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A company associated with <a href="http://www.littleprojects.com.au/" target="_blank">Little Projects</a> is awaiting a planning decision from Minister Guy's department for a large residential complex on the banks of the Maribyrnong River. Located within the currently vacant <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Page/Page.aspx?Page_id=2220" target="_blank">Joseph Road Precinct</a> that is earmarked for intensive redevelopment, Devcorp (Vic) Pty Ltd is the applicant for the subject site, 2 Hopkins Street Footscray. Whilst City of Maribyrnong have voiced their opposition to the scheme and called for improved planning controls for the precinct, ultimate responsibility rests with state planning body DPCD.
Considered the precinct's most important site due to its proximity to Maribyrnong River, <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au/" target="_blank">Plus Architecture</a> have subsequently incorporated a large tranche of open space slicing through the middle of the site, allowing future residents living deeper within the precinct direct access to the Maribyrnong River's bank and facilities.
<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_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site overview and ground layout. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3_13.jpg?itok=FRX1Di_C" title="Site overview and ground layout. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
The scheme calls for four distinctive buildings of 16, 18, 20 and 25 levels holding a total 774 apartments. Of those 278 will be one bedroom, 496 two bedroom with no 3 bedroom or penthouse apartments available. Above ground podiums will accomodate 759 car parking bays (including 50 visitor parking spaces), 277 bicycle spaces while each apartment also receives at least one storage cage.
Intended building heights range between 50 and 82 meters. The tallest tower would sit to the site's north-west corner while a distinctive angular glass tower would front Hopkins Street and the Maribyrnong River, thereby becoming the most visible of all proposed buildings in the precinct if travelling in a westerly direction via Dynon Road.
<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/Image46.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="View from the eastern bank of the Maribyrnong. Image © Plus 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/Image46.jpg?itok=juCXDuLq" title="View from the eastern bank of the Maribyrnong. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
1315sqm of commercial space is expected to be split over two buildings, they being the two towers located closest to Hopkins Street. In this way retail street activation is maximised along the future Maribyrnong Street and extended Warde Street junction. Active frontages are also designed into the lower levels of all buildings fronting Maribyrnong River.
Having both Warde Street and Neilson Place extensions traverse the site will have a two-pronged effect. The public realm would be clearly defined with direct Maribyrnong River Trail and park access through the site, furthermore these pedestrian thoroughfares would physically divide the site into three parcels, allowing a staged development if the developer so wishes.
<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_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level from Maribyrnong Street and Neilson Street. Image © Plus 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_12.jpg?itok=bk-I2Xf-" title="Ground level from Maribyrnong Street and Neilson Street. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Maribyrnong City Council have voiced their opposition toward 2 Hopkins Street in its submitted form, stating "The proposal raises significant issues with respect to inappropriate built form, limited mix of uses, non-compliance with State and Local Planning Policies and impact on the Maribyrnong River."
Maribyrnong City Council have also included the following issues which led to their opposing this scheme;
<ul>
<li>
		request the Developer Contribution Payment increase from $450 to $900 per dwelling</li>
	<li>
		an inadequate mix of uses, in particular employment generating uses and fails to contribute to housing diversity</li>
	<li>
		lack of adequate parking on site for visitors/patrons. Scheme doesn't take parking needs of entire precinct into account</li>
	<li>
		noted overshadowing concerns, see below the expected shadow 2pm, September 22nd (equinox)</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/Image13_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="22nd September shadow diagram. Image © Plus 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/Image13_1.jpg?itok=g3ra-0tP" title="22nd September shadow diagram. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Submitted during October 2012, no decision has been given by DPCD planning officials. Further the application is now listed as deferred on the State Planning Permit Register, pointing to the possibility that 2 Hopkins Street may well have found itself in limbo for the immediate future.
 
The original planning application as lodged with the Maribyrnong City Council, is in parts.  You can view each individual part here: <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/files/Attachments/DEC12_CDSC_2_Hopkins_Street_Footscray_Part1.pdf" target="_blank">Part 1</a>, <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/files/Attachments/DEC12_CDSC_2_Hopkins_Street_Footscray_Part2.pdf" target="_blank">Part 2</a> &amp; <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/files/Attachments/DEC12_CDSC_2_Hopkins_Street_Footscray_Part3.pdf" target="_blank">Part 3</a> (PDF's hosted on Maribyrnong's CMS).
All images © Plus Architecture
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silvermb

From Little things, big things grow?

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Forumers Nicholas Harrison and Fedsquared have been kind enough to post pictures and the planning report for a proposed residential tower at 57 Haig Street, Southbank. Designed by Bruce Henderson Architects, the scheme has been produced for Zoland Family Nominees Pty Ltd and R &amp; J Freeman Nominess Pty Ltd. Given the parties aren't known developers the application if approved may well be on-sold for profit to a developer capable of delivering the project.

<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/57%20haig%201.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="57 Haig Street. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/57%20haig%201.jpg?itok=GYOxg-l6" title="57 Haig Street. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"></a>

Regardless Apartments.com.au recent looked at the newly completed <a href="/news/theres-nothing-wrong-with-a-green-wall" target="_blank">Tiara Apartments</a> building also on Haig Street, in particular its dismal street activation. 57 Haig Street thankfully takes a different stance, while the render below may not look enthralling it at least gives something back to the streetscape.

<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_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="57 Haig Street and public interaction. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_8.jpg?itok=nupW6qX3" title="57 Haig Street and public interaction. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"></a>

Ground floor features of the proposed tower include an activated, glass fronted lobby facing Haig Street while a commercial tenancy of 150sqm is also available. Above ground sits a number of carpark levels wrapped with apartments facing Haig Street while vehicle access and loading is accessible via Blakeney Place. Having pedestrian access and vehicle/motorcycle access separated does wonders for Haig Street while the exposed carpark levels at the rear of the site fronting Blakeney Place are covered by existing buildings.

Given the intensive future development earmarked for the areas surrounding Haig Street and access lanes running both north &amp; south capable of handling all vehicles it raises the question - could Haig Street eventually become a pedestrian only thoroughfare? Once developments such Fishermans Bend and the approved <a href="/new-apartments/400-430-city-road-southbank">400-430 City Road</a> hotel and apartment complex eventuate, it strengthens the case for a retail-lined pedestrian only thoroughfare linking these areas with Crown.

<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/1343116456one_melbourne_1b.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Perestrian Lane at approved 400-430 City Rd linking with Haig Street. Image © Crone Partners"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/1343116456one_melbourne_1b.jpg?itok=ApIXxv3r" title="Perestrian Lane at approved 400-430 City Rd linking with Haig Street. Image © Crone Partners"></a>

A Crone Partners image above shows the potential of linking 400-430 City Road's internal pedestrian arcade with that of Haig Street, eventually spilling onto Clarendon Street (itself in need of beautification) and Crown opposite. Pie in the sky? Quite possible, but it must start somewhere and that somewhere may just be 57 Haig Street.
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57 Haig Street unveiled

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<a href="/buildings/134-142-ferrars-street-south-melbourne">132-134 Ferrars Street South Melbourne</a> was the first development application lodged for the Montague precinct at the Fishermans Bend urban renewal area. Although Apartments.com.au has already <a href="/news/planning-application-123-125-montague-st-south-melbourne">covered</a> another application at <a href="/new-apartments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">123-125 Montague, St South Melbourne</a>, 132-134 Ferrars Street is to date the tallest application in the area under consideration by DPCD, and the application that has garnered the most media attention.

Put forward by <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> architects on behalf of <a href="/developers/sungard-availability-services-vic-pty-ltd">Sungard Availability Services Vic</a>, the application is seeking approval for a 49 level, 165m tower containing two ground-floor retail spaces, a childcare facility, 381 apartments and associated car parking through the podium structure.

<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_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial overview of Montague area"><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/Image2_11.jpg?itok=G4xDSx_c" title="Aerial overview of Montague area" typeof="Image"></a>

Rothelowman have cited South Melbourne's historical name Emerald Hill in the planning application as the major driver behind the design concept. In starting with a block form, the architect has worked through a process very much similar to the image below. Sawing, cutting and polishing an initial concept has resulted in Rothelowman delivering a prismatic tower form very much similar to a cut and polished purple emerald.

Reinforcing this notion is the use of purple/blue glass as part of the towers angular facade. Clear and dark grey glass, purple and mid grey metal cladding, exposed concrete, pressed metal and grey metal louvres round out the materials schedule for 132-134 Ferrars St.

 

<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_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="South Melbourne history cited in the design process"><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_11.jpg?itok=UovzEA1-" title="South Melbourne history cited in the design process" typeof="Image"></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/Image10_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The angular crown of 132-134 Ferrars St, mimicking that form of a jem"><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/Image10_2.jpg?itok=WMu8kYLs" title="The angular crown of 132-134 Ferrars St, mimicking that form of a jem" typeof="Image"></a>

Whilst the tower maintains a sleek form, the lower levels and street interface provide a complete contrast. Highly articulated and providing activity to both street frontages, the podium is cleverly designed to hide its primary use as a car park. Internally are two retail tenancies and a bike repair workshop totalling 209sqm, 214 car spaces with the limited two and three bedroom duplexes facing both Ferrars Street and Thistlethwaite Street. Level 6 includes a childcare centre with 648sqm of internal spaces plus 483sqm of covered play areas.

For those readers who would ask why the car park is located above ground rather than below, the planning application gives a fair indication as to future expectations. The towers podium design has included flood barriers and ramp apex's to negate envisaged future flood events on the back of a predicted rise in sea levels up to the year 2100. Essential services face Buckhurst Lane and are at the highest point of the site.

Given the site is AHD 2.4m above sea level i'll let the readers draw their own conclusions on that aspect. Regardless it's a good indicator to the likelihood of most if not all future Montague towers having their car parking areas above ground. If this is to be the norm I hope that state planning body DPCD enforce an highly innovative and uniform stance in response to above ground car parks that have the tendency in other areas of Melbourne to quash vibrancy and street level activity.

<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_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="132-134 Ferrars Street street interface"><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/Image25_0.jpg?itok=nS_5VM_4" title="132-134 Ferrars Street street interface" typeof="Image"></a>

Of all images provided through the planning document, this may well be the most prophetic. 132-134 Ferrars Street appears here all on its lonesome, with the bulk of Southbank in the distance. If this planning application is to receive approval it will set the standard for Montague in terms of both height and density. Interesting times ahead!

<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_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A sign of things to come"><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/Image11_3.jpg?itok=TpLFScZi" title="A sign of things to come" typeof="Image"></a>

All images above © Rothelowman

 
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Leading the way > 132-134 Ferrars St, South Melbourne

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On occasion I venture into the Eastern suburbs and more often than not catch a glimpse of Mitcham Village Apartments, successor to the failed Bates Smart designed 17-storey Mitcham Towers proposal (seen below) circa 2003. At the time Tony Hogg, head of Mitcham Residents Association described the proposal as "A complete eyesore."
<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/1108mitcham_towers_wideweb__430x308.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mitcham Towers by Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/1108mitcham_towers_wideweb__430x308.jpg?itok=kXJZCeW4" title="Mitcham Towers by Bates Smart" typeof="Image"></a>
Well a penny for Mr Hogg's current thoughts as what the local community ended up with is a visually destitute outcome. Granted Mitcham Village Apartments is half the height of the original poroposal, yet City of Whitehorse was seemingly so eager to push through any development smaller in stature than what was approved they lost all perspective regarding good design and sensible urban outcomes. I'm so tempted to describe this development as insipid but i'm not sure whether it is.
Every party with a vested interest feels they have gained through this development. Council and community feel they've won due to a development half the size of what was initially proposed and subsequently approved by VCAT, the developer wins selling out the 200-unit complex while the architect wins designing a building within the acceptible bounds of council and within the brief of the developer.
Everyone walks away a winner, yet this hulking precast concrete blob remains.
<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_4378.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mitcham Village Apartments from Maroondah Highway"><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_4378.jpg?itok=_iDSdC5X" title="Mitcham Village Apartments from Maroondah Highway" typeof="Image"></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_4376_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spot the window, Mitcham Village Apartments"><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_4376_0.jpg?itok=EYWhViVf" title="Spot the window, Mitcham Village Apartments" typeof="Image"></a>
First submitted ten years ago, I wonder what would eventuate if the original Mitcham Towers scheme were to be submitted now? The world has turned more than a few times, attitudes toward high density living have changed - so much so a 33 level tower is under consideration in nearby Box Hill. In hindsight would the local comminuty prefer a taller, infinitely better design or what sits there now?  Or are people still so scared of tall buildings, they rally at the thought?
As Paul Keating once said: “In a two-horse race, always back self-interest because at least you know it's trying.” So I suspect the inferior eight level monstrosity would win hands down even though the closest residence in any direction is approximately 200m away. Conjecture has its place but one thing's for certain, every time I drive past Mitcham Village Apartments, a look of total disdain will be shot in a certain direction.
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Mitcham Towers - Lost in evolution

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The Collingwood heartland, black and white stripes......enough to make those of us who are not associated with the great unwashed (read: Collingwood supporters) sick.

Jokes aside this is the latest offering from prolific developer Blue Earth Group via Plus Architecture. The two have managed to concoct this unique design for 195 Wellington Street, Collingwood which was submitted for approval to City of Yarra in recent weeks.

With nine levels of living space above three basement carpark levels the complex seeks to house 84 one and two bedroom apartments between 49sqm and 79sqm, 55 carpark spaces, 84 bicycle bays and a landscaped rooftop common 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/Image22_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="195 Wellington St, Collingwood. Image © Plus 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/Image22_0.jpg?itok=Mr-UOJK5" title="195 Wellington St, Collingwood. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="Image"></a>

Sustainability initiatives seem to be directed toward the internal environment with an average <a href="http://www.nathers.gov.au/" target="_blank">Nathers</a> Rating of 7 stars, exceeding current Australian standards. Included are natural ventilation, no borrowed light to any two bedroom apartments, solar hot water system and rainwater harvesting. Whilst it doesn't read as overly interesting, the vast majority of apartments will have access to at least three hours of direct sunlight during winter in living areas.

Further, the facade is designed in such a way that is provides shading and privacy without impeding natural light or ventilation. Over summer months solar heat gain is restricted through facade design whilst during winter solar heat gain is unrestricted, allowing for natural warming - quite the feat with what is visually a simple striped facade design.

<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_5517.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Armada Apartments Port Melbourne, another Plus Architecture design."><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_5517.jpg?itok=OBeZkm7b" title="Armada Apartments Port Melbourne, another Plus Architecture design." typeof="Image"></a>

Referring to buildings in Chengdu and Tokyo through the planning document as references and inspiration, Plus Architecture have also thrown another of their projects (Armada, seen above) into the design mix to create a building that intends "To unify tower, podium and base elements into a singular, flowing 'veiled' volume when viewed along both Wellington and Napoleon Street."

Referencing Armada once more, similar metal strips will form the highlight of 195 Wellington Street's facade, contrasted with black glazing resulting in a unique, robust design.

The application also states, "The use of arches at ground level to provide large span openings for the building entry and ground level apartments provide for an activated and engaging ground level ineterface and are an allusion to the arched openings of nearby Victorian era buildings along Wellington Street such as St Martins Church and St Josephs Parish."

Of interest is the lack of any ground floor retail offerings, possibly owing to the hulking commission tower directly opposite. Then again that may be all the more reason to add retail spaces?

<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_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Plus Architecture's take on the future Wellington Street"><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/Image13_0.jpg?itok=f5jiYoXt" title="Plus Architecture's take on the future Wellington Street" typeof="Image"></a>

Regardless, 195 Wellington street sits within the Smith Street Major Activity Centre and is currently a surface carpark. Plus Architecture envisages continued strong development in the area, with 195 Wellington abutting the now at sales <a href="/news/oxley-collingwood" target="_blank">Oxley Collingwood</a> apartment project while the nearby <a href="/news/former-yorkshire-brewery-site-destined-for-renewal" target="_blank">Yorkshire Brewery</a> recently gaining approval for a rejuvenated residential development.

Add a brace of recent apartment completions on Stanley Street, 95 Wellington Street plus the now under construction 132-172 Smith Street and it's evident the only way for Collingwood is up (who knows about the football team however).

 
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How appropriate > 195 Wellington St, Collingwood

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During 2011 Chadstone Shopping Centre owners Gandel Group and CFS Retail Property Trust disclosed their intentions to expand Chadstone with the addition of two towers facing Princes Highway. The initial scheme called for towers up to 14 levels, though as time passed the proposals were refined to the point where by mid last year visualisation firm <a href="http://www.atomic3d.com.au/" target="_blank">Atomic 3D</a> carried the render below on their website.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image9_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Chadstone Corporate © Atomic 3D"><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_2.jpg?itok=chOAxFls" title="Chadstone Corporate © Atomic 3D" typeof="Image"></a>
Gaining approval from both Stonnington City Council and Planning Minister Guy late last year, the scheme has been further refined with project architects Bates Smart adding more visual character to the project.
When realised, the western hotel tower will hold 190 rooms over 10 levels plus ground floor facilities reaching an overall height of 44 metres whilst rooms will range in size between 28sqm and 32sqm. The eastern office building will hold 15,788sqm of lettable space over nine dedicated ofice levels plus ground floor facilites and reach a height of 45.3 metres.
Whilst the office tower seems for the most unchanged, both the podium structure and hotel have gained a new look. The hotel's facade will be a mixture of double glazed glass broken by vertical bands of white alternating ceramic frit.
Further the glassed podium is now covered by a vertical blade screen as seen below. A new semi-enclosed elevated glass pedestrian walk will also be constructed linking the new buildings to the existing shopping centre.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image5_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_6.jpg?itok=kQLlVHKo" typeof="Image"></a>
While endorsed plans indicate 507 additional car parking spaces will be added via three levels under the towers, a Herald Sun article from last year suggests that upon completion car <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/m-expansion-of-chadstone-shopping-centre-approved-despite-traffic-fears/story-e6frf7kx-1226513984649" target="_blank">parking spaces will near 11000</a> throughout the whole complex.
I'm all for a developments such as this which intensifies an already highly used activity node and centralises large scale development, but the question remains - Is Chadstone too car dependant and are current public transport links sufficient enough to turn a suburban shopping centre into a true activity centre?
Alastair will address Chadstone's transport issues tomorrow, but for today find below more images from both <a href="http://www.atomic3d.com.au/" target="_blank">Atomic 3D</a> and Bates Smart of Chadstone's foray info the commercial and hotel markets.
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Chadstone's twin towers sharpen up

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Blender Lane and its artwork is the most visible legacy of a concept first created by celebrated street artist Adrian Doyle during the year 2000. While an extensive rundown of <a href="http://www.theblenderstudios.com/" target="_blank">Blender Studios</a> can be found here, the practice's aim is simple - "Blender has become more of an art complex and ideas factory where nearly anything goes. It is self-sustainable and tries to bring art to everyone."
To that end  Blender Lane off 110 Franklin St, Melbourne now pays homage to Blender Studios with a body of work from a variety of artists that is regularly changing. Whilst art installation such as those below appear occasionally, Blender Lane is best known for its free-hand paintings.
<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_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © theblenderstudios.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_13.jpg?itok=0mNnP9oo" title="Images © theblenderstudios.com" typeof="Image"></a>
Having never heard of Blender Lane until earlier this year I paid the Lane a visit recently, with camera in tow.
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Blender Lane artwork

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Two residential towers have recently been completed on Southbank, with occupants of the combined 590 apartments due to move in to both Sunday Apartments at 63-75 Coventry St and Guilfoyle at 39 Coventry St. Potentially adding to the areas increasing popularity is another proposed residential tower at 33 Coventry St which is currently before Melbourne City Council seeking approval. 
<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_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="33 Coventry St, north and east facades. Image © JCB 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/Image9_1.jpg?itok=N_DAM_w1" title="33 Coventry St, north and east facades. Image © JCB Architects" typeof="Image"></a>
Designed by Jackson Clement Burrows for Seed Developments Pty Ltd, the 17 level complex would sit upon a 320sqm site opposite Victoria Barracks, allowing for uninterrupted views of City Rd and CBD skylines along with the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Consisting of only 35 apartments, the development would be pitched toward the higher end of the market averaging two dwellings per floor. 18 one-bedroom, 10 two-bed and 7 three-bed options would make up the apartment mix.
Apartments start from 47sqm for a 1bed/1bath dwelling and increase in size thereafter with the 15th level 3bed/3bath penthouse holding 217sqm of internal area. Further the penthouse would enjoy three separate external spaces on level 15 plus a 92sqm roof deck and outdoor kitchen/entertaining area of roughly 40sqm on level 16, accessible by stairs from the penthouse below.
I struggle to think of many apartments in Melbourne that include such generous living and external entertaining areas combined.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image5_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Open facade maximising on city views. Image © JCB 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/Image5_5.jpg?itok=rxzUw30O" title="Open facade maximising on city views. Image © JCB Architects" typeof="Image"></a>
With available street frontage of 10.2 metres and little if any natural light penetration from the east/west facades project architect Jackson Clement Burrows have been clever in the way they've addressed the facade. Each level is seemingly stacked off centre through the use of horizontal aluminium bands, continuing the theme initiated by the neighbouring Guilfoyle building.
Extensive use of glass has been incorporated over the northern facade to maximise natural light, and while the shading screens over every level may appear as a solid form from a distance, they too will allow light to penetrate.
<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_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cross-section of 33 Coventry highlighting the car stacking system. Image © JCB 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_5.jpg?itok=8QVJ7ghK" title="Cross-section of 33 Coventry highlighting the car stacking system. Image © JCB Architects" typeof="Image"></a>
The cross section above shows the eastern boundary lift well wrapped by apartments, while the architects have addressed the limited site area in a novel way when incorporating car parking. Subground parking and sections of the first nine levels above ground will be dedicated to 46 parking spaces, serviced by a car shuttle and turn table located on ground floor.
Reading through the associated ESD report, 33 Coventry will carry a 6.4 star average energy rating, rainwater harvesting (via two large rooftop tanks) for toilet flushing and a possible dual renewable energy system. Either photovoltaic panels or a solar pre-heat water system will be installed on the roof, providing an estimated 5.7 tonne saving in greenhouse emissions each year.
Submitted late 2012, the application is awaiting a MCC decision.
 
See below photos of Guilfoyle and Sunday apartments plus more images of the proposed 33 Coventry Street.
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Going nuts for Coventry

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The evolution of MAB's Docklands Newquay precinct marches on with Saturday passed marking the public launch of the first of two new glazed residential towers.

Silver at Newquay Promenade continues a departure from early Newquay designs drawing heavily on precast concrete elements and further enforces an impressive design path initially set by <a href="/buildings/the-quays-231-harbour-esplanade-docklands" target="_blank">The Quays</a> development further east in the precinct.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image1_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Silver and Bronze as seen from Waterfront City Marina. Image © Woods Bagot "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_10.jpg?itok=zO6me6Vg" title="Silver and Bronze as seen from Waterfront City Marina. Image © Woods Bagot " typeof="Image"></a>

Conceived by Woods Bagot Architects as replacements for an open air carpark, the two parallelogram crystalline forms are designed with their surrounds in mind.

Both towers are rotated to maximise sight lines toward one another while also maximising views of existing building nearby, the water and new urban park that will be built at their doorstep.

To be built either separately or concurrently, the smaller Silver tower represents the initial market release comprising 164 apartments over 18 levels.

One, two and three bedroom options plus loft apartments principally facing Doepel Way are available with living spaces ranging from to 48sqm to 115sqm - a nice spread seemingly catering for all market segments.

The ground floor plan below shows that while the west and south walls abutt existing buildings, both the north and east aspects will be heavily activated to maximise public use and interface with the building.

The centrepiece of this activation is a new pedestrian link under Silver tower that will link Caravel Lane with the upcoming Newquay Square Park, allowing surrounding commercial workers and residents quick access to the park while also increasing the amount of retail space available through the development.

Above ground level sits the carpark which includes spaces for both towers and vehicle parking for the upcoming tower C facing Victoria Harbour, whether it's use be residential or hotel.

The carpark is sheltered from view by dual-level loft dwellings. Highlighted by their two level balcony spaces, the loft spaces tie in nicely with the overall facades weave pattern.

<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_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground plane as set out by the architect. Image © Woods Bagot "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_11.jpg?itok=tiRG1fw-" title="Ground plane as set out by the architect. Image © Woods Bagot " typeof="Image"></a>

Further to that weave pattern, Woods Bagot describe the "folded facade as the most striking design detail of the project as a whole." Progressing from a heavy weave of 300mm over lower levels the facade continually tapers as it heads upwards, eventually resulting in a flat facade.

While the unbroken facade treatment brings interest to the design, it also allows for excellent natural light and spectacular floor to ceiling views as seen below - I envy those fortunate enough to hold such a panorama that won't be built out over time.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/MAB014_0003_Harbour.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Panoramic views on offer at Promenade. Image © newquaypromenade.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/MAB014_0003_Harbour.jpg?itok=rdJYRCxc" title="Panoramic views on offer at Promenade. Image © newquaypromenade.com.au" typeof="Image"></a>

The angular crown atop both towers will hold terraced apartments. Views and expansive internal spaces aside these terraces will be heavily studded with greenery and have the ability to catch and re-use rainfall throughout the complex.

A number of other inclusions such as 6 Star Energy Rating, solar hot water and low emission construction materials allows the Silver tower an ESD Award of Excellence rating.

All in all a highly impressive addition to Newquay and with only 164 apartments currently on offer in Silver, it's a fair assumption the public release of Bronze tower won't be far away.

<a href="http://www.newquaypromenade.com.au" target="_blank">www.newquaypromenade.com.au</a>

Silver tower floorplans and further images of both towers available below and © Woods Bagot
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Silver and Bronze set the standard

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Urban.com.au was fortunate enough to be a fly on the wall at last week's pre-launch evening for Oxley Apartments, Collingwood.
One of four buildings on a 4096sqm plot of land fronting Stanley St and Napoleon St, Oxley is the first step in a development that will eventually accomodate a maximum of 246 apartments. An already strong alliance between developer Urban Inc and architects Elenberg Fraser has been further enhanced with the imminent public launch of Oxley.
<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_2436.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Oxley as envisaged from Stanley St. Image © Urban Inc"><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_2436.jpg?itok=RvfxJs7c" title="The Oxley as envisaged from Stanley St. Image © Urban Inc" typeof="Image"></a>Following negotiations between council and developer the initial plans were altered as outlined below due to concerns held by Yarra planners based around extensive community feedback.
As per Yarra Council website changes included:
<ul>
<li>
		The number of proposed dwellings was reduced from 339 to 246</li>
	<li>
		The number of car parking spaces was reduced to 216 (with 246 bicycle spaces and 14 motorcycle spaces proposed). </li>
	<li>
		Two units north-east of 34-44 Stanley Street (levels 2 and 3) were deleted</li>
	<li>
		There was greater separation provided between tower elements and along the east-west axis</li>
</ul>
Although Urban Inc amended plans to address the majority of council concerns the issue of height remained unsolved, hence a visit to VCAT. Gaining favour from VCAT, the now endorsed plans see three buildings of seven, eight and nine levels fronting Stanley St, while another four level complex will eventually face Napoleon St.
<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.jpg6_.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Abundance of greenery. Image © Urban Inc"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1.jpg6_.jpg?itok=fZcn6iHV" title="Abundance of greenery. Image © Urban Inc" typeof="Image"></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/Image2_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Landscape plan as per Elenberg Fraser planning application"><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/Image2_8.jpg?itok=kJhAy7_t" title="Landscape plan as per Elenberg Fraser planning application" typeof="Image"></a>
Heavy use of native greenery over every level is accompanied by undulating precast panels, trademark Elenberg Fraser bronze glazing and spiral metal features bringing interest to the building's facade, while a cafe will be included at ground level.
As per the VCAT outcome I find it a welcome difference to many other developments that a large amount of total site area is dedicated to green space as shown above - it's just not that common but makes for excellent natural light penetration. Communal areas both internally and externally see the heavy use of steel, glass and masonry - designed as a nod to the area's history. Oxley, as with all other foyers in the development will have direct access to the internal courtyard with glass walls facing those areas, allowing for a dynamic backdrop.
1 bedroom / 1 + study / 2 bedroom options are available ranging in size from 55sqm to 80sqm, seeming trying to capture the younger market in what is traditionally an area with no shortage of up-and-coming trendy hipster types.
Quite a good development in a burgeoning area with one negative. Oxley will replace the People's Market currently on site, but this is the price of progress. Hopefully the market will reappear elsewhere soon enough.
 
www.oxleyapartments.com.au
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Oxley, Collingwood.

<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

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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.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

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Mark Baljak

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