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Lost yesterday in the mainstream media's penchant for selecting controversial headlines was a document released by the Property Council of Australia (PCA). While radio and online outlets ran with the well worn 'Richmond station to become high-rise enclave' line, 19 other pivotal sites within the document failed to generate comment.
The preamble, and basis for the report reads as follows:
<blockquote>
	At a time when public finances are already under pressure, the best kinds of projects are those that come at little or no cost to government. What better option than to unlock underutilised publicly owned land that is ripe for private sector investment.
	This report lists Victoria's top 20 publicly-owned property assets that the government can immediately bring to market. By opening these prime sites to investment, the government can stimulate economic activity and enable the private sector to do what it does best: invest, employ and grow the economy.
</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/Image13_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Project distribition through greater Melbourne. Image © PCA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="679" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_13.jpg?itok=CjuKOnYd" title="Project distribition through greater Melbourne. Image © PCA" width="580"></a>
On the basis of the above assertion PCA's Victorian division have selected 20 development sites with a nominal combined end value in the vicinity of $6.5 billion. While Richmond Station's expected development value is between $250-500 million, the remaining $6 billion worth of development usurps it comfortably.
The reports methodology was devised by <a href="http://www.macroplan.com.au/">MacroPlan Dimasi</a>, with four key criteria selected in order to best reach "A balanced outcome for both government and the private sector." Size, timing, partnership and use mix were the decisive criteria which ultimately allow the grading of projects via a matrix that favoured larger, mixed-use projects delivered within a swift time frame via the private sector.
Of particular interest are the six transport projects which essentially refer to intensive redevelopment of rail stations and/or adjacent land tracts. Known intended developments such as Richmond Station have been joined by newer inclusions such as Essendon and Tooronga Stations. The thrust to develop land around rail stations continues in earnest - just don't mention Camberwell Station.
<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/Image41_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The fast track to success. Image © PCA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="581" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image41_2.jpg?itok=k8HfU2JH" title="The fast track to success. Image © PCA" width="580"></a>
By and large the report covers many mooted public land developments that have been talked about in one form or another in recent years. Naturally there is a self-serving element within the report, although 20 Projects does manage to bundle these sites together serves to sharpen focus.
The worthwhile read can be viewed in full via the <a href="http://www.propertyoz.com.au/library/20%20Projects%20Victorias%20Best%20Investment%20Sites%20Report.pdf">Property Council of Australia's website</a>.
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silvermb

20 Projects - Victoria's best investment sites

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Like them? Loathe them? The taxi has been part of the Melbourne streetscape for over a century and have been subject to as many changes as Melbourne itself. Some readers would have only even known a local taxi to be a familiar shade of yellow thanks the 'war' waged by then Premier Jeff Kennett during the mid 1990's.
<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/374881-zisiss-kontsiostis.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Herald Sun"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/374881-zisiss-kontsiostis.jpg?itok=Eu0nFQJB" title="Image courtesy Herald Sun" width="580"></a>
It turns out the humble taxi has a varied and interesting history in Melbourne, well beyond the pale yellow form we now associate them with. With that in mind a new exhibition will commence this Wednesday at Melbourne Town hall visualising the highs and lows of this form of transport that began way back when in 1909.
<blockquote>
	A new exhibition at <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/citygallery">City Gallery</a> will transport audiences on a journey from 1909, when the first motorised taxi was introduced in Melbourne, to the present day.
	Curated by Christine Eid, Hello Yellow explores Melbourne’s taxi story and includes photographs, placards from taxi driver protests, a taximeter, a 3D installation and other artefacts from the City of Melbourne’s Art and Heritage collection.
	Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said taxis are an important part of Melbourne’s story. “Taxis are a vital component of Melbourne’s transport system and hold a special place in our history,” the Lord Mayor said. “The Hello Yellow exhibition chronicles this history and offers a unique insight into the stories behind the wheel.”
	Chair of Arts and Culture Councillor Rohan Leppert said City Gallery is a great space where people can find out the untold stories of Melbourne. “From the story of Melbourne taxis, to Melbourne’s gardens in 1940’s, the history of the city’s signs to the Royal visit – City Gallery gives a fantastic insight into the stories that make Melbourne such an interesting and culturally rich city. I encourage Melburnians and visitors to stop by and take a look,” Cr Leppert said.
	<cite>City of Melbourne media release: <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/AboutCouncil/MediaReleases/Pages/TakearideintothestoryofMelbournestaxis.aspx">Take a ride into the story of Melbourne’s taxis</a></cite>
</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/687736-unicab.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The taxi of tomorrow. Image courtesy The Advertiser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/687736-unicab.jpg?itok=DYJGMp4o" title="The taxi of tomorrow. Image courtesy The Advertiser" width="580"></a>
While the <a href="http://www.rmit.edu.au/browse/Our%20Organisation%2FDesign%20and%20Social%20Context%2FSchools%20and%20groups%2FArchitecture%20and%20Design%2FNews%2FNews%2F;ID=iwaxoglzel0b;STATUS=A" target="_blank">RMIT-led Taxi 2020</a> concept may remain just that for the foreseeable future, all things relating to Melbourne's taxi industry past and present are on display this week at Melbourne Town Hall.
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Melbourne's evolution via the humble taxi

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Community turned advocacy group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FishermansBendUrbanRenewal" target="_blank">Fishermans Bend Network</a> recently released a detailed discussion piece on the progress of Fishermans Bend. Central to the report are four guiding principles devised by the network in order to facilitate a quality outcome for the urban renewal area:

<ol>
<li>Governance structures able to deliver the vision, the expertise and the processes needed to generate a real and robust city</li>
	<li>A funding model and funding mechanisms able to direct government and private funding to securing the early provision of the environmental, transport and community infrastructure needed to generate a well-planned city</li>
	<li>A commitment to recognise best-practise urban design principles for producing a genuinely liveable, sustainable, diverse and vibrant city</li>
	<li>A comprehensive implementation plan that closes the widening gap between the government’s stated visions and their likely delivery on the ground</li>
</ol>
What immediately jumped off the screen is this quote provided by Fishermans Bend Network:

<blockquote>
Reports are circulating that the Minister and /or the MPA is proposing to approve all of the applications on his desk - in total 34 towers, all within the Montague area, which has no infrastructure (currently or budgeted for future development) to support these developments.
<cite><a href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/fbn_email.png" target="_blank">Fishermans Bend Network e-mail, 2014-05-25</a></cite>
</blockquote>

Would this not be akin to the cat jumping out of the bag and opening Pandora's box in order to get to the can of worms? If the above proves to be true the public discussion following will be well worth following. Nonetheless issues have arisen with certain areas of Montague and the inability of developers to gain a return on investment due to prohibitive preliminary height limits, or so it has been reported widely.

A likely outcome would see Lorimer Precinct remain free of height limits, while Mongague Precinct and Sandridge Precinct (to Boundary Street) would have their preliminary structure plans augmented to allow far higher density outcomes. In this the majority of Fishermans Bend would remain low and medium-rise while at the same time appeasing the array of local developers who have to date submitted planning applications.

<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/Image2fbmap.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Fishermans Bend Network"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="307" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2fbmap.jpg?itok=Z4Xv8eUu" title="Image © Fishermans Bend Network" width="580"></a>

The map above (provided by Fishermans Bend Network) highlights approved small scale and high-rise developments principally within the Montague precinct.

In addition, ten residential towers had been submitted for approval within Lorimer Precinct, while an earlier proposal at <a href="/new-apartments/125-133-thistlethwaite-street-south-melbourne" target="_blank">125-133 Thistlethwaite Street</a> had been withdrawn, pending the final structure plan which will be delivered by Planning Minister Matthew Guy shortly.

Read more in Fishermans Bend Network's report: <a href="http://www.capp.org.au/library/FBN_0514_Report.pdf" target="_blank">'A cleverly densified inner city?'</a>. To provide context, the images below were created by Laurence Dragomir - featuring Montague precinct's envisaged skyline - created for Melbourne Knowledge Week 2013.
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All Fishermans Bend proposals headed for mass approval?

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What costs in excess of $20 million to construct and $14 million to maintain over its 15 year life design period? The humble little precast facility photographed below.
Within its walls lies Melbourne Airport's new tri-generation plant, capable of producing eight megawatts or enough power to cover nearly 70% of the airport's requirements. Under the guidance of <a href="http://www.gallagherjeffs.com.au/Projects/Details/PK/118/Project/Melbourne-Airport-Trigeneration-Plant">Gallagher Jeffs</a>, the new facility will run parallel to existing mains power while being able to power the entire Virgin terminal and half of the international terminal in its own right.
<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_5754.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Airport trigeneration plant under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_5754.jpg?itok=4BezGLya" title="Melbourne Airport trigeneration plant under construction" width="580"></a>
Clearly some genuine gains exist in order to expend a vast sum of money on a facility which has a relatively short life span. Aside from grid independence, the tri-generation plant will provide a green energy source which it is estimated will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 920 000 tonnes over its 15 year cycle.
The new plant will aid Australia Pacific Airports Ltd (Tullamarine's operator) aim of having <q cite="http://melbourneairport.com.au/about-melbourne-airport/environment/energy--climate-change.html">15% of operational energy consumption to be generated or purchased through on-site renewables or accredited green power schemes by 2018.</q>
<h2>
	What is tri-generation?</h2>
Electrical technologies firm <a href="http://www.haronrobson.com.au/">Haron Robson</a> provide an excellent description via their website, part of which states:
<blockquote>
	Tri-generation is the production of electricity, heat and cooling in the one process. Typically this means a gas fired generator producing electricity and heat with the exhaust heat going to an absorption chiller which produces chilled water and hot water for air conditioning or alternatively the heat is used to heat a swimming pool. The ratio of electricity produced and exhaust heat for the absorption chiller and then the ratio of cooling to heating can be varied to meet the specific site requirements.
	<cite><a href="http://www.haronrobson.com.au/product-and-technology-reviews/what-is-tri-generation">Haron Robson: What is Tri-generation?</a></cite>
</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/whatstrigeneration.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Haron Robson"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="154" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/whatstrigeneration.jpg?itok=fme_R2xp" title="Image © Haron Robson" width="580"></a>
Principal benefits of the facility driven by four TCG 2020 natural gas-powered engines include savings on energy costs, lower greenhouse emissions and grid independence which is critical given the airport has been susceptible to power outages in the past.
<h2>
	15 years too far?</h2>
Designed to power (in part) T2 International, one wonders if the tri-generation plant will provide enough output to cater for demand over its lifecycle? Multiple whispers abound that T2 International is in store for wholesale changes - something far more substantial than a simple refurbishment and extension. Time will tell whether the rumours are proven to be true, but for the time being November will usher in a new model of energy production at Melbourne Airport.
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Talkin' bout my (tri)generation

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What better place to start than with a glimpse of Elenberg Fraser's most recent planning application at 248-280 Sturt Street, Southbank as seen above. Designed for property stalwart Hudson Conway, <q>The building form consists of two dominant floor plates that are connected by a transitional twist in the building.</q>
With its incredible form and monochromatic adaptive lighting, the 120 metre residential tower is more at home in a sci fi landscape rather than Southbank. Silver reflective glazing and polished stainless steel define its exterior - the tower smacks of cutting edge quality!
<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/Image2spy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Cottee Parker"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2spy.jpg?itok=svYPJyS_" title="Image © Cottee Parker" width="580"></a>
Above is the first public viewing of Cottee Parker's newest Melbourne tower, 605-613 Lonsdale Street. Adjacent to Upper West Side, this is Cottee Parker's fifth tower for the block with four more in planning directly opposite at 250 Spencer Street - all for Far East Consortium.
The 160 metre tower holds 399 apartments and carries some interesting design features such as exposed 'ribs' similar to those of Tower 5 in Docklands.
<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/Image3spy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © dKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3spy.jpg?itok=4Ky0CP_6" title="Image © dKO Architecture" width="580"></a>
dKO Architecture also feature with their redefined scheme at 6-22 Pearl River Road, Docklands. Under the auspices of Singaporean developer Hiap Hoe, dKO have produced <q>A well designed mixed use village that is lively and interesting, has a coherent urban character and provides a signature building for the NewQuay Central Precinct.</q>
Gone is the precast northern tower, in its place a sleek 56 metre hotel tower. Carrying shades of Crown Metropol through the design, the reincarnation is of a high quality and inline with the slightly altered adjoining residential tower.
<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/Image1spy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="324" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1spy.jpg?itok=fBp4efg9" title="Image © Hayball" width="580"></a>
Last but not least is Hayball's Fishermans Bend quad tower proposal on behalf of Goodman Group. 850 Lorimer Street will feature four residential towers containing 1354 apartments, with two towers expected to peak at 145 metres.
Wedged between Mirvac's Yarra's Edge and the proposed <a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">351 Ingles Street</a> development, the scheme represents a departure from the humble precast concrete panel which visually define so many Hayball projects.
Watch for detailed articles outlining each of the planning applications in the weeks to come.
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I Spy... new planning applications

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It's not a common occurrence; the restoration of one of Melbourne CBD's fleet of early, red brick warehouse and/or office buildings coupled with the addition of a handful of levels.
A number of classic red brick edifices in recent years have been lavished with a particularly golden touch. <a href="http://www.kubic.com.au/lonsdale" target="_blank">105 Lonsdale Street</a> was transformed at the hands of Kubic Construction and is now crowned with a golden mesh clad covering the additional floors which resemble old lanterns, a nod to the building's proximity to China Town.
Elsewhere VCAT have recently approved a golden kinetic facade extension to the 1902 <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.facebook.com/MelbourneHeritageAction/posts/682514651795099" target="_blank">Metcalfe and Barnard</a> warehouse fronting Russell Street (seen below right).
<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/Image3redbrick.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="105 Lonsdale &amp; 24 Russell. Images courtesy Kubic &amp; Melbourne Heritage Action"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="358" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3redbrick.jpg?itok=0a7w611D" title="105 Lonsdale &amp; 24 Russell. Images courtesy Kubic &amp; Melbourne Heritage Action" width="580"></a>
The focus of today's article however is 167 Flinders Lane which was redeveloped late last year. Designed by Elenberg Fraser, the existing structure received three additional levels consisting of commercial space and penthouse.
Head contractor Maben describes the project as follows:
<blockquote>
	A heritage listed building in the former ‘rag-trade’ district of Flinders Lane was gentrified and enlarged with a luxury penthouse and office addition on its roof.
	This very complex project required the erection of a tower crane for the removal of the roof, demolition of the upper floors and insertion of two concrete lift shafts. A new 3 level, clear span, steel and concrete structure was added, including a new luxury penthouse apartment, two level office fitout and extensive base building refurbishment. The works were completed in an operational environment whilst maintain public access to the existing retail and office tenants located on the lower floors.
	The site location, in the centre of the CBD, meant complex materials loading and traffic management techniques were adopted on this extremely tight site. Public protection was paramount and water proofing, dust protection and noise reduction was essential in maintaining the amenity of the retail and commercial offices on the lower floors.
	<cite><a href="http://maben.com.au/projects/167-flinders-lane-melbourne/">Maben: Flinders Lane</a></cite>
</blockquote>
Enjoy the images taken from the Maben website, depicting the high quality expansion of 167 Flinders Lane.
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Inside a red brick reinvention

Running parallel to Moonee Ponds&#39; primary hub Puckle Street, Hall Street is in the process of transforming from a secondary retail strip into an apartment stronghold. Most notable is Leighton Properties pending redevelopment of the long derelict Readings site, yet Moonee Ponds-based developer <a href="http://www.themoloneygroup.com/" target="_blank">The Moloney Group</a> is quietly going about realising a string of apartment towers on and abutting Hall Street.

Referred to as Central 35 within planning documents, an application for the second of four residential towers envisaged by The Moloney Group is currently with the City of Moonee Valley.

<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_6328.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The intended 35 Hall Street. Image © John Davey Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="856" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_6328.jpg?itok=zcCF1lrV" title="The intended 35 Hall Street. Image © John Davey Architects" width="580" /></a>

<h2>Central 35 Apartments @ 33-35 Hall Street, Moonee Ponds</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Developer: <a href="http://www.themoloneygroup.com/" target="_blank">The Moloney Group</a></li>
	<li>14 levels, 45.55 metres, 423 sq.m site</li>
	<li>69 apartments, 55 car spaces (stacker), 26 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Cafe and two retail spaces totalling 305 sq.m</li>
	<li>Architect and analysis: <a href="http://www.johndaveyarchitects.com.au/" target="_blank">John Davey Architects</a></li>
	<li>Sustainability: <a href="http://www.ark-resources.com.au/" target="_blank">ARK Resources</a></li>
	<li>Waste Management: Naimad Consulting</li>
	<li>Traffic &amp; car parking: <a href="http://www.ttmgroup.com.au/" target="_blank">TTM Consulting</a></li>
</ul>

Following in the footsteps of The Moloney Group&#39;s recently completed <a href="/news/one9-hall-street-moonee-ponds-34-apartments-5-days" target="_blank">One9 Hall Street</a>, reference has been made in this planning submission toward the intended use of modular construction methodology. Unitised Building has been referenced, inferring that Hickory Group&#39;s <a href="http://www.hickory.com.au/prefab/" target="_blank">UB System</a> is once more favoured to deliver a modulated building rather than a traditional reinforced concrete structure.

The UB System is evident below in the westerly elevation, which sees stacked modules to the right of an exposed lift well. Also visible is the intended artwall addressing the lift well.

Central 35 intended external finishes include white aluminium cladding, copper and charcoal metal cladding, glass balustrades and bluestone finishes to the podium. While John Davey Architects have designed a highly articulated and interesting exterior facade, it would seem for the time being that the UB System is hamstrung in that metal/composite cladding to its modules is necessary, with minimal glass employed.

<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_54.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Western aspect. Image © John Davey Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="518" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_54.jpg?itok=mWN_T8W1" title="Western aspect. Image © John Davey Architects" width="580" /></a>

Internally the project sees a mix of 33 one bedroom apartments, 25 two bedroom and 11 three bedroom options with smallest apartments beginning at 50 sq.m. The two uppermost levels are shrouded in a green growing frame and hold four split-level penthouses of either two bedrooms or two bedrooms plus study.

Shadowing One9 once more, &quot;price sensitive&quot; housing stock is included by way of intended participation within the National Rental Affordability Scheme. If following the lead of One9, Central 35 could expect roughly 25% of apartments to be made available to low income wage earners and a proportion of apartments to be rented at 20% below market rental price. Investors aren&#39;t left behind as they would receive a $5000 &#39;donation&#39; for purchasing NRAS stock as outlined within the planning report.

Apartments aside, level six sees a dedicated communal space with gym, outdoor terrace and barbecue holding views over Hall Street. Ground floor sees three mezzanine retail spaces, one of which is expected to hold a cafe with alfresco dining linking Central 35 to the public realm.

<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/246_22-11-2013_1457.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title=" Image © Hickory Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/246_22-11-2013_1457.jpg?itok=BSHKHaYw" title=" Image © Hickory Group" width="580" /></a>

One9 under construction in November 2013.

City of Moonee Valley have raised concerns with the planning application, centred around car parking dispensation, vehicle access and general traffic flow around the proposed development. No issues were raised regarding height or density, given the project falls within the parameters of the Moonee Ponds Activity Centre.

With that in mind and assuming vehicle and traffic queries are addressed, it is expected that 33-35 Hall Street will be approved in due course.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=107733]

Running parallel to Moonee Ponds' primary hub Puckle Street, Hall Street is in the process of transforming from a secondary retail strip into an apartment stronghold. Most notable is Leighton Properties pending redevelopment of the long derelict Readings site, yet Moonee Ponds-based developer The Moloney Group is quietly going about realising a string of apartment towers on and abutting Hall Street.

Central 35, 33-35 Hall Street, Moonee Ponds

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Intrepid architect and Apartments.com.au peer Michael Smith (The Red and Black Architect) has in recent days posted rolling reports from the 2014 National Architecture Conference in Perth.
Held in the West Australian capital for the first time in over a decade, <q cite="http://wp.architecture.com.au/news-media/2014-national-architecture-conference-in-the-making-creative-team-selected/">The act of making; the dirtiness, directness and honesty of architecture is the inspiration behind the theme for the Australian Institute of Architects’ 2014 National Architecture Conference.</q>
<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_2656.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_2656.jpg?itok=u2Lw9cc9" width="580"></a>
<blockquote>
	High rise, not shiny-smooth, but furry-fuzzy
	<cite>Richard Hassell</cite>
</blockquote>
Keynote speakers such as Richard Hassell, co-founding director of WOHA Singapore plied their trade while industry misconceptions were discussed at length. Issues of meritocracy, women in architecture and the adoption of an equity policy by the Australian Institute of Architects were also covered. Of course, some of Perth's finest new architecture was discussed and subsequently Michael has blogged about it.
Visit <a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.wordpress.com/category/2014-architecture-conference/" target="_blank">The Red and Black Architect's blog</a> for a comprehensive summary of the 2014 National Architecture Conference.
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The 2014 National Architecture Conference

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News is filtering through that CEL Australia's troubled <a href="/new-apartments/150-queen-street-melbourne">Tower Melbourne</a> project at 150 Queen Street may have moved closer to recommencing demolition and eventual construction following a recent Supreme Court sitting.

Displeased with perceived planning process improprieties involving 150 Queen Street (which holds Ministerial approval), owners of the adjoining 140 Queen Street had sought to challenge the Victorian Building Authority and independent statutory body the Building Appeals Board. For a detailed version of the fracas, The Age published <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/melbourne-skyscraper-wrangle-heads-for-the-courts-20140318-35075" target="_blank">this piece</a> recently.

Colonial Range Pty Ltd v Victorian Building Authority &amp; Colonial Range Pty Ltd v Building Appeals Board was slated for judgment on April 4th 2014 at the Supreme Court. It's understood Colonial Range was unsuccessful in its case, therefore removing a major obstacle in Tower Melbourne progressing. Whether this eliminates all legal impositions is unclear.

<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/2qta6au.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Tower Melbourne. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="302" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2qta6au.jpg?itok=JpiLY4Gx" title="Tower Melbourne. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

With increased hopes that Tower Melbourne's state of flux will be broken, it may gain two neighbours within close proximity down the track. Colonial Range's 140 Queen Street development has been dormant for some time although a 27 level mixed-use proposal exists, which project architect <a href="http://www.kerstinthompson.com/" target="_blank">Kerstin Thompson</a> described as follows:

<blockquote>
This development occupies two sites in Melbourne’s CBD – one on Queen Street and the other on McKillop Street. Using air rights it bridges over Penfold Lane to link and consolidate them as a single development up to twenty seven floors. The proposed ambience of the design will build on the urban quality of Melbourne’s renown laneway precincts.

The tower and the podiums accommodate serviced apartments and office suites. The ground floors and level 1 of both podiums accommodate retail. The hotel lobby will occupy the western end of the McKillop Street podium and will open out to the newly created pedestrian lane at the corner of Penfold Lane. In support of the residential and hotel use the development also allows for meeting rooms and a gymnasium. It includes private and common landscape areas such as balconies and generous roof gardens.

The layout and detail of the building envelope provides many opportunities for passive environmental design including a good quality of natural light and ventilation to the residential/office suites. The design assumes operable windows which in combination with the balconies and breezeways will facilitate cross flow ventilation. The various facade treatments include shading, thermal and tinted glazing for improved thermal performance.
<cite>Kerstin Thompson, project architect</cite>
</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/Image2queen.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="140 Queen Street and 405 Bourke. Images © Kerstin Thompson &amp; Brookfield"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="499" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2queen.jpg?itok=-dk4DuN1" title="140 Queen Street and 405 Bourke. Images © Kerstin Thompson &amp; Brookfield" width="580"></a>

Abutting Tower Melbourne to the east is <a href="http://www.405bourkestreet.com.au/" target="_blank">405 Bourke Street</a> which stands at the ready to attract a large commercial tenant. The 160 metre tower has the capacity to supply Melbourne with over 61,000 sq.m of additional premium office space and near 4000 sq.m of additional retail space, adding to the existing Foundry retail centre onsite. Designed by Woods Bagot and developed/built by Brookfield Australia/Brookfield Multiplex, the development would also feature an all new Gills Alley.

There it is, three towers within a stones throw of one another. All or none may be built; that's the nature of the development game.
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Tower Melbourne moves ahead?

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The forthcoming 14th International Architecture Exhibition at Venice Biennale will feature 11 unrealised Australian architecture projects under the banner 'Augmented Australia 1914-2014'. Initiated during 2013, the event will see a host of <q cite="http://greenmagazine.com.au/2014-venice-architecture-biennale/">unbuilt contemporary Australian buildings to accompany ten historical unrealised designs, which will be revealed at the exhibition opening during the Vernissage and the new Australian Pavilion by <a href="/architects/denton-corker-marshall">Denton Corker Marshall</a></q>.

<a href="http://greenmagazine.com.au/2014-venice-architecture-biennale/">Green Magazine</a> also states, <q cite="http://greenmagazine.com.au/2014-venice-architecture-biennale/">Australia’s creative team for the Biennale, felix._Giles_Anderson+Goad, will bring these projects to life through three-dimensional augmented models, images, voiceovers and animations.</q>

While the RMIT's University Sports Centre (Lyons) and the Carlton United Brewery Site (<a href="/architects/arm-architecture">ARM Architecture</a>) also make the final list of unrealised contemporary Melbourne-based projects, possibly the most intriguing is Melbourne architecture firm <a href="http://tessellate.com.au/" target="_blank">Tessellate a+d</a>'s design for a Docklands Hybrid Cathedral.

<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/Hybrid%20Cathedral%20%40%20Docklands.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Insire the Docklands Hybrid Cathedral. Image © Tessellate a+d"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Hybrid%20Cathedral%20%40%20Docklands.jpg?itok=60ZS-wkA" title="Insire the Docklands Hybrid Cathedral. Image © Tessellate a+d" width="580"></a>

The architect on Hybrid Cathedral:

<blockquote>
The Cathedral is a study into how the economics of housing, aged care and a business hotel can fund the creation of a new cathedral for the recently established Melbourne Docklands, while also funding the church’s ongoing social work.

Sited upon a man-made rise re-establishing Batman’s Hill, which was demolished in the 1860s, the cathedral reveals itself externally through the spiritually significant east and west façades while the north and south façades reference the detailing of apartment buildings in the local context.

The design is derived from a set of mathematical equations which within their parameters have the ability to mediate between the sacred geometry of past cathedrals and the diverse and disparate functions that inhabit this new one’s skin.

The cathedral’s structure and geometry can be distilled and communicated by a few lines within an equation. By being of the world of numbers, it can be internationally communicated without prejudice. It can then be easily recreated, altered, added to, subtracted from and influenced by whoever comes in contact with it, therefore breaking down or adding to the ownership and authorship of the design.
<cite><a href="http://tessellate.com.au/2014-venice-architecture-biennale/">Tessellate a+d: 2014 Venice Biennale </a></cite>
</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/Image4hc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hybrid Cathedral. Image © Tessellate a+d"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="254" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4hc.jpg?itok=Y4Q3wRtP" title="Hybrid Cathedral. Image © Tessellate a+d" width="580"></a>

Going by the lead image where 750 Collins Street was at construction, it seems the concept was devised early on in <a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a> existence. What makes the Hybrid Cathedral intriguing is that it represented at the time (and still does) a theme completely foreign to the suburb on the CBD's doorstep. Apartments, parks and offices dominate the Docklands vista, with little by way of a mould-breaking structures that offer a completely different experience.

Drawing a parallel, the Sydney Opera House surely would have been considered quirky, unique and even uncomfortable within its surrounds when completed. I'm not comparing Hybrid Cathedral to the Opera House by way of looks, fame and recognition but by way of providing a unique and recognisable drawcard. Many readers would say the much vaunted yet never delivered landmark structure at Central Pier nearby was the opportunity that slipped by and fair enough.

Ultimately I see Hybrid Cathedral as a design like no other, and therein lies the appeal and want for Docklands to sport a design of its pedigree.
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A cathedral for all time

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.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

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."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

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." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Mark Baljak

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