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Reported some months ago through a variety of media sources after planning approval was granted, <a href="http://www.thealtus.com.au/">The Altus</a> located within Melbourne's Docklands precinct has been quietly biding its time until the countdown clock (as seen below) reached zero this morning, revealing further information on the projects website. As the apartment sales campaign nears Apartments.com.au today takes a look at The Altus in further detail, particularly with the public realm in mind.

With varying figures in the media as to the final mix of hotel rooms versus apartments and project end value, developer <a href="http://www.digitalharbour.com.au/">Digital Harbour Holdings</a>' website carries the following description, "Planning Minister Matthew Guy has granted approval to build a $300 million hotel and residential complex on the corner of Harbour Esplanade and Dudley Street at the northern end of Docklands. The new 37 level tower will sit on the block of land at 238 Harbour Esplanade, between Harbour Esplanade and Wurundjeri Way. The plans call for a complex of 299 apartments and a 4.5-star 254 room hotel together with 27 serviced apartments operated by Sheraton."

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image1_33.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Countdown clock seen on thealtus.com.au prior to expiration. Image © Digital Harbour Holdings"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_33.jpg?itok=iO7bcaOq" title="Countdown clock seen on thealtus.com.au prior to expiration. Image © Digital Harbour Holdings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Countdown clock seen on thealtus.com.au prior to expiration. Image © Digital Harbour Holdings</figcaption></figure>From the outset project architects <a href="http://www.moullmurray.com/">Moull Murray</a> have sought "To develop an iconic, landmark building completing the northern gateway to Docklands." While individuals generally view a building's aesthetic worth or landmark status from a distance, its true worth lies in the finer design details, amenities, and general usealbility for lack of a better word.

To that end Moull Murray have implemented a loggia through the lower levels of the complex, where "The grand stair leads into the arcade walkway, a semi internal walkway that leads to multiple entry points. This walkway can be seen as an extension of the restaurant within. Passers through will experience a slow space of “street life” which references Melbourne laneways, however activation will mostly be created by the local tower resident usage.

Bare in mind that green/public spaces will be created at either end of the elevated passage plus aspects of the The Altus' pool will be visible externally. Add a cafe, extensive landscaping and furniture incorporated into the passage and Moull Murray have done an excellent job in creating an interactive and interesting public domain; if only other areas of Docklands maintained such standards.

<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/Image17_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Axonometric view if the developments arcade walkway. Image © Moull Murray"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image17_4.jpg?itok=Lq0K9WyD" title="Axonometric view if the developments arcade walkway. Image © Moull Murray" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Axonometric view if the developments arcade walkway. Image © Moull Murray</figcaption></figure>As stated within the planning application, Moull Murray have endeavored to "inject human activity into the podium facade where possible." Subsequently an articulated podium facade was conceived and submitted as part of the planning documents. After feedback from DPCD planners, Moull Murray refined the lower levels (seen below), adding greater variation in order to maximise viewer interest, particularly from the heavy traffic intersection of Harbour Esplanade, Dudley Street, Docklands Drive and Footscray Road.

The result is a highly interesting and articulated public interface over lower levels, with a green space separating the tower and the aforementioned intersection which maintains sight lines at ground level, something fairly uncommon within Docklands. The green wedge in effect provides a soft entry point into the complex.

Submitted plans show the podium levels feature a split between hotel rooms and one or two bedroom apartments facing east or west. These spaces for the most mask the internal above ground car parking, while the north and south aspects feature permeable patterned mesh facades allowing natural ventilation with hotel levels sitting above.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image31_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alterations outlined during the approval process. Image © Moull Murray"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image31_0.jpg?itok=D8xR6SMW" title="Alterations outlined during the approval process. Image © Moull Murray" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alterations outlined during the approval process. Image © Moull Murray</figcaption></figure>Beyond the hotel levels lie apartment floors with generic layouts from floor to floor. Originally slated for levels 15-33 one would assume now the number of floors dedicated toward apartment living has diminished somewhat due to the increase in hotel accommodation. The majority of residential levels carry a mix of one and two bedroom options, where floor area for one bed apartments generally ranges between 45-50sqm while two bed apartments generally weigh in at the 60-70sqm mark.

For the fortunate few, levels 34-35 are slated to carry sub-penthouse and penthouse apartments. Three bedroom penthouses carry a whopping 250sqm of living space with CBD and Bay views; it will be interesting to see if these are amongst the first to sell during the sales campaign, or if they are snapped up prior.

Digital Harbour Holdings director David Napier recently stated that construction is due to start during the first quarter of 2014. With the Sheraton agreement and financing in place prior to planning approval, it seems a sales campaign for the apartments is imminent. See the The Altus Vimeo below to gain a greater understanding of the project.

<figure><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/74599207" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="100%"></iframe>The Altus - Cinematic HD Film from <a href="http://vimeo.com/atomic3d">Atomic 3D</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</figure><a href="/news/first-impressions-last">Tomorrow Urban.com.au will peruse the internal images for The Altus</a>, with particular attention paid toward the hotel component. Branded Sheraton Four Points Docklands, the renders point to high quality yet subtle serviced apartments/accommodation and facilities for residents and guests alike.
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silvermb

Wraps are off The Altus @ 238 Harbour Esplanade 

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"An unparalleled opportunity to define Melbourne's inner city landscape forever." Not so long ago this may have been considered marketing hyperbole yet every instance where revised renders of the Yarraville Gardens site surface, the project density increases considerably. Unparalleled opportunity; well there may well be an element of truth to that statement.

Currently for sale, the stupendously large 240,000sqm parcel was formerly the home of Bradmill. With the manufacturer long gone, the site was demolished recently in anticipation of "Incorporating a mixture of residential, retail and commercial components. A neighbourhood shopping centre is proposed for the north-east corner of the Bradmill site which will incorporate a supermarket, specialties and a small number of non-retail commercial tenants.

These comments were taken from an Essential Economics report tabled during 2006 and facilitated by Maribyrnong City Council on the basis of 1000 new dwellings. Since that point it's been interesting viewing renders of the development site come and go, all the while a noticeable increase in project density evident.

<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/index_Slide2_09.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Yaraville Gardens overview. Image © Peddle Thorp."><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/index_Slide2_09.jpg?itok=r-fbNxTL" title="Yaraville Gardens overview. Image © Peddle Thorp." typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

The latest iteration above sees <a href="/architects/peddle-thorp-architects" target="_blank">Peddle Thorp</a> deliver a scheme with no less than 13 apartment buildings, seemingly between 10 and 25 levels; a scale of development not envisaged for Yarraville Gardens until now. Gone are any signs of detached housing, rather terrace/townhouse rows line the streets, most of which are four levels in height with the development yielding a minimum 1500 dwellings. Many more are possible should the site developer seek a higher density as expected.

The north-east corner of the site has been portioned off to deliver "A 10,000sqm neighbourhood shopping centre, a new 800sqm Yarraville library and more than 400 onsite car parks" according to selling agent CBRE. This centre will not only cater for existing nearby residents but for the expected 7000 plus residents expected to call Yarraville Gardens home once complete. Interestingly enough the YouTube <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&amp;v=nokEbZm_eq8" target="_blank">marketing video</a> suggests that even higher densities can be achieved with all levels of council in support of such a move.

<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/index_Slide3_09.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Green space dominating within the development. Image © Peddle Thorp."><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/index_Slide3_09.jpg?itok=R_UtLPsP" title="Green space dominating within the development. Image © Peddle Thorp." typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

With a sale price tag of $100 million plus, Yarraville Gardens draws parallels to the recent <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/sole-residents-soon-to-have-4000-neighbours-20130704-2peuf" target="_blank">sale</a> of the Amcor site in <a href="/new-apartments/alphington-vic-3078">Alphington</a> in terms of size, total dwellings and proximity to <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's CBD</a>. While Amcor will be predominantly low-rise with buildings peaking around eight levels, Yarraville Gardens will seemingly take the high-rise option. Whether the higher density high-rise outcome leads to ample tracts of open space as illustrated above is another question - but you certainly hope so.

An influx of potentially 7000 residents also raises questions of infrastructure. Nine pre schools and primary schools are immediately east of the site, yet a simple Google search shows there are no secondary colleges nearby. And what of public transport options or the residents of Francis Street? For so long they have campaigned to have freight trucks removed from the area - you may well get your wish but in return have a few extra thousand private vehicles use Francis Street daily - or worse yet, both.

Regardless a site of this magnitude is certainly one to watch and given the scale of the development a <a href="http://www.yarravillegardens.com.au" target="_blank">website</a> has been created to assist with the sales process, which includes a sleek promotional video for Yarraville Gardens. The expression of interest campaign closed early August so a public statement as to the buyer should be imminent.

<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_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Potential views from Yarraville Gardens. Image © Peddle Thorp."><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_11.jpg?itok=3w8wcKNq" title="Potential views from Yarraville Gardens. Image © Peddle Thorp." typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Until that announced and subsequent development plans are firmed, I guess it's a case of sitting back and enjoying the views!
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Yarraville Gardens moving up in the world

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In complete contrast to the Caulfield Racecourse master plan which seemingly gained approval without incident, Moonee Valley Racing Club (MVRC) has found itself mired in a bog of Council discontent, resident anger and most perilous of all, political points scoring.  Initially put forward during 2011, the intended redevelopment of Moonee Valley Racecourse (MVRC) into a contemporary facility intermingled with swathes high density living has to date been a slow and unwieldy process, so much so State Planning minister Matthew Guy has appointed an Advisory Committee to oversee the process.

Recently MVRC released an updated master plan containing numerous changes or refinements over previous schemes.  I could not possibly do the brace of planning documents justice, particularly in a article this length, so rather I'll touch upon a handful of notable aspects of the revised document.

<ul>
<li class="rtejustify">25 levels...barely.</li>
</ul>
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Imageplanmv10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Massing model as per Plus Architecture document"><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/Imageplanmv10.jpg?itok=qZVTRWJa" title="Massing model as per Plus Architecture document" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Whereas the previous master plan carried a string of 25 level towers along the eastern border abutting Tullamarine Freeway, the revised master plan sees a solitary 25 level residential tower located within the western precinct which itself sees a greater concentration of dwellings.  <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au/%E2%80%8E" target="_blank">Plus Architecture</a> have submitted alternative massing models for both the western and northern precincts that see the overall number of tall buildings diminished or scaled back. 

Increased west precinct density if possible due to the realignment of the track to the eastern boundary.  Consequently a total of 4500 people over 2500 apartments and townhouses are expected to call the redevelopment home in due course.

<ul>
<li class="rtejustify">14 design principles for success</li>
</ul>
Quoting the master plan, "The Urban Design Philosophy for the Moonee Valley Racecourse Master Plan aims to translate the Vision for the site into a robust and logical set of urban design principles that inform all levels of design and detail for the development of the site.  These principles will set the parameters for what development of the site is trying to achieve in an urban design sense."

<div>If adhered to these principles should lead to a quality development overall.  Those principles that catch they eye include:</div>

<div> </div>

<div>&gt; prioritise people over cars and buildings</div>

<div>&gt; create a highly connected place by engaging with the surrounding community through the public realm and public open spaces</div>

<div>&gt; provide a diversity of housing choice</div>

<div>&gt; activate street level as comfortable and safe ‘people spaces’ for all hours</div>

<div>&gt; create a precinct of environmental sustainability initiatives to benefit local residents and the wider community</div>

<div>&gt; provide community facilities complementing the Moonee Ponds centre that blend seamlessly with the surrounding community</div>

<div>&gt; provide excellent public transport links and initiatives to integrate with local walking, cycling, tram, train and bus networks</div>

<div> </div>

<ul>
<li class="rtejustify">A green grandstand?</li>
</ul>
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image22pop.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The concept image as per the planning report."><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/Image22pop.jpg?itok=M43gSxi2" title="The concept image as per the planning report." typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

The grandstand operations plan devised by global design firm <a href="http://populous.com/" target="_blank">Populous</a> outlines MVRC's expectation of a new 5000 seat grandstand relocated to the northern border of the racecourse. The grandstand in part will sit below Wilson Street, whilst also slope away at its higher levels from Wilson Street providing passersby with a less dominant built form capable of blending in with the immediate residential area.  Whilst only a preliminary image, the 160m long structure is slated to carry green walls in order to break the sheer scale of the building.  Delivered properly, this could be a spectacular result!

<ul>
<li class="rtejustify">Catering for all</li>
</ul>
As touched upon earlier, MVRC have commissioned a report which focuses heavily on the all-inclusive aspects of the racecourse redevelopment.  With a development timeframe of 15-20 years,  approximately 4500 new residents are expected to call the area home upon completion; of those 60% are expected to live in 2 Bed apartments, 30% in 1 Bed apartments with 10% aimed toward 3 Bed apartments.

See below a forecast breakdown of Target Population Projections for key Community Infrastructure Age Cohorts. Within the western precinct a kindergarten, public art installations, community meeting facilities, early learning centre, a maternal child health services complex and a new park can be expected.

<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/Image24.jpgaah.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Target Population Projections for key Community Infrastructure Age Cohorts "><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/Image24.jpgaah.jpg?itok=S2yadYFl" title="Target Population Projections for key Community Infrastructure Age Cohorts " typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

For those inclined the full PDF download schedule can be found <a href="http://www.mvcc.vic.gov.au/planning-and-building/major-developments/proposed-major-developments/draft-master-plan-and-rezoning-proposal-from-moonee-valley-racecourse.aspx" target="_blank">here</a> hosted upon the Moonee Valley City Council website, otherwise browse the images below to gain a quick understanding of what Moonee Valley Racing Club has in store for its prized redevelopment. State Government body DPCD will hold a number of meetings in coming weeks, including <a href="http://www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning/panelsandcommittees/current/moonee-valley-racecourse-redevelopment" target="_blank">public hearings</a> commencing the week of Monday 30th September.

 

All images © Moonee Valley Racing Club
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Moonee Valley Racecourse Master Plan kicks again

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Some developers prefer their planning applications go through the approvals process with a low profile and minimal fuss whilst others take the very public, high exposure option. <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">464 Collins Street</a> falls into the latter category with a raft of media stories about this incredible proposal hitting the papers and other mediums during June, days after being submitted to DPCD on May 27th. Developer<a href="/developers/equiset" target="_blank"> Equiset</a>  has to date publicly championed the merits of 464 Collins Street, including its design excellence and innovative construction technique.

With a site width of 11m, the astonishingly thin structure designed by <a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a> will reach 193.85 RL or roughly 181m above ground. According to Equiset such a structure is made possible due to a revolutionary construction method where a H-shape structure system is employed. The standard core and column method has been replaced; no columns will be present within the concrete structure, similar to Equiset's pilot tower using this method, <a href="/news">Phoenix Apartments</a> at 82 Flinders Street.

Thirteen commercial floors will cover the lower levels of the development, most likely utilised as strata space owing to floor spaces ranging between 114sqm and 416sqm. Thereafter 37 levels of residential living will follow with a sum of 185 apartments, split between 37 one-bed options and 148 two-bed options, including loft style variants for both. Overarching these apartments is Bates Smart's quest "To deliver a truly exemplary internal design and layout, based on notions of layout flexibility and individualisation. The internal division of each floor, particularly on the residential levels, will be highly flexible enabling future purchasers the opportunity to buy adjoining <a href="/new-apartments">apartments</a>, horizontally or vertically, and combine and internally fit them out to their personal preference."

<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/464collins.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Both Collins Street perspectives as per the planning aplication"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/464collins.jpg?itok=NaaUbBZY" title="Both Collins Street perspectives as per the planning aplication" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Surprisingly enough the planning application states the existing Makers Mark building dating 1908 is not yet within a heritage overlay. In a case of absolute facadism nothing bar the ornate facade facing Collins Street will be spared from demolition should the application be approved and realised. While the Makers Mark facade will represent a grand entrance to the development with a double level foyer behind, a number of scenarios were considered when introducing a cantilevered design above Makers Mark to emphasize the existing structure. To that end the facade will jut out fourteen metres above the heritage parapet, framing the diminutive building below. A four metre cantilevered floorplate will also spread out above the adjoining 400 Collins street, suggesting that building will never be redeveloped.

At the opposite end, level 52 will host residential amenities including a lounge, gym, and a large outdoor terrace with impressive views. Levels 19-51 carry no set floorplans, rather a handful of indicative floorplans that can be adjusted to any floor in line with the developments highly adaptable ethos.

<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/Image29.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A prime example of facadism"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image29.jpg?itok=eCli9P0p" title="A prime example of facadism" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Whilst much detail has rightfully been placed into the integration of the Makers Mark facade into the new tower form, the rear of the redevelopment facing St James Lane has also come in for some attention. With a 70 space KLAUS car stacking system at the rear of the towers lower levels, Bates Smart have devised an integrated kinetic lighting strategy that not only covers the car park levels but provides a dynamic viewpoint in an otherwise non-activated laneway. Although different beasts, the first comparison that sprung to mind was the Crown car park fronting Clarendon Street <a href="/new-apartments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a> with its activated glass facade featuring varying light patterns. 464 Collins Street will feature embedded LED technology within the facade that will follow the movements of vehicles behind.

Included within the planning application is an analysis of the immediate properties surrounding 464 Collins Street and their redevelopment potential. Whilst a number of properties carry the ability to be redeveloped into substantial towers, particular attention was paid to the site immediately west titled 470 Collins Street where Bates Smart have pondered the likelihood of a major tower.

Although unlikely to be developed due to recent refurbishments and an increasingly full tenancy, 470 Collins Street does provide the opportunity to yield a major tower in the future (concept below) and rather than provide separation between 464 Collins Street and any future 470 Collins Street development, Bates Smart have championed a back-to-back development scenario. This is somewhat of a self-serving argument given 464 Collins Street's miniscule site dimensions, and the architect's/developer's need to implement a side core in order to make any redevelopment viable.

<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/Image23_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bates Smart study with the expectation 470 Collins Street will be developed in time"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image23_1.jpg?itok=IJBb1PbP" title="Bates Smart study with the expectation 470 Collins Street will be developed in time" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

This in turn raises one obvious point of contention when viewing this planning application. Collins Street is the CBD's premier artery steeped in history, wealth and prestige. Whilst I appreciate the designs, dare and hope this project gains planning approval, the prospect of a sheer concrete wall the best part of 180m high on Collins Street (seen in middle render, first image) visible from vast areas of the city and surrounds is notionally unacceptable.

Granted the precast wall along a common boundary is common practice, but a tower of this size in this location exemplifies an emerging issue. Essentially a question of policy, do planning bodies allow the proliferation of blank walls or is there a solution(s) to this visual blight?

Blockhead returns tomorrow to <a href="/news/how-do-you-solve-a-problem-like-464">tackle this question with some innovative designs</a>.

All images © Bates Smart / Equiset.
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The pencil skyscraper > 464 Collins Street in depth

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Following a recent article highlighting a planning application submitted for <a href="/news/the-ecstacy-of-bronze-690-708-elizabeth-street-melbourne">690-708 Elizabeth Street</a> within close proximity to the Haymarket roundabout, another application has surfaced with Melbourne City Council in what has become a rash of neoteric residential projects within this pocket of North Melbourne. The subject of today's article, 5 Bedford Place is located on the south western corner of Haymarket roundabout, opposite the aforementioned 690-708 Elizabeth Street.

Nestled in behind the more recognisable former Turf Club Hotel at 1 Flemington Road, 3-5 Bedford Place is currently a low-rise brick warehouse complex which was formerly home to a small inner city facilities management business. With a relatively small surface area of 242.63sqm, the site falls within Melbourne City Council's City North Structure Plan covering a precinct expecting intensive redevelopment, with the immediate area generally subject to a 15 level or 60m height control.

<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/bford2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Existing site photos provided within the planning report. Image © Alfano Pty Ltd"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="475" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bford2.jpg?itok=OXbzBEK2" title="Existing site photos provided within the planning report. Image © Alfano Pty Ltd" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Existing site photos provided within the planning report. Image © Alfano Pty Ltd</figcaption></figure>Site owner GJ Angel &amp; AJ Nagger Superannuation Fund have employed the services of architect J.A Alfano and property consulting/town planning firm <a href="http://www.urbis.com.au/">Urbis Pty Ltd</a> to deliver a 16 level residential proposal for the gateway site. Included within the project are 33 apartments, broken down into 15 one bedroom options, 9 two bed options, 3 three bed and 6 studio offerings. Located on floors 1-3, the studio apartments are dedicated student housing where multiple apartments will share common living, dining and kitchen areas.

Levels 4-12 see four apartments per floor; three one bedroom options mixed with a solitary dual bedroom apartment while levels 13-15 are split between one and three bedroom options. Level 16 sees dual spacious three bedroom apartments, both with areas of 112sqm in contrast to lower levels where both one and two bedrooms apartments hover around the 50sqm mark.

Quoting from the planning application, "The materials and finishes applied to the proposed building have been designed to highlight the strong architectural innovation. The treatments applied to the facade will give the proposed building a soft and welcoming presence." To that end 3-5 Bedford Place if realised will consist of blue glazing, timber and green vegetation highlights, operable metal louvres, textured precast elements and a proposed lattice structure applied to the podium.

<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/bford1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="North east perspective of the proposed tower. Image © Alfano Pty Ltd"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="554" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bford1.jpg?itok=Qq1mBiJZ" title="North east perspective of the proposed tower. Image © Alfano Pty Ltd" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>North east perspective of the proposed tower. Image © Alfano Pty Ltd</figcaption></figure>In applying the green vine lattice to the podium, interest and activation is introduced as is an environmental presence in an otherwise unused, narrow passageway. Further green planters would be included over all east and west elevation balconies further enhancing the aesthetics of the proposed tower.

A grey water system would be incorporated where rain, sanitary and laundry waste water would be recycled in order provide capacity to flush all toilets through the apartment tower. A solar hot water system (seen below) would occupy otherwise unutilised roof top space providing heated water for residents leading to lower energy consumption. Interestingly a dual rubbish chute will be implemented with recyclables stored in a separate refrigerated chamber.

With one basement level, 3-5 Bedford Place would employ a <a href="http://www.multiparking.com.au/">KLAUS multiparking</a> triple-tier car stacker system to accommodate 12 vehicles. "The proposed implementation of the centralised car stacking device forms an integral part of the environmental &amp; sustainability strategy of the proposal in that it provides an extremely spatially efficient solution to vehicle storage....the stacker can in the future be retro-fitted to accommodate a range of market driven activities."

<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/bford.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Encolsed rooftop solar hot water sysytems. Image © Alfano Pty Ltd"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="518" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bford.jpg?itok=QxtHPJKt" title="Encolsed rooftop solar hot water sysytems. Image © Alfano Pty Ltd" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Encolsed rooftop solar hot water sysytems. Image © Alfano Pty Ltd</figcaption></figure>3-5 Bedford Place was submitted late April 2013 and has recently been publicly advertised by Melbourne City Council. A decision is pending.
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Planning Application > 5 Bedford Place, North Melbourne

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After observing Melbourne's built form growth over the last decade or so certain trends become evident where progress is made (generally for the better) and the public realm is all the better for it.  Think precast concrete panels and the first thing that comes to mind may well be the sheer edifices that many of Melbourne buildings employ where a common boundary is present.  As ugly and uninviting as they are, these precast walls are necessary but also give a negative connotation, precast walls = poor design.
Well, that's not always the case.  With improved technology and shifting mindsets, the humble precast panel has become far more integral to a building's design and appearance of late. The use of stylised precast panels has increased considerably owing to the ease and cost savings the medium offers.
One of the more interesting and recognisable buildings in recent years is Hive Apartments located in Carlton.  Seemingly the topic of endless online articles, the building's external centrepiece is a precast panel that as seen below has the ability to capture the attention of any passerby.  Euro Precast's <a href="http://www.europrecast.com.au/" target="_blank">website</a> description reads as follows:
"An exterior feature of the apartment is the word “HIVE” which is graffiti inspired and made out of precast.  The word Hive was pre made in the factory and then transported to site and installed before most of the renovations of the apartment took place. Concrete panel walls with unusual design and cut outs also complete this award winning apartment. A beautiful example of public art."
<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/Image1euro.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hive Carlton with its distinctive graffiti precast panel. Images © Euro Precast"><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/Image1euro.jpg?itok=J-lSp95z" title="Hive Carlton with its distinctive graffiti precast panel. Images © Euro Precast" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
See below a selection of Melbourne's more interesting buildings that rely upon precast panels to make an architectural statement.  It's by no means a definitive list but it does give an indication as to how the use of precast has evolved and where the future of the material lies; a more interesting, expressive building element that's far more engaging with the public realm.  Click an image for a larger view.
 
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The versatility of precast panels

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Eureka Tower may have stolen the limelight a few years ago yet for many Rialto Towers at 525 Collins Street is still the quintessential building that's instantly associated with Melbourne. A goliath of its day, the structure jointly designed by Gerard de Preu &amp; Partners plus Perrott Lyon Mathieson was officially opened during October 1986 and for the most has remained unchanged there after. Although owner <a href="http://www.grollogroup.com.au/grollo-property/development/rialto/" target="_blank">Grollo Group</a> had at varying times over the proceeding years sought to buy adjoining properties fronting King Street to facilitate further expansion, only recently have signs of redevelopment emerged.

First came the render below carried by<a href="http://f2architecture.com.au/experience/commercial-and-workplace/rialto-towers-2020/" target="_blank"> F2 Architecture</a> on their website. Having a history of work for Grollo Group's development and construction arm <a href="http://www.grollogroup.com.au/grollo-property/management/equiset/" target="_blank">Equiset</a>, including 737 Bourke Street Docklands, the well articulated, interactive and open design seen below would have been an impressive fit within the Collins Street vista.

<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/Ext_Entry-View.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="F2 Architecture vision for Rialto with open space maintained. Image © F2 Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Ext_Entry-View.jpg?itok=oli0UPzD" title="F2 Architecture vision for Rialto with open space maintained. Image © F2 Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>F2 Architecture vision for Rialto with open space maintained. Image © F2 Architecture</figcaption></figure>Evidently not, as an Australian Financial Review (AFR) article published 6th June 2013 detailed the proposed development. Designed by <a href="http://www.woodsbagot.com/" target="_blank">Woods Bagot</a> Architects, the $45 million dollar expansion would have delivered a six level forecourt building consisting 1,500sqm of retail space and an additional 5,000sqm of office space boosting total office space to an impressive 89,000sqm.

Lodged with Melbourne City Council late May, the planning application is now at a referral stage. Interestingly the AFR article states " It is in a planning zone which does not require a permit and the design will not be advertised." Addresses covered by the application include 487-535 Collins Street and 68-70 King Street.

Publically advertised or not Equiset have added an image of the Rialto redevelopment within their planning application for 464 Collins Street which lies diagonally opposite, both of which are designed by respected architecture firm<a href="http://www.batessmart.com.au/" target="_blank"> Bates Smart</a>.

<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/bsmart%20rialto.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed 525 Collins Street upgrade. Image © Equiset"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bsmart%20rialto.jpg?itok=jD6_KwUq" title="The proposed 525 Collins Street upgrade. Image © Equiset" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed 525 Collins Street upgrade. Image © Equiset</figcaption></figure>Should this be the new and actual expansion one can't help but feel a little underwhelmed by the design that seemingly breaks a glazed facade with either precast concrete panels or aluminium cladding. Bates Smart commercial projects are always aesthetically pleasing yet generally don't set the world on fire in terms of making a design statement or wow factor for lack of a better term.

Speaking as a lover of great design above all else, here's hoping the final, detailed renders when released shows Rialto Towers impending redevelopment in the best possible light given the development will occupy the prime Collins Street and King Street corner. Rialto is an imperious Melbourne building, it's only fitting any redevelopment is of an equal quality.
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Rialtooooohh boy! Is this 525 Collins Street's redevelopment unveiled?

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The majority of those residing in Brunswick are a special type. Equally at home swinging from tree to tree as they are crammed into a period cottage picking knits from others dread locked hair, they're not the type that take kindly to large apartment developments appearing on their doorstep.  For those who recall, 2009-1010 saw approval of a 14 level apartment tower at 284-294 Albert Street, within close proximity to kaleidoscopic Sydney Road.
Put forward by Brisbane-based developer Citimark, the then proposal was received with scorn and consternation from local residents given the proposal nearly doubled the structure plan envelope.  Upon approval, Moreland City Council came in for particular attention due to the community's anger and concern over the council's perceived lack of transparency and failure to notify residents adequately whilst leaving no right of appeal post  final approval. A summary of local residents concerns can be found <a href="http://brunswickresidentsunite.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/2010-06-24_brunswick-residents-meeting.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.
Fast forward and 284-294 Albert Street has re-emerged in recent weeks with Citimark associate firm <a href="http://www.cbddevelopments.com/" target="_blank">CBD Development Group Pty Ltd</a> enlisting <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/" target="_blank">Rothe Lowman</a> Architects to deliver a revised 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/Imagealb11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Both schemes side by side. 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/Imagealb11.jpg?itok=KDeQqhwz" title="Both schemes side by side. Image © Rothe Lowman" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Whilst generally maintaining the same dimensions as the initial approved scheme, the recently submitted amended proposal seeks approval for a mixed use building with one basement level dedicated toward car parking, four concealed above ground car park levels surrounded by 21 retail outlets of varying sizes and uses, restaurants, office space and 236 apartments. 222 car parking spaces are catered for as are 199 bicycle spaces.
Rothe Lowman have endeavored to provide the building's facades with more articulation and in the process have relocated the residents garden from level 1 to level 9 and into direct sunlight.  Mercifully all apartments with bedrooms that relied upon borrowed light have been deleted whilst the northern and western facades feature shading devices where previously there were none.  Without going into mass detail the Rothe Lowman scheme is superior to the initial approved design.
What's likely to raise eyebrows are the nominated increases within the revised planning application for what are essentially same for same buildings.  Apartment numbers increase within the Rothe Lowman design by 28% while vehicle parking increases by 20% and motorbike spaces increase 75%.  Locals may have lost out in size and bulk argument but substantial increases in apartment and vehicle numbers are red rags to a bull as seen in the proceeding paragraphs.
<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/Imagealb2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The revised 284-294 Albert Street, Brunswick in colour. 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/Imagealb2.jpg?itok=usuWArLF" title="The revised 284-294 Albert Street, Brunswick in colour. Image © Rothe Lowman" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Reported this week was news Moonee Valley Council recently refused the expansion of a landmark tower at 1 Ascot Vale Road, Flemington.  Directly opposite Flemington Racecourse, developer <a href="http://ozpropertygroup.com/" target="_blank">Oz Property Group</a> had sought to include 81 additional apartments and 48 additional car parking spaces within the approved envelope. The current scheme seen in the article slideshow below, was designed by <a href="http://www.dko.com.au/" target="_blank">dKO Architecture</a> and carries 219 apartments plus 92 apart-hotel rooms.
1 Ascot Vale Road Felmington was was the latest in a string of proposed developments for the site which included<a href="http://leader-news.whereilive.com.au/news/story/tower-trim-offer/" target="_blank"> this</a> interesting tree-laden tower some years ago.  Whilst the current design may have been approved for some time, the recent push by Oz Property Group for further changes managed to stir local emotions once more.  Quoted in the Moonee Valley Leader, Flemington Association vice-president stated "We were dismayed by the proposed changes and very relieved the council rejected it...It showed us what we've always known, that they're interested in maximising their profits. They want to crowd as much apartments in that development as possible."
Councillor Jim Cusack outlined the concerns Moonee Valley Council held over increased congestion, parking and infrastructure problems, stating "I appreciate that the developer thought 'if we're not changing the outside of the building it's okay'. Well, it's not okay."
Moral of the story - you can't stop progress but you sure can piss a few locals off in the process.  As with most things in life, finding a balance is the key.
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Incensing the locals...again!

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Late last year media reports surfaced of a unique office project to be built at 48 Easey Street, <a href="/new-apartments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood</a> after receiving Yarra City Council approval. Christened <a href="http://end-to-end.yolasite.com/">End To End</a>, the five level office complex would be crowned with three Hitachi motor carriages in a design drawing inspiration from Melbourne's train graffiti culture. The result of an <a href="/architects/itn-architects">ITN Architects</a> brainstorming session, the design is in stark contrast to the immediate areas heritage-rich surrounds, yet has been recognised as a novel method of preserving a slice of Melbourne's transport heritage.

Another in the architect's series of projects that sit outside the comfort zone, End To End will consist of six separate office spaces, two fetching prices around the $1.5 million dollar mark while the project website shows two remaining spaces left for sale. ITN Architects' Zvi Belling at the time suggested that some of the available space within the carriages may be dedicated toward and art gallery or public bar, hopefully allowing the wider community the chance to experience this distinctive piece of architecture.

<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/EASEY%20-%20HERO%20with%202%20available.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero image of End To End office complex. Image © ITN Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/EASEY%20-%20HERO%20with%202%20available.jpg?itok=NZfyo2O4" title="Hero image of End To End office complex. Image © ITN Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero image of End To End office complex. Image © ITN Architects</figcaption></figure>And so finally many months later and with the precision of a military operation the weekend passed saw the lift of the three Hitachi's into place atop End To End. The massive engineering exercise involved crews and specialised equipment from <a href="http://www.membreys.com.au/">Membrey's Transport</a>, <a href="http://www.membreys.com.au/">Skylift Cranes</a> and <a href="http://metcalfcranes.com.au/">Metcalf Cranes</a>, the latter employing their <a href="http://metcalfcranes.com.au/equipment/demag-ac350-350t-all-terrain">Terex Demag AC 350</a> (350T lift capacity) for the major lifting. Under the auspices of head contractor <a href="http://www.kalitek.com.au/">Kalitek Construction</a> the lead carriage or 'Platform 1' was placed atop the structure late Saturday afternoon to the amazement of the sizeable crowd present.

ITN Architects <a href="https://www.facebook.com/itnarchitects">Facebook page</a> now carries a variety of images of the lift.

<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/Image25_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Saturday evening's events as captured by ITN Architects and published on their Facebook page"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="244" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image25_2.jpg?itok=y-MyQsLF" title="Saturday evening's events as captured by ITN Architects and published on their Facebook page" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Saturday evening's events as captured by ITN Architects and published on their Facebook page</figcaption></figure>With all bogeys fixed in place at roof level prior to the lift, Sunday saw the two remaining carriages craned into position although strong winds delayed the installation of the last carriage for some time. Each carriage weighs approximately 30 tonnes minus bogeys (according to those onsite) and with millimetres to play with as the carriages were lowered into position, full marks to all involved that this complex feat of engineering went precisely as planned.

Also full marks to the architect for conceiving such a design and not shirking the issue at any stage of the development. Involved buildings such as End To End would inherently carry higher costs through design and construction, particularly considering the loading the concrete structure must now carry for the life of the development. That the more difficult and expensive option was pursued is a massive thumbs up! Something the average passerby mightn't consider; but at least they have something interesting, distinctive and engaging to view as they walk on by Easey Street.

A variety of site images taken during yesterday's lift can be seen below.
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Easey does it! End To End gains its train set

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Generally Apartments.com.au likes to go jump headlong into the details when a planning application arises, yet amongst the bevy of quality renders found in Grocon's latest submission for their CUB site rebirth is the image below. Originally placed on the <a href="/news">forum by Fedsquared</a> the plans make for interesting reading and the image below in particular raises more questions above anything else.

Quite literally the big boy on the block, the below render shows an indicative outline for the portion of the former CUB site that Grocon saw fit to offload to fellow developer <a href="http://celaustralia.com.au/" target="_blank">CEL Australia</a> earlier this year. A detailed article by <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/singaporean-developer-to-build-tower-at-melbourne-s-cub-site/2013040260146" target="_blank">Property Observer</a> during April suggested the <q>High-rise development will be built on a 2,927 sqm block on the southwest corner of the site, incorporating a two-storey, heritage-listed bluestone building.</q>

CEL Australia have indicated they plan to deliver 1000 apartments over this area; the question becomes how tall will a tower or towers need to be to accomodate 1000 dwellings given they are in the early stages of delivering <a href="/new-apartments/150-queen-street-melbourne">Tower Melbourne</a> with 581 apartments at 220m in height? I'm guessing something substantially taller.

<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/cub2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Much to consider; Tower 10 with neighbours. Image © Grocon / Studio 505"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/cub2.jpg?itok=WwhB27VZ" title="Much to consider; Tower 10 with neighbours. Image © Grocon / Studio 505" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

As for the Grocon scheme (seen with green rooftop above), looking over the planning application the question becomes why is it so diminutive. The land parcel in question allowed for a much taller tower in the vicinity of 120m in height above ground yet the application seeks approval for a 20 level tower at 60.4 m. Whilst the approved Comprehensive Development Zone allowed for nearly 80,000 m3 of built form Grocon have elected to utilise 68% of the allowable total which is neither right nor wrong, just interesting in a time where most developers seek to maximise their returns.

The other notable point taken from the above render is the unique shape of what is Building 1 or <a href="http://www.mcbridecharlesryan.com.au/" target="_blank">McBride Charles Ryan's</a> (MCR) contribution to the overall redevelopment. Those who know the history of this development will recall the numerous block forms and varying designs that have surfaced since Grocon took control of the site. The wave-like residential tower (above and below) has remained staunch for some time in the variety of masterplans that have been released.

Will Grocon stick with the crazy McBride Charles Ryan design for Building 1? I hope so - everyone needs a little MCR purple in their diet!

<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/CUB-5-full.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="MCR's scheme for the CUB site. Image © McBride Charles Ryan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/CUB-5-full.jpg?itok=FkueBbBg" title="MCR's scheme for the CUB site. Image © McBride Charles Ryan" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

And now down to business. Submitted by Grocon to State planning officials last month for consideration the site in question is located at 2-78 Bouverie Street, Carlton. Architecture firm <a href="http://www.studio505.com.au/" target="_blank">Studio 505</a> have teamed with Grocon to produce a residential tower externally rich in colour and form. Along with the now under construction <a href="/buildings/swanston-square-551-swanston-street-carlton" target="_blank">Swanston Square</a> residential tower, 2-78 Bouverie Street will comprise stage one of the CUB site redevelopment where stage two involves realising Buildings 1/2/3 and the development of Ballarat Street with the confines of the site.

Nestled in behind the site's historic bluestone Ale Store facade, the triangular tower is bound by Bouverie Street, what will be a new passage directly behind running through to Swanston Street and a striking wintergarden roof to the site's north, elements of which are seen in the first image. Residences will commence from the first floor onwards, including a limited number of duplexes directly behind the heritage facade whilst retail and wintergardens will fill spaces within the site at ground level.

Expected within the tower's 20 levels are 218 apartments, the lion's share of which are one and two bedroom options. Limited numbers of three and four bedroom options are also available while those lucky or savvy enough to purchase on level six can expect ceiling heights of 4.3 metres - rare by today's standards.

<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/cub1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The intricacy of it all. Image © Grocon / Studio 505"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/cub1.jpg?itok=7EUbjrn9" title="The intricacy of it all. Image © Grocon / Studio 505" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Externally the Bouverie Street facade is dominated by hexagonal shaped fins that whilst repelling heavy solar loads over warmer months will also act as a visual capture mimicking an abstract waterfall according to the planning application. The eastern facade in close proximity to the Swanston Square tower has seen Studio 505 implement a sawtooth patterned facade which gives residents a line of sight south directly down Swanston Street, the Shrine of Remembrance and beyond.

Capped by an 'urban park' atop the tower, 2-78 Bouverie Street's aims to achieve a minimum 4 star Green Star rating. As quoted <q>A preliminary Green Star assessment has been included to identify the progress that is being made toward achieving the sustainable design aspirations of the project. This matrix is being used by the design team to track progress of the sustainable design aspirations throughout the project.</q> This stance is in line with Grocon's Swanston Square project and signifies an overall position from the developer to deliver on sustainability - one of Grocon's core values.

Should this project gain approval ultimately one suspects the quality of finishes will determine its true design merit. Like many that have gone before it, skimp on the finishes and the tower might just look so-so externally; deliver a tower with impeccable quality and Melbourne may just have another built form landmark to add to its already impressive arsenal.
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Grocon's CUB site takes the next step

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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Mark Baljak

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