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Testament to the ever changing nature of Melburnian attitudes and propensity for apartment living is a particular site found in Brunswick West abutting Citylink.  A former industrial site bound by Albion Street, Duggan Street, Eggington Street and the aforementioned Citylink, the massive tract of land has laid dormant for many years, in the process traversing Melbourne's shift toward higher density living.
After a number of medium density proposals failed to materialise, a fraction of the site was finally developed with <a href="http://www.hickory.com.au/projects/olive-york-way/" target="_blank">2-6 Olive York Way</a> completed mid 2012.  Backed by National Sterling and built by Hickory Group, the three building complex yielded 140 apartments and five retail spaces as outlined in charcoal below.
Following a recent planning application submission to Moreland city Council, a new residential development of a comparable land size to 2-6 Olive York Way is seeking approval, albeit at near three times the density.  
<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/Image3_22.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site overview and project breakdown. Image © MAP Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3_22.jpg?itok=R7OsoN2g" title="Site overview and project breakdown. Image © MAP Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
With the land address 1-5 Olive York Way and after extensive pre-application discussions with Moreland City council planners, Equity Properties Pty Ltd have utilised <a href="http://www.maparchitecture.com.au/" target="_blank">MAP Architecture and Design</a> to deliver the three building complex on a land size of 5297m².  Working by the name 'The Complement', the staged development seeks to deliver an impressive 356 apartments. 
Heavy with multi coloured precast elements, glass and louvres, the buildings are substantially larger than that of 2-6 Olive York Way and would easily be visible from drivers utilising Citylink.  The northernmost building would constitute Stage 1,  where 101 apartments are expected with a split of 47 one bedroom and 54 two bedroom apartments.  One bedroom options within Stage 1 start at 44.5m², in isolation quite small yet taking into account the age and nature of many low-rise walk-up apartments buildings within Brunswick West (the majority of which are rentals), these are seemingly within reason.
Overall figures see 190 one bedroom options and 153 two bedroom options, 13 split level home offices monopolising the podium space with only the one retail space identified as a cafe.  One retail outlet seems light for a complex that may ultimately house 500+ individuals, although the adjoining 2-6 Olive York Way is heavy with retail offerings including an IGA; this apartment complex coming to fruition would no doubt be a boon to those retail operators.
<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/Image5_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Complement as envisaged from Albion Street. Image © MAP Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_14.jpg?itok=mMZ8k2zS" title="The Complement as envisaged from Albion Street. Image © MAP Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
A segregated three level sub ground car park would cover the entire site area with allowances for 418 vehicles, 414 bicycles and 18 motorbikes. Multiple car park entry ramps facing Olive York Way are surrounded by home offices, with dedicated apartments commencing on level three.  Attached shadow diagrams show that during a winters day no shadows would be cast over the adjoining complex, only at sunset might shadowing become an issue.
Seen below is the landscape plan where a variety of trees, plants and grasses are utilised where possible. Bottle trees and gums will dominate the larger flora generally located in courtyards between buildings.
<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/Image7_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Landscape plan with site density plain to see. Image © MAP Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image7_17.jpg?itok=N3H6D6C_" title="Landscape plan with site density plain to see. Image © MAP Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
And now the crux of today's article, best summarised by the following question.  Is a development such as 1-5 Olive York Way more or less important than that of a inner city skyscraper?
Taking into account that a tower say in Melbourne's CBD or Southbank would hold a similar number of apartments (356), yet would be closer to parks, services, a wide spectrum of retail offerings an so on, why do they garner so much media attention?  The vast majority of Melburnians don't live within the City of Melbourne yet when a new tower receives media attention, particularly from certain media outlets, the ensuing diatribe goes something like this; it's destroying Melbourne's way of life, it's terrible, it's horrible - we're all going to die!
I would contend that developments such as 1-5 Olive York Way are indeed more important.  They may not be as visible as those of the inner city, yet as Melbourne gears up for further population increase, low and mid-rise developments such as 1-5 Olive York Way are paramount in curbing suburban sprawl and increasing urban density in line with the objectives of <a href="http://www.planmelbourne.vic.gov.au/" target="_blank">Plan Melbourne</a>.
If it's lucky 1-5 Olive York Way may attract an article from Moreland Leader and not much more, yet rightly or wrongly apartment developments such as 1-5 Olive York Way are the future and worthy of discussion.
 
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silvermb

A sign of the times > 1-5 Olive York Way, Brunswick West

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Following submission to state planning authority DPCD during January, only now are <a href="http://www.dko.com.au/" target="_blank">dKO Architecture</a> poised to add another approved design to their portfolio with 387-395 Docklands Drive.  Currently an at grade car park, dKO have devised a dual tower residential complex atop a common podium to take its place.  Nestled behind the initial tranche of residential towers at developer MAB Corporation's successful <a href="http://www.newquay.com.au/" target="_blank">Newquay</a> precinct, the complex would deliver further apartments and activity to what is Docklands most populous precinct.
Taking the area's surrounds into account, dKo Architecture have delivered a highly complimentary design featuring their near trademark use of precast panels in a irregular vertical pattern aided by a gold facade.  Complementary in that the golden facade ties in with that of MAB Corporation's current, nearby residential offering <a href="http://www.newquaypromenade.com.au/home" target="_blank">Newquay Promenade</a> while the white, precast-laden podium holds commonality with another dKO design located at <a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/forum/docklands-6-22-pearl-river-road-140m-43l-residential" target="_blank">6-22 Pearl River Road</a>.
With Singapore-based developer Hiap Hoe poised to deliver 6-22 Pearl River road in its approved form, it's quite likely that when completed 6-22 Pearl River Road and 387-395 Docklands Drive will appear as bookends within the precinct, framing the former yet soon to be redeveloped Waterfront City precinct.
<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_34.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="387-395 Docklands Drive as per the planning application. Image © dKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_34.jpg?itok=IRrQ1JdM" title="387-395 Docklands Drive as per the planning application. Image © dKO Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Delivering the northern tower initially will allow greater street frontage and pedestrian activity to Dockland Drive, further enhancing its already solid foot traffic.  Whilst ensuring the waterfront promenade along Newquay is a success, equally as important is the built form and urban realm along Docklands Drive as whilst most occasional visitors and tourists will traverse the area using the waterfront, regular workers, residents, shoppers and students populate Docklands Drive.  Quite simply, the quicker the remaining empty sites fronting Docklands Drive can be developed with active street frontages, the better.
As submitted, the scheme calls for dual 17 level residential towers of 57 metres in height.  With 347 apartments in total, the mix consists of 3 studio dwellings, 231 one bedroom options and 113  two bedroom options.  A common car park will be located above ground within the podium catering for 146 spaces in addition to facilities for 115 bicycles.  Shrouded in an apartments,  158m² of retail space, 7 home offices and accentuated by a vertical green wall, the car park will be obscured from view.
The development is split into two stages where the northern Stage A is slated to be delivered first, while Stage B is currently a detailed conceptual design which will be subject to its own planning application.  Having said that level four is expected to host a common landscaped area between the two towers for residential use whilst level 7 over both buildings will carry a large setback allowing for further green areas and residential amenity to be incorporated.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image4_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Two residential towers divided by a common elevated courtyard. Image © dKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_17.jpg?itok=GvrOEE4t" title="Two residential towers divided by a common elevated courtyard. Image © dKO Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
The site in question already maintains an approved commercial development scheme for a 5 star BBCA / 4.5 star NABERS office complex, as seen below. A product of Melbourne architecture firm <a href="http://www.hassellstudio.com/" target="_blank">Hassell</a>, the 22,000m² A Grade office tower was to have a commercial car park component involving 438 parking bays over lower levels plus in excess to 200 bicycle spaces. Although likely superseded by the current residential application, MAB Corporation would seemingly hold the flexibility of maintaining both designs should they deem one more viable over the other.
Conversely Hassell have also designed a new office complex entitled The Quarter directly opposite at 396 Docklands Drive, heightening the likelihood that 387-395 Docklands Drive will materialise as a residential complex. Currently on offer, detailed imagery of 396 Dockland Drive can be found via the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.garethservant.com/396" target="_blank">Gareth Servant</a> website.
<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/Image5_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="395 Docklands Drive, designed by Hassell Architects. Image © MAB Corporation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_13.jpg?itok=8UeaaJa_" title="395 Docklands Drive, designed by Hassell Architects. Image © MAB Corporation" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
The current residential application was forwarded to Melbourne City Council's <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/AboutCouncil/Meetings/PortfoliosMembership/Pages/FutureMelbourneCommitteeToR.aspx" target="_blank">Future Melbourne Committee</a> for analysis and comment.  Dated September 2013, the officers recommendation provides in principal support for 387-395 Docklands Drive subject to a number of conditions generally surrounding further information requirements prior to construction.  A final DPCD planning decision is pending.
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dKO delivers > 387-395 Docklands Drive, Docklands

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In previous months Apartments.com.au has covered at a variety of different locations throughout Melbourne in terms of street and/or urban art, yet today we look at the heavyweight that is Fitzroy. Well documented for its grit and character, the bohemian nature of Fitzroy gives rise to a strong urban art culture, something that is evident in just about every street, lane and alley through the area.

Starting at Johnston Street and Brunswick Street, ever expanding loops of the suburb will deliver a seemingly endless supply of murals, stencils, sculptures, statues and so on - an easy way to burn the best part of a day should you be inclined. Yet for the quintessential Fitzroy artwork, you need not go past the eastern wall of Night Cat. Titled 'Welcome to sunny Fitzroy' and the product of <a href="http://www.everfreshstudio.com/blog/" target="_blank">Everfresh Studio</a>, the massive mural is now the areas most recognised image that encapsulates Fitzroy perfectly.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Img_6897.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fitzroy Everfresh @ Night Cat"><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_6897.jpg?itok=rnGcsHV_" title="Fitzroy Everfresh @ Night Cat" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Fitzroy Everfresh @ Night Cat</figcaption></figure>The images below were taken throughout 2013. While some artwork will endure, many have now been replaced with newer pieces or simply faded into obscurity. Such is the scale of artwork and constant change through Fitzroy, Apartments.com.au just might need a repeat tour in the near future.

For the time being though, expand and enjoy the images.
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Impressions of Fitzroy

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Apologies to Fry, but we just couldn't resist taking a bite at this topic. If you didn't read The Age on Saturday (5/10/13), you should peruse <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/comment/apartment-towers-are-killing-the-worlds-most-livable-city-20131004-2uzs8">this piece</a> titled 'Apartment towers are killing the world's most livable city.' Call it part sensationalism, part truth, part fluff... but mostly ridiculous!

Upon reading the piece, imagine now the words "apartment towers" in the headline were actually sprawl-belt development or urban fringe development. Sorry, I forgot demonising the suburban establishment is taboo in certain circles and apartment living is the devil incarnate. Quite seriously, apartment living can have its negative aspects, some of which have been touched on within The Age Associate Editor's piece, yet what viable alternative is there? Have the masses live on Melbourne's fringes with its intrinsic lack of urban amenity, public transport, long distance to jobs, inadequate services and mounting social issues? It's all good and well to pot apartment living as part of an ongoing agenda but in doing so provide a viable, efficient and responsible alternative otherwise, well, its just a load of repetitive crap!

Notwithstanding the claim "world's most liveable city" is a load of gumpf bestowed upon us by an offshore economics magazine and perpetuated by local mainstream media and the odd politician looking for a soundbite, it was a curious headline &amp; opinion piece overall given the historic move to have the City of Melbourne, City of Port Phillip and Spring Street cooperate, and (what we can only imagine) sing kumbaya, then produce and release the Fishermans Bend draft vision (<a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/train-stations-treelined-boulevards-mooted-for-fishermans-bend-20130916-2ttux">reported by The Age</a> as well). A draft vision with apartment living at its heart.

The two previously mentioned councils are the stakeholders feeling the most pressure regarding Fishermans Bend where the Capital City Zone overlay sees planning applications automatically lodged at 1 Spring Street rather than Council House 2 or the St. Kilda Town Hall. For the best part of a decade the near bipolar stance in terms of ethos and development of these two councils and Spring Street has been a major source of friction and until now their discontent and bickering has been played out through the media.

These three entities, for all intents and purposes, were happy to put their logos on the same <a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/Draft_Vision.pdf">Fishermans Bend Draft vision document</a> where the so-called liveable city-killing apartment towers are very much a part of the draft vision within the Urban Renewal Area - surely all three can't be wrong?

<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/fishbend_draft_cover.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Logos from the first page of the Fishermans Bend Draft Vision document"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="92" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fishbend_draft_cover.jpg?itok=kxNg2m2G" title="Logos from the first page of the Fishermans Bend Draft Vision document" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Logos from the first page of the Fishermans Bend Draft Vision document</figcaption></figure><figure><img alt="Proposed general height limits throughout Fishermans Bend" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/pictures/article-images/height_limits.png" style="width: 700px; height: 677px;"><figcaption>Proposed general height limits throughout Fishermans Bend</figcaption></figure>So the question must be asked, is Fishermans Bend now dead in the water as according to The Age's piece where 8, 18 and "Towers above mid-rise podiums" are the type of development which are killing our so-called liveable city?

As for the assertion of placing a moratorium on all current planning applications, well yes lets put the brakes on a positive, jobs producing aspect of the local economy which by the by is now a driver of foreign investment into Melbourne. Ultimately opinion pieces are just that, but thankfully The Age also <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/developers-oppose-push-for-higher-design-standards-20131004-2uzuv#ixzz2gnfZrXAT">ran a piece</a> really worth reading on the same day - the topic of developer resistance to mandating design standards for new development - an issue far more relevant, which strikes at the crux of apartment living and what should be the housing medium's continual positive progression.

For those seeking a far more learned response to The Age piece, we highly recommend reading Alan Davies <a href="http://blogs.crikey.com.au/theurbanist/2013/10/08/are-apartment-towers-bad-for-our-cities/">The Urbanist</a> blog entry from yesterday.
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Fishermans Bend: will apartment towers kill it?

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What's so special about the Palace Theatre?  Evidently quite a lot as in excess of 25,000 Melburnians have signed a petition to save the venue from demolition and redevelopment into a premium W Hotel and apartment complex.  Overshadowing within the historic Bourke Hill precinct, proximity to State Parliament, the potential loss of a cultural and live music icon, personal experiences and a general aversion to development would be amongst the reasons why the general public have made their displeasure with this development unequivocally clear. 
Yet of all those to voice their concerns, the most telling would be that of State Planning Minister Matthew Guy who on ABC Radio stated of the proposed development, "The developer is dreaming if he thinks the government is going to approve this in the form in which it has been submitted.  It is too tall, it is in the wrong location."
<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/581255_405879929458574_744832779_n.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Palace Theatre as it currently stands. Image courtesy 'Bourne this Way"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/581255_405879929458574_744832779_n.jpg?itok=BaafYYsV" title="The Palace Theatre as it currently stands. Image courtesy 'Bourne this Way" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
With those words in mind and following preliminary feedback from State planning officials, the project team spearheaded by venerable architecture firm <a href="http://www.batessmart.com.au/" target="_blank">Bates Smart</a> have returned with amended plans for the site.  Initially designed as a mixed-use tower some 99.75 metres in height and maintaining a setback of 8 metres to Bourke Street, the revised plans submitted late September produce in essence a lopped scheme where the tower is now expected to reach 72.25 metres.  In reducing height, the development team have decreased the setback to Bourke Street to 5 metres in order to somewhat mitigate the lessened development yield.
A roughly 27 metre reduction sees nine levels removed while 22 will remain within an altogether similar external design which sees a white 'layered veil' over blue glass; a nod to the <a href="http://www.slv.vic.gov.au/pictures/0/0/2/doc/pi002802.shtml" target="_blank">Fairlie</a> Apartment complex in South Yarra as cited within the planning application.  Overall apartment numbers have decreased considerably whereas hotel rooms stand at 200, a reduction of only five.  The revised scheme now calls for seven levels of residential living at the towers peak offering approximately 90 one and two bedroom apartments, down from 145 apartments initially included.
See below the expected view from Spring Street where the red line indicates the initial planning application envelope as opposed to the lower revised scheme.  Given the Windsor Hotel opposite recently received <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-03/matthew-guy2c-planning-minister-bemoans-the-27slow-death27-o/4931446" target="_blank">absolute approval</a> to proceed with its redevelopment much to the chagrin of the Planning Minister, is it not hypocritical to prevent the Palace Theatre development proceeding in some way, shape or form?
<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/Image3_20.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The revised W Hotel scheme seen within Melbourne's skyline. Image © Bates Smart "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3_20.jpg?itok=kDHgVg-r" title="The revised W Hotel scheme seen within Melbourne's skyline. Image © Bates Smart " typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
One could argue the case yes, and justifiably so in many people's eyes, although proponents of the Palace Theatre mount a strong case as well.  Included within the revised documents submitted late September is a letter of support from Starwood Hotels and Resorts, owner and operator of the W brand.  It maintains that after an extensive site selection process in which any properties considered must adhere to lofty selection criteria, the Palace Theatre site was and remains the natural choice.  Affirming their '100%' support to both the site and site owner, Jinshan Investment Group Pty Ltd, Starwood have very much pinned their Melbourne ambitions to this development.
An optimal compromise would likely see a development of some description set well back and separated from the Bourke Street frontage, therefore maintaining and incorporating a large portion of the existing Palace Theatre - akin to another Melbourne building, the former <a href="http://www.pta.com.au/web/?page_id=842" target="_blank">Herald &amp; Weekly Times</a> at 8 Exhibition Street.  This is not an option due to site constraints and height concerns, which at this point leads to an all or nothing outcome where total Palace Theatre retention or demolition are the likely outcomes.  
Whereas planning officials have voiced concerns over scale, height and overshadowing, I'd suspect the average person wouldn't be so much interested in the overall height and bulk of the tower, more so the retention of the existing building.
<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/Podium-perspective.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The intended podium with an 8 metre setback. Image courtesy Sinclair Brook"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Podium-perspective.jpg?itok=JhdesR7Q" title="The intended podium with an 8 metre setback. Image courtesy Sinclair Brook" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
State planners and ultimately Matthew Guy have a curly decision to deliver regarding this planning application.  Respect the wishes of the masses and maintain the Palace Theatre or approve redevelopment and enjoy the lasting economic boon the construction and ongoing operation that a five star hotel delivers.  An unenviable position where someone is bound to be disappointed!
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Palace Theatre Bourke Street development redesigned 

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Preston like many pockets around Melbourne has become a hotspot in terms of apartment development in recent years, although this process has been a drawn out affair. During the early 2000's Darebin City Council initiated an integrated development plan for the area with the intention of reinventing low-rise industrial warehouses into a thriving, high density, high amenity area. Preston Junction, bound by High Street, Plenty Road and Bell Street was slated for the greatest concentration of high density developments, with this plan holding true to date.

After a more than sluggish start the area ushered in its first completed substantial project during 2007 when the 81-apartment M1 Urban complex was successfully delivered. Many apartment developments have followed since, with tower cranes working on ever larger projects within Preston Junction which at the moment sees the areas tallest development, <a href="/new-apartments/the-newbury-33-plenty-road-preston">Tre Monte</a> (12 levels, 136 apartments ) in early stages of construction.

Adding further weight to the area's transformation, a new planning application has been lodged within recent days that if realised may just become Preston's defining landmark. Intending to replace the what is now a low-rise Paintmobile outlet, 6-34 High Street seeks the approval of an 18 level, 60m mixed-use tower. Located behind the Junction Hotel as seen below, the proposed tower would create a defining entry point when heading through Preston Junction in a northerly direction along one of Melbourne's heavily used sub-arterial roadways.

<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/Image13_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Existing development with the site in question seen top right. Image © design consortia australia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_8.jpg?itok=n6vw9Mzz" title="Existing development with the site in question seen top right. Image © design consortia australia" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Existing development with the site in question seen top right. Image © design consortia australia</figcaption></figure>A product of architecture and consultancy firm Design Consortia Australia, the building is expected to deliver a total of 209 apartments comprising 136 two bedroom units with the balance consisting of single bedroom dwellings while dual bedroom townhouses will be offered through the podium. While apartment sizes remain within certain size bands, a myriad of apartment layouts and shapes have been included principally due to the abnormal floorplate and many setbacks within the design.

Sub levels see parking allowance for 273 vehicles split between traditional parking and a car stacker system. Of those, 211 spaces are dedicated toward residents while 62 spaces are available for the 2023m² of commercial space through the podium of the intended tower. Similarly 241 bicycle spaces have been catered for with 209 dedicated residential, 7 commercial and 25 visitor spaces. An internal area shrouded by the podium will host communal space which includes a water fountain and a 255m² outdoor playground. Also designed into the scheme's podium is a large 606m² gym facing High Street with six retail spaces and two office allocations rounding out the frontages to both High Street and Plenty Road.

Planter boxes have been included atop level 12 within a communal garden, seeing in excess of 200 plots available for residents inclined to grow their own produce. Other elevated facilities include a communal barbeque area and multi-purpose spaces.

<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/Image16_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="6-34 High Street Preston. Image © design consortia australia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image16_1.jpg?itok=TCoZa_3n" title="6-34 High Street Preston. Image © design consortia australia" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>6-34 High Street Preston. Image © design consortia australia</figcaption></figure>What makes 6-34 High Street an interesting and meritorious design is its external features relative to those of immediate existing apartment buildings. Where most if not all existing apartment buildings in the area rely heavily upon precast elements and designs with monotonous horizontal banding (as seen in the first image above) which makes for a bland urban experience, Design Consortia Australia have created a unique, expressive and dynamic proposal with many varying elements. Like it or not 6-34 High Street certainly breaks the mould which is something to be encouraged.

By virtue of its location, "The proposal celebrates and underpins the major landmark or gateway site to Preston at the point of bifurcation or divergence of High Street and Plenty Road with a towered elliptical building at the southern edge of 18 storeys." The scheme is defined by a vertical orange indentation running the height of the tower which would act as a strong visual marker if heading north along High Street. Add curves, a curtail glass facade and/or fractal facade in part and 6-34 High Street manages to set itself apart from the pack, although the overall height of the application will come under close scrutiny.

6-34 High Street Preston will surely be a litmus test for the future direction and high-rise aspirations of Preston Junction and surrounds. Interesting times ahead!
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Preston grows up > 6-34 High Street planning application

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Whilst Premier Denis Napthine and Planning Minister Matthew Guy were releasing/spruiking the Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area Draft Vision during mid September, further planning applications were arriving at state planning body DPCD's offices for consideration.  September has seen a further three applications seeking their place within Fishermans Bend, with the total number of towers seeking the green light now at an impressive 29.  Today Apartments.com.au brings images of two additional projects 
<a href="http://www.gibsonpropertycorp.com/" target="_blank">Gibson Property Corporation</a> have recently loaded limited images of 2-4 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne onto their website.  A combination of the Westgate Freeway, MECC and the Whiteman Street tram reserve have conspired to maintain excellent sight lines for future residents should this design of exceptional quality gain planning approval.
Quoting from the company's website, "GPC have been engaged to provide consultancy services to seek a Planning Permit for a new mixed-use residential development.  The development is situated in the heart of South Melbourne, lining Gladstone and Ferrars Streets and is within metres of the Port Melbourne/City Light Rail.  The project will consist of 2 residential towers of 35 levels comprising 1,2 and 3 bedroom apartments with a mix of retail and commercial premises on the ground floor. The development has the potential for 400 apartments."
<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/Image5_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2-4 Buckhurst Street. Image courtesy Gibsons Property Corporation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_12.jpg?itok=sRIwCIoP" title="2-4 Buckhurst Street. Image courtesy Gibsons Property Corporation" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Seen below is a render for the intended replacement for Carlins Automotive Auctioneers located at 6-78 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne.Covering an area of 9277 square metres, the four tower complex will be delivered in stages with the initial western 37 level residential tower to be delivered first according to plans devised by architecture firm <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/" target="_blank">Rothe Lowman</a>.
An excerpt from 6-78 Buckhurst Street's planning application reads as follows: "The future vision for our site and its greater precinct is a diverse, inclusive and well serviced community with a strong sense of local identity coupled with improved linkages both within the precinct and to the CBD.  We see a variety of end users being accommodated by the proposed development, with both investors and owner occupiers being attracted to our proposal".  
A variety of apartment sizes and types will ensure appeal to a broad section of the community, the Buckhurst St residential development will assist in creating a strong benchmark in high quality design for future developments in the Montague area.
More on these and other Fishermans Bend planning applications to follow.
<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_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="6-78 Buckhurst Street. Image © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image8_11.jpg?itok=xukvPv-r" title="6-78 Buckhurst Street. Image © Rothe Lowman" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
The apartment yield to date from the 29 proposed apartment towers with Fishermans Bend stands at approximately 8400 with the potential to soak up near 20,000 new residents.  The state government through their <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/cs/Satellite?blobcol=urldata&amp;blobheader=application%2Fpdf&amp;blobkey=id&amp;blobtable=MungoBlobs&amp;blobwhere=1370918565234&amp;ssbinary=true&amp;blobheadername1=Content-Type&amp;blobheadervalue1=application/pdf&amp;blobheadername2=Content-Dispostion&amp;blobheadervalue2=attachment%3B+filename%3Dfishermansbenddraftvision.pdf" target="_blank">Draft Vision</a> and <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/cs/Satellite?blobcol=urldata&amp;blobheader=application%2Fpdf&amp;blobkey=id&amp;blobtable=MungoBlobs&amp;blobwhere=1370918552400&amp;ssbinary=true&amp;blobheadername1=Content-Type&amp;blobheadervalue1=application/pdf&amp;blobheadername2=Content-Dispostion&amp;blobheadervalue2=attachment%3B+filename%3Dinterimdesignguidelines.pdf" target="_blank">Design Guidelines</a> plan have targeted 80,000 new residents for the 250ha urban renewal area upon completion.  If all these towers were to be realised (as unlikely as it is), roughly one quarter of Fishermans Bend's total envisaged final population would be accommodated within an area that covers roughly 20-30ha of the overall development.
Based upon submitted planning applications either the overall Fishermans Bend population will comfortably exceed the targeted 80,000 should the now submitted and future applications hold sway or intended developments may have to be scaled back to meet the expectations of the recently released Vision.  Clearly some teething issues are presenting themselves within Fishermans Bend where the expectations of developers and those bodies charged with delivering the project have not met as yet.
With this in mind resident rendering machine Laurence Dragomir will be one of five keynote speakers during Apartments.com.au's upcoming presentation at Melbourne Knowledge Week.  To be held on the evening of Friday 1st November, Laurence will deliver to a 200-strong audience of government representatives, architects, developers, industry figures and the general public a presentation which will include the only renders/video of all proposed towers within the Fishermans Bend area, whilst also exploring a number of pertinent challenges the area faces - further details and ticketing information for the event to be announced shortly.
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Fishermans Bend tower count now at 29

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The sign on the door may say "display suite closed" but one glance through the window sees a display fully fitted and ready for business. Covering the addresses 19-35 Flemington Road, the former motorcycle and auto repair venue was purchased early 2012 by expanding Melbourne-based property developer <a href="http://www.uaggroup.com.au/" target="_blank">UAG Holdings</a> with notions of a development approaching an end value of approximately $200 million in mind.

Consequently the planning process has run its course to the point where Apartments.com.au has been watching the display come together, carrying signage for one of Australia's largest builders, Probuild, during the process which may well indicate the impending project has a chosen builder in place.

<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_8192.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="North display suite entry"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_8192.jpg?itok=1w8-UDn_" title="North display suite entry" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

September 2012 saw UAG along with prominent Melbourne firm <a href="http://www.sjb.com.au/" target="_blank">SJB Architects</a> deliver an initial planning application. At 13 levels to its highest point the scheme was to carry 400 apartments and 344 associated car parking spaces. 123 bike spaces were to be incorporated as was 4,655sqm of retail space over a site with a land area of 4,061sqm. Site dimensions see a 50m frontage to Flemington Road and 70m to the perpendicular Blackwood Road.

To be included were 166 one bed options, 171 two bedroom apartments and a further 56 two bedroom plus study apartments. Although the initial design seemed somewhat heavy with precast balconies and stubby at 13 levels, a revised planning application was submitted during June this year. With the precast exterior banished, a new contemporary, sleek, curved glass facade will face Flemington Road, seemingly drawing the best elements from a previous SJB design -<a href="http://www.sjb.com.au/projects/a-place-to-live" target="_blank"> A Place To Live</a> in Richmond.

Covered by the City North Structure Plan, an overlay implemented by the City of Melbourne to facilitate/guide intensive redevelopment, it seems North's project team have utilised the structure plan by extending the height of the western flank to 19 levels or approximately 60m in height. The resultant tower form is of a more elegant nature and visually in balance with the remainder of the complex while retaining a similar number of apartments to the original scheme.

Upon completion North will join a growing number of high quality contemporary towers within close proximity to the Haymarket Roundabout. The near future will likely see <a href="/news/the-ecstacy-of-bronze-690-708-elizabeth-street-melbourne" target="_blank">690-708 Elizabeth Street</a> and <a href="/news/planning-application-5-bedford-place-north-melbourne" target="_blank">5 Bedford Place</a> join the now under construction <a href="http://www.vcccproject.vic.gov.au/" target="_blank">Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre</a> and existing <a href="http://www.dcwc.com.au/cms-projects/education/project-economics-commerce-building.phps" target="_blank">Melbourne University Economics &amp; Commerce Building</a> in turning the tired area into a high quality, high-rise entry point for Melbourne's CBD.

<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_8216mkdf.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Display suite model "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_8216mkdf.jpg?itok=dEQCXvID" title="Display suite model " typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Going by images available via North's website, internal apartment finishes will be available in either a light or dark motif. Seen below is an example of what is the darker finish, epitomized by the caliginous floorboards, kitchenette, cabinetry and tiling and contrasted by timber clad over the external spaces - a nice touch and an impressive view as well!

North's foyer will feature a lounge area with a sculpture that bares an uncanny resemblance to the work of <a href="http://dionhorstmans.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Dion Horstmans</a>; suspended from the ceiling the piece is sure to be a project highlight. North's residential amenity offerings will include an external lap pool, podium landscaping and deck - images of which can be seen by clicking the links at the bottom of the article.

<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/north-apartments-gallery-002.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A typical internal as taken from the project website"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/north-apartments-gallery-002.jpg?itok=xczBU8x8" title="A typical internal as taken from the project website" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

North will have its public launch shortly with further information to follow.

Project website: <a href="http://north-melbourne.com/">http://north-melbourne.com/</a>
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UAG unveils North @ 33 Flemington Road

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Visualization and architecture firm <a href="http://www.orbitsolutions.com.au/" target="_blank">Orbit Solutions</a> has for some time carried a clutch of images for the intended residential development at 590 Orrong Road Armadale on their website. Conceived some years ago by developer<a href="http://www.lendlease.com/Australia/Home" target="_blank"> Lend Lease</a> with project partner Frank Hargrave, the scheme immediately raised the ire of locals due to their concerns over excessive development and height, traffic snarls and infrastructure duress amongst other issues.

Early planning applications saw taller towers with far greater apartments proposed, as early Bates Smart master plan images below demonstrate. City of Stonnington refused the initial application, leading to the project team returning once more with an altered scheme. Refused once more, Lend Lease found solace with VCAT who eventually ruled in favour of the development consortium. City of Stonnington consequently sought the VCAT decision be overruled by the Supreme Court of Victoria principally on the basis VCAT was incorrect in dismissing local residents displeasure when formulating its decision, an appeal that was quashed on Thursday.

Through the legal wrangling, City of Stonnington sought permanent planning controls over the site, in the form of: 

<ul>
<li>mandatory height controls of 17 metres (six storeys) across the site;</li>
	<li>maximum 50% site coverage;</li>
	<li>maximum site yield of 250 units, and</li>
	<li>set-backs of 6 metres around the site.</li>
</ul>
If nothing else this demonstrated the grey area over this particular site with both parties at either end of the scale with little common ground evident. Lack of defined planning controls from the outset has resulted in both parties losing (some may consider squandering unnecessarily) vast amounts of money in a legal mire. Working on a fair assumption that the vast majority of City of Stonnington's legal expenses would have been shouldered by the local community, this is a particularly messy affair.

<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/Image5_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A previous Bates Smart proposal for the site. Image © Lend Lease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_10.jpg?itok=6OoCKlFY" title="A previous Bates Smart proposal for the site. Image © Lend Lease" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

So what can be expected post the Supreme Court decision? In the overall sense yesterdays<a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property/court-greenlights-500m-lend-lease-project-in-armadale/story-fn9656lz-1226722975916" target="_blank"> Australian</a> ran with an interesting angle. "The prime development, in Liberal Party heartland, has drawn criticism from pro-development Victorian Planning Minister Matthew Guy. Any intervention by Mr Guy would set a precedent for all other major developments in Melbourne, including those in less affluent areas." Wealth considerations aside this action could potentially open a veritable Pandora's s**tbox of legal stouches for an array of projects Melbourne wide; best to stay away from that prospect.

Lend Lease state manager for apartments Ben Coughlan was quoted as saying "The decision further supports the importance of urban renewal development, which is an essential ingredient in a balanced growth plan." In due course 16 buildings will be delivered, the majority of which are low-rise whilst two would reach 12 levels in height for a site that sits within metres of Toorak Station. Some 448 apartments are expected to be built in stages, with potentially 1000 new residents to call Armadale home.

<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/orrong01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of 590 Orrong Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/orrong01.jpg?itok=HcyyOdyj" title="Aerial perspective of 590 Orrong Road" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

On news of the Supreme Court ruling during the week, local action collective <a href="http://orronggroup.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">The Orrong Group</a> voiced their dismay over the decision. Derided as a devastating decision for Stonnington and Victoria, "NOT over. Repeat NOT over" were the words greeting those who have viewed the website in recent days, although one suspects it just might be. Just get on with it!

Project website: <a href="http://www.orrongroad.com.au/">http://www.orrongroad.com.au/</a>

Click images below for larger visuals. All images © Orbit Solutions.
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590 Orrong Road receives the go-ahead

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If you're inclined to think along similar lines as I then you'd tend to formulate first impressions of a foreign city based upon your first tangible contact which generally happens to be your hotel of choice. A great hotel is generally a decent precursor as to what can be expected, while a bad one, well... it's enough to give you the brace and bits.

With this in mind, today's article is a follow up to <a href="/news/wraps-are-off-the-altus-238-harbour-esplanade">yesterday's article</a> on Docklands' new centrepiece, <a href="http://www.thealtus.com.au/home">The Altus</a> located with the <a href="http://www.digitalharbour.com.au/">Digital Harbour</a> precinct. Lower levels within the development will carry hotel accommodation under the Sheraton Four Points brand. The 4.5-star hotel will now feature 281 guest rooms and a serviced apartment component according to the project website, and will create an estimated 480 jobs during construction plus 125 ongoing positions thereafter, related to hotel operations.

A critical part of the tourism sector and economic growth, new large-scale hotels in Melbourne are not a frequent occurrence, therefore Apartments.com.au thought it best to give the project its dues.

<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/Image13_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Altus at dusk"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="391" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_7.jpg?itok=tsGXllpA" title="The Altus at dusk" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Altus at dusk</figcaption></figure>As mentioned Sheraton Four Points Docklands will carry 281 hotel rooms where a typical studio hotel room is illustrated below. Room spaces will generally vary between 30sqm and 40sqm according to the planning application approved some months ago, although the floor to floor particulars may have been refined following input from Sheraton brand operator <a href="http://www.starwoodhotels.com/">Starwood Hotels</a>.

Project architecture firm <a href="http://www.moullmurray.com/">Moull Murray</a> describes internals for both hotel and apartment spaces as follows, "The interior design with its Scandinavian influenced clean lines and authentic natural materials, employs a palette of light timber flooring combined with elements of natural timber and light coloured cabinetry, set off with polished reconstituted stone work tops and the latest in kitchen appliances, to create a sophisticated interior ambience.

Referring to The Altus' facilities Moull Murray describes the inclusion of "A 25 m lap pool, residents gym and lounge together with the hotel bar and restaurant, overlook landscaped parks on two sides, which will provide landscaped, tranquil urban retreats as a counterpoint to the activity of the spaces within."

<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/hotel-010_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A typical studio hotel room"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hotel-010_0.jpg?itok=NCj0pWUo" title="A typical studio hotel room" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A typical studio hotel room</figcaption></figure>Joining two levels of luxury penthouse living at the peak of The Altus will be a dedicated 'Sky Lounge' facility located on level 34 for hotel guests. One could surmise that once Sheraton signed on as the hotel operator with an increased number of hotel rooms than initially anticipated, agreement was reached with developer Digital Harbour Holdings to increase the amenity offerings for future hotel guests. As a result the hotel lounge initially destined for level 14 now finds itself at a higher perch.

Once operational hotel guests will be able to enjoy magnificent, near 360 degree views over Melbourne for the foreseeable future, as depicted below. The Altus is positioned toward the northern border of Docklands allowing for expansive views, even when the neighbouring 23 hectare, high density E-Gate land parcel is developed in the future.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/views-level-34e.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The level 34 experience"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="84" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/views-level-34e.jpg?itok=5ZDbW6m0" title="The level 34 experience" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The level 34 experience</figcaption></figure>Being a touch facetious now, put yourself in the position a of typical tourist family, Bob and Wendy from Illinois if you will with sons Chad and Randy in tow (naturally with their caps on backwards). Below is a sequence of images that a typical tourist may encounter when visiting Sheraton Four Points Docklands, from arrival to check-in and then enjoying the array of amenities at the hotel. At some point when the family steps out to sample all that Melbourne has two offer, two thoughts would likely spring to mind; what an impressive hotel complex and "I wonder if they've got the Gap here?"

Enjoy, click the images below for a larger view. All images © Atomic 3D / Moull Murray.
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First impressions last...

The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

Mark Baljak

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