>
These 'flexi' apartments can be modified for different functions via full height, extra wide sliding timber panels and flexible joinery, in a similar manner to the development at 103 Pelham Street for the 'Bravo' apartments. While there are a number of bedrooms which rely on borrowed light, they have been appropriately positioned to ensure that they are able to receive adequate daylight from the main living areas.
</blockquote>

Externally the tower is dominated by precast concrete panels carrying a feature pattern. Silver and grey perforated metal screens act as balustrades over lower levels while glass, aluminium window frames and aluminium cladding dominate elsewhere. The southern blank wall has been earmarked for an urban art piece, but will be subject to further design works separate to this application.

<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/Image64_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" style="font-size: 12px;" title="Envisaged ground level. Image © Jonh Davey Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image64_0.jpg?itok=5Gsfiy0W" style="height:286px; width:580px" title="Envisaged ground level. Image © Jonh Davey Architects"></a>

Owing to its current use, the existing warehouse makes little effort to engage with its surrounds and is subject to a Building Order issued by City of Melbourne which requires remediation works. With demolition the likely outcome, Pelham Apartments would enliven the streetscape by way of a glass fronted corner retail outlet, whilst the opposite corner would contain the tower entrance/lobby which promotes foot traffic to all three street frontages.

221 Pelham Street represents Vaughans Constructions latest foray into the buoyant Melbourne apartment market. The predominantly industrial builder turned apartment developer is set to finish vanguard development <a href="/buildings/bravo-103-pelham-street-carlton" target="_blank">Bravo Apartments</a> located at 103 Pelham Street shortly. Joining 221 Pelham Street in waiting will be <a href="http://www.vaughans.com.au/_uploads/Photo_Gallery/Residential_Gallery/650x469/Argyle_1_650x469.jpg" target="_blank">Argyle Apartments</a> which fronts Cardigan Street, marking Carlton as a honey pot of sorts for the developer.

<h2>Project team</h2>

<dl>
<dt>Developer</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://www.vaughans.com.au/default.aspx" target="_blank">Vaughans Constructions</a></dd>
	<dt>Architect</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://www.johndaveyarchitects.com.au/" target="_blank">John Davey Architects</a></dd>
	<dt>Town Planning</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://fulcrumup.com/" target="_blank">Fulcrum Urban Planning</a></dd>
	<dt>Traffic &amp; Transport</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://www.cardno.com/en-us/Pages/Home.aspx" target="_blank">Cardno Victoria Pty Ltd</a></dd>
	<dt>Waste Management Plan</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://www.leighdesign.com.au/" target="_blank">Leigh Design</a></dd>
	<dt>Accessibility &amp; DDA Report</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://www.onegroupid.com.au/" target="_blank">One Group</a></dd>
	<dt>Sustainability Management Plan</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://sdconsultants.com.au/" target="_blank">Sustainable Development Consultants</a></dd>
</dl>
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Planning Application > 221 Pelham Street, Carlton

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They're unlikely to demand the media hype of their taller inner-city siblings, but the wave of smaller suburban apartment developments continues unabated.
Spread far and wide, a raft of new small and medium-sized apartment developments have just entered the registration and sales period. Below is a sample of the dozens of residential projects that have hit the market, representing a fraction of the upcoming projects that will be entered into the Apartments.com.au project database shortly.
<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/Image56.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © thegeneralnorthcote.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image56.jpg?itok=oGl40tcN" title="Image © thegeneralnorthcote.com.au" width="580"></a> <figcaption><a href="http://www.thegeneralnorthcote.com.au/" target="_blank">The General</a> - Cnr High and Bent Street, Northcote</figcaption></figure><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/Image54.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © butleronbutler.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image54.jpg?itok=5d3VvOA-" title="Image © butleronbutler.com" width="580"></a> <figcaption><a href="http://www.butleronbutler.com/" target="_blank">Butler on Butler</a> - 2 Butler Street, Camberwell</figcaption></figure><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/01-interior.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © holmeshill.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/01-interior.jpg?itok=hDwLQnFs" title="Images © holmeshill.com.au" width="580"></a> <figcaption><a href="http://holmeshill.com.au/home" target="_blank">Holmes Hill Apartments</a> - 70 Batesford Road, Chadstone</figcaption></figure><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/exterior1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © thegilbert.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="362" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/exterior1.jpg?itok=E8BtmQK6" title="Image © thegilbert.com.au" width="580"></a> <figcaption><a href="http://www.thegilbert.com.au/" target="_blank">The Gilbert</a> - 14 Gilbert Road, Preston</figcaption></figure><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/ettaro-external-render-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © ettaro.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ettaro-external-render-1.jpg?itok=DNuX1cZH" title="Image © ettaro.com.au" width="580"></a> <figcaption>Ettaro - 21 Brunswick Road, Brunswick East</figcaption></figure><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/8_09-05-2014_5284.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © citiplan.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="304" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/8_09-05-2014_5284.jpg?itok=w-9ZQuvL" title="Image © citiplan.com.au" width="580"></a> <figcaption><a href="http://www.elsternwickplace.com.au/" target="_blank">Elsternwick Place</a> - Riddell Parade &amp; Stanley Street, Elsternwick</figcaption></figure><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/facade.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © districtfitzroy.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/facade.jpg?itok=S667g-PK" title="Image © districtfitzroy.com.au" width="580"></a> <figcaption><a href="http://districtfitzroy.com.au/" target="_blank">District Fitzroy</a> - 160 Argyle Street, Fitzroy</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image1_mainslider.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © blackburnvillage.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_mainslider.jpg?itok=MlgaBvEo" title="Image © blackburnvillage.com.au" width="580"></a> <figcaption><a href="http://www.blackburnvillage.com.au/" target="_blank">Blackburn Village</a> - 20 Queen Street, Blackburn</figcaption></figure><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/Image61.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Enrich Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="285" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image61.jpg?itok=p9VY9lFG" title="Image courtesy Enrich Property" width="580"></a> <figcaption><a href="http://www.thriveparkside.com.au/" target="_blank">Thrive Parkside</a> - Galada Avenue &amp; Cade Way, Parkville</figcaption></figure><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/Image62_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © rimaapartments.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="246" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image62_0.jpg?itok=TNlAYRAg" title="Image © rimaapartments.com.au" width="580"></a> <figcaption><a href="http://rimaapartments.com.au/" target="_blank">Rima Apartments</a> - 22 Lygon street, East Brunswick</figcaption></figure>
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Charge of the light brigade

Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

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Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

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A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

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Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils signature penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

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Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

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All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

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A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

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Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<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."

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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.

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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.

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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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Mark Baljak

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