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A fresh purpose is in store for a 1960's commercial building overlooking Sydney's Barangaroo precinct.

On the western periphery of Sydney's CBD, the Kent Street site was earmarked by Barana Group as suitable for redevelopment. The development outfit is attempting a second bite of the cherry with 189-197 Kent Street which the diversified property outfit acquired in December 2002.

After securing approval during 2014 to demolish the office block and deliver 146 apartments, Barana Group has once more taken the property to planning.

Just shy of $70 million, the newly submitted Stage 1 Development Application mirrors the initial application in that apartments are expected with an 80 metre tower. Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp were enlisted for Stage 1 design duties.

<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/image49_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kent Street perspective. Image: FJMT"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="671" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_12.jpg?itok=979o9WUb" title="Kent Street perspective. Image: FJMT" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kent Street perspective. Image: FJMT</figcaption></figure>The new application effectively adheres to the earlier approved envelope, with the bulk of changes centred around meeting current Apartment Design Guideline expectations.

Although the current application doesn't seek approval for internal layouts or exterior finishes, the 80 metre envelope would allow for 144 apartments over 24 levels. The indicative apartment mix sees 5 studio, 52 single, 74 double and 13 triple bedroom apartments.

Dual street frontages frame the 1,195 square metre site that encompasses 4 basement levels. Dual retail tenancies totalling 217 square metres round out the design's main attributes.

<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_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A view from Barangaroo. Image: FJMT"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="653" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_17.jpg?itok=4imGQkDE" title="A view from Barangaroo. Image: FJMT" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A view from Barangaroo. Image: FJMT</figcaption></figure>Barana Group's existing property portfolio is weighted toward commercial properties, although 189-197 Kent Street is not the only of the developer's stable that is earmarked for conversion.

Having overseen the reworking of Novotel St Kilda into an approved residential scheme, the scheme's sales campaign saw ended abruptly. Melbourne developer GURNER subsequently joined Barana Group as a project partner for the site, with the intent of demolishing existing buildings for the $550 million apartment development.

The project's approved 236 apartments are expected to be cut to approximately 130 high-end dwellings.
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silvermb

Barana Group sees opportunity on Sydney's Kent Street

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It's not South Yarra's imposing Capitol Grand, nor is it one of the gaggle of Box Hill residential towers progressively redefining that suburb's skyline.

Yet there is a suburban Melbourne skyscraper on the rise, so to speak. The jump form and initial floor plate formwork has appeared above ground for Rise Moonee Ponds. Part of the wider Mason Square development that replaces what was once the Moonee Ponds Market, Rise will become one of suburban Melbourne's tallest buildings.

The 30 level tower is the crowning component of developer Caydon's wider Mason Square precinct. Above a commercially focused podium, Rise includes hundreds of apartments and associated amenities.

<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/image270.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One of suburban Melbourne's tallest towers is on the way up. Image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="215" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image270.jpg?itok=m791NpHO" title="One of suburban Melbourne's tallest towers is on the way up. Image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One of suburban Melbourne's tallest towers is on the way up. Image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>Rise is the final and most imposing of the seven buildings which make up the Mason Square project.

The former Moonee Ponds Market site covers 1.34 hectares and will provide in excess of 1,000 apartments and a serviced apartment contingent operated as The Sebel Moonee Ponds. That component includes 97 serviced apartments within a mid-rise north-facing building.

Addressed 15 Everage Street, Rise is one of three jump forms rising simultaneously from the northern half of the site.

It and the Sebel building's form are joined by that of Focus on Mason, with the trio being delivered as the second phase of the overall built. Builder LU Simon has taken on construction of the entire Fender Katsalidis-designed project.

<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/image59_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rise as rendered and construction progress onsite"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="303" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image59_6.jpg?itok=_O0dprpN" title="Rise as rendered and construction progress onsite" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rise as rendered and construction progress onsite</figcaption></figure>Upon its completion which is scheduled for the end of next year, Rise will stand above all other towers at Mason Square and the wider North Western region of Melbourne for that matter. Longer term it may be joined by a handful of equivalent sized residential towers in nearby Footscray.

In a more immediate context, LU Simon has all but completed works on the initial Margaret Street and Hall Street components of Mason Square, consisting of four residential buildings.

That initial construction phase sees buildings range between 6 and 22 levels. Rise upon its completion will distinguish itself within Mason Square as being the only tower to sport a curtain wall façade.

<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_6607.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mason Square's Hall Street build is nearing completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6607.jpg?itok=pBmN9dsH" title="Mason Square's Hall Street build is nearing completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mason Square's Hall Street build is nearing completion</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne's 'other' suburban skyscraper gets moving

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Entity <a href="/developers/nine-dings-pty-ltd">Nine Dings Pty Ltd</a> is seeking approval for an expansive apartment project that would account for Doncaster Hill's largest development site.

<a href="/new-apartments/584-588-doncaster-road-doncaster">584-588 Doncaster Road</a> which also fronts Elgar Road and Briar Court spans some 8,176 square metres and has been subject to development overtones in the past. The long term car dealership lot is now likely to make way for the project in waiting which is costed at $122 million.

For that price Nine Dings Pty Ltd hopes to realise as many as 260 dwellings within an undulating <a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball-designed complex</a>. With site elevation in its favour and closer to the CBD that any other existing or proposed apartment building's within Doncaster Hill, the apartment mix reflects the project's prime location and unfettered views.

The 11 storey structure will be capped by 7 penthouses. Other high end residences within the proposal include two, three and four bedroom duplexes, with traditional apartments seeing 55 single, 140 double and 31 triple bedroom options.

<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/image250_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Briar Court frontage. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image250_0.jpg?itok=N8aST8nR" title="Briar Court frontage. Image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Briar Court frontage. Image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>584-588 Doncaster Road's dwelling mix is reflective of more recent trend toward larger apartments with more bedrooms across Doncaster Hill and Melbourne at large. Metro Equity's recently approved 90-96 Tram Road nearby sees only 4 of 158 apartments designated as single bedroom formats.

Hayball's design for the oversized site incorporates two distinct built forms above common lower levels.

The larger apartment building is configured loosely as a curving cross whilst a smaller building fronting Briar Court is defined by its exterior. Consisting of the duplexes, the smaller 6 storey form is veiled in aluminium screening battens carrying a wood grain finish; the honeycomb-shaped screening is in contrast to the main building form which employs a greater degree of precast elements, synonymous with Hayball's signature design look.

The application's most active frontages hold the Doncaster and Elgar road intersection, with 823 square metres of retail either side of an entry plaza.

<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/image251.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Differing development perspectives. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image251.jpg?itok=3i_Ds9VF" title="Differing development perspectives. Image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Differing development perspectives. Image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>584-588 Doncaster Road's unveiling comes at a time when Doncaster Hill's overall development activity is in somewhat of a lull.

Although a number of projects on Doncaster Hill's periphery are at construction, the only site within the designated development zone witnessing any construction action is <a href="/buildings/the-point-doncaster-hill-600-doncaster-road-doncaster">The Point Doncaster Hill</a>. Basement and site retention works continue over that site although builder's signage has yet to appear.

The recent completion of <a href="/news/ring-a-ding-ding-doncasters-largest-development-site-edges-toward-fruition">Nest at the Hill</a> has added 253 dwellings to Doncaster Hill's mix, and aside from The Point the next most likely project to reach construction is <a href="/developers/accord-property-group">Accord Property Group's</a> Mercure Melbourne Doncaster. Recently announced as Doncaster's first dedicated hotel, the complex will include 190 rooms over six floors on a Doncaster Road site adjacent to Westfield Shopping Centre.

<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_3655.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The freshly completed Nest at the Hill"><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_3655.jpg?itok=U6Vz3wlk" title="The freshly completed Nest at the Hill" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The freshly completed Nest at the Hill</figcaption></figure>
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Ring a ding-ding! Doncaster's largest development site edges toward fruition

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Brisbane's Albion Station is the latest rail hub set to maximise surrounding surplus and underutilsied land tracts via a transit oriented development.

Submitted to Brisbane City Council yesterday, the application dubbed Albion Exchange seeks approval for the initial stage of a far reaching mixed-use development spanning 3.5-hectares, with the station at the heart of the overhaul. The application also formally makes good on the Queensland Government's $750 million election pledge to renew the station and its surrounds.

Residential, commercial and extensive public uses aside, the station's transport infrastructure will also receive an overhaul.

The initial precinct's rebirth is to be delivered jointly with Albion-based developer Geon Property. Whilst works are slated to commence prior to 2020, the full delivery lifespan of the projects is expected to span 15 years.

<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/image159_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A highly activated ground plane. Image: Hames Sharley"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="317" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image159_5.jpg?itok=wdxeCLGV" title="A highly activated ground plane. Image: Hames Sharley" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A highly activated ground plane. Image: Hames Sharley</figcaption></figure>At the time of Geon Property reaching agreement with the Queensland government, Geon Property Managing Director Ben Griffin said:

<blockquote>
Redeveloping Albion train station allows us to deliver a truly world-class transit oriented development. This project will be more than just a property development – our vision is to create a precinct that is a genuine destination. 

This project will be defined by a seamless integration of high-quality apartment living, retail, food and beverage outlets with genuine character, modern commercial offerings and vibrant public open spaces. It will offer access to Brisbane’s transport networks, integrating with one of South East Queensland’s busiest train lines, connecting to the bikeway network and providing accessible parking options.
</blockquote>

<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/image164_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The wider Albion precinct. Image: Hames Sharley"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="444" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image164_1.jpg?itok=rlIItGwM" title="The wider Albion precinct. Image: Hames Sharley" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The wider Albion precinct. Image: Hames Sharley</figcaption></figure>Architecture firm Hames Sharley were announced at the practice of choice for the revamp earlier this year, and have gone about creating dual high-rise towers across the 6,458 square metre site which constitutes Stage 1. 

Combined the towers hold as many as 333 apartments, split between 96 single, 178 dual, 56 triple and 3 quadruple bedroom options. Their respective heights are pegged at 23 and 30 storeys, with the latter reaching beyond the 100 metre mark.

Both towers will stand adjacent to The Husdon, an existing 14 storey apartment tower cornering Hudson Road and the Albion Overpass.

Retail gross floor area for the initial stage spans 2,140 square metres and is supplemented by commercial space covering 3,777 square metres. In line with the size of the development, basement accommodations are made for 573 vehicles and 461 bicycles.

<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/image161_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Residential towers will play their part in the development. Image: Hames Sharley"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="612" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image161_0.jpg?itok=ykljP6kC" title="Residential towers will play their part in the development. Image: Hames Sharley" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Residential towers will play their part in the development. Image: Hames Sharley</figcaption></figure>It is the design's public features though which distinguishes the application; relative to its total gross floor area of 37,665 square metres, the open space provisions are particularly high. Public open space amounts to 4,770 square metres, whilst communal open space and private open space measure 2,657 square metres and 4,207 square metres respectively. 

Albion Exchange's landscaped designer Dunn + Moran made the following observation in terms of what the project is seeking to achieve from a public context:

<blockquote>
People associate inner city railways with concrete and the sound of heavy steel. Our vision is for a new precinct that looks at the rail environment differently.

Albion Exchange will be an active hub where people can meet conveniently, recreate comfortably and feel at ease when engaging with the railway. The prominence of usable green space and ornamentation should swathe the precinct in a manner that allows people to forget what the old style of train station used to feel like. 
</blockquote>

Albion Station is one of a handful of current transit oriented developments being backed by Queensland's Department of Transport and Main Roads; other stations receiving substantial developments include Coorparoo Junction, Buranda, Cleveland and Ferny Grove.
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Albion Station's supersized transit oriented development revealed

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Much like Parramatta, Liverpool will become another satellite CBD for the Harbour City, having been rezoned by the State's Planning Minister.

Anthony Roberts has officially announced the rezoning of 25 hectares in and around Liverpool that will further entice development to the locality. Already no stranger to high-rise residential development in Liverpool's fringe, the passage of higher density and mixed-use applications for the heart of the suburb will be made all the more easier under the rezoning.

The move comes as both the State Government and Liverpool Council seek to attract additional commercial and residential activity to the expanding hub. Liverpool's core stands to gain bigger developments under the rezoning, but also increased ground floor uses such as cafes, bars, restaurants and retail.

<blockquote>
I am pleased to announce this plan which will transform Liverpool’s commercial areas and unlock the city’s potential as a thriving and well-connected place to live, work and play.

Changes to the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) will open the door for Liverpool to fulfil its potential as the next significant city centre in Sydney. Liverpool’s transformation has the potential to be enjoyed by locals and international visitors, with the city centre being on the doorstep of the future Western Sydney Airport.

The rezoning enables increased building heights for selected key sites and will ensure people have easy access to public transport, the city campuses of both Western Sydney University and University of Wollongong and Liverpool Hospital’s $740 million redevelopment.
<cite>Planning Minister Anthony Roberts</cite>
</blockquote>

The rezoning's positive aspects have been lauded by the Planning Minister, Liverpool City Council Mayor Wendy Waller and Urban Taskforce Australia's Chris Johnson.

Not content with Liverpool's emergence behind Sydney's heart and Parramatta as true Central Business Districts, Chris Johnson insists that rezoning should be applied to other suitable suburban Sydney locations.

<blockquote>
The announcement by NSW Planning Minister, Anthony Roberts, that the Liverpool city centre has been rezoned for mixed-use is a good model for all centres across Sydney, says the Urban Taskforce. The 25 hectare city centre in Liverpool is now planning to house 10,000 new homes and 22,000 new jobs as a result of the change from commercial only zoning to mixed-use zoning.

The Urban Taskforce has been critical of the zoning of strategic centres as outlined in the Greater Sydney Commission’s District Plans that did not support mixed-use zoning but preferred separate zones for housing and for jobs. Most cities in the world are moving away from restrictive single use zoning towards a mixed-use approach that gives incentives to ensure a viable mixture of uses related to market needs.

The Liverpool model is following this approach.

A similar approach to mixed zoning should be considered for city centres like North Sydney, St Leonards, Chatswood, and Parramatta. Each of these city centres needs the vitalisation that comes from people living, working and shopping in an urban centre.
<cite>Urban Taskforce CEO Chris Johnson</cite>
</blockquote>

Liverpool already has a substantial presence in the Apartments.com.au Project Database, and this is set to grow once rezoning is ratified. The rezoning is as much about changing the balance of uses within any given development as it is about realising larger developments.

Prime developments come in the form of 277 Bigge Street which was <a href="/news/mackycorp-lines-up-a-major-liverpool-office-development">recently profiled</a> by Apartments.com.au. It involves the construction of a purely commercial tower containing in excess of 27,000 square metres of Gross Floor Area.

Also fresh to Liverpool is an application looking for the realisation of a residential tower at 402 Macquarie Street for developer Kingdom Towers. Spanning 17 levels and designed by GCCV, the applications includes 145 apartments.

To date Liverpool has 31 predominantly residential projects listed within the Apartments.com.au Project Database.
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Liverpool rezoned and earmarked as becoming Sydney's third largest CBD

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"With Melbourne’s ageing population forecast to almost triple from 2011 to 2051, there is an increasing demographic seeking a future home that offers world-class design and facilities, beautiful residences, and an exceptional level of service."

Australian Unity's Kevin McCoy succinctly sums the perceptible shift in independent living and aged care design that is sweeping across Melbourne. The heightened sophistication across an increasing number of Melbourne projects is headed by Australian Unity's transformation of their former Albert Road headquarters in South Melbourne.

The $120 million vertical retirement community dubbed The Grace Albert Park Lake at 128 Albert Road is intended to be the most prestigious address of its kind in Australia.

Fender Katsalidis Architects and Mim Design jointly conceived the design of the complex which includes 79 one, two and three bedroom residences plus a penthouse.

'Courtyard Community Clubs' run through the building, effectively designed to provide engaging break out spaces for 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/image100_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Common area within The Grace. Image: Australian Unity"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="413" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image100_2.jpg?itok=GnkBtbki" title="Common area within The Grace. Image: Australian Unity" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Common area within The Grace. Image: Australian Unity</figcaption></figure>“Our focus for the design was to ensure residents of The Grace Albert Park Lake can interact and engage with the building’s stunning surroundings, regardless of where they are in the building. With floor-to-ceiling windows and breathtaking views of Albert Park Lake, the single and double height spaces offer different experiences and a continuous connection with nature," says David Sutherland of Fender Katsalidis.

Projects such as The Grace Albert Park Lake are now keeping pace with high end contemporary apartment developments in the array of amenities on offer. Australian Unity's pursuit will include an artists’ studio, games room, explorers' den, edible garden, piano lounge, theatrette, health and fitness centre, pool, dedicated dining space and rooftop terrace.

Whilst The Grace Albert Park Lake has been positioned to lead the pack, a new rash of retirement living and aged care developments are also on the horizon, with both typologies closely aligned often developed alongside one another.

Provider TLC is backing a stylish new facility in <a href="/new-townhouses/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc </a>that has yet to be decided upon by Council. The Via Architects design at 113 McDonald Road includes 150 aged care spaces in a sweeping design that meets two street frontages, also incorporating an integrated medical centre, child care centre and community facilities.

Via Architects notes "The scheme aims to provide a high quality integrated care development including: aged care beds, child care centre, medical centre, a retail/cafe space as well as community therapy and wellness facilities. The 1 scheme also provides external 1 communal gardens to be shared with neighbouring properties."

This comes on the back of TLC overseeing the finishing touches to their Clifton Hill Integrated Health Care Hub, simply known as Clifton Views. Reflective of the progressive design being applied to the sector, the development nabbed an award for 'The Most Innovative Aged Care Housing Design Globally' at the Over 50s Global Housing Awards.

<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/image110_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mordialloc and Clifton Hill. Images: TLC"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="415" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image110_4.jpg?itok=Vgcd3wVt" title="Mordialloc and Clifton Hill. Images: TLC" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mordialloc and Clifton Hill. Images: TLC</figcaption></figure>Capitalising on the growth of the retiree sector, prolific apartment developer Steller has also elected to drive into aged care developments. Recently Steller Managing Director Nicholas Smedley said the firm <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/steller-builds-aged-care-development-pipeline-20180821-p4zysv">now has a pipeline of 14 aged-related assets</a> in various stages of development.

One such development is Oakleigh's 735-771 Warrigal Road which is at planning with City of Monash, and is another Via Architects design.

The sweeping low-rise design has capacity for 136 beds and various amenities such as a dining room, lounge and café, gym, theatre, activity rooms and outdoor terraces.

<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/image106_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Steller's aged care Oakleigh intention. Image: Via Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="261" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image106_3.jpg?itok=iYcTBMyh" title="Steller's aged care Oakleigh intention. Image: Via Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Steller's aged care Oakleigh intention. Image: Via Architects</figcaption></figure>
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Sophistication the decisive factor in Melbourne's retiree development boom

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Brisbane’s largest integrated CBD development continues to take shape at 300 George Street.

Backed by Shayher Group and being built by Multiplex, the development consists of three towers containing residential apartments, commercial office space and what is now the first 5-star hotel to open in Queensland’s capital in more than 20 years. Overseen by parent company Marriott International, W Brisbane Hotel is open for business and includes 312 guest rooms.

The importance of the chic hotel brand's arrival in Brisbane was not lost on the development team. Along with project architects ZENX International and DBI Architects, Melbourne-based Studio Ongarato were enlisted to provide W Brisbane with a unique, and arguably quirky identity.

Having already worked on other W branded hotels such as W Shanghai, Studio Ongarato was already in the position of understanding and delivering on W’s unique brand of playful luxury.

<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/image94_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="W Brisbane's reception area. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image94_5.jpg?itok=0EH40kEJ" title="W Brisbane's reception area. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>W Brisbane's reception area. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>Co-founder Fabio Ongarato explains "Our first narrative-led hotel was for the W Hong Kong back in 2010. Using narrative at that time was uncommon. It successfully injected greater vibrancy into the brand and rewrote the rulebook for narrative-led hotel design.

It also successfully set the tone for all the W hotels since."

In this regard four Brisbane-inspired sub-narratives were created for W Brisbane by Studio Ongarato. The implementation of bold and immersive environmental design narratives is an emerging trend in the hotel and hospitality space, but taken to the enth degree within W Brisbane.

On the wider aspect of providing a story or direction for hotel guests, Ongarato says "It’s important for design to tell meaningful stories that customers, users and guests can respond to. Defining and building a thematic framework is the first step for holistic and narrative-driven design to take shape.

A brand foundation enhances a guest’s experience by encouraging them to become more aware and engaged with their environment. It offers a world within a world for experience hunters but ultimately it aims to engage, delight and transport.”

<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/image92_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pool area backdrop. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image92_7.jpg?itok=t3QQHdSb" title="Pool area backdrop. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pool area backdrop. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>Also playing a hand in W Brisbane's interior expression was Ronnen Goren, who alongside Ongarato has been at the forefront of the studio for the past 25 years. The long standing partnership with W Hotels flows from the ability to marry unique design outcomes with commercial objectives.

“Studio Ongarato’s engagement with W Brisbane strengthens the design studio’s relationship with a truly international brand, showcasing our ability to interpret myriad social and cultural contexts as design outcomes, imbuing the W brand with a sense of place and personality” says Goren. Guest rooms aside, areas that received the Studio Ongarato touch included communal zones such as the dining room, bar, pool, spa and yoga facility.

The main narrative within W Brisbane centres around A River Dreaming, a theme developed by Nic Graham and Associates. This is a nod to the indigenous Turrbal people which sees the (Brisbane) river as the giver of life.

Thereafter Studio Ongarato conceived four sub-narratives: Native Allure, Tropical Eden, Brisvegas and Dark Paradise. How they manifest themselves via W Brisbane's interiors is a subjective matter, but Studio Ongarato hope the interplay of ideas creates a "tribal meets pop hybrid personality that electrifies in its many incarnations."

<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/image95_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Typical bedroom design feature. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image95_6.jpg?itok=ut4WyYW2" title="Typical bedroom design feature. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Typical bedroom design feature. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>Fabio Ongarato says “For W Brisbane we looked at the W brand DNA, which is bold, witty and shows a lust for life. And we studied the context of the site – its physical, social and historical parameters.

We looked carefully at many aspects of the Brisbane identity to create our themes. Taking ownership of that originally derogative nickname Brisvegas, Brisbanites are celebrating their tongue-in-cheek persona. From giant fruit landmarks to slogans, slang, stubby shorts and caftans, we deeply absorbed the Queensland vernacular to create our design narratives.”

Whilst W Brisbane remains the nation's sole W branded outlet for now, construction continues on both new Sydney and Melbourne locations. Sydney's The Ribbon will host 402 hotel rooms upon its completion next year whilst <a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne">Collins Arch will see 294 rooms</a> under the W Melbourne banner.

<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/image96_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Common area hallway. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image96_2.jpg?itok=Y1qI2nA6" title="Common area hallway. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Common area hallway. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>
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Profiling Studio Ongarato's quirky and incredible W Brisbane interior designs

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Apartment developer Aria Property Group has added another major project to its catalogue of Brisbane developments.

On this occasion Rothelowman has been utilised in the design of West End's 107-117 Jane Street. Reaching planning only last week, Jane Street looks to build upon Aria's self described vision of "create iconic residential and retail projects that we will be proud to walk our families past in 20 years' time."

To that end Rothelowman have conceived two distinct buildings above a common podium, with the intent of adding 145 apartments to the West End market. The apartment mix consists of 23 single, 91 double and 28 triple bedroom apartments.

An onsite warehouse and office will make way for the development, which is expected to be delivered over separate stages.

<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/image78_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design Perspective. Image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image78_5.jpg?itok=fhAdmlVj" title="Design Perspective. Image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design Perspective. Image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>Rothelowman's design narrative for the project surrounds the ideas of architecture as a backdrop to nature and life in a treehouse.

Consequently 107-117 Jane Street's facade employs the notion of a vertical park, and is heavy with greenery planters plus mature trees which run its full height. Rothelowman have also sought to introduce a layered canopy above street level, with its form and materiality said to reference the fig tree form.

Reflective of all Aria projects, the Jane Street application is heavy with communal facilities. An outdoor gym, playground, dining pavilion, sun deck and lounge, infinity pool and barbecue area constitute the more typical amenities, although more natural features also play their part in the design.

Not so regular features such as a 'tree house canopy boardwalk', stream and waterfall are also present and look to extend upon the project's location opposite Davies Park and adjacent to the Brisbane River.

<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_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design Perspective. Image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image80_7.jpg?itok=7VQNr0v9" title="Design Perspective. Image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design Perspective. Image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>107-117 Jane Street joins a handful of additional <a href="/developments?developer=ARIA%20Property%20Group">Aria projects within the Urban.com.au Project Database</a>.

South Brisbane's <a href="/new-apartments/waterfall-77-hope-street-south-brisbane">77 Hope Street</a> is perhaps the most recognised of Aria's pending projects, after approval was granted for the 33 storey apartment tower mid year. A 120-metre waterfall originating from the tower's rooftop terrace and running down the flank of the building is the design highlight, although a 750 square metre public park, community garden and cinema will also be included.

With <a href="/buildings/valencia-232-wellington-road-kangaroo-point">Valencia</a> and <a href="/buildings/the-drapery-64-logan-road-woolloongabba">The Drapery</a> approaching completion, Aria Property Group have moved to initiate construction on another residential tower. Hutchinson Builders have picked up <a href="/buildings/the-standard-13-17-manning-street-south-brisbane">The Standard</a>; the curvaceous tower which is due for completion 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/image84_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Waterfall, Oxley + Stirling and The Standard in clockwise formation. Images: Aria Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="775" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image84_13.jpg?itok=af0sel4j" title="Waterfall, Oxley + Stirling and The Standard in clockwise formation. Images: Aria Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Waterfall, Oxley + Stirling and The Standard in clockwise formation. Images: Aria Property Group</figcaption></figure>
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Aria Property Group extends its style-driven portfolio to Brisbane's West End

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447 Collins Street, the commercial component of the wider Collins Arch project backed by Cbus Property and ISPT, has become the country's third development to receive a platinum level WELL Precertification.

Overseen by the International WELL Building Institute, precertification amounts to acknowledgement of design characteristics that demonstrate leadership in health and wellness. WELL Precertification is effectively a nod toward the design of commercial buildings which improve the nutrition, fitness, mood, sleep patterns and cognitive performance of its occupants.

To date the only other developments to receive an equivalent precertification rating in Australia are the nearby 477 Collins Street and Circular Quay Tower in Sydney. Further enhancing the sustainability credentials of 447 Collins Street, the development team have also put if forward for a 6-star Greenstar accreditation and 5.5 star NABERS energy rating. 

According to the International WELL Building Institute, Geelong's freshly completed 1 Malop Street office development is Victoria's sole project to date that has achieved Platinum level certification upon 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/image10a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Latest imagery for the landmark mixed-use development. Image: Cbus Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="638" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10a.jpg?itok=HXSIUJ1g" title="Latest imagery for the landmark mixed-use development. Image: Cbus Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Latest imagery for the landmark mixed-use development. Image: Cbus Property </figcaption></figure>Design features that aided in 447 Collins Street's WELL Precertification include indoor air quality monitoring, interiors fitness circulation, superior natural lighting and ventilation, varied amenities and services offered to those working within the building and the promotion of bicycle access and associated services.

<blockquote>
WELL is moving the focus of the building rating tool world from an environmental and building focus to a human health focus. This is really important in an age where people are spending over 90% of their time indoors.

If you are trying to attract and retain a tenant, you need to create a work place environment that is aligned to your life beyond just work. Our tenants are also vying to attract the best talent in their respective industries. Workplace wellness programs help define your employer brand and set it apart from the competition.

Showcasing an intentional culture that genuinely supports employee health and well-being is powerful — and can help to attract, secure and retain talent”.
<cite>Lorraine Moore, Cbus Property Sustainability Manager</cite>
</blockquote>

447 Collins Street's commercial component incorporates 50,000 square metres of premium grade office space, and has been popular with Melbourne's legal fraternity.

To date 80% of 447 Collins Street's available space has been accounted for, apportioned to future tenants Minter Ellison, HWL Ebsworth Lawyers, Gadens and Hong Kong-headquartered King &amp; Wood Mallesons.

<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/p8140790.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="August construction progression. Image: Redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/p8140790.jpg?itok=IoluZ4hh" title="August construction progression. Image: Redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>August construction progression. Image: Redden</figcaption></figure>Collins Arch's physical manifestation continues at pace. 

The larger footprint of <a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne">447 Collins Street</a> has become evident as its westerly form rises above Collins and William streets. Created by Woods Bagot &amp; SHoP Architects, Collins Arch's other tower form is rising jointly at 433 Collins Street; it will include a W Hotel-branded 5-star hotel with 294 rooms, 1,000 square metres of dedicated high end retail and 185 apartments.

2,000 square metres of public open space including a tiered amphitheatre will sit at the projects eastern doorstep, incorporating for a portion of Market Street.
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All good and WELL for 447 Collins Street

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Two firms with a history of development within the Monash National Employment and Innovation Cluster (MNEC) are angling for bigger projects.

Both Salta Properties and Cedar Woods are pushing plans which are larger than their previous respective developments within Monash. Salta is all but assured of the right to build a substantial office complex as an extension of its Nexus Corporate precinct whilst Cedar Woods is pushing for hundreds of new dwellings within its Jackson Green development.

At either end of the MNEC, both intended developments speak to the increasing scale of development expectations in the area. These expectations would only be enhanced by the State Government's proposed Melbourne orbital rail proposal which has two stations in the heart of MNEC.

<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/image70_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image: Gray Puksand"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="287" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70_11.jpg?itok=QGVFLamR" title="Image: Gray Puksand" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image: Gray Puksand</figcaption></figure>Salta last week received backing for its proposed office complex at 633-647 Springvale Road, after nabbing the corner site for a reported $11 million during 2015.

Adjacent to Salta's existing Nexus Corporate precinct and spanning 2.4 hectares, the first phase of the Springvale Road development site found favour with Monash City Council and encompasses 21,226 square metres of net leasable area. That space is configured over two separate buildings with Gray Puksand undertaking the design.

Existing campus-style buildings within Nexus Corporate have traditionally been smaller in stature to date; the freshly completed Nexus 10 building holds in excess of 6,000 square metres of net leasable area. 

The upsizing of expectations for 633-647 Springvale Road also includes a very substantial 785 basement vehicle spaces, end of trip facilities and provision for 197 bicycle bays.

Two additional future buildings are slated for the balance of 633-647 Springvale Road, whilst Salta also has an eye toward delivering a high-rise hotel at <a href="/news/salta-pursues-mulgraves-first-hotel">12 Nexus Court</a> which sits within the initial Nexus Corporate 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/image74_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cedar Woods' latest alongside Gardenia Apartments progress during late August. Image: DKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="205" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image74_2.jpg?itok=xH7zTD8G" title="Cedar Woods' latest alongside Gardenia Apartments progress during late August. Image: DKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cedar Woods' latest alongside Gardenia Apartments progress during late August. Image: DKO Architecture</figcaption></figure>Cedar Woods too is after more within their Jackson Green estate in Clayton South.

Midway between Westall and Huntingdale stations, the residential development has to date seen townhouse and small scale apartment stages built onsite. The gradual upswing in development size now sees the DKO Architecture-designed Gardenia Apartments under construction; it includes 74 dwellings over six levels.

Cedar Woods are now seeking approval for two additional residential buildings housing a combined 165 apartments. Also designed by DKO Architecture, the taller of the duo reaches 9 levels.

The intended apartment split for the project at planning which is sited over 1408-1418 Centre Road sees 20 single, 131 double and 12 triple bedroom apartments.

<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_6168.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A small section of the M-City site"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6168.jpg?itok=Ah9uT4MP" title="A small section of the M-City site" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A small section of the M-City site</figcaption></figure>Whilst the above duo seek bigger development outcomes they are minuscule relative to the largest current development within the MNEC, which also happens to be the largest mixed-use development being delivered outside of Melbourne's CBD. Clayton's M-City is now at full construction with Multiplex overseeing works for the $1 billion project over a 35,000 square metre site.

Backed by Saraceno Group and Schiavello Group, M-City includes 643 apartments and serviced apartments, a 4.5 star Mantra hotel, up to 60 specialty retail spaces, 17,330 square metres of office space and 1,905 car parks supporting a projected population of about 4,000 residents, workers and shoppers.
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Salta and Cedar Woods upsize their Monash intentions

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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