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Last Wednesday evening marked the final Night Market hosted at the Queen Vic over a prolonged summer season due to the fine weather spell. Their website provides a brief overview, <q cite="https://web.archive.org/web/20130120020937/http://www.qvm.com.au/snm/snm_home.aspx">Now in its 15th year, the Suzuki Night Market attracts over 200 stall holders and showcases some of Melbourne’s finest artisans, producing locally made clothing, jewellery, prints and an array of cultural goods.</q> I must admit i'm not much for jewellery and the like, but the food stalls and entertainment are second to none.
This summer may have come and gone but next summer season at the Night Market promises to be bigger and better, as all that have passed previously. Find below a photographic essay taken over a number of hot and humid wednesday evenings with a particular slant toward food... bring on next summer!
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silvermb

A Melbourne summer tradition

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Once the domain of  Smorgy's and more recently a buffet restaurant, developer Park Rise Australia has for some time sought to knife and fork the existing building in the hope of delivering a multi-building apartment complex some 14 kilometres from Melbourne's CBD. Mid last year Crikey blog The Urbanist ran an article reagrding the <a href="http://blogs.crikey.com.au/theurbanist/2012/05/31/do-existing-residents-see-the-benefits-of-urban-renewal/" target="_blank">proposed development at 1091 Plenty Rd, Bundoora</a>. The aforementioned in depth and incisive piece touched on a number of pertinent topics relevant to both this proposed development and development in general. 600 plus local residents opposed the development at the time, while local council <a href="http://preston-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/not-in-this-bundoora-car-park/" target="_blank">unanimously rejected the proposal</a> designed by Cornetta Partners Architects. Images of the now defunct original scheme are provided 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/Image3_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Plenty Rd perspective © Cornetta Partners 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/Image3_1.jpg" title="Plenty Rd perspective © Cornetta Partners Architects" 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_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Snake Gully Drive perspective © Cornetta Partners 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/Image2_2.jpg" title="Snake Gully Drive perspective © Cornetta Partners Architects" 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/Image7_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bundoora Park perspective © Cornetta Partners 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_2.jpg" title="Bundoora Park perspective © Cornetta Partners Architects" typeof="Image"></a>
 
December 2012 saw a revised planning application put to Darebin City Council along with a February VCAT hearing for 1091 Plenty Rd. Designed by Peddle Thorp Architects, the new scheme maintains 474 units, although all 3 bedroom options have been deleted in favour of one and two bedroom dwellings. Planned bycicle spaces would fall from 329 to 251, available retail space diminsihes from 1389sqm to 958sqm while single bedroom residences fall from 135 to 123, therefore resulting in an increase of dual bedroom dwellings to 351. A new architect brings a new design ethos, with Peddle Thorp paying particular attention to a terraced building design; Peddle Thorp documentation reads as follows
 
"The revised scheme has an improved response to the context by stepping and terracing the buildings 2,3,4 and 5 from the internal street to the Bundoora Park interface. The stepped garden roof terraces with landscaped planter boxes better integrate these buildings with the Park enviorns. Elevation views of the buildings from the park are softer and less imposing. The building floor plates for buildings 2,3,4 and 5 have been redesigned featuring triangular bay windows which provide all living areas with direct views of Bundoora Park and reduce over looking into adjacent buildings. This dsignfeature also created more articulated and sculptured facade for all these buildings."
 
According to the submitted planning document, the essential figures are as follows
Building 1A        7 inhabited levels       76 apartments            height 28m
Building 1B        6 inhabited levels       44 apartments            height 24m
Building 2           5 inhabited levels       31 apartments            height 18m
Building 3          10 inhabited levels     107 apartments          height 33m
Building 4          11 inhabited levels      122 apartments          height 36m
Building 5          9 inhabited levels        94 apartments            height 30m
 
All buildings share a common underground carpark. Logic would suggest that if approved the entire carpark and at least one apartment complex would begin simultaneously, whilst other buildings may be built at a later time in line with market conditions.
 
The VCAT decision on 1091 Plenty Rd is imminent
 
Images of the current planning application below are courtesy and © Peddle Thorp Architects
 
 
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1091 Plenty Rd, Bundoora

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Late last year TCI Teneketzis successfully sold 420 Spencer St, a site subject to a variety of proposals whilst also attracting local residents and heritage group discontent. As billboards onsite and the <a href="http://www.tciproperty.com/properties/commercial/Land+Development-Vic-West+Melbourne-500569279" target="_blank">agents website shows</a>, the site has been purchased as a joint venture, increasing the likelihood that the tower in its current approved form will become reality. Early February has seen the arrival of new signage onsite showing ACC Development intend to proceed with the redevelopment soon. The currently approved design is a 32 level tower produced by Fender Katsilidis architects consisting of 432 apartments above 8 retail/commercial tenancies found through the podium which covers the approximately 2250sqm site. The 1930 art deco facade will be restored and incorporated into the tower, with internals facing demolition to allow for a 3 level basement carpark and subsequent works.
 
<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_5977.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/Img_5977.jpg" 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_9200.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="ACC Development signage "><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_9200.jpg" title="ACC Development signage " 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_5976.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="420 Spencer St with the adjoining site ripe for development"><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_5976.jpg" title="420 Spencer St with the adjoining site ripe for development" typeof="Image"></a>
Of interest is the vacant lot addressed 404-418 Spencer St (seen above) directly south of 420 Spencer St. Given that the approved 32 level/104.6m 420 Spencer St and the proposed 41 level/134m 371 Spencer St diagonally opposite (renders below) have pushed the boundaries for height and density in the area, the vacant 404-418 Spencer St seemingly has the potential to yield another substantial tower. This vacant site was once subject to a ten level office complex designed by Rothe Lowman but as time and planning have progressed it seems a 30-40 level tower is in the offing - although that's merely speculation on the authors behalf.
 
<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_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="371 Spencer St designed by Bruce Henderson Architects with silhouette of 420 Spencer St visible"><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_1.jpg" title="371 Spencer St designed by Bruce Henderson Architects with silhouette of 420 Spencer St visible" typeof="Image"></a>
Elements of the endorsed plans for 420 Spencer St are provided below
 
	All images below taken from planning application provided by and © to Fender Katsilidis
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420 Spencer St edges closer to reality

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"This is an opportunity for Victoria University to consolidate and express its dedicated and symbolic presence within the historic surrounding of the former Royal Mint precinct and the greater context of the Melbourne central city." With those words, Daryl Jackson and his firm Jackson Architecture have teamed with Victoria University in order to bring a consolidated VU campus to the Hoddle Grid. <a href="http://www.jacksonarchitecture.com.au/#/projects/vu-queen-street-campus/" target="_blank">Jackson Architecture</a> is currently carrying masterplan images of an expanded Victoria University campus on Queen St, straddling either side of Little Lonsdale. The images below show a refurbished lowrise campus facility sitting in behind the historic former Records Office and Land Titles Office. Whilst no planning application has yet been submitted for the potential lowrise development, an initial application for the highrise or 'vertical campus' was submitted during March 2012.
 
<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/7_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial campus 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/7_0.jpg" title="Aerial campus map" 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/8_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queen Street perspective of the low-rise expansion"><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/8_1.jpg" title="Queen Street perspective of the low-rise expansion" typeof="Image"></a>
 
Further, at the behest of planning officials from the Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD) and coupled with heritage issues relating to the existing 1908 Women's VD Clinic building, a revised planning document was submitted for VU Tower, addressed 364-370 &amp; 372-378 Little Lonsdale St. The early 2012 design has been superseeded by an edgier, more aesthetically pleasing tower that retains the historic Women's VD Clinic facade, whilst still calling for demolition of the adjoining TB Clinic.
 
Visual differentiations to the early 2012 submission include rooftop solar panels, a new and repositioned Sampson Lane (the current Lane making way for underground carpark works), a folded concrete feature running the length of the south-east facade, angled vents at both plant levels 17 and crown (somewhat similar in looks to the new NAB building at 700 Bourke St), a doubled-skinned facade plus a remodelled north east aspect that interacts with the nearby Repiblic Tower. Directly to the tower's west lies La Banque apartments, in addressing its westerly neighbour the architect has introduced a podium at equal height to La Banque's and a podium setback for the tower itself. Further, precast panels and opaque west facing windows are incorporated while a minimum 9m separation distance is maintained where required.
 
With the new application submitted 21st December 2012, the redesigned tower if approved would stand at 135m above four levels of sub ground parking. At ground would consist of a revamped Sampson Lane, security &amp; reception areas, loading docks, carpark entry and foyer. Level 1 hosts a mezzanine cafe, levels 2 &amp; 3 a library, level 4 a lecture theatre while levels 5 &amp; 6 host plant room and podium facilities. Thereafter levels 7-16 are dedicated academic space, 17 a further plant level while levels 18-30 consist of approximately 11,350sqm of office space. Gross floor area for the tower would be 42679sqm whilst net floor area or usable space would touch on 27075sqm.
 
Jackson Architect's website indicates that once a planning permit has been granted, VUT will actively seek a partner to bring this tower to fruition rather than fund the tower individually. Tower development costs at this time are expected to be roughly $85 million and take 3-4 years to complete once a permit has been issued, potentially making it and the mooted lowrise expansion ready for use jointly. Enjoy the exceptional images below provived by Jackson Architecture by way of their planning application.
 
All images © Jackson Architecture
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VU Queen St set for expansion

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As Dimmeys Richmond starts its metamorphosis into Richmond Icon apartments,  the exemplary Hayden Dewar mural adorning the building has been boarded up for a considerable amount of time during construction. For those not aware of this engaging piece of art, <a href="http://www.haydendewar.com/portfolio/the-dimmeys-mural/" target="_blank">Hayden Dewar's webpage</a> carries this description...
"Commissioned for Dimmeys 150th anniversary and painted on the sidewall of the Richmond Dimmeys store
A 50 metre long mural depicting treasured &amp; memorable Australian people, places and events occurring throughout Dimmeys trading. Hayden was responsible for all aspects of the mural. This included research, design, and execution of the artwork.
The Dimmeys Mural is a link to the past for the many locals and visitors who enjoy the trip down memory lane that it sparks for them. With its large scope of subject matter, scale and level of detail, it is an unprecedented piece of artwork in Australia."
<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_0.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/Image1_0.jpg" typeof="Image"></a>
Initially slated for removal the mural was later incorporated into the current redevelopment. Given the Dimmeys mural may remain under its protective hoarding for the next year or so, Apartments.com.au thought it to be an opportune time to take a closer look at the mural, starting from Railway Place and moving north toward Swan St
Section one below captures Dimmeys birth. As Victoria is gripped by gold rush fever and the subsequent Eureka Rebellion, Maryborough business Dimelow &amp; Gaylard purchases an existing Swan Street retail business; The nickname Dimmeys would eventually stick. During this period Burke &amp; Wills also set out on their ill-fated exploration.
<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_6153.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 1"><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_6153.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 1" typeof="Image"></a>
Below ushers in the era of Ned Kelly while Melbourne city's first electrified tram trip occurs during 1906. Bottom left depicts what may be the progression of Melbourne's water supply.
<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_6154.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 2"><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_6154.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 2" typeof="Image"></a>
Abbotsford sees the arrival of Audrey, the Society of Melbourne Brewers (CUB) arrived in 1903, now Saint Mary McKillop comes to prominence and Melburnians of the time witness Flinders Street Station's completion in the early 1900's. The Australian flag was chosen during 1901 with the current flag specifications proclaimed some 30 odd years later. Meanwhile Dimmeys Swan Street store was lost to fire, only to see a higher quality building constructed thereafter.
<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_6155_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 3"><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_6155_0.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 3" typeof="Image"></a>
Section four sees Qantas take flight whilst Dimmeys rebirth nears completion. The ANZAC spirit is born, embodied by John Simpson Kirkpatrick, his donkey and the Victoria Cross - awarded for valour. Weet-bix and Vegemite are born while Roy Cazaly thrills the crowds - later to be immortalised by a smash hit, Up There Cazaly. The Magic Pudding, Ginger Megs and Gumnut babies are also present.
<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_6156.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 4"><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_6156.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 4" typeof="Image"></a>
Squizzie Taylor gains notoriety, The Don punches through cover, Captain Blood, Phar Lap, Blinky Bill and Robert Menzies feature during the early 1930's. What we believe to be Eroll Flynn and Dame Joan Sutherland are also present. World War 2 is also noted, assuming Papua New Guinea is the setting.
<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_6157.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 5"><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_6157.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 5" typeof="Image"></a>
Sidney Nolan's 'The Trial' bottom left, FX Holden takes a prominent position, Melbourne's 1956 Olympics is recognised and Slim Dusty does what he did so well. Australia is welcomed to the television age, Moomba gathers momentum while Herb Elliot is recognised as one of the world's great middle distance runners. Finally who would have thought a washing line and lawnmower would be held in such high regard? Australian ingenuity at its best.
<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_6158.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 6"><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_6158.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 6" typeof="Image"></a>
Section seven features some Melbourne greats - Graeme Kennedy, Luna Park, Shrine of Remembrance, the ESKY, W Class trams, Stirling Moss, HQ Holden ute; quite the line-up! EJ and Polly Farmer if full flight, Rolf in less dubious times and the Nylex clock takes its place. Richmond Bitter long gone. Interesting Brunswick's Thunder Road Brewery is trying to revive lost Victorian beer brands such as Bitter Ale - all that's old is new again.
<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_6159.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 7"><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_6159.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 7" typeof="Image"></a>
The 70's and 80's in focus. Kevin Bartlett runs on by and Lionel Rose keeps on punching while Yvonne Goolagong makes history...Gough gets the chop, Ash Wednesday scars many while Australia's burgeoning rock scene explodes. Countdown and Molly Meldrum lead the way with ACDC, Skyhooks and Australian Crawl in support. Bottom right is artist Russel Drysdale's 'The Rabbiters.'
<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_6160.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 8"><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_6160.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 8" typeof="Image"></a>
Dimmeys front man 'Dipper' in action with Norman Gunston, Peter Brock, AB, Peter Garrett, the effervescent Sir Les Patterson, Joan Kirner and others in company. Nick Cave and Michael Hutchence look arty and serious simultaneously while Nicky Winmar takes a stance, and who could forget YABLETTTT! top right. Former Major of Collingwood and Member for Parliament Theodore Sidiropoulos appears to the right.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Img_6161.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 9"><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_6161.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 9" typeof="Image"></a>
Thespians feature heavily early in the new millennium, such as Kate Blanchett, Geoffrey Rush and Heath Ledger portraying Ned Kelly. Sporting moments including Cathy Freeman lighting the cauldron during the Sydney 2000 Olympics and Makybe Diva. Cow up a tree, Kath &amp; Kim plus albums such as Cat Empire make their mark, meanwhile Federation Square and the mighty Eureka Tower find their place.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Img_6162.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 10"><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_6162.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 10" typeof="Image"></a>
And rounding out proceedings, a close up depicting an artist and his untouched canvas of sorts, with Swan st to the rear.
<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_6163.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 11"><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_6163.jpg" title="Dimmeys Mural - part 11" typeof="Image"></a>
So there you have it, Melbourne's history, in paint and over 50 incredible metres. One wonders where and when the next instalment of Melbourne's story will appear?
By no means a comprehensive overview, feel free to point out the many we've missed.
Enjoy
 
 
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Melbourne's history, in paint and over 50 incredible metres

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Welcome to the first of what will become regular updates dedicated to one of Melbourne's tourist and cultural attractions, the artwork of Hosier Lane. Bound by Flinders St and Flinders Lane, Hosier Lane and adjoining Rutledge Lane are home to an ever dynamic and ecclectic body of street art, but for those not aware of this cobbled jem an apt description can be found at <a href="http://lanewaymagazine.com.au/hosier-lane/" target="_blank">Laneway Magazine</a>.
Whilst only taking in the final weeks of 2012, Apartments.com.au hopes the images below will go some distance in wetting the appetite of the reader, and rest assured subsequent updates will be comprehensive. Enjoy
 
 
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Hosier Lane, late 2012

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<a href="http://www.genton.com.au/projects/burnley-street/" target="_blank">Genton Architects</a> is carrying this handsome design (below) for 203 Burnley St, Richmond on their website. Although laden with ESD aspects such as solar control panels, green walls and wind turbines it will never see the light of day.

<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/Burnley_day1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Initial concept for 203 Burnley St, courtesy Genton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Burnley_day1_0.jpg" title="Initial concept for 203 Burnley St, courtesy Genton"></a>

In its place is a new $35 million dollar development application for the vacant piece of land at 203-213 Burnley St, Richmond. Burgeoning Melbourne developer Blue Earth Group is behind the five and nine level proposal comprising 141 apartments, 140 underground car spaces and 162 bike spaces.

Designed by architecture firm Elevli Plus, the proposal was submitted during mid 2012 and attracted 183 objections in what is a predominantly lowrise area. After a period on non-action the coming weeks will initially see mediation between developer and council followed by a VCAT hearing scheduled for May 13.

External finishes for the proposal include louvers (both glass and metal), purple tinted glass balustrades, green (living) walls, precast cocnrete panels, glass curtain walls and powder coated aluminium framed purple windows. Wintergardens and an internal courtyard are also included.

I find the pending VCAT decision on a developmnent such as this to be more interesting than most others. The likes of Melbourne Lord Major Robert Doyle banging on via media outlets as to how terrible it is to place new skyscrapers in and amongst exisitng skyscrapers tends to ware thin after a short time. Yet in the adjoining City of Yarra we have a sizeable proposed building in and amongst an established historic single storey area that hasn't generated much public opinion if any. One way or another, the VCAT decision will set a precedent for this area of Richmond.

Images below taken from planning application created by and © Elevli Plus
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Planning Application > 203-213 Burnley St, Richmond

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We at Apartments.com.au like most readers out there have a wide variety of opinions when talking about Docklands - positive, negative and all that lies between. Over time Apartments.com.au will give much time and analysis to Docklands, dealing with a myriad of topics but for the time being we'd like to draw everyone's attention to <a href="http://www.docklandsisbeautiful.com.au" target="_blank">docklandsisbeautiful.com.au</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/from-my-window.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy docklandsisbeautiful.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/from-my-window.jpg?itok=cHHppo9c" title="Image courtesy docklandsisbeautiful.com.au" typeof="Image"></a>
Unfortunately the website is somewhat spasmodic in its updates, but their campaign statement in particular draws attention:
<blockquote>
Docklands is Beautiful is a grassroots campaign designed to provide Docklanders with the resources and inspiration to let the world know what a wonderful place Melbourne Docklands is.
The campaign is an initiative of Docklands News and comes in response to a growing (and incorrect) negative public perception surrounding Melbourne’s Docklands.
Negative media is very disappointing for the people who live, work and visit Docklands and absolutely love the place. Our community is vibrant and strong. But it appears that we need to roll our sleeves up and simply tell the rest of the world how beautiful Docklands is.
The campaign has come from the ground up. It has not been strategised, spun, devised, concocted or been influenced by any marketers, PR consultants or any other paid experts.
It has come from the exasperation that ordinary Docklanders are feeling about the seemingly regular negative comments and opinions directed at our suburb.
We say … enough!
Don’t criticise what you don’t understand. And if you don’t choose to live here, that’s fine. Just don’t interfere with our quiet enjoyment of the most stunning suburb in Melbourne.
We’re only half-way through our development and we are patiently awaiting its completion. Docklands is not soulless. Docklands is not a planning disaster. Docklands is simply unfinished.
And one thing that can’t be denied is that DOCKLANDS IS BEAUTIFUL!
<cite><a href="http://www.docklandsisbeautiful.com.au/?page_id=18">Docklands is Beautiful » The campaign</a></cite>
</blockquote>
Full marks for passion and well said!
<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/Webb-Bridge-III.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="http://www.docklandsisbeautiful.com.au/"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Webb-Bridge-III.jpg?itok=FavPcw0A" title="http://www.docklandsisbeautiful.com.au/" typeof="Image"></a>
While the images above are taken from the Docklands is Beautiful website, a wander through Docklands one afternoon yielded a selection of art-led images below - it's not all concrete down there.
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Docklands is Beautiful, or is it?

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The area in and around St Kilda Junction is in the process of becoming the next hot spot for Melbourne apartments. A healthy number of residential projects are at all stages of the development cycle, that being from design to construction.

This in turn has ruffled the feathers of local residents and the local responsible authority, the City of Port Phillip. Given residential towers up to 26 levels have been approved (by either planning minister Matthew Guy or VCAT) despite local opposition, the City of Port Phillip responded on 12th February 2013 by seeking to impose interim mandatory height controls over the St Kilda Rd South zone. The area covered is immediately south of St Kilda junction to Carlisle St.

The City of Port Phillip ordinary Council notes read as follows, "Resolves to request the Minister for Planning to use his powers pursuant to section 20(4) of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, to prepare, adopt and approve an amendment to the Port Phillip Planning Scheme, to introduce mandatory height controls into the Port Phillip Planning Scheme for the St Kilda Road south area generally in accordance with the height requirements contained in this report on an interim basis for a period of two years...the lack of detailed design and height controls in the planning scheme were determining factors in the overturning of Council’s decisions by VCAT and the granting of the permits."

In effect the City of Port Phillip seeks the following:

Precinct 1 St Kilda Road – between Wellington Street and Alma Road 
• Street wall height 10 metres 
• Maximum building height – 26 metres Precinct 2 St Kilda Road – between Alma Road and Carlisle Street Wellington Street and Carlisle Street 
• Street wall height 10 metres (8 metres in Carlisle &amp; Wellington Street south side) 
• Maximum building height – 14 metres (12 metres in Carlisle &amp; Wellington Street south side.)

From the outside it seems the City of Port Phillip have been slow to react to an expanding number of apartment proposals, hence VCAT granting approval to a number of projects that both residents and local Council find to be excessive.

Given there is no binding height control overlay, VCAT deemed these projects to be appropriate. The reality is that Port Phillip's request that the Minister for Planning use his powers to approve an amendment to the Port Phillip Planning Scheme most likely will not eventuate. Minister Guy personally intervened to approve the tallest proposal in the area; 3-5 St Kilda Rd, quite possibly a sign the the state government has intentions of intensifying redevelopment around the junction, rather than restricting it.

Regardless of planning jostling between local and state bodies, the list of proposed and approved projects around the junction is extensive. Currently before VCAT is an application for an 18 level apartment tower at 42 Barkly St, whilst at 3-7 Alma Rd, an 8 level application is also under consideration. Further projects are shown below.

<a href="/buildings/allure-11-15-wellington-st-st-kilda" target="_blank">Allure</a> - Currently under construction

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ext_01_lge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Pace Development Group"><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/ext_01_lge.jpg" title="Image © Pace Development Group" typeof="Image"></a>

<a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/projects/port-phillip/2-8-st-kilda-rd-st-kilda" target="_blank">2-8 St Kilda Rd</a> - Site offered for sale and then withdrawn by Pace Development Group for future 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/Image1_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2-8 St Kilda Rd entry © Jackson Clenet Burrowes"><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_3.jpg" title="2-8 St Kilda Rd entry © Jackson Clenet Burrowes" typeof="Image"></a>

<a href="/new-apartments/st-kilda-vic-3182">Octavia</a> -  At sales with construction imminent

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/as-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="© Stab Visualisation"><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/as-1.jpg" title="© Stab Visualisation" typeof="Image"></a>

<a href="/buildings/meridian-25-alma-road-st-kilda" target="_blank">25-29 Alma Rd</a> - Currently before VCAT

<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/2-111221-vcat-view-1.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="© CH 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/2-111221-vcat-view-1.JPG" title="© CH Architects" typeof="Image"></a>

<a href="/new-apartments/s-t-k-apartments-3-st-kilda-road-st-kilda">3-5 St Kilda Rd</a> -  Approved with Caydon expected to launch sales mid-year

<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/3-5%20st%20kilda%20road2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy realestatesource.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/3-5%20st%20kilda%20road2.jpg" title="Image courtesy realestatesource.com.au" typeof="Image"></a>

The significant number of projects above are joined by another, though this time north of the Junction. Shorley Pty Ltd is waiting on the decision of VCAT regarding its proposed tower at 30 Punt Rd, Windsor. Stonnington City Council failed to grant a permit within the prescribed time period, hence the developers move to resolution at VCAT. This site (shown below) abuts Queens Way and would replace a lowrise office 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/Img_6056.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="30 Punt Rd site with Allure apartments under construction to the rear"><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_6056.jpg" title="30 Punt Rd site with Allure apartments under construction to the rear" 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_6020.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="30 Punt Rd site framed by Queens Way and Marquise apartments to the left"><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_6020.jpg" title="30 Punt Rd site framed by Queens Way and Marquise apartments to the left" typeof="Image"></a>

Initial plans involved a green wave-like apartment building designed by Terry Harper Architects. 30 Punt Rd was to contain 58 basement car parks, 48 bicycle and storage spaces, a 43sqm office space and 78 apartments. Due to opposition from the Shrine of Remembrance trustees, the planned 17 level, 63.75m tower has been reduced to 59 apartments, 13 levels and 52m in order to protect the Shrine vista sightline, even though 3-5 St Kilda Rd is approved at 91m directly behind!

Resident action group JAAG St Kilda contend the following, "The apartment tower is far too tall, is visually bulky, lacks any set backs, creates over looking and shadowing, lacks any landscaping, fails to meet local planning laws and seriously exacerbates existing serious parking problems at the Junction."

As of yet there has been no decision released by VCAT

 

Images below sourced from planning document and © Terry Harper Architects
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Queueing up at the Junction

Anstey Station - a few short years ago I would have required a map and compass to find it, yet now the surrounding area could be considered the crux of all that is good and bad with higher density development in <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>. By way of Anstey Square (completed 2010) and subsequent apartment developments, I&#39;ve wandered through with camera many times over to discover there was far more to this area than meets the eye.

&nbsp;

Anstey carries a certain character and urban grit that&nbsp;cannot be easily replicated elsewhere in Melbourne. Granted i&#39;ve focused primarily on the local street art through the slide show below, but the area offers much more on a basic level. The bustle of <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a> market, local coffee roasting houses, a multitude of Middle Eastern bakeries and stalwarts such the the Royal Nut Company provide a feast for the senses. The people are no less interesting; ageing inhabitants of European or Middle Eastern descent mixed with the contemporary Brunswick hipster type and all that lies between. Streets and laneways adorned with a variety of art also adds to the eclectic feel of the area.

&nbsp;

<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_5320.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/Img_5320.jpg?itok=J-lSjKiO" typeof="Image" /></a>

&nbsp;

Yet it&#39;s quite conceivable that all this could be lost soon enough as the area falls under the ever expanding gaze of apartment developers. I would be the first to argue that a light industrial inner city area such as this is ripe for higher density apartment living. Sandwiched between Sydney Road and the Upfield rail line in an already highly desirable area to live, Anstey is dominated by single level factories and presents a golden opportunity to implement a sustainable higher density outcome while still being sympathetic to the areas urban character.

&nbsp;

And therein lies the problem. Enjoy the images below as many will seemingly be lost soon enough. In next weeks sequel to Anstey in colour, Apartments.com.au will look at the new developments sweeping through the area and the resultant change in urban character (generally for the worse), plus what could be implemented to achieve a greater urban outcome.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Anstey in colour

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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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

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