<html><body>
The unmistakable hum of hydraulic breakers have taken over in Collingwood of late. Contractor Delta Group has begun demolishing certain structures (including the northern silo store below) on the historic Yorkshire Brewery site. Developer/builder SMA Projects have site signage in place, Delta to date have made swift work of the malt silos whilst marketing material can now be found online, all of which points to an imminent sales campaign launch.

Firstly though, a brief overview. With beginnings in 1858, the site and structures were gradually increased over time as the brewery grew in size and popularity, reaching its zenith during the early 1900's. Subsequent purchase of Yorkshire Brewery by Carlton and United lead to a number of different site uses, with the malt store silos added during 1954. Summed by the Collingwood Historical Society as "A prominent Collingwood landmark for some 140 years and is of statewide significance both architecturally and as a remarkable survivor of Victoria's 19th century brewing industry;" the brew tower also seen below is the site's crowning glory.

For a succinct yet detailed history of the Yorkshire Brewery, visit the Collingwood Historical Society webpage <a href="http://www.collingwoodhs.org.au/index.php?p=2_4" target="_blank">here</a>.

<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_5922.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Part demolition of Yorkshire Brewery underway"><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_5922.jpg?itok=T23Q968w" title="Part demolition of Yorkshire Brewery underway" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Brand and marketing firm <a href="http://www.grenade.com.au/projects/35/yorkshire-brewery" target="_blank">Grenade</a> have devised a campaign with Yorkshire the working moniker for the new development. Conversely creative agency <a href="http://www.senseadvertising.com.au/portfolio/sma-projects-yb-apartments-brochure/" target="_blank">Sense</a> have also produced a campaign for SMA Projects, simply referring to the development as YB Apartments. Both have created an comprehensive marketing package, I guess the victor will be known soon enough.

Marketing maneuvers aside, Heritage Victoria saw it fit to grant a permit for the redevelopment of the former Yorkshire Brewery site, not requiring any changes to be made to the plans. As the Yorkshire Brewery site is on the Victorian Heritage Register, it was mandatory for SMA Projects to seek a permit from Heritage Victoria. To that end project architect Hayball have retained the brew tower, cellar building, stable space and limited silo structure within the approved plans, whilst a new 17 level tower will be set well back form the brew tower, maintaining view lines as much as possible.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image62.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Hayball"><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/Image62.jpg?itok=5cfENPf2" title="Image © Hayball" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Addressed 1-21 Robert Street, <a href="/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood the development</a> will contain 350 apartments over a variety of buildings ranging between two level townhouses to the aforementioned 17 level tower, which fronts Waterloo Road. Total carparks number 336 while 200 storage cages would also be provided.

Following initial rejection by Yarra City Council, the development team lodged amended plans, with a number of changes revolving around building positioning and setbacks including:

<ul>
<li>Increased setbacks between the central apartment building and the north-west apartment building (14 storeys) to a minimum of 7.2m</li>
	<li>An additional setback of 6m average is provided to levels 13-16 of the 17 storey apartment building from Waterloo Road</li>
	<li>A reduced setback of the north-western apartment building to a minimum of 15.7m from the north-south carriageway</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/Render2_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy grenade.com.au"><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/Render2_1.jpg?itok=E3RiL1KN" title="Image courtesy grenade.com.au" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Given the development's position, historic setting and surrounding amenity it's a fair assumption it will sell handsomely when released. Great for the developer but the crux of whether this will be a successful development or not will lie in how it interacts with its heritage surrounds, indeed will there be a seamless merge between old and new whilst providing excellent amenity and activation for residents? I may not be the person to answer that in any official capacity, but i just might let my trusty Canon do the talking when the time comes.
</body></html>

silvermb

Game On for YB Collingwood

<html><body>
Following a recent <a href="/news/lorimer-precinct-artisan-architects-lead-the-way" target="_blank">article</a> highlighting Artisan Architects exploits in Fishermans Bend's Lorimer Precinct, they return in todays piece with yet another planning application. 166-168 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne was lodged with DPCD officials during April and like all other planning applications located in Fishermans Bend, will need to wait until a comprehensive State Government Fishermans Bend structure plan is released prior to any application decision being made...although that doesn't preclude UrbanMelbourne.info from having a closer look.

Artisan Architects have teamed with leading town planning firm <a href="http://www.urbis.com.au/" target="_blank">Urbis Pty Ltd </a>to produce this scheme on behalf of Kushinda Pty Ltd, not exactly a well known developer so one makes the assumption they currently hold ownership of the site. Located within Montague Precinct, the application seeks the approval of a 20 level predominantly residential building reaching 64 metres in height. Surrounding applications lodged with DPCD are of a considerably larger nature, yet given 166-168 Buckhurst Street's relatively small plot size, understandably it comes in as the shortest Fishermans Bend planning application do date.

<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_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="166-168 Buckhurst Street northern aspect, South Melbourne seen in current context. Image © Artisan Architects"><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_9.jpg?itok=VJAd73zo" title="166-168 Buckhurst Street northern aspect, South Melbourne seen in current context. Image © Artisan Architects" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Visually 166-168 Buckhurst Street maintains the trademark Artisan Architects eclectic style, almost an 'order amongst chaos' theme. To that end the finishes schedule is a near malaise of materials, combining to create a unique tower. Facade materials include metal louvres, textured precast concrete, metal cladding in a variety of colours, graphic patterned glass, clear glass balustrades and timber cladding.

The tower itself consists of an articulated five level podium with active street frontage, highlighted by a graphic green glass screen and swimming pool at level five visible from street level. Ground floor includes a 166sqm commercial tenancy with podium floors above also containing commercial space. These tenancies act as a veil for the above ground carparking, stores and services found throughout the podium, which includes 63 car parking spaces, 1 motorbike space and 36 bicycle bays, all accessed via a rear service lane.

The tower itself is set back from the podium and hosts 88 residential apartments over 15 levels. 166-168 Buckhurst Street seeks approval for 49 one bedroom apartments and 39 two bedroom  apartments, over a number of apartment size/layout options. One bedroom options range from 42sqm to 46sqm while two bedroom options start at 51sqm and round out at 62sqm in size while balcony sizes lie between 5sqm and 7sqm. At first glance one could deduce these apartments aren't aimed at the opulent end of the apartment market, rather seemingly designed to fulfill current market trends or expectations. Having said that a single bedroom, 42sqm apartment is certainly an acquired taste for the prospective occupier.

<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/Image662.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Buckhurst Street perspective. Image © Artisan Architects"><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/Image662.jpg?itok=urfXq8Yf" title="Buckhurst Street perspective. Image © Artisan Architects" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Residential amenities are slated to include a gym, elevated garden and the aforementioned pool facing Buckhurst Street. Potentially of more importance to any future residents would be the prospect of a Green Travel Plan scheme which is no certainty to eventuate, but would be of tremendous value through encouraging residents to cycle or use provided myki cards for travel needs. The planning application also notes the likelihood of a Car Share scheme on the proviso a suitable operator is secured.

ESD aspects included within 166-168 Buckhurst Street's design centers around the minimal use of water. This is achieved through all fittings carrying a minimum 3 star WELS rating over all water outlets, 4 star WELS for toilets and WELS 5 star for kitchen and laundry mixers. These measures are further enforced with the intended collection of roof and podium rainwater for landscape irrigation and toilet use. Solar panels are expected to be installed on the rooftop, principally providing heating for the residents pool. The buildings facade has been designed with one eye toward the future by selecting materials and paint with low VOC/low emissions, thereby reducing future maintenance and increasing building longevity.

As outlined earlier no planning decision for 166-168 Buckhurst Street has been made as yet. More to follow...
</body></html>

Artisan reloaded > 166-168 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne

<html><body>
An interesting if not potentially controversial planning application in focus for today's article. Lodged in recent weeks with Yarra City Council, the application involving 62-70 Johnston Street, Fitzroy seeks the approval of a seven level residential building in and amongst the eclectic grandeur of Fiztroy's Johnston Street precinct.
Going through the particulars, the application was lodged by Ridolfi Architecture in conjunction with Sophie Jordan Consulting on behalf of Terrapee Glen Pty Ltd. With 53 apartments over 6 retail tenancies, the application would see 20 vehicle spaces and 53 bicycle bays within one basement level accessed via a service lane to the site's rear. The 760sqm site is unique in that it is the odd structure out in this section of Johnston Street, characterised by lowrise, late nineteenth century buildings and covered by the South Fitzroy Precinct heritage overlay. In contrast the existing site structure dates from the late twentieth century (below) and carries no heritage character or significance, opening the door for the 23.8 metre high application with considerable Johnston Street frontage.
Of the 53 intended apartments, 43 would be single bedroom options, 9 would carry dual bedrooms leaving a solitary three bedroom apartment. Given the immediate area's demographic profile, one could understand the skewed tendency toward single bedroom apartments, with likely buyers to be young owner-occupiers or investors with rental prospects in tow.
<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/Image9_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Subject site according to Google Maps"><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/Image9_7.jpg?itok=NN0YMsmD" title="Subject site according to Google Maps" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
To highlight the sensitive environment which this building seeks to insert itself into, the associated heritage report provided by Lovell Chen goes into great detail regarding the nature of surrounding buildings. To the subject site's east lie "A row of double-storey rendered brick shops, the easternmost of which addresses the corner of Fitzroy Street. These shops were constructed in 1902. West of 62-70 Johnston Street sits the Kinnaird's Buildings, a row of five double-storey shops with residences above. "This building was constructed in 1891...and is identified as individually significant within the precinct."
Seemingly out of context with surrounding buildings, the application does touch upon recent developments in the area to strengthen its cause. The former Bullring at 85-87 Johnston Street was developed into a five level apartment and retail complex while adjacent to 62-70 Johnston Street lies Abito Apartments, although at seven levels it is set well back from Johnston Street with a Fitzroy Street address.
<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_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="62-70 Johnston Street intended streetscape. Image © Ridolfi 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/Image8_7.jpg?itok=hMOzaTR4" title="62-70 Johnston Street intended streetscape. Image © Ridolfi Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Immediate surrounds aside, the proposal calls for a four level podium setback 1.6 metres from Johnston Street. Ground floor will carry dark glazing while the following three levels will feature a satin white facade and broken into six distinct elements. The podium height and colour serves to continue the existing building height and bulk of Johnston Street, for lack of a better word camouflaging its presence to the average passerby.
Level five maintains a 3.7 metre setback to Johnston Street, while levels six and seven incorporate setbacks of 5.8 metres and 8.9 metres. Ridolfi Architecture have defined these stepped back upper levels by incorporating a aluminium mesh facade and darker precast elements, providing heavy contrast to lower levels. The southern aspect will include limited setbacks of between 1.5 and 2 metres, while all Johnston Street podium balconies will be 1.6 metres deep with high balustrades; in effect limiting what the average pedestrian could see from street level.
<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_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="South East perspective. Image © Ridolfi 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_14.jpg?itok=FvkzE9YI" title="South East perspective. Image © Ridolfi Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Citing the heritage report once more, the crux of this development is found with a number of pertinent question posed by relevant Yarra City Council heritage overlay guidelines, they include:
<ul>
<li>
		Whether the location, bulk, form or appearance of the proposed building directly affect the significance of the heritage place</li>
	<li>
		Whether the location, bulk, form or appearance of the proposed building keep within character and appearance of adjacent buildings and heritage place</li>
	<li>
		Whether the proposed works will adversely affect the significance, character or appearance of the heritage place</li>
	<li>
		Does the intended development respect the pattern, rhythm, orientation....and heritage character of the surrounding historic streetscape</li>
	<li>
		Will the intended development be visually recessive and not dominate the heritage place</li>
</ul>
You, I and council planning staff will most likely come to the same conclusion when considering the above factors, yet a number of contemporary apartments buildings in the area do lend weight to this planning application gaining approval. Ultimately though it's yet another proposed development that like many others, will be monitored by UrbanMelbourne.info until a result is announced.
</body></html>

A sore thumb on Johnston Street?

<html><body>
Much has been said and written about the intended urban renewal of the Fishermans Bend area. To date the State Government has yet to release a coherent structure plan and consequently refused to approve any applications until said structure plan is realised, while all the time planning applications for the area have landed at the Department of Planning &amp; Community Development's (DPCD) offices with regular monotony. Of these applications, all have fallen within the high-density Montague Precinct.

That is, until now with Montague's dominance broken in part by Artisan Architects. Lorimer Precinct is northern-most precinct of Fishermans Bend that sits in behind the Mirvac controlled Yarra's Edge Precinct within Docklands. Acting as the transitional area between Docklands and Fishermans Bend, Lorimer has received two new planning applications that carry Artisan Architects unmistakable design fingerprints all over.

<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/Image9_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="DPCD Fishermans Bend urban renewal map"><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/Image9_6.jpg?itok=tSQtQhKc" title="DPCD Fishermans Bend urban renewal map" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Submitted to DPCD a few short days ago by Ratio Consultants Pty Ltd, the proposed development (below) has been devised on behalf of Belsize Nominees Pty Ltd &amp; Cojas Holdings Pty Ltd. Located at 150 Turner Street, Port Melbourne the site is in immediate proximity to the CityLink Lorimer Street offramp. Consequently a six level podium has been incorporated, equaling the CityLink offramp in terms of height. 252 car spaces, bicycle bays and associated services are located through the podium, as is one retail space and limited office accommodation.

The scheme call for 24 levels of apartments to follow. Sitting along a north-south axis, the residential levels are planned to contain 361 apartments, with expansive eastern views toward Melbourne's ever-changing skyline. 150 Turner Street would hold 35,150sqm of gross floor area while net sellable area of 21,490sqm is envisaged. Currently a open air carpark, Artisan Architects were confronted by a difficult site with aerial impediments. To counter this, Artisan have employed heavily repetitive design patterns over East, West and podium aspects to maintain visual interest whilst also breaking the sheer bulk of the proposed 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/Image7_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="150 Turner Street, Port Melbourne. Image © Artisan Architects"><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_13.jpg?itok=3QKvqKHb" title="150 Turner Street, Port Melbourne. Image © Artisan Architects" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

In close proximity, 351 Ingles Street Port Melbourne (below) will be lodged with DPCD in coming weeks. When lodged, it will become the largest proposed redevelopment handled by State planners since the rezoning of Fishermans Bend, and one of the largest devised for any area of Melbourne. Built and owned by Salta Properties until early 2012, the Citiport Business Park currently holds sway over the site. Early last year GPT purchased the site for $61 million and currently have the premises listed on their <a href="http://www.gpt.com.au/Our-Business/Our-Properties/Citiport-Business-Park,-Port-Melbourne" target="_blank">website</a> at near full occupancy, with average leases expiring in 2.3 years.

Located directly behind the townhouse component of Yarra's Edge, Artisan Architects have devised a five tower scheme that would capitalise on extensive views still available, owing to the established lowrise area opposite coupled with the Yarra nearby. Of the five towers, the tallest would rise 45 levels and approximately 140m which would be of a similar height to the existing/approved towers at Yarra's Edge located slightly to the east. The headline statistics for 351 Ingles Street read as follows:

<ul>
<li>5 towers, over two separate podiums</li>
	<li>1915 apartments</li>
	<li>1509 car spaces</li>
	<li>Gross Floor Area - 184,500sqm</li>
	<li>Net Sellable Area - 90,900sqm</li>
	<li>Office space - 14,038sqm</li>
	<li>Retail space - 2,557sqm</li>
	<li>Public plaza and arcade - 1,804sqm</li>
</ul>
Given the immense size of the proposal it surely won't be too long before mainstream media report on this application.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image8_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="351 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne. Image © Artisan Architects"><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_6.jpg?itok=EV5-ZZqQ" title="351 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne. Image © Artisan Architects" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

It's encouraging that applications such as the duo above are starting to flow through the Lorimer Precinct, hopefully acting as the metaphorical bridge over the divide between Docklands and what will be the heart of Fishermans Bend via the Montague and Sandridge Precincts.

Having said that, these applications do raise a number of wider questions. What of the potential acoustic and liveability issues of apartments spaces metres away from a number of Melbourne's ever-busy arterials? Will the current Route 238 bus that runs along Lorimer Street sufficiently cope with the expected population explosion and what improvements in public transport are planned for Lorimer Precinct? Are these merely applications that are designed to increase land value, prior to the site being onsold? Can an area hemmed in by the Westgate Freeway truly be a successful and enjoyable urban environment, given similar areas of Southbank struggle in such regards?

UrbanMelbourne.info can't answer these questions, here's hoping those responsible for Fishermans Bend can. Regardless Artisan Artchitects have produced two unique proposals that would surely make for interesting markers within the Lorimer Precinct.

Images © Artisan Architects

See the image catalogue for both projects in their respective forum threads

<a href="/news">150 Turner Street</a>

<a href="/news">351 Ingles Street</a>
</body></html>

Lorimer Precinct; Artisan Architects lead the way

<html><body>
How appropriate that architecture firm <a href="http://www.lyonsarch.com.au/" target="_blank">Lyons</a> have received recognition during the 2013 Victorian Architecture Awards for two of their most recent projects. One would assume it's no coincidence that Lyons have been, and continue to be so prolific in designing unique buildings for a host of Melbourne's tertiary educational bodies owing to their unique, colourful and at times obscure style.
Completed late last year, the Swanston Academic Building (below) for RMIT scored a gong in the Public Architecture (New) Awards category, hosted by the Victorian chapter of the Australian Institute of  Architects. Given its prime position toward the northern end of Swanston Street, it certainly captures the eye.
  <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_5477.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="RMIT's Swanston Academic Building "><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_5477.jpg?itok=Kaz1pw7X" title="RMIT's Swanston Academic Building " typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Early 2013 heralded the completion of another Lyons academic gem, the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS) building at the Bundoora campus. No less impressive, but holding an inconspicuous position amongst aged brown-brick buildings on university grounds, the multi-purpose facility received a Public Architecture (New) Commendation during the recent awards night.
Quoting Archdaily, the facility "Will meet the University’s long-term needs in terms of student learning and research in the science disciplines. Lyons were appointed following a design competition sponsored by the Australian Institute of Architects. An integral part of the brief was for the project to have a ‘transformative’ effect in terms of the architecture and identity of the campus, which had previously been built within the strict guidelines for materials and heights." For a comprehensive overview of LIMS, visit archdaily.com's <a href="http://www.archdaily.com/355680/la-trobe-institute-for-molecular-science-lyons/" target="_blank">article</a>.
<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_7587.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS) "><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_7587.jpg?itok=UKBiKuAb" title="The La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS) " typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
 
	Two additional Lyons-designed research-education facilities are also currently under construction in Melbourne's outer suburbs. Lend Lease have taken control of a site at Monash University's Clayton campus with the task of delivering the Green Chemical Future building seen below left. According to Monash, the facility "Will be a benchmark, 9,500m2multi-level design facility .. achieving a 5-star Green Star Design and As-Built rating. It will support the academic and industrial research within the chemicals sector in Australia and will provide world-class research to expand Australia's 'green workforce'. Green Chemical Futures will house over 100 chemists and engineers and will allow the growth of basic science research to targeted industry driven research. It will have 17 specialist sectors, training programmes for industry practitioners and new laboratory spaces available for over 1000 students and 100 industry partners."
At La Trobe University's Bundoora Campus, a large blue tower crane commissioned by Kane Constructions is well advanced in delivering the Melbourne Building Project (below right). The $32 million six level teaching facility will encompass 7,500sqm of floor area when complete, whilst also carrying a 5-star Green Star design rating under the Education v1 rating system.
<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_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Green Chemical Future (left) and Melbourne Building Project. Images © Lyons"><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_14.jpg?itok=dQxZaNtd" title="Green Chemical Future (left) and Melbourne Building Project. Images © Lyons" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Yet the star of today's article is the stupendously good New Horizons building, also at Monash University's Clayton campus. A joint Monash University - CSIRO research and teaching facility, the $150 million complex was funded by the aforementioned two along with capital input from the Federal Government. New Horizons is "The first research building of its magnitude and energy density in Australia to achieve a  6 Green Star – Education Design rating." For detailed information on New Horizons, visit Monash University's page <a href="http://www.eng.monash.edu.au/news/new-horizons/" target="_blank">here</a>.
The project teams consist of the following firms
<a href="http://www.lyonsarch.com.au/" target="_blank">Lyons Architects</a>                                              <a href="http://www.johnstaff.com.au/%E2%80%8E" target="_blank">Johnstaff Projects</a>
<a href="http://www.probuild.com.au" target="_blank">Probuild Construction </a>                                   <a href="http://www.bonaccigroup.com" target="_blank">Bonacci</a>
<a href="http://www.irwinconsult.com.au" target="_blank">Irwinconsut</a>                                                       <a href="http://www.umowlai.com.au" target="_blank">Umow Lai</a>
<a href="http://www.dcwc.com.au" target="_blank">Donald Cant Watts Corke</a>                              <a href="http://www.rimmington.com.au" target="_blank">Rimmington &amp; Associates</a>
Rather than wax lyrical about the virtues of Lyons' New Horizons building, I'll allow the photo set below to do the talking. 
</body></html>

A Lyons masterclass

<html><body>
Derided by locals and poised to be sold as a development site, 6 St Kilda Road has proven to be an unmitigated success – as the sales testify, with over 60% of the project sold in advance of the public launch. A product of Pace Development Group and conceived by Jackson Clement Burrows Architects, the tower was criticised through mainstream media and local opposition group websites during the approval process. Yet as its public launch neared, multiple high quality renders have been released showing a well articulated, interesting and unique residential tower in a prime position.

<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/external_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/external_0.jpg?itok=KGSjGHeG" title="Image © Pace Development Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Now branded The Icon, St Kilda and having had amended plans approved by VCAT during May, the still 18 level tower now has 11 additional residences while the ground floor office space has been replaced by a 160 seat restaurant, bringing further activation and interest to the building at ground level. Perforated folding metal screens will shroud the glass facade, with no less than 40 different colours to adorn the building, in complete contrast to the current building onsite sporting a white facade which also acts as the display suite.

119 apartments are incorporated, with one, two and three bedrooms available. Top end apartment layouts include three bedrooms, two bathrooms and two carpark spaces. Interiors are architecturally designed and of exceptionally high quality, with Miele appliances, timber floorboards and magnificent upgrade options. Balconies are large, and the striking façade allows external areas to be transformed to increase internal living spaces." With a choice of internal colour schemes and balconies that can be converted to useable internal spaces, the flexibility of The Icon will be a major selling point for potential buyers.

<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/Kitchen1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Kitchen1_0.jpg?itok=4rkRoBZ_" title="Image © Pace Development Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Given its position perched atop St Kilda Junction, the majority of apartments through the 56 metre high complex will hold excellent views in all directions, including Bay/Peninsula, Dandenongs, City and Albert Park aspects. The Icon's facilities include a Teppanyaki Barbeque Deck, common Dining Room, 2 kitchen areas, communal lounge area with suspended fireplace and gym facilities. Along with the redesigned ground level comes a cafe space for residents and visitors alike. Facilities aside, the exemplary design, quality finishes and cracking location suggest The Icon St Kilda will be an instant sales success when released for public sale, which happens to be today.

<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">Teppanyaki Barbeque Deck, Grand Dining Room, 2 kitchen areas, Lounge area with stunning suspended fireplace &amp; wine lockers, and personal training studio - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

<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/Looking-in_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Looking-in_0.jpg?itok=hVBfuC8k" title="Image © Pace Development Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Apartments are priced as follows:

<ul>
<li>1 bedroom apartments from $340,000</li>
	<li>2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000</li>
	<li>3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000</li>
</ul>
<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">1 bedroom apartments from $340,000 
2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000 
3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000 - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">1 bedroom apartments from $340,000 
2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000 
3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000 - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">1 bedroom apartments from $340,000 
2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000 
3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000 - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">1 bedroom apartments from $340,000 
2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000 
3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000 - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">1 bedroom apartments from $340,000 
2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000 
3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000 - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

Visit <a href="http://theiconstkilda.com.au" target="_blank">theiconstkilda.com.au</a> for further information, and see the YouTube clip below. As the new saying goes, a YouTube clip is worth a thousand words.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" scrolling="no" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/2OSKLA2WR0I" width="100%"></iframe>
</body></html>

The Icon, St Kilda

<html><body>
Given it's a long weekend, a brief article today highlighting two developments that I believe should be the benchmark for all medium sized apartment developments in Melbourne when it comes to green credentials.

First up, <a href="http://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/Planning--Building/Major-developments/97-99-Rose-Street-Fitzroy/" target="_blank">VCAT have recently overturned a Yarra City Council decision</a> to reject an apartment proposal at 97-99 Rose street, Fitzroy. Going by the name Rawhouse, the development has been jointly conceived by Breathe Architecture and Small Giants as a follow-up to their <a href="/news/is-this-melbournes-best-new-residential-development" target="_blank">Commons</a> project in Brunswick. Holding 12 apartments, 22 bike spaces and a restaurant at ground, no car parking has been included due to the area's excellent public transport connectivity.

<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/Image322.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Breathe Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image322.jpg?itok=gmpjoAG3" title="Image © Breathe Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Mirroring Commons, Rawhouse is also laden with <a href="/news/6-of-australia-s-top-sustainable-architectural-design-trends">ESD</a> features, including an open stairwell (below) which allows natural light and ventilation to foster a living facade. The building's timber and concrete finishes will be simple in their nature and recycled where possible allowing high insulation, high thermal and acoustic performance, low energy demands and an optimal living environment.

Further, rainwater will be harvested for reuse in toilet flushing while captured water will also serve all greenery via an irrigation system. Rawhouse is designed to be naturally ventilated and is expected to be a 100% green energy building. A fully useable rooftop green space will feature both winter (north) and summer (south) spaces with vegetable garden plots available. Extensive solar panels and solar hot water panels round out the 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/Image3233.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Breathe Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3233.jpg?itok=tYEEHU69" title="Image © Breathe Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Secondly, <a href="http://illura.com.au/" target="_blank">Illura Apartments</a> located at <a href="http://maps.google.com.au/maps?q=87-101+Roden+Street+West+Melbourne&amp;hl=en&amp;sll=-37.807521,144.948657&amp;sspn=0.003666,0.008256&amp;gl=au&amp;hnear=87-101+Roden+St,+West+Melbourne+Victoria+3003&amp;t=m&amp;z=17" target="_blank">87-101 Roden Street West Melbourne</a> is nearing completion. Conceived by Elenberg Fraser Architects with Tract Consultants (landscaping) for Manhattan Hansen Group, the 92 one and two bedroom project has been delivered by Construction Engineering.

Featured over the facade are four vertical garden panels holding native grasses, mirroring the area's ecology prior to settlement. An internal grey water system fed by apartment showers will ensure there is ample sustenance for the greenery.

If nothing else, Illura's facade looks stunning!
</body></html>

Two thumbs up!

<html><body>
Given City of Port Phillip's resolute preference for a 100m height limit over the Montague precinct of the Fishermans Bend urban renewal project, they may well be sent into an apoplectic state should this exceptional concept design eventually come to fruition. Delivered by Architecton for an undisclosed client, it carries the address 120-132 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne. Currently home to a nondescript low level brown brick factory, the 1207sqm site may well become the areas landmark tower based on the images below.

For comparison's sake the block form below left is the 165m, <a href="/buildings/134-142-ferrars-street-south-melbourne">143-142 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne</a> scheme designed by Rothe Lowman which is currently under planning consideration.

<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/hd_2a61dc01bc07d143b94071bef3ac1863.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Architecton"><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/hd_2a61dc01bc07d143b94071bef3ac1863.jpg?itok=2yZqFJfj" title="Image © Architecton" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

The design calls for retail and lobby facilities through the ground floor, followed by five levels of podium carparking. Thereafter residential apartments would rise to level 60, with (sub)penthouses to level 68. Level 69 includes a plant room while the remainder consists of essentially a sloping architecture feature measuring 235m to tip.

<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/Image51.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Architecton"><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/Image51.jpg?itok=YGIjYZJR" title="Image © Architecton" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Granted the concept design is just that, but it would not have been commissioned with a basis of intent. When a planning application is eventually submitted for 120-132 Ferrars Street, it will be interesting to see what scale tower is called for and whether the above concept is an accurate precursor to the fact.

If nothing else Architecton's concept poses the question; should Montague have a signature tower much like what Eureka is to Southbank, or should the area be content in churning out towers of uniform height and bulk? I would suggest any precinct/skyline is far more dynamic with a degree of variety, so by all means add a tower of this scale on the proviso the design quality is of the highest calibre.

See Architecton's <a href="http://www.architecton.com.au/34556/1408291/select-projects/ferrars-street-south-melbourne" target="_blank">Ferrars Street project</a> webpage for further information and images
</body></html>

CoPP that! 235m tower for Fishermans Bend?

<html><body>
So the half year has come and gone, an opportune moment then to take a brief look at what Hosier Lane and Rutledge Lane have thrown up during the first half of 2013. Ever changing, most of the images through the area live a short life, superseded by new and interesting artworks on a regular basis.

For what it's worth, this piece below is my standout. Appearing in June it's subtle yet with a detail that allows her eyes to seemingly follow the viewer - great stuff!

<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_4889.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sitting comfortably within its confines"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_4889.jpg?itok=xM1kjYDN" title="Sitting comfortably within its confines" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
<figcaption>Sitting comfortably within its confines</figcaption></figure>Enjoy the images below of Hosier and Rutledge Lane's, and the many people who frequent them.
</body></html>

Hosier Lane: half yearly snapshot

<html><body>
A closer look today at one of the ever increasing number of planning applications that eventually intend to call the Joseph Road Precinct of Footscray home. 1 Warde Street was submitted to state government body DPCD last year for approval, although as yet no planning decision has been revealed. Devised by <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/#!/" target="_blank">Elenberg Fraser</a> for burgeoning property developers Urban Inc, and with the working name Romeo and Juliet, 1 Warde Street is already visible on <a href="http://urbaninc.com.au/pages/ajax/places/romeo-and-juliet#" target="_blank">Urban Inc's website</a> and forms part of the developers intended future development stock.

Located well back within the Joseph Street Precinct, 1 Warde Street's 2181sqm site would be hemmed in by the already approved <a href="/new-apartments/12-moreland-street-footscray" target="_blank">10 Moreland Street </a>development to the east, and the Footscray rail reserve to the west. Stage One is the smaller, 19 level tower whilst the taller Stage Two would match its intended neighbour at 26 levels, thereby not exceeding a height transition line as seen below.

<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_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Warde street as seen from Newell Street, Footscray."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_2.jpg?itok=H0YQLKXx" title="1 Warde street as seen from Newell Street, Footscray."></a>

As per the submission, 1 Warde Street would contain 311 apartments over two towers which when completed would appear as one solid structure. 263 car parking spaces would be available over five levels, as would be 211 bicycle bays. Overall height of the buildings would round out at 63m and 84m respectively, with Stage 1 including 140 apartments whilst the taller Stage 2 allows for 171 residential dwellings. All apartments will be a choice of one and two bedroom options.

Both rooftops would include useable areas for residents with stage 1 incorporating communal indoor and outdoor lounges, sundecks, landscaping, kitchen and a barbeque area. Stage 2 holds an altogether similar layout with the exception being a gym incorporated into the facility, offering excellent views.

Double level SOHO commercial spaces will be available at ground fronting either Warde Street or Neilson Place, as will apartments, a dedicated restaurant space and an 84sqm cafe. These retail spaces will front an intended public park directly west of the proposed development.

<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/Image2_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Warde street as seen from Wightman Street within the Joseph Street Precinct."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2_14.jpg?itok=1LVx1yRs" title="1 Warde street as seen from Wightman Street within the Joseph Street Precinct."></a>

Heavily resembling Elenberg Fraser's previous project <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/#!/project/clara" target="_blank">Clara</a>, 1 Warde Street's podium is designed to mimic an "Eroded, porous, inhabited base. It provides a continuous streetscape and an urban scale to Warde Street." Conversely the tower element has incorporated a number of vertical elements, with Elenberg Fraser describing the tower as "A light crystalline cluster of volumes. It introduces verticality above the podium level and provides articulated surfaces that structure the built form."

Bombastic language aside, the architects aim is to create two contrasting elements, they being the podium and tower. Particularly pleasing is the use of greenery over the carpark levels. Not only does the greenery hide the inactive perforated metal screens, it ties in nicely with the intended park greenery of the immediate area.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image11_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cause and effect, 1 Warde Street inspirations."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_5.jpg?itok=IlLzbGr3" title="Cause and effect, 1 Warde Street inspirations."></a>

As expected, Maribyrnong City Council have voiced opposition over a number of issues relating to this application. 1 Warde Street has failed to gain support from City of Maribyrnong based on the following factors.

<ul>
<li>The proposal significantly exceeds the 12 storey height limit allowed under local policy</li>
	<li>The proposal fails to provide an appropriate land use mix, with recreation and community uses lacking in particular</li>
	<li>The proposal fails to provide diversity in housing choice</li>
	<li>Overshadowing issues</li>
	<li>Unacceptable internal amenity for occupants due to wind impacts</li>
	<li>Insufficient carparking provisions</li>
</ul>
Whilst Council have submitted the above injections, they have also requested that upon gaining approval (in whatever form that may be) via DPCD, a Development Contribution of $900 per dwelling be imposed, which is higher than what has been allowed for in the planning application.

Whereas a number of planning applications in the Joseph Road Precinct have been put forward by non-developers seeking to sell their land parcel with planning approval in place, 1 Warde Street may well be the first development to break ground. Working on the assumption that 1 Warde Street will eventually gain planning approval from DPCD, its likely Urban Inc as a property developer will see this application through to fruition.

All images above taken from DPCD planning application and © Elenberg Fraser Architects.
</body></html>

Planning Application > 1 Warde Street, Footscray

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.

A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.

Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.

From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.

The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]

Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.

A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.

Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360966]

Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.

“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.

Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360969]

Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.

The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.

“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”

The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.

The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]

Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

<main data-perf-region="main">
Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Mark Baljak

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News