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Sydney and Brisbane's respective CBD commercial markets stand to gain a boost with three office towers given the green light in recent days.

The Harbour City is in line to receive two office buildings above Martin Place railway station with Macquarie Group receiving the nod via Planning Minister Anthony Roberts to proceed to the final phase of planning. The 40 and 30 storey towers still need to clear final planning necessities and garner support in New South Wales' Cabinet, in line with the state's Unsolicited Proposals process.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image87_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Macquarie Group's Martin Place station development "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="483" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image87_2.jpg?itok=XsfHWRmo" title="Macquarie Group's Martin Place station development " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Macquarie Group's Martin Place station development</figcaption></figure>Macquarie Group's bid to deliver the two new towers began in earnest during March 2017 when the firm revealed they intended to integrate a new station and over-station development in order to "improve convenience for customers, and provide Sydney-siders and visitors with a destination in keeping with the civic, social and cultural significance of Martin Place."

On the office towers, Macquarie Group describes them as "in keeping with Martin Place’s heritage as Sydney’s financial heart and to contribute to the city’s status as a global business district. Macquarie’s proposal includes two commercial towers, the design of which has been, and will be, informed by significant buildings around the world."

A variety of buildings atop the site are currently under demolition in order to facilitate the rejuvenated station and both commercial towers. Architecture firms Grimshaw and Johnson Pilton Walker are the design forces behind the commercial components with Fosters and Partners and Architectus tasked with jointly delivering the new Martin Place railway station.

The investment banking company has indicated it will move to the Martin Place development upon its completion.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/metro-2-640.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Martin Place railway station in line with Macquiare Group's vision"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/metro-2-640.jpg?itok=d8M8hIAA" title="Martin Place railway station in line with Macquiare Group's vision" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Martin Place railway station in line with Macquiare Group's vision</figcaption></figure>Ashe Morgan and DMANN Corporation have secured approval for a Fender Katsalidis-designed office tower atop Brisbane's Health and Forestry House at 147-163 Charlotte Street. A secondary frontage to 146-160 Mary Street is also included, with total site area amounting to 3,449 square metres.

At the time of the November 2017 acquisition, Ashe Morgan Principal Mendy Moss stated "the $66 million acquisition price for the portfolio is below replacement cost for the asset and we are confident of implementing a strong turnaround strategy for an asset which has been continuously occupied by the State Government for 34 years and is due for a major upgrade."

That upgrade was also set in motion last year and will culminate in a $500 million amalgamation of dual existing commercial towers and the addition of 6 new levels in order to create a sole 26 level tower set behind the historic Charlotte Street facade. A-grade office space within the project will be boosted to approximately 40,000 square metres.

With approval in hand the development partnership expect that Midtown Centre as it will be known, will be completed during 2020.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image88_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fender Katsalidis have designed Brisbane's latest approved tower"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="910" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image88_6.jpg?itok=r32MMTMK" title="Fender Katsalidis have designed Brisbane's latest approved tower" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Fender Katsalidis have designed Brisbane's latest approved tower</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Brisbane and Sydney score significant office tower approvals

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Little to no media attention has been given to VCAT's decision to approve development plans for 160 Whitehorse Road.

Proponents behind the bid to redevelop Blackburn's premier development site into a staged mixed-use project were met with success at Victoria's planning tribunal late last month. As many as 263 apartments are now approved for the development designed by Taouk Architects which has been christened Blackburn Place.

The approval has also gone a long way to pushing Blackburn's apartment/townhouse pipeline toward 1,000 dwellings. From planning to construction, Apartments.com.au's Project Database is keeping tabs on 970 plus dwellings, spread predominantly across a raft of smaller sized apartment developments.

Blackburn Place though is by far and away the suburb's largest development and could have been far larger.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image79_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Blackburn Road perspective. Image: Taouk Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="265" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_8.jpg?itok=JwKt6UiG" title="Blackburn Road perspective. Image: Taouk Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Blackburn Road perspective. Image: Taouk Architects</figcaption></figure>Initial plans for the site attempted to realise a greater return of apartments, with buildings spanning 14, 10, 10 and 8 storeys originally submitted. Those plans have been tempered with the VCAT-approved outcome seeing 10, 9, 7 and 6 storeys given the nod, resulting in a sizeable reduction in overall apartment numbers from 394 to 263.

Apartments aside, Blackburn Place will also include a string of retail and commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas and basement parking.

Located within the Blackburn major activity centre, the application spans the largely vacant 8,767 square metre Lexus of Blackburn triangle site that maintains 295 metres of frontage to Whitehorse Road &amp; Railway Parade.

Having sold for $18 million to an Asian-backed developer three years ago, 160 Whitehorse Road's price history has seen steady growth. Previous campaigns saw the site sell for $11.36 million in 2010, $3.25 million in 1986 and $1.3 million in 1980.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image80_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sovereign and Trio under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image80_4.jpg?itok=xdrMfxRw" title="Sovereign and Trio under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sovereign and Trio under construction</figcaption></figure>Blackburn Place will crown an otherwise steady but relatively subdued Blackburn apartment market.

Smaller projects such as Sovereign and The Royale are at completion, whilst Trio is surfacing above ground; combined these projects stand to add 185 new apartments to the suburb. Furthermore Morton Park, Apollo, Blackburn Apartments and the townhouse aspect dubbed Regent which forms part of the wider 3 Whitehorse Road development are at registrations and/or sales, and stand to add a similar number of dwellings.

Thereafter the balance of projects within the Apartments.com.au Project Database are smaller in stature and confined to the planning or approval stages of development.
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160 Whitehorse Road's approval pushes Blackburn's apartment pipeline toward 1,000 

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The campaign to raise the profile of Melbourne's latest, and potentially smallest hotel is on in earnest. United Places Botanic Gardens is weeks away from completion and is being billed as pioneering new levels of luxury for travellers to this city.

Conceived by Carr Design Group, the hotel at 157-159 Domain Road spans only four levels, with a ground floor eatery christened Matilda the latest local venue for Melbourne Chef and Restaurateur, Scott Pickett.

Thereafter the building includes a mere 12 hotel suites, each of which maintains a north and south aspect owing to the building's small floorplate. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/29666370_10215100670687854_1570636027_n.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Domain Road's new addition is nearing completion. Image: Stab studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="652" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/29666370_10215100670687854_1570636027_n.jpg?itok=Xjbx9VXQ" title="Domain Road's new addition is nearing completion. Image: Stab studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Domain Road's new addition is nearing completion. Image: Stab Studio</figcaption></figure>According to Carr Design " The principle façade is articulated through an exposed concrete frame, which contrasts with the refined glazing system and delicate bronze balustrading. The overall effect references the early 20th century work of Dutch architect Gerrit Rietveld, and will present a jewel to South Yarra upon completion."

United Places Botanic Gardens is a joint effort between Melbourne-based developer Tallow Group and creator/owner of United Places, Darren Rubenstein. Trio Construct took on the build which commenced during mid 2017, working across the compact site which bookends Domain Road's restaurant and cafe strip.

The hotel is aiming for a niche aspect of the short-term accommodation market, based upon the idea of combining a hotel and home, with Prahran-based design practice Projects of Imagination also playing its part in fine-tuning the new brand's 'holistic experience'. This translates to oversized hotel suites accompanied by a personalised butler service and a tailored in-room menu devised by Matilda.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image68_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Carr Design have created all interior spaces within the Domain Road development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image68_9.jpg?itok=UD_aiZqF" title="Carr Design have created all interior spaces within the Domain Road development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Carr Design have created all interior spaces within the Domain Road development</figcaption></figure>The project's common areas are restrained in palette akin to the exterior but are finished to a high level. On the interior design, "the furnishings and artist commissions within the hotel soften the buildings brutal form and minimal palette of grey and bronze, lending itself to carefully considered juxtapositions – it is exclusive yet inclusive, public and private, dark and light."

A similar design ethos is present for the development's nine one-bedroom suites and three two-bedroom suites, albeit with lighter and brighter notes. 

Darren Rubenstein summed United Places niche in Melbourne's crowded hotel market; "We wanted to create a home for guests, where they could revel in the luxury of Melbourne's best design, food and location in the privacy of their own suite."

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_8350_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="United Places under construction during late 2017"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_8350_0.jpg?itok=Gsuu2E-d" title="United Places under construction during late 2017" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>United Places under construction during late 2017</figcaption></figure>
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United Places announces itself as Melbourne's latest hotel 

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A sizeable slab of office space may be on its way to Fitzroy North as a new planning application seeks to replace a reception venue with a multi-level mixed-use building.

Moonlight Receptions at 622-636 Nicholson Street appears to have its days numbered with the development application registered with City of Yarra little more than a week ago. Rather than go down the proven path of apartments, a 10 level commercial building containing a Gross Floor Area of 16,950 square metres has been proposed.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image65_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of the proposal. Image: Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image65_3.jpg?itok=BohkG5Hk" title="Hero perspective of the proposal. Image: Artisan Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of the proposal. Image: Artisan Architects</figcaption></figure>Net Lettable Area within the Artisan Architects-designed project covers 10,605 square metres. The commercial aspect of the proposal is earmarked as standard office space alongside a medical centre and associated suites.

Artisan Architects note LKG as the applicant behind the proposal, which also features a ground floor supermarket and rooftop terrace.

Three levels of underground parking will service the proposal, with its overall development value pinned at $25 million.

In its current form, the Moonlight Receptions development would create a new height precedent for the area which maintains a predominantly low-rise and historic character to Nicholson Street. Any height parallels can be drawn with two residential buildings located behind the development site in question, with both those buildings set well back from Nicholson Street.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!4v1522016700764!6m8!1m7!1s08Q1OCHRNog-CW6ueGUqOg!2m2!1d-37.78468943571484!2d144.9771944285262!3f94.73092242678996!4f5.450559616288572!5f1.52841521987171" style="border:0" width="100%"></iframe>

Roi Apartments and EV Apartments were built over recent years and stand approximately 50-60 metres back from Nicholson Street.

North of Alexandra Parade, Nicholson Street is bereft of any noteworthy commercial developments. Over recent years, whatever suitable development sites have become available have almost exclusively become high-density residential development.

This is particularly the case north of Brunswick Road; last year Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/nicholson-streets-apartment-activity-slips-into-top-gear">highlighted nine apartment projects in development</a> along the Nicholson Street strip.
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Office use injected into Fitzroy North's Nicholson Street

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Melbourne's sparkling hotel sector may have taken a dent, as plans for Mantra Group's second Melbourne Peppers outlet at 64-68 Clarendon Street look to have faltered.

The corner block development site has been listed for sale with South Melbourne-based Dixon Kestles, with no mention of the proposed Peppers-branded hotel which was to have opened during February next year. Rather Dixon Kestles note the project as simply having a permit in place for 33 levels and 10,080 square metres of gross building area.

Furthermore updated renders of 64-68 Clarendon Street now have the podium structure reworked, with all Peppers branding removed. The development initially gained approval during late 2015 as a residential hotel tower.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image3p.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The intended Peppers Southbank. Image: Point Polaris"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3p.jpg?itok=yeYOAdw8" title="The intended Peppers Southbank. Image: Point Polaris" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The intended Peppers Southbank. Image: Point Polaris</figcaption></figure>Builder Atelier Projects <a href="http://atelierprojects.com.au/projects/">lists the Clarendon Street tower</a> as a current project, although precious little has occurred since mid last year when a piling rig lay idle onsite. <a href="https://www.mantragroup.com.au/News-Media/News/postid/673/shovels-hit-the-ground-at-peppers-southbank.aspx">A groundbreaking ceremony</a> was held jointly between then project manager Point Polaris and Mantra Group onsite during July last year.

Atelier Projects list ZFN Property Group as being behind the $60 million project which held a build value of $35 million. 

After opening an initial Peppers-branded Melbourne outlet in Docklands at the turn of 2016, Mantra Group considered the Southbank tower instrumental as part of their aggressive expansion plans throughout Australian and New Zealand. Peppers Southbank was slated to include 162 new suites.

At the groundbreaking ceremony, Mantra Group Regional General Manager Doug Flavell was bullish on Melbourne's second Peppers presence. "We’re confident Peppers Southbank will provide a market-leading hotel offering, well positioned to become the region’s premier corporate and leisure hotel.

The hotel’s location couldn’t be more perfect for both business and leisure guests with Melbourne’s central business district, Crown Casino, the Melbourne Convention &amp; Exhibition Centre, and the city’s finest shopping and dining precincts all within walking distance.”

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image48_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Shadow Play is Mantra Group's new Southbank location of choice. Image: Redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_12.jpg?itok=uj03Nxz7" title="Shadow Play is Mantra Group's new Southbank location of choice. Image: Redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Shadow Play is Mantra Group's new Southbank location of choice. Image: Redden</figcaption></figure>That sentiment has been maintained, albeit diagonally opposite at the corner of Clarendon Street and City Road where Mantra Group came to terms with developer BPM regarding a new Southbank hotel late last year.

Dubbed Mantra on City Road, the 46 storey tower is at practical completion at the hands of builder Icon, and will be managed by Mantra Group when it opened for business. The project was initially marketed as private apartments dubbed Shadow Play.

Mantra Group's swift move to seemingly replace one Southbank outlet with another followed their announcement of Melbourne outlet. <a href="/buildings/m-city-2107-dandenong-road-clayton">Mantra M-City</a> in Clayton will include 250 dedicated hotel suites, in addition to Mantra Group letting and adjacent tower for a further 180 serviced apartments as part of Saraceno Group's $1 billion mixed-use development on the corner of Dandenong Road and Blackburn Road.
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Peppers' Southbank intentions subside as 64-68 Clarendon listed for sale

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Waterfront urban renewal is on the agenda at Brisbane's Eagle Street Pier as plans to transform the immediate area into a pedestrian friendly precinct gather momentum.

Dexus Property Group is actively supporting the project which would see the mixed-use precinct created, underpinned by two new towers and an overhaul of the area's public realm. 1.5 hectares of enhanced and accessible public and riverfront open space is expected under the Waterfront Precinct plan, which effectively covers a group of buildings already owner by the property outfit.

With support from the State Government and Brisbane City Council, a section of Eagle Street would removed from the corner of Market Street to the corner of Charlotte Street, in order to provide ample area for two major towers.

It's expected the removal of vehicles from this stretch of Eagle Street would also deliver 7-day a week activation by way of increased amenities, retail and restaurant options for the precinct.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image47_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Overview of Dexus' site ownership"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="419" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47_8.jpg?itok=sVYRc1ve" title="Overview of Dexus' site ownership" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Overview of Dexus' site ownership</figcaption></figure>The Palaszczuk Government's nod will see Dexus progress Waterfront Precinct to the next stage of design and consultation.

Being  a private sector initiative seeking an exclusive commercial arrangement with government, Waterfront Precinct will adhere to the Queensland Government’s Market-Led Proposal (MLP) structure. The proposal as of late last week progressed to Stage 2, where the project's overall feasibility will determined.

<blockquote>
Should this project reach final approval, this will be a city-shaping development – a world-class mixed-use riverside precinct with public space at its heart. Our government is supporting this proposal because we support jobs, and this project would represent a $1.4 billion investment in Brisbane with the potential to support around 740 jobs per annum over the life of construction.

This proposal isn’t without complexities, but we know we need this sort of investment to grow jobs for Queenslanders.
<cite>Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick</cite>
</blockquote>

Brisbane City Council Lord Mayor Graham Quirk also threw Council's supportive behind the proposal.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image46_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A Dexus provided artist’s impression of the Waterfront Precinct proposal"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image46_10.jpg?itok=0DdbeWRs" title="A Dexus provided artist’s impression of the Waterfront Precinct proposal" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A Dexus provided artist’s impression of the Waterfront Precinct proposal</figcaption></figure>Eagle Street Pier was built in 1989, encouraging the establishment of a riverfront dining and entertainment precinct.

Maintaining a high degree of public usage thereafter will see the intended Waterfront Precinct development go through a round of community consultation slated to commence almost immediately and run through to September. Among other aspects the consultation process will allow the public to put forward ideas for the precinct.

The optimal project timeline has Dexus capable of moving Waterfront Precinct to construction during 2020. Staged for the purpose of minimising disruption to neighbours and the wider community, construction would span 6 years and potentially yield one of Brisbane's tallest buildings.
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Dexus bids to deliver Brisbane a new Waterfront Precinct

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The gradual transition of Smith Street's northern reaches to a higher density built form has seen another project join the queue.

Developer GURNER will know at the earliest by late next month whether its bid to transform Collingwood's 368-374 Smith Street has been successful. Designed by Warren and Mahoney, the residential development spans 9 storeys and sits behind a quartet of partially retained heritage buildings.

For Warren and Mahoney, the Smith Street design is their fourth high-density residential project of note in Melbourne, their third for GURNER, and their second in Collingwood.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image22_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Angelo Group's two Smith Street developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="394" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_14.jpg?itok=DP_Rj1jk" title="Angelo Group's two Smith Street developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Angelo Property Group's two Smith Street developments</figcaption></figure>The Apartments.com.au Project Database currently has 10 projects along Collingwood's Smith Street in active status, with the majority located north of Johnston Street. 

Angelo Property Group has a hand in two projects, with the Kennedy Nola-designed Haus Collingwood recently hitting completion. Huas' northern facade is finished in a Brutalist style, but the majority of people will view the modern podium complete with canvas awnings.

For their other Smith Street development, Angelo Property Group has utilised Cera Stribley Architects to transform 365 Smith Street. The adjoining historic brick facade of 377-379 Smith Street will incorporate into the development which is currently at sales, whilst the modern add-on structure will be replaced with what amounts to a triple height void.

Most intriguing, or disappointing depending upon the readers perspective, is SPEC Property's Trilby development which required the existing brick facade be demolished. Later in the project's construction phase, the facade will be rebuilt to better provide continuity along the historic streetscape.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_7807.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="SPEC Property's Trilby is a departure from the previous heritage facade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="416" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7807.jpg?itok=Xg5cEk-8" title="SPEC Property's Trilby is a departure from the previous heritage facade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>SPEC Property's Trilby is a departure from the previous heritage facade</figcaption></figure>Among a number of other projects with the ability to redefine the area is 423-425 Smith Street, but perhaps more so in what was not delivered.

Kahlon Group were behind a recent planning application to add a John Davey Architects-designed multi-level extension to the rear of the site that would have added near on 10,000 square metres of creative office space.

As it is 423-425 Smith Street is nearing the end of its restoration, with no mid-rise commercial complex in sight; under the United Co name, the complex is now slated to open next month as a new coworking space.

The existing facade has for the most remained unchanged.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image21_15_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="423-425 Smith Street. Image: John Davey Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_15_0.jpg?itok=ySDO5hBg" title="423-425 Smith Street. Image: John Davey Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>423-425 Smith Street. Image: John Davey Architects</figcaption></figure>
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Warren and Mahoney add to Smith Street's changing face

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The initial stage of Crown Group's multiphased redevelopment of a substantial land track in Sydney's Waterloo has been unveiled.

The developer earlier this month lodged plans for the first of five separate stages within its Lachlan Precinct land parcel. Addressed 44-48 O'Dea Avenue, the overall development will ultimately see multiple buildings delivered, climbing as high as 20 levels.

The subject of the initial application though is Building E, a more modest 8 level apartment development. The 2,993 square metre island site is set well back from O'Dea Avenue and is bound by Archibald Avenue, Gadigal Avenue, Reed Street and Hatbox Place. 

Koichi Takada Architects is behind the design, having created a number of stand out residential buildings for Crown Group in recent times. Building E, too, shapes as an architectural statement, holding winged feature aluminium corners that soften an otherwise squared form.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image9_20.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="272" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_20.jpg?itok=RXp8qBge" title="Street level perspective. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects</figcaption></figure>95 apartments are slated for the initial stage, which has a development cost beyond $41 million. Crown Group have provided a spread of living options within Building E, electing to include 10 studio, 29 single, 45 double and 11 triple bedroom apartments.

Internal areas for the respecting living options begin at 35 square metres for studios, 50 square metres for singles, 70 square metres for doubles and 90 square metres for triples.

The apartments, along with 11 retails tenancies predominantly facing Archibald Avenue, will be serviced by dual basement levels accommodating 105 parking bays. 
At ground level, a publicly accessible and landscaped through passage will account for roughly 30% of the site's footprint, with a small degree of built form above, effectively creating a U-shaped building. Part of the above build form is a fourth level terrace for future residents.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image16_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Joint Koichi Takada - Crown Group projects to date"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="334" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16_12.jpg?itok=4oULD1xP" title="Joint Koichi Takada - Crown Group projects to date" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Joint Koichi Takada - Crown Group projects to date</figcaption></figure>Building E aside, Crown Group has taken a liking to Koichi Takada's flowing lines in recent times; the duo has collaborated on a number of projects in inner Sydney. Skye, Arc and the highly distinctive Infinity with its roughly 400 apartments, retail and convention facilities are Koichi Takada designs for the prolific developer.

Another upcoming project sees Crown Group team with architecture firm FJMT to deliver a $1 billion rejuvenation project to Sydney's southern suburb of Eastlakes. Crown Group is also planning its first Melbourne project.

Teaming with G3 Projects, the duo is reportedly developing 175 Sturt Street, Southbank. It went to planning during 2016 and still remains there.
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Koichi Takada designs Crown Group's next considerable residential project

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Aged care provider Benetas is approaching an outcome for its Doncaster Road residential aged care and retirement village facility.

Next week Manningham City Council will provide judgement on the development which in part reaches eight levels. Council internal planners are recommending that the application be supported, subject to conditions, but for the most the built form has been green lighted.

During 2016 the 6,317 square metre site was secured by the aged care provider, outpointing apartment developers along the way. At that point a five-level aged care facility was expected to replace the current Papa Rich Malaysian restaurant onsite.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image42_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Doncaster Road frontage. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="315" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image42_5.jpg?itok=ZzMSo8EZ" title="Doncaster Road frontage. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Doncaster Road frontage. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure>Fronting both Doncaster Road and Carawatha Road, the proposal is effectively split into wings. A five-storey residential aged care segment fronts Doncaster Road and consists of 128 lodging rooms whilst the taller part six, part eight-storey retirement village to Carawatha Road.

74 independent living units are slated within the taller wing, split between 8 single bedroom, 54 dual bedroom and 9 triple bedroom apartments. Internals for these living spaces range between 63 square metres and 134 square metres.

Basement parking accommodates 161 vehicles with ground floor retail and restaurant areas summing to 489 square metres.

Communal facilities across the development include an internal courtyard and terrace, cinema, worship space, hair and beauty salon plus a gym.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image43_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The apartment aspect of the development. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="288" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image43_9.jpg?itok=9t_j8ryz" title="The apartment aspect of the development. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The apartment aspect of the development. Image: <a href="/architects/clarke-hopkins-clarke-0">ClarkeHopkinsClarke</a></figcaption></figure>Benetas' proposal is the first large-scale aged care/retirement village complex slated for Doncaster Hill, albeit on the periphery of the designated development zone.

Further east along Doncaster Road a swag of residential projects has either been built, are at sales or have progressed to construction. The residential aspect of Manningham City Council's Doncaster Hill strategy has taken full effect, although other uses such as commercial, hotel or aged care have failed to take a foothold in the concentrated development area.

Council planners noted that Benetas' proposal "complements and supports the strategic role of Doncaster Hill and contributes towards employment targets for the area. The use of the site for an aged care facility and a retirement village affords Doncaster Hill with a net community benefit that is fundamentally supported by policy."
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Benetas goes bigger on Doncaster Hill

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Docklands may well stand to gain its most daring residential and commercial developments near simultaneously, as separate developers press ahead with their respective projects.

At NewQuay, <a href="/developers/mab-corporation">MAB Corporation</a> has officially ramped up the profile of its latest tower to grace the precinct. In conjunction with <a href="/architects/six-degrees-architects">Six Degree Architects</a>, the duo are launching <a href="/buildings/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands">Escala</a> which will feature a number of unique design aspects.

The $130 million development consists of retail, hospitality, commercial and residential uses, with a nod toward Melbourne’s laneway and design culture apparent.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image54_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of Escala. Image: Six Degrees Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="622" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image54_6.jpg?itok=3KaEFdll" title="Hero perspective of Escala. Image: Six Degrees Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of Escala. Image: Six Degrees Architects</figcaption></figure>The 20-level T-shaped building is split between a distinctive podium and tower elements. The liberal use of brick to the northern podium contradicts with Escala's other more contemporary podium aspects, whilst the tower is a mixture of gold facade, protruding balconies and stained glass equivalent facade treatment that frames the tower's common areas.

Above a new piazza, Escala will include various format apartments, lofts and three-level home-offices.

On the apartment options, MAB Corporation's General Manager of Residential David Allt-Graham stated the following on the array of living choices within Escala:

<blockquote>
We expect the variety of apartment sizes and shapes, not to mention the inherent flexibility of the loft and SoHo offerings, to appeal to young Gen Y’s and millennials that often work from home. 

Thanks largely to digital transformation and tech-savvy millennials, flexible working arrangements are becoming the norm for most Australian businesses, and we were keen to offer a practical and inspiring place for people to live and work.

However, we also feel the scale of the loft offering will attract young families seeking spacious inner city living. The mezzanine can be an elevated children’s play area and the living spaces are generous for hosting friends and extended family.

As our 13th boutique apartment complex in NewQuay, we’ve learnt a great deal about apartment living.  Undoubtedly, Escala is our most diverse and sophisticated project to date.
</blockquote>

Stay tuned for Apartments.com.au's chat with Mark Healy from Six Degrees Architects on the design merits of Escala.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image55_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Escala's entrance lobby. Image: Six Degrees Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image55_7.jpg?itok=x0WUXsu0" title="Escala's entrance lobby. Image: Six Degrees Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Escala's entrance lobby. Image: Six Degrees Architects</figcaption></figure>A short distance away <a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a>' second highly impressive design is set to become reality.

<a href="/developers/poly-global">Poly Australia</a> has indicated that they intend to press on with facilitating construction of <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">1000 La Trobe street</a> regardless of whether or not the commercial tower has an anchor tenant in place. Initially slated to start construction toward the end of 2018, Poly Australia will move ahead with delivering the project.

During December the developer was successful in gaining a two-year permit extension to develop a 24-storey A-Grade office tower containing 31,500 square metres of floor space.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image48_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1000 La Trobe Street's angular expression. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="262" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_11.jpg?itok=Tl_5wnB_" title="1000 La Trobe Street's angular expression. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1000 La Trobe Street's angular expression. Image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>1000 La Trobe Street was designed by <a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> a number of years ago and is defined by its angular, articulated facade which is a far departure from the squat, squared and simple designs that are indicative of the vast majority of commercial docklands buildings.

The tower spans a 5,135sqm site and has an 85 metre frontage to La Trobe Street.

On the design Poly Victoria Executive Director Steve Wang said:

<blockquote>
1000 La Trobe Street will be Poly Australia’s first commercial building in Victoria, and as such we intend to ensure that it will become one of Docklands’ most impressive buildings, both visually and environmentally.

Overlooking the Yarra River and the city skyline, we look forward to developing a world-class building that everyone within the Melbourne business district can be proud of.
</blockquote>
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A double design delight for Docklands

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

Mark Baljak

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