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Local developer PDG Corporation is in the process of replenishing its development pipeline, with two apartment projects currently at planning.

The two new residential projects are located in two heavily influential suburbs in terms of apartment activity, namely West Melbourne and Brunswick. These two have hit advertising with their respective councils at a time when PDG Corporation's two current apartment projects are nearing construction completion.

The West Melbourne endeavour at 17-37 Abbotsford Street is the larger of the two expected projects, encompassing a sprawling 4,795sqm island site adjacent to North Melbourne Station. Pushing $60 million in terms of construction value, PDG Corporation are hoping to add 200 dwellings to the West Melbourne landscape, including a sizeable number of lofts.

<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/image27_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Melbourne's landscape will be further changed. Planning image: DKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image27_7.jpg?itok=f1-1kxFj" title="West Melbourne's landscape will be further changed. Planning image: DKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Melbourne's landscape will be further changed. Planning image: DKO Architecture</figcaption></figure>The overall apartment breakdown sees 113 dual bedroom apartments, supplemented by 44 single and 43 triple bedroom dwellings. Retail and commercial spaces are also found over lower levels.

DKO Architecture have been tasked with the West Melbourne design, whilst Formium acts as landscape architects. The J.Gadsen building which fronts Abbotsford Street and Ireland Street will be incorporated into the development, flanked by either a public piazza or an Abbotsford Street oriented pocket park.

Although a similar height to PDG Corporation's West Melbourne intentions, Brunswick's 311-315 Barkly Street encompasses 69 apartments in total across 10 floors.

Covering a 1,393sqm plot and in proximity to the soon-to-be revamped Jewell Station Precinct, the Barkly Street scheme by Disegno Australia further pushes the trend of higher density urban renewal around rail stations that flank Sydney Road.

<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/image25_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Barkly Street may soon have a new addition. Planning image: Disegno Australia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="479" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image25_6.jpg?itok=htIzyaVS" title="Barkly Street may soon have a new addition. Planning image: Disegno Australia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Barkly Street may soon have a new addition. Planning image: Disegno Australia</figcaption></figure>18 single, 47 double and four triple bed apartments constitute the living options within the proposed building, with extensive bicycle parking and a 425sqm commercial/retail space defining the project's ground level plane.

The brick-clad 311-315 Barkly Street shapes as PDG Corporation's fourth consecutive project north of the CBD, after having focused on the CBD/Southbank apartment market for many years. Construction for the firms Arden Park project is well advanced, whilst the Haymarket Roundabout precinct has gained another unique design by way of Royal Elizabeth.

Ostensibly complete, work on internals for the Elenberg Fraser-designed bronze and green tower continues, before it's imminent settlement which has been nominated for March.

PDG Corporation is also Melbourne City Council's developer of choice for the Munro site opposite Queen Victoria Market at 151 Therry Street, Melbourne. Whilst various development outcomes including a 200m residential tower have been touted for the site, the project's final composition is still unknown.

<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_3309.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Royal Elizabeth is approaching completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="711" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_3309.jpg?itok=cjfcMU82" title="Royal Elizabeth is approaching completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Royal Elizabeth is approaching completion</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

PDG Corporation usher in its next wave of apartment projects

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In a low key process held mostly over the summer break, land owners and developers have had the chance to offload their prime Fishermans Bend holdings to a blue chip buyer, with The Victorian School Building Authority, Department of Education and Training and the Fishermans Bend Taskforce jointly on the prowl for additional sites capable of accommodating further education facilities.

An <a href="http://www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/Pages/Fishermans-Bend-EOI.aspx">Expressions of Interest</a> campaign is currently drawing to a close, requesting private landowners and developers to sell or lease land located within one of Fishermans Bend's four major precincts: Montague, Lorimer, Sandridge and Wirraway.

Parameters for the Expressions of Interest campaign include a site ideally no less than 4,000 square metres and with multiple street frontages.

The eventual site or sites will likely mirror South Melbourne Primary School's <a href="/news/hayballs-south-melbourne-vertical-school-wins-on-an-international-scale">internationally award-winning design</a>, with that project's construction beginning in earnest after the festive break.

<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/image17fbv.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="South Melbourne Primary School. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="365" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17fbv.jpg?itok=sTFUqJh0" title="South Melbourne Primary School. Image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>South Melbourne Primary School. Image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>Appointed builder ADCO Constructions will deliver the new multi-level, Hayball-designed campus alongside expansive community spaces, with the intent of effectively integrating the new school with its Montague Precinct surrounds. The main school building is expected to begin rising above ground during April, after onsite excavation is complete.

The Victorian School Building Authority's push into vertical campuses across the inner city and the requested Fishermand Bend site of 4,000 square metres plus suggests that additional open space is also on the agenda, side by side with new vertical education facilities.

The benefits of Integrating community into the design of new schools is outlined by Hayball’s Sydney Studio Director David Tordoff, <a href="http://www.educatoronline.com.au/news/opinion-integrate-community-into-the-design-of-schools-229649.aspx">within this article</a>.

As was <a href="/news/vertical-schools-to-feature-at-australian-smart-skyscrapers-summit-2017">outlined last week</a>, vertical schools will also be on the agenda for the upcoming Australian Smart Skyscrapers Summit which will be held next month in Melbourne.

<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/image18fb.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first, with more to follow within Fishermans Bend. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="365" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18fb.jpg?itok=ZW4s3N8f" title="The first, with more to follow within Fishermans Bend. Image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first, with more to follow within Fishermans Bend. Image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>
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First one, now more schools on the agenda for Fishermans Bend

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It seems many of inner Melbourne's pubs are in trouble. Times have changed, but more specifically the core demographic, entertainment options and the city itself have changed.

Long gone are the days where the corner pub was the staple (and in some cases the only) option of previous generations; Melbourne is now a 24 hour city with a multitude of entertainment options. And so in this respect it should come as no great surprise that many of inner Melbourne's pubs are under pressure in terms of remaining viable businesses.

The list of pubs under threat in recent times has ballooned. Apartments.com.au first broke the news that <a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">Port Melbourne's</a> London Hotel and <a href="/new-apartments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne's</a> Palmerston Hotel were both subject to apartment-based developments.

In recent times the CBD's Great Western and St Kilda's Greyhound Hotel have been added to the list, whilst the latest endangered venue is <a href="/new-apartments/kensington-vic-3031">Kensington's</a> The Quiet Man - a pub with heritage dating back to the 1880's.

<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/image7_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Quiet Man's new purpose? Planning image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_12.jpg?itok=4dGHVyG_" title="The Quiet Man's new purpose? Planning image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Quiet Man's new purpose? Planning image: <a href="/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a></figcaption></figure>The Quiet Man's planning application would see the structure, which has been augmented at various times over its existence, demolished completely for a 9 level apartment building containing 46 dwellings and ground floor retail.

<h2>The why</h2>

So why has the pub scene across Melbourne declined to the point where many of this city's well known venues are struggling, or have conceded? In the broader sense, Australians are drinking less alcohol overall than any time in the previous 50 years, as per this <a href="http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/latestProducts/4307.0.55.001Media%20Release12013-14">ABS media release</a> and this <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-08-06/craft-beer-australia-changing-drinking-habits/7677250">ABC news article</a>.

Whilst top end consumption is lessening, the humble pub is also under attack from the bottom end, aka the microbrewery.

Evolving drinking habits are backed by current planning trends; planning applications for genuine 'pubs' are few and far between, but not so the humble microbrewery.

Melbourne City Council for instance are currently handling at leash three planning applications for new small-scale breweries/bars, namely 38-44 Barrett Street Kensington, 40-48 Stubbs Street Kensington and 22-24 Bennetts Lane Melbourne. The latter replaces a mid-rise apartment proposal for the narrow CBD site.

In this sense people are not necessarily turning away from the enjoyment of alcohol, but increasingly heading down a different avenue - an avenue which shuns 'old school' pubs' or at least pubs which haven't moved with the times.

Whilst the increasing popularity of microbreweries is merely a more recent contributing factor to many a pubs woes, it along with a gradual cultural shift away from the humble pub has led to the rash of closures and development.

<h2>The how</h2>

<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/bsubq3u.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Great Western Hotel no more? Planning image: DKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bsubq3u.jpg?itok=qFLJNMjX" title="Great Western Hotel no more? Planning image: DKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Great Western Hotel no more? Planning image: <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a></figcaption></figure>So how is it that many of inner Melbourne's grand pub venues can be bowled over for development? Pubs are no more or less important than many of Melbourne's heritage structures that have fallen in recent years, but they represent a very tangible link to Melbourne's past for many people - memories and first-hand experience go a long way. Just ask the masses who fought to save The Palace on Bourke Street.

Emotional attachment aside, Melbourne stands to lose some historic buildings, a loss that is detrimental to this city's urban fabric. The Stork, Duke of Kent, Footscray's Belgravia Hotel and The Corkman Irish Pub fiasco are but a few examples.

The right to development exists, but at what cost? Is it the failure of successive councils to adequately protect of heritage? Undoubtedly some Apartments.com.au members would argue yes, and emphatically. So many of Melbourne's historic pubs are disappearing for the sake of development, when in many cases the heritage structure could be incorporated into the development.

When lamenting the loss or likely loss of many of Melbourne's historic pub venues, Prahran's Station Hotel comes to mind. An equitable outcome of both development and heritage...if only it were more commonplace!

<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/croppedimage1200640-ec150302-ecp7852-web.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Prahran's Station Hotel: a blend of old and new. Image: Figurehead"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="309" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/croppedimage1200640-ec150302-ecp7852-web.jpg?itok=5GzC0Mek" title="Prahran's Station Hotel: a blend of old and new. Image: Figurehead" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Prahran's Station Hotel: a blend of old and new. Image: Figurehead</figcaption></figure>
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Rise of the microbrewery, fall of the pub and the demise of Melbourne's historic built form

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The march of apartment living into Melbourne's outer east has gained pace over recent years, with suburbs not generally accustomed to apartment living now attaining their own share of the expanding apartment market pie.

The latest suburb to enter the fray is <a href="/new-apartments/bayswater-vic-3153">Bayswater</a>, with a nine level residential building slated for <a href="/new-apartments/711-717-mountain-highway-bayswater">711-717 Mountain Highway</a>. The prospective apartment project represents Bayswater's first entry into the Apartments.com.au Project Database, and enforces the growing presence of apartment projects in areas that were until a short time ago the exclusive domain of detached housing.

Hudson Bond Commercial handled 711-717 Mountain Highway's sale last year, with development entity NewLee Pty Ltd now pushing through with plans for the 1,252 sqm site. Moull Murray is the architect in charge, with the project put before City of Knox during December.

<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/image31_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Moull Murray's new take on Bayswater"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="534" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image31_3.jpg?itok=7VmFZWc8" title="Moull Murray's new take on Bayswater" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Moull Murray's new take on Bayswater</figcaption></figure>At the time of 711-717 Mountain Highway's sale last year, Hudson Bond Commercial billed the site as capable of accommodating a 5 storey built form encapsulating 900sqm of retail space and 45 apartments.

The advent of 711-717 Mountain Highway now sees Bayswater join the likes of <a href="/new-apartments/rowville-vic-3178">Rowville</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/wantirna-south-vic-3152">Wantirna South</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/chirnside-park-vic-3116">Chirnside Park</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/croydon-vic-3136">Croydon</a> as suburbs which were formally the sole territory of detached housing, but are now receiving an increased share of higher density living options. Croydon for example is now home to the James Kerr building, with the Erfanian Developments project adding 56 apartments to the heart of Croydon during 2016.

As one of the eastern suburbs more prominent developers, Eefanian Developments will this year embark upon another Croydon apartment project at <a href="/buildings/orphic-176-mt-dandenong-road-croydon">176 Mt Dandenong Road</a>.

<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/image33art.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Orion International Group have grand intentions for Ringwood"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image33art.jpg?itok=QXBA6Fga" title="Orion International Group have grand intentions for Ringwood" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Orion International Group have grand intentions for Ringwood</figcaption></figure>Of course, the outer east's rise cannot be overviewed without mentioning <a href="/new-apartments/ringwood-vic-3134">Ringwood</a>.

Whereas suburbs such as Bayswater and the like are spoken of in dozens of apartments, Ringwood can be spoken of in the thousands as much larger apartment developments enter the suburb. An established Activity Centre with a strong although predominantly low-rise apartment market, Ringwood can expect some change in the near future.

Leading the charge is <a href="/developers/orion-international-group">Orion International Group</a>'s latest version of their pending development adjoining Eastlink (seen above) which has been dubbed The Ring.

Whilst surrounding suburbs are unlikely to reach the height of Ringwood, the general upswing of apartment projects demonstrates that there is a market for the product in the leafy outer east.
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Eastbound and down for the apartment high life 

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Having heard of the importance of street setbacks and tower separation over the previous two years as part of the Government's push for better tower design outcomes, somewhat of a built form quirk is emerging on Southbank's Coventry Street.

Should the recently submitted 31 Coventry Street gain approval, it would allow four towers to be built wall to wall, with the quartet each spanning approximately 20 levels. With no street or tower setbacks involved, the result would be a solid build form that stretches roughly 90 metres on the horizontal plane.

This seems to fly in the face of what has been drummed into all and sundry in recent years. But of course it's not a black and white matter when considering equitable development opportunities, discretionary design controls which veil the site/surrounds and existing built form precedents.

It could be argued that having this solid wall of towers is a poor design outcome, yet at the same time why should 31 Coventry Street be treated any differently than the towers which have been approved before it over recent times.

<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/image3cov.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elenberg Fraser's initial renders for 31 Coventry Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="299" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3cov.jpg?itok=JDFhyyRZ" title="Elenberg Fraser's initial renders for 31 Coventry Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elenberg Fraser's initial renders for 31 Coventry Street</figcaption></figure>In isolation, 31 Coventry Street is one of two apartment developments for Headland Properties which are currently at planning.

With precinct-specific design controls in a state of change, the developer has taken the opportunity to push through with the project which is the amalgamation of the Coventry Street plot and 22-24 Wells Place. The latter southern facing site did hold approval for a slim Pandolfini Architects-designed residential tower.

The amalgamation of the Wells Place and Coventry Street plots has allowed for an increased apartment yield, which totals 120. This sum is split between 40 single and 80 dual bedroom options, with premier two bed, two bath layouts facing Coventry Street.

Assisting the proposed tower is basement car parking for 94 vehicles, a ground floor showroom and rooftop 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/image16cov.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pandolfini Architects' superseded Wells Place design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="444" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16cov.jpg?itok=zQ7rtLWC" title="Pandolfini Architects' superseded Wells Place design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pandolfini Architects' superseded Wells Place design and Elenberg Fraser's equivalent</figcaption></figure>Project architect Elenberg Fraser describes the design as follows:

<blockquote>
The Wells place facade references a New York style masonry brick facade. This treatment wraps around to the Eastern and Western facades to provide privacy screening to the adjacent properties. Additionally this facade treatnent acts as an effective solar shading device.

The proposed design for the 31 Coventry sheet facade is an architectural screening element. This provides the opportunity to set the buildings glazing line back from the sites northern title boundary.
<cite>Elenberg Fraser</cite>
</blockquote>

The remaining trio joining Elenberg Fraser's vision for Coventry Street are at different stages of delivery.

Evolve Development has seen the completion of The Guilfoyle at 39 Coventry Street come and go, with the developer also poised to begin construction on Botanic Melbourne at 25-29 Coventry Street which includes 288 apartments over 20 levels. The project has an end value of $190 million and has a targeted 2019 completion date.

Botanic Melbourne is also noteworthy in that Evolve Development control the adjoining 23 Coventry Street, thus preventing development of that site in order to preserve views and amenity from their pending tower.

Rounding out the quartet that combine to create the 'Wall of Southbank' is Coventry Haus, with Hamilton Marino Builders progressing the build that will eventually see 68 apartments within the slim 20 level 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/img_4442.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="31 Coventry Street in the foreground with 33 Coventry under construction"><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_4442.jpg?itok=w8ah089q" title="31 Coventry Street in the foreground with 33 Coventry under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>31 Coventry Street in the foreground with 33 Coventry under construction</figcaption></figure>
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Hitting the wall on Southbank

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Prominent builder Hickory Group has added a third Melbourne project that will utilise the Hickory Building System (HBS). A proponent of prefabricated construction methods, Hickory Group's latest HBS-driven project will be Brisbane outfit Blue Sky Funds' 42-50 La Trobe Street.

In addition to residential projects La Trobe Tower and Collins House which have/will utilise HBS, 42-50 La Trobe Street is the first student accommodation project to do so. Hickory Group expect the build to become one of the world’s tallest student accommodation projects delivered via non-traditional construction methods.

Floor slabs, facades and Hickory’s Sync bathroom pod system will be manufactured offsite, and subsequently trucked to 42-50 La Trobe Street for final assembly.

<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/image5_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="42-50 La Trobe Street's modified heritage frontage. Image: Hickory"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="530" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5_10.jpg?itok=_MY7KyWg" title="42-50 La Trobe Street's modified heritage frontage. Image: Hickory" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>42-50 La Trobe Street's modified heritage frontage. Image: Hickory</figcaption></figure>First entering Apartments.com.au's project database during late 2015, 42-50 La Trobe Street has seen a number of design adaptations to this point, with architecture firm Hayball the design lead.

Chief of which is the facade retention of 50 La Trobe Street, which was to have been demolished along with its neighbour under initial plans. Dated 1862, 50 La Trobe Street's retained facade will now serve as an entry point to the student accommodation project, with a public through link to connect La Trobe Street and Bell Place.

Onsite demolition is freshly completed, meaning Hickory will soon take control of the site in order to deliver the 43 level tower, with a smaller 7 level building to the rear of the site; combined they will house 783 student beds.

In line with Apartments.com.au's <a href="/news/blue-skys-ambitious-student-accommodation-project-42-50-la-trobe-street">overview of the initial planning application</a>, the current build will also include a ground floor café, numerous communal spaces, terraces and collaborative learning spaces, in addition to the public access laneway.

<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_9474.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hickory Building System's first Melbourne endeavour: La Trobe Tower"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9474.jpg?itok=0W-Ya0Jt" title="Hickory Building System's first Melbourne endeavour: La Trobe Tower" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hickory Building System's first Melbourne endeavour: La Trobe Tower</figcaption></figure>Key to the HBS construction method is the speed at which any given tower can be completed.

42-50 La Trobe Street with a gross floor area approaching 25,000sqm is slated to be delivered 8 months faster than traditional construction methods would allow, resulting in a 30% saving over conventional construction methods.

Similar to La Trobe Tower, 42-50 La Trobe Street will employ an electric crane to lift the modules into place outside of traditional work hours, minimising traffic disruption and site congestion. This will allow shotcreting during normal work hours, with the high-velocity concrete spray work essentially binding the modules together.

Between 42-50 La Trobe Street and Collins House (which will be a HBS structure above level 14), Hickory Group's innovative construction method has found its niche in the Melbourne construction landscape.
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Hickory Building System scores another major Melbourne skyscraper

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City of Yarra's recent commercial planning application at 370-374 Swan Street has gone a long way to solidifying the municipality's push toward becoming the most active office sector behind those of the CBD and Docklands.

Increasing in both number and size, City of Yarra's prospective commercial developments have the combined ability to add in excess of 100,000sqm of new office space across the municipalities four major commercial nodes; Richmond, Burnley, Cremorne and Collingwood.

Many of these proposals are still at planning, meaning that City of Yarra is in many ways its own master in terms of how actively it chooses to push the commercial credentials of the municipality. At a point where many other municipalities around Melbourne are so heavily dominated by apartment developments, City of Yarra's wave of commercial proposals shapes as something of an oddity.

370-374 Swan Street becomes City of Yarra's 13th commercial entry within the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

Combined City of Yarra's development pipeline could yield an additional 80,000sqm plus, with prospective projects such as the <a href="/news/yarra-receives-a-commercial-boost-including-plans-for-fitzroys-tallest-office-building">Victoria Cross commercial tower</a> pushing that figure beyond 100,000sqm.

<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/image1_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Swan Street's latest commercial prospect. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_7.jpg?itok=maRjP6Hd" title="Swan Street's latest commercial prospect. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Swan Street's latest commercial prospect. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects</figcaption></figure><a href="/developments/richmond-vic-3121">370-374 Swan Street</a> is very much symptomatic of the larger format commercial proposals before City of Yarra.

Currently occupied by a two storey showroom/office building, and with Zuster and Agnews Fireplaces as tenants, the site is a short distance to Burnley Station and sits directly north of the rail corridor. Zoned Commercial 2, the preferred built form for this sub-precinct is for 7-10 storeys, although this is subject to further investigation.

Looking to capitalise upon the area's growing popularity, entity 370 Swan Street Pty Ltd enlisted Bruce Henderson Architects to create a 14 storey office building with a gross leasable area of 14,804sqm. Of that, two ground floor retail premises account for 580sqm, with the balance cast as new office space.

Weighing in as one of Yarra's largest commercial proposals, 370-374 Swan Street is supplemented by 245 basement car parking spaces and 111 bicycle parking spaces.

<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/image6_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Grocon's prospective view from Wellington Street. Image: Grocon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="324" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_11.jpg?itok=sFLsuE9V" title="Grocon's prospective view from Wellington Street. Image: Grocon" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Grocon's prospective view from Wellington Street. Image: Grocon</figcaption></figure>Other large commercial projects looking for the nod of approval include Grocon's <a href="/buildings/2-16-northumberland-street-collingwood">Northumberland Street</a> tower which encompasses 15,000sqm, <a href="/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">80-90 Johnston Street</a> with close to 8,000sqm and <a href="/developments/fitzroy-vic-3065">423-425 Smith Street</a> which includes 7,500sqm of prospective commercial space.

A number of existing planning applications have been adjusted to include commercial office space, with <a href="/developments/abbotsford-vic-3067">344 Johnston Street</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/314-320-swan-street-richmond">314-320 Swan Street</a> notable examples: the latter bumping its commercial floor space up to 5,400sqm. The remaining projects are smaller in nature, with Cobild's <a href="/developments/cremorne-vic-3121">9-11 Cremorne Street</a> and <a href="/developments/richmond-vic-3121">345 Swan Street</a> the standouts.

City of Yarra's commercial surge is put into perspective relative to its commercial projects which are at leasing or under construction; only three projects rate a mention. <a href="/developments/burnley-vic-3121">East Edge Botanicca</a> with 16,000sqm has long been offered for lease, whilst <a href="/developments/richmond-vic-3121">110 Church Street</a> and 13 Cremorne Street are at construction have a combined yield of near on 6,000sqm.

As mentioned earlier, City of Yarra's largest project on the radar is Angelo Property Group and Pulitano Group's Victoria Cross development at 151-159 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy. The 1,684sqm corner block is envisaged as a 16 level commercial tower which would boast the area's largest commercial footprint.

<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/image2_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria Cross. Image: Angelo Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_9.jpg?itok=cFNFF4oz" title="Victoria Cross. Image: Angelo Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria Cross. Image: Angelo Property Group</figcaption></figure>
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City of Yarra's commercial prospects boosted by 100,000sqm

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A rush of planning applications either side of the festive break are cumulatively seeking to add to South Melbourne's robust development scene, with four major apartment projects lodged.

City of Port Phillip will now assess the respective merits of the fresh applications, along with a handful of other noteworthy towers already at planning that when combined, would provide the popular suburb with thousands of new apartments.

Most recent to planning was 9-13 Park Street, landing with Council in the new year. The current low-rise commercial complex spanning the site is expected to make way for a multi-storey apartment building.

The arrival of 9-13 Park Street follows on from December's lodgement of plans for the adjoining 5-7 Park Street, with that application landing at Council four days prior to Christmas. Located next to Sol Sapir-designed Hallmark which spans 19 levels and includes 155 apartments, the prime 5-7 Park Street plot is currently occupied by a nondescript house that is home to brothel Cherry Blossoms.

Expected to replace the venue is a 20 storey mixed-use building set above basement car parking.

<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/image39_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="5-7 Park Street's days look to be numbered. Image: Google"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="349" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image39_4.jpg?itok=ylawX-Ur" title="5-7 Park Street's days look to be numbered. Image: Google" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>5-7 Park Street's days look to be numbered. Image: Google</figcaption></figure>41-49 Bank Street also entered planning last month, with developer Guangdong Carrington Real Estate Group seeking the right to deliver a 19 level residential tower comprising 174 apartments.

Having secured the 1,441sqm site during late 2015 for over $15 million, Guangdong elected not to proceed with an approved scheme which at a point was known as Aero Apartments during its failed marketing campaign.

Rounding out the quartet is 1-13 Cobden Street which has been subject to development overtones for some years. Agent Lemon Baxter handled the site's sale during 2014, with the plot now subject to a mixed use building containing 229 dwellings and retail spaces at ground level.

<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/image38_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artisan Architects' revised design for 200-204 Wells Street."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="648" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image38_7.jpg?itok=-efyGqcT" title="Artisan Architects' revised design for 200-204 Wells Street." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artisan Architects' revised design for 200-204 Wells Street.</figcaption></figure>With this South Melbourne pocket underpinned by Park Street and Albert Road perennially popular with developers and soon to boast its <a href="http://metrotunnel.vic.gov.au/locations/domain">own metro station</a>, Apartments.com.au is tracking 7 additional projects with 14 levels and above in the immediate area.

Projects that have yet to reach a planning outcome, or have yet to begin construction include Australian Unity's <a href="/buildings/the-grace-114-130-albert-road-south-melbourne">114-130 Albert Road</a>, Milbex's <a href="/buildings/park-ave-39-park-street-south-melbourne">37-43 Park Street</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">Niche at 33 Park Street</a>, the combined <a href="/new-apartments/13-21-palmerston-crescent-south-melbourne">13-21 Palmerston Crescent</a> / <a href="/new-apartments/first-light-28-albert-road-south-melbourne">28-32 Albert Road</a> and <a href="/buildings/200-204-wells-street-south-melbourne">200-204 Wells Street</a>.

The latter, seen above, is a recent candidate for approval and consists of an Artisan Architects-designed 20 level tower with 201 apartments.

Set on a 1,543sqm plot, the scheme for 15 Park Street Pty Ltd includes 75 single and 126 dual bedroom apartments.

Lead image: Bob Mical, Flickr
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South Melbourne a magnet for new residential tower applications

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PACE Development Group has rounded out a successful 2016 by unveiling 181 Fitzroy Street. Residents will this week begin moving in to the freshly completed residential project which may just contain the best views of any apartment project in Melbourne.

181 Fitzroy Street spans 10 levels and includes 151 one, two and three bedroom apartments. Designed by SJB, the project has achieved an average energy rating of 7.2 and in an Australian first, PACE has partnered with Origin Energy to provide an integrated energy outcome across the project, featuring solar, EV charger and a communal PHEV (plug in hybrid vehicle) solutions.

The result is substantial energy savings and the generation of power that will, in part, illuminate the project's common areas.

<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.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="181 Fitzroy Street upon completion. Image: PACE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image250.jpg?itok=KYKBhwTL" title="181 Fitzroy Street upon completion. Image: PACE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>181 Fitzroy Street upon completion. Image: PACE</figcaption></figure>181 Fitzroy Street is PACE's latest project in the pocket surrounding the ever popular St Kilda Junction, with recent completions nearby including Allure, Henry Windsor, George Windsor and The Icon which has made a name for itself as one of Melbourne's most unique buildings.

With final touches applied over the weekend, residents can now begin to enjoy the impressive views, with all north facing apartments and the top floor communal area aligning with Albert Park and Lake, Southbank and the CBD beyond.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
The settlement of 181 Fitzroy, which was sold primarily to the local market (83.5%), marks the end of PACE’s most successful year to date.

Despite murmurings of a downturn in the market, 2016 has been incredibly successful year for PACE with 86 at Archer settled in May, 48 settled at George Windsor in October, 86 at Brunswick sold-out in 7 months, Northcote 75% sold in 4 months, Doncaster East selling well and now the completion of 151 luxury apartments at 181 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda.

For 181, the immaculate architectural work of SJB is complimented by the expert hand of interior designer, Sue Carr whose impeccable eye has touched upon every internal element at 181 Fitzroy Street, bringing a level of refinement to the project, reminiscent of the finest contemporary European hotels.

Having undergone an extremely smooth settlement &amp; valuations process, with 95% of apartments valued at or above purchase price, the settlement of the project marks an appropriate end to 2016 for PACE and aptly sets the tone for what is expected to be an even stronger 2017.
<cite>Shane Wilkinson, Managing Director, PACE Development Group</cite>
</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/image256.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Top floor terrace, infinity pool and views. Image: PACE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="155" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image256.jpg?itok=26CrkbLa" title="Top floor terrace, infinity pool and views. Image: PACE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Top floor terrace, infinity pool and views. Image: PACE</figcaption></figure>And PACE's <a href="/developments">2017's pipeline</a> is evident within the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

Yesterday, <a href="/buildings/pace-of-northcote-5-beavers-road-northcote">Pace of Northcote</a>'s tower crane was erected; it joins <a href="/buildings/ode-16-grey-street-st-kilda">Ode</a> and 808 Sydney Road at construction, with the latter currently seeing the commencement of piling works onsite. Together these three projects will see roughly 240 additional dwellings added to PACE's development portfolio.

<a href="/buildings/pace-of-doncaster-east-3-mitchell-street-doncaster-east">Pace of Doncaster East</a> is also at sales, having begun its campaign recently. Included within the project are 82 apartments split between one, two and three-bedroom options.

City of Yarra is set to host PACE's next wave of apartment developments. <a href="/buildings/pace-of-collingwood-75-wellington-street-collingwood">73-77 Wellington Street</a> will see a display suite take shape shortly, following on from the project's approval. The remaining project on PACE's immediate agenda and the only project of theirs currently at planning is <a href="/buildings/pace-of-abbotsford-247-johnston-street-abbotsford">247-249 Johnston Street, Abbotsford</a>.

Spanning 13 levels, the project may net PACE another 148 apartments set behind the historic St. Crispin House facade.

<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/image259.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A selection of upcoming PACE projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image259.jpg?itok=y1h8rbSZ" title="A selection of upcoming PACE projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A selection of upcoming PACE projects</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

181 Fitzroy Street rounds out 2016 as PACE shapes up for an active 2017

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With links onsite that span back to the 1890's, St Vincent's Private Hospital is now pursuing a new phase of expansion in order to keep pace with Melbourne's growing population.

St Vincent's Private is now considered at capacity, with plans afoot to create an 11 storey building across 59-61 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy. With the development's anticipated construction cost approaching $60 million, the overall value of the expansion weighs in at $94 million.

Included in the proposal before City of Yarra is provision for new consulting suites, 91 new multi-day beds for patients, 12 new same-day beds, additional operating rooms and pre/post operation stations.

Set above a new podium to both Victoria Parade and Brunswick Street, the building's overall height is pencilled in at 43.36 metres.

<h2>A need for expansion</h2>

<blockquote>
It is now vital for St Vincent's Health Australia to undertake a major expansion project at this flagship private hospital, including an additional 91 net beds and eight (8) operating theatres, to ensure that it will have the capacity to meet future demand and compete within key market segments. No major footprint expansion of SVPHF has occurred over the past 44 years.
Frequently during the working week SVPHF faces 'bed block' and non-elective or urgent private patients are redirected to other hospitals. In addition all private consulting suite space at SVPHF is fully occupied. Additional private consulting rooms and theatres are vital to the future of SVPHF and improved healthcare to the community.
<cite>Planning report, Meinhardt</cite>
</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/image229.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Vincent's Plaza perspective. Image: BLP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="323" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image229.jpg?itok=e7lUY_jx" title="St Vincent's Plaza perspective. Image: BLP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Vincent's Plaza perspective. Image: BLP</figcaption></figure>To facilitate the proposed expansion, demolition is required across a number of sensitive buildings.

The existing hospital at 59-61 Victoria Parade would partially make way for the new development, as would 77 Victoria Parade, a.k.a. the former Eastern Hill Hotel. The latter is on the Victorian Heritage Register, with the development team seeking removal of its western wing to the rear of the building.

Partial demolition of Edensor House is also proposed, and mainly confined to the Victorian Heritage Register-listed building's rear. Full demolition is sought for 63-71 Victoria Parade (the former Easthill House), with the building considered to be Individually Significant from a heritage perspective.

<h2>Building design</h2>

Shades of natural and midnight copper cladding would provide the design highlight over the east and north facades, with the balance a clad consisting of compressed fibre cement sheet cladding in a banded finish.

The southern facade is predominantly glazed, with elements of purple, charcoal and white, and its angular nature suggesting that it lends in some small way from the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre which was completed earlier in 2016.

<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/image228_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Brunswick Street perspective. Image: BLP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image228_0.jpg?itok=kkcOuz_7" title="Brunswick Street perspective. Image: BLP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Brunswick Street perspective. Image: BLP</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The proposed new building complements the existing building in terms of height and form but contrasts in colour and material to express it as a contemporary insertion into the existing fabric. Together the existing and the new hospital form a pair of buildings that create a distinct identity to the hospital and an appropriate backdrop to the scale of St. Vincent's plaza.

The proposed podium facade along Victoria Pde complements the fenestration of both the three storey heritage building as well as the existing hospital podium and acts as a transition element in terms of both distribution of openings as well as parapet height

The proposed materiality of the podium responds to both the glazed brickwork of existing hospital and the painted and render brick facade of the East Hill Hotel by utilising a porcelain stone clad finish to complement the existing heavy materiality of the streetscape 

<cite>Urban context report, Billard Leece Partnership</cite>
</blockquote>

Also in the works is an expansion of the existing multi-storey car park at 93-99 Victoria Parade.

Of more interest from a design perspective than in terms of what benefits it could provide to the larger community, an expansion would see the already colourful structure capped with three new levels of parking. 185 additional car parking spaces would be added if approved.

The new levels would be finished in metal screens, accentuated by rectangular openings featuring small planter boxes.

<blockquote>
The design intention is to mimic balconies of an apartment building making reference to the many examples in Melbourne of residential and commercial spaces sitting on top of multi deck carparks. The screen consists of closely spaced vertical steel angles powder coated in multiple colours. The colours ranges change as the screen presents itself to different solar orientations.
<cite>Urban context report, Billard Leece Partnership</cite>
</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/image230.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An expanded 93-99 Victoria Parade. Image: BLP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="344" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image230.jpg?itok=OJkFLsLg" title="An expanded 93-99 Victoria Parade. Image: BLP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An expanded 93-99 Victoria Parade. Image: BLP</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

St Vincent's substantial expansion plans unveiled

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Mark Baljak

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