<html><body>
One of 2016's largest projects is set to continue the high density infill between Yarra's Edge and the emerging Fishermans Bend Precinct.

Created by MGS Architects, the dual residential tower scheme's most striking feature is its multi-colured facade which is designed as a contemporary interpretation of the nearby shipping yards. Located at 13-33 Hartley Street on the perimeter of Docklands, the site is hard up against the West Gate Freeway and adjacent to the recently sold development site at <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">85-93 Lorimer Street</a>.

13-33 Hartley Street will also enjoy frontage to the park which forms part of the permit approved 85-93 Lorimer Street, which was designed by Elenberg Fraser.

Kew-based entity Claric Ninety Nine Pty Ltd is the proponent behind the Hartley Street development.

<h2>13-33 Hartley Street Docklands application summary</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/image21_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="As rendered from Yarra's Edge. Image: MGS Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="319" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_8.jpg?itok=bLZCMO4G" title="As rendered from Yarra's Edge. Image: MGS Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>As rendered from Yarra's Edge. Image: MGS Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 6,713sqm</li>
	<li>Proposed 37 and 40 level residential towers with the taller at 131.3 metres</li>
	<li>612 apartments: 202 x 1BR, 370 x 2BR, 26 x 3BR, 14 x 4BR</li>
	<li>3 retail tenancies totaling 255sqm and 700sqm of 'community' space</li>
	<li>Provision for 424 vehicles, 370 resident bicycles, 71 visitor bicycle spaces and 58 motorcycle spaces</li>
	<li>1,507sqm of communal facilities, including a lap pool, gym, yoga/kids play area, meeting room, cinema room, lounge areas and library</li>
	<li>Plot ratio: 12.29:1</li>
	<li>Gross Floor Area: 82,568sqm</li>
	<li>Estimated cost of development: $200 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Acknowledging one's surrounds</h2>

<blockquote>
The Port of Melbourne is Australia’s largest container terminal and has a very significant impact on the local landscape. Viewed from above neatly arranged rows of colourful containers from all parts of the world animate an otherwise dull industrial port.

It is this colour and texture that the building design references in the balcony balustrade treatment of the apartments at the upper and lower floors. Larger apartments are located at these floors where balconies are cantilevered in patterns and varied in colour to evoke the Port’s container landscape

The great Australian painter Jeffrey Smart was known for his stylised depictions of urban landscapes. He had a particular fascination with roads and road signs which he rendered with a stark reality and precision.

We have treated the car parking podium of the building as a canvas for an over scaled road sign. In this case the sign however is not read as a flat painted surface but as a series of projecting screens that morph into view on approach. The signage is directional and changes in accordance with the location of the observer.
<cite>Urban context report, MGS Architects</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/image47_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A nod to Jeffrey Smart. Planning image: MGS Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="294" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47_3.jpg?itok=qs0DcvXo" title="A nod to Jeffrey Smart. Planning image: MGS Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A nod to Jeffrey Smart. Planning image: MGS Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Ins and Outs</h2>

Single bedroom dwellings range in size between 48-59sqm, with dual bedroom apartments spread over 67-125sqm. While three bedrooms range between 120-167sqm, MGS Architects have included 14 four bedroom apartments; somewhat of an oddity when considering the wider Melbourne apartment landscape.

These four bedroom apartments have an area of some 200sqm.

Every apartment is provided with a balcony that is located directly off the living area, with south facing dwellings afforded winter gardens that span the full width of the dwelling. It is worth noting that according to the submitted documents, 'Saddle Back’ bedrooms occurs in 2 of 12 apartments per typical floor on the west tower and in 2 of 9 apartments per typical floor on the east tower.

'Saddle Back’ apartments are a point of contention in the current Melbourne planning climate owing to the lack of direct access to natural light.

As part of the intended development, 912sqm of the site area will be seeded to infrastructure needs, with open space accounting for another 1,826sqm.

<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_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Setbacks and ground level interface. Planning image: MGS Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="209" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_5.jpg?itok=mf8QXFgm" title="Setbacks and ground level interface. Planning image: MGS Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Setbacks and ground level interface. Planning image: MGS Architects</figcaption></figure>When combining 13-33 Hartley Street's 612 apartments with those of 85-93 Lorimer Street and Mirvac's upcoming <a href="/buildings/voyager-docklands-103-south-wharf-drive-docklands-vic-3008">Voyager Tower</a>, there exists the potential for a further 1,868 apartments to be pumped into the sliver of Docklands land south of the Yarra River.

Potential future development sites that fall within this section of Docklands will be largely confined to a tract of land west of Hartley Street; beyond that adjoining areas fall under Fishermans Bend and its differing planning controls.

<h2>13-33 Hartley Street Docklands development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Claric Ninety-Nine Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect and Urban Context Analysis: MGA Architects</li>
	<li>Town Planning: Roberts Day</li>
	<li>Buffer Constraint Assessment: GHD</li>
	<li>Traffic and Transport Assessment: Cardno</li>
	<li>Acoustic Report,: Renzo Tonin &amp; Associates</li>
	<li>Wind Report: Cermak, Peterka, Petersen</li>
	<li>Social and Community Infrastructure Assessment: ASR Research</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Environmentally Sustainable Design: IrwinConsult.</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

silvermb

MGS create the shipping container skyscrapers

<html><body>
Developer Riverlee is seeking to rework an approved commercial scheme within Docklands, in order to capitalise upon Melbourne's near rampant hotel sector.

The developer has released details regarding its intended project at 731-739 Flinders Street which encompasses the heritage Northbank Goods Shed. Under plans submitted this week, the approved plans for a commercial building straddling the goods shed will be dropped in favour of a mixed-use hotel and residential proposal.

Included in the new scheme are 180 hotel suites, which would further bolster the hotel pipeline along the Yarra. Four Points By Sheraton, PARKROYAL and Quest Newquay are at differing stages of development, with another hotel project at nearby Victoria Harbour also a possibility.

Opposite Northbank Goods Shed, Probuild are undertaking an expansion of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre which incorporates the construction of a 331-room hotel tower.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/riv_northbank_v01_across_river1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Riverlee have chosen Fender Katsalidis for North Wharf. Image: Riverlee"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/riv_northbank_v01_across_river1.jpg?itok=xINjgmkw" title="Riverlee have chosen Fender Katsalidis for North Wharf. Image: Riverlee" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Riverlee have chosen Fender Katsalidis for North Wharf. Image: Riverlee</figcaption></figure>Riverlee have installed Fender Katsalidis as project architect, with the hotel supplementing 250 intended apartments.

In line with original plans, landscape architects Oculus have been retained and are tasked with creating a new 3,500sqm public park that Riverlee expects will act as the missing connector between Docklands and the Yarra River’s north bank. As part of the intended works the onsite heritage listed crane will also be brought up to scratch with a complete restoration planned.

Retail and event spaces are envisaged within the restored Goods Shed. Creating a new waterfront promenade will see the refurbishment of the area's wharf, while a pontoon is optioned with an eye toward waterfront activation.

Riverlee's change of use for the project is underpinned by the aforementioned expansion of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the precinct playing host to a multitude of conferences and conventions. The subsequent undersupply of hotel suites has prompted the change of use; the state of the commercial leasing sector would have also been taken into consideration.

<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/nw03_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The superseded scheme. Image: Oculus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nw03_0.jpg?itok=_KBr7tUo" title="The superseded scheme. Image: Oculus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The superseded scheme. Image: Oculus</figcaption></figure>The change of use is also expected to bring activity to the area around the clock, something that the 25,000sqm commercial scheme would have struggled to achieve.

How the intended public aspects of the building stack up relative to the initial scheme remain to be seen. With Oculus retained and Lovell Chen acting as Heritage Architects, the new scheme's public interface is difficult to judge based on the sole image released by Riverlee.

<blockquote>
Our plans include an extruded glass pavilion at the eastern end of the shed both to help preserve the heritage façade and hero it within the design, particularly at night when the façade will be lit from within the glass to create a beacon for night-time activity.

We’ve created a number of places to integrate and encourage interaction with these heritage elements, such as the former slipway which will be covered with glass inside the pavilion so people will be able to walk literally right on top of this unique piece of history
<cite>Karl Fender, managing principal architect, Fender Katsalidis</cite>
</blockquote>

What's established is the developer's existing work along the Yarra's north bank in the area. <a href="http://riverlee.com.au/projects/world-trade-centre">Riverlee refurbished more than 150 metres of water frontage</a> in the adjoining World Trade Centre complex, with the subsequent WTC Wharf retail zone completed during 2010.

Riverlee also initiated <a href="http://riverlee.com.au/projects/7-23-spencer-st">redevelopment of the former Melbourne Convention Centre</a> with the site now nearing demolition completion. In the interceding time, approval was obtained for a tri-towered residential complex onsite, with the site recently sold.
</body></html>

A reborn North Wharf adds to Melbourne's swelling hotel numbers

<html><body>
Two highly prominent locations are now free to host substantial residential buildings after receiving planning approval in recent days.

VCAT has green-lighted St Kilda's tallest development to date at 8-12 Punt Road while Darebin City Council were satisfied with the merits of what is set to become Reservoir's biggest apartment development at 830 Plenty Road.

8-12 Punt Road, which is also referred to as One St Kilda Junction first <a href="/news/st-kilda-junction-subject-to-its-biggest-development-yet">appeared on Urban.com.au during February</a>, with subsequent planning movements landing the Plus Architecture-designed tower at VCAT.

For its part, City of Port Phillip's <a href="https://jaagstkilda.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/cpp-punt-8-12-1227-2015-delegate-report.pdf">report for VCAT</a> determined that it had made the decision to refuse the application based upon the development unreasonably impacting the amenity of the immediate and wider neighbourhood. This can be read as an overdevelopment of the subject site.

In response, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/vic/VCAT/2016/1396">VCAT's decision</a> was to approve the project which consists of a main 26 level tower, with a smaller 10 level extension to its east. In total 203 apartments will be serviced by 397 car spaces across seven basement levels.

<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_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One St Kilda Junction. Image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_5.jpg?itok=gjbqshaE" title="One St Kilda Junction. Image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One St Kilda Junction. Image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>On the opposite side of town, 830 Plenty Road was issued a permit yesterday for an expansive multi-building apartment development. Dubbed <a href="http://www.architeria.com.au/reservoir-reflection-star-island">Star Island</a> and conceived by Architeria Architects, final numbers for the project will see 338 apartments and townhouses, in addition to commercial and retail spaces.

Submitted for approval during June of 2015, 830 Plenty Road had been subject to numerous proposals prior to the current iteration headed by Architeria Architects.

Three separate apartment buildings will front Plenty Road, with a fourth building and 17 townhouses nested in behind.

The expansive 10,194sqm site coupled with its elevated position and low-rise surrounds allows Star Island to hold a very pronounced position along one of Melbourne's major northern transport corridors.

<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/1507_reservoir_front_architeria_architects_email_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Star Island. Image: Architeria Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1507_reservoir_front_architeria_architects_email_1.jpg?itok=eGjljuLS" title="Star Island. Image: Architeria Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Star Island. Image: Architeria Architects</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

Two major residential projects receive approval

<html><body>
Monash University's Clayton Campus has had cause to become a regular on Apartments.com.au owing to the volume of new buildings delivered across the sprawling campus over the past five years, and the calibre of design associated with these recent additions.

The latest addition was revealed yesterday with $45 million seeded to create a new performance centre. Dubbed the The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts, major funding contributions for the project will see $5 million from The Ian Potter Foundation and $10 million from the Victorian Government.

Included within the project is a revamped 586-seat Alexander Theatre, a 130-seat Sound Gallery, 200-seat Jazz Club and extensive surrounding landscaping. The Jazz Club will be a multipurpose facility, acting as a cafe during daytime hours.

<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/image72_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cafe by day, club by night. Image: Monash University"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="298" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image72_1.jpg?itok=Nnf7VOGb" title="Cafe by day, club by night. Image: Monash University" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cafe by day, club by night. Image: Monash University</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The investment by the Victorian Government aids in transforming the Alexander Theatre into a versatile and truly contemporary performance space, strengthening its historical and cultural significance in the Greater Melbourne region. The Ian Potter Foundation has shown us such extraordinary support, not just for our current and ongoing projects, but for our vision and has allowed us to pursue our ambition with our new performing arts precinct.

The Minister for Training and Skills the Hon Steve Herbert MLC said the redevelopment will ensure the campus will remain an exciting community destination for arts and cultural activity in Melbourne’s south-east. This redevelopment isn’t just a win for the staff and students of Monash University; it’s a win for the local community who will also have access to the state-of-the-art facilities.
<cite>Professor Margaret Gardner AO, President and Vice-Chancellor, Monash University</cite>
</blockquote>

The project is the work of Peter Elliott Architecture and Urban Design, and continues Monash University's path toward improved design and greater campus diversification. According to the institution, 600,000 non-student visitors utilised the University's facilities last year.

Slated to open during early 2018, The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts joins a number of current and recently completed projects across the Clayton campus. Peter Elliott Architecture is also behind the redesign of <a href="http://peterelliott.com.au/projects/urban-design/the-forum">The Forum</a> which runs through the heart of the campus, while John Wardle Architects have created <a href="http://www.johnwardlearchitects.com/projects/project/96-learning-teaching-building">The Learning &amp; Teaching Building</a>, which is currently under construction and abuts the new performing arts 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/image71_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Learning &amp; Teaching Building. Image: John Wardle Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image71_3.jpg?itok=C7S26Mt4" title="The Learning &amp; Teaching Building. Image: John Wardle Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Learning &amp; Teaching Building. Image: John Wardle Architects</figcaption></figure>Designated as the new gateway to the University, The Learning &amp; Teaching Building will host a number of faculties and act as the University's main teaching facility.

<blockquote>
The Learning &amp; Teaching Building demonstrates a shift away from the modernist stand-alone tower, instead incorporating a horizontal field of spaces set within a broad, low rise building. The learning activities of the interior are, in this way, made visible and accessible to the wider campus and community, rather than removed from the ground in a vertical structure.

Streets, courtyards, bridges, balconies and stairs are transformed into ravines, clearings, strands, perches, escarpments and amphitheatres that are choreographed to invent a new landscape of the interior.
<cite>John Wardle Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

Over recent years, Apartments.com.au has had cause to highlight the impressive and diverse architecture on show at Monash University Clayton. <a href="/news/a-lyons-masterclass">New Horizons</a> began the ball rolling, and was followed by the <a href="/news/green-chemical-futures-another-lyons-marvel">Green Chemical Futures Building</a>. Thereafter <a href="/news/monash-clayton-continues-to-evolve-with-another-new-construction-program">multiple student accommodation buildings</a> were built, effectively remodelling a large section of the campus and creating a new urban walk in the process.

The latter follow on from the BVN Architecture-designed Briggs &amp; Jackomos student housing halls which collected multiple awards, both locally and internationally.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image79_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Assorted recent additions to Monash University Clayton "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_2.jpg?itok=PqiOHFav" title="Assorted recent additions to Monash University Clayton " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assorted recent additions to Monash University Clayton</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

Monash University delivers again with a new design showpiece

<html><body>
City of Melbourne (CoM) have ramped up their push to create additional public open space in two key locations. Announcements were made last week regarding a significant stretch of Southbank and Carlton's University Square.

Both intended developments are now available for viewing and comment via <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/">Participate Melbourne</a>, Council's online platform which allows the community to better understand and contribute to the decisions that shape the inner city.

First up, Southbank's dearth of ground level cohesion and activation will in part be addressed with CoM releasing further information and initial plans regarding the intended transformation of Southbank Boulevard and Dodds Street, with the aim of creating a swathe of open space. This will be achieved by shifting traffic patterns and partially closing Southbank Boulevard.

As a result, 2.5 hectares of public open space is set to be created along the southern side of Southbank Boulevard, starting from the Melbourne Recital Centre and continuing to the banks of the Yarra 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/image6_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Southbank is set for major change at ground level. Image: City of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_10.jpg?itok=fbYeVJWE" title="Southbank is set for major change at ground level. Image: City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southbank is set for major change at ground level. Image: City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Lawn areas, new trees, children's play spaces, improved pedestrian connectivity and at least one kilometre of new bike lanes are slated as part of the $16 million overhaul, with traffic still accepted along Southbank Boulevard. Dodds Street is also earmarked to become a public space as part of the development, with the aim of creating performing and events spaces.

<blockquote>
We know that backyards in the inner city are shrinking and more people are living in apartment blocks. In Southbank, 96 per cent of residents live in high-rise apartments with little access to outdoor space.

Our plan to transform the boulevard will ensure that nearby residents and workers are able to enjoy more open spaces for recreation, to meet each other and for public gatherings and relaxation.
<cite>Arron Wood, Chair of the City of Melbourne’s Environment Portfolio</cite>
</blockquote>

With works intended to begin during 2017, feedback for the proposal can now be given via the project's <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/southbankboulevard#overview">Participate Melbourne webpage</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/university-square-overall-concept.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A remodelled University Square. Image: City of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/university-square-overall-concept.jpg?itok=q-KNCCs-" title="A remodelled University Square. Image: City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A remodelled University Square. Image: City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>North of the CBD and University Square fronting Pelham Street and Grattan Street is set for change with CoM releasing details of a draft master plan for the overhaul as seen above.

In conjunction with the State Government and University of Melbourne, the square will be transformed with a decidedly more green slant. Expected in the redevelopment of University Square are 253 additional trees, 8,700sqm of expanded public open space, a water terrace, biodiversity corridor and public art installations.

All three parties have agreed to jointly fund the project which will also service the new Parkville rail station upon its completion. During previous community engagement sessions, the vast majority of respondents nominated closing Barry Street and narrowing Leicester Street in order to increase open space by up to 40 per cent.

<blockquote>
With an average age of 25, Carlton has the highest student population in Melbourne. The expanded square will provide more spaces to cater for residents, students and visitors. This includes offering more active spaces with barbecues, solar-powered charging stations, Wi-Fi, permanent chess boards and movable seats.
<cite>Arron Wood, Chair of the City of Melbourne’s Environment Portfolio</cite>
</blockquote>

University Square's <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/universitysquare">full master plan</a> will be available on Participate Melbourne from today.

<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/university-square-plaza.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A remodelled University Square. Image: City of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/university-square-plaza.jpg?itok=BHsL71Fo" title="A remodelled University Square. Image: City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A remodelled University Square. Image: City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

CoM's open space agenda receives a boost with plans unveiled for two projects

<html><body>
It seems a little counter-intuitive that in an apartment market coming off its peak, there's still scope for locations around Melbourne to be shaping as apartment hot spots.

Malvern Road is such an example; while the majority of projects are quite small relative to those of the CBD and surrounds, they do shape as the right stock for current market preferences which have drifted toward larger suburban dwellings.

Focusing on Malvern and Glen Iris, the number of Malvern Road apartment projects in the Apartments.com.au Project Database weighs in at 22. Added to these are a healthy number of projects queued, and which have yet to enter the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

<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/15_images2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bonview is one of the few existing apartment projects. Image: Balmain &amp; Co"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="402" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/15_images2.jpg?itok=-7Kcr2Pp" title="Bonview is one of the few existing apartment projects. Image: Balmain &amp; Co" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bonview is one of the few existing apartment projects. Image: Balmain &amp; Co</figcaption></figure>With a limited number of apartment projects completed along this stretch of Malvern Road, the pending surge of projects set to call the thoroughfare home could well push future apartment stock in the area beyond 550 dwellings.

Typically spanning 3-5 levels, these Malvern Road apartment projects are defined by larger internal apartment sizes which are on average supported by a proportionately larger number of car spaces. This is very much a reflection of the type of purchaser developers are chasing, and a reflection of the suburbs in question.

What also bolsters Malvern Road's emergence as an apartment hot spot is that very few of the 22 projects at the foot of the article have yet to reach construction.

Grace at 1555-1559 Malvern Road is all but complete, with Vivid on Malvern also well into its construction schedule. Backing these projects up are Abby Apartments, The Henderson and Turner Residences which are at sales.

<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/v16021_1hero_b_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Henderson is symptomatic of Malvern Road apartment projects. Image: thehendersongleniris.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="272" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v16021_1hero_b_0.jpg?itok=eiyuLg3S" title="The Henderson is symptomatic of Malvern Road apartment projects. Image: thehendersongleniris.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Henderson is symptomatic of Malvern Road apartment projects. Image: thehendersongleniris.com.au</figcaption></figure>That leaves the bulk of projects along Malvern Road at either planning assessment or approval. Falling within City of Stonnington's borders, the planning process for a number of projects has been lengthy.

Two of the more recent projects to gain approval are 1437-1441 Malvern Road and 1795 Malvern Road, both of which are located in Glen Iris. After an initial failure to determine, Stonnington issued a permit for 1437-1441 Malvern Road on the 29th of August. Spanning six levels when submitted for approval, the Ascui &amp; Co-designed project is one of the larger projects to filter through in the area.

1795 Malvern Road which gained approval during September is more a typical Malvern Road development; three levels with 20 apartments in tow.

The remaining projects are generally at planning, leaving Malvern Road with a strong development pipeline and a claim to being an up and coming apartment hot spot.

<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/image24_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1437-1441 Malvern Road, Glen Iris. Planning image: Ascui &amp; Co"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image24_7.jpg?itok=gvuW-lrN" title="1437-1441 Malvern Road, Glen Iris. Planning image: Ascui &amp; Co" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1437-1441 Malvern Road, Glen Iris. Planning image: Ascui &amp; Co</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

Malvern Road emerges as another apartment hot spot

<html><body>
The development team behind one of Melbourne's most recent commercial tower applications has had right of reply to City of Melbourne's varied concerns regarding their proposal located at 267-271 Spring Street.

Property fund manager and developer ISPT has Australian Unity pencilled in as the prospective project's tenant, with John Wardle Architects handed the task of creating the modern edifice above the current low-rise heritage buildings onsite. Post the project's submission during June of this year, City of Melbourne have raised concerns regarding a variety of aspects relating to the development.

Last week Urbis responded on behalf of the development team.

<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/image41_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The project's Little Lonsdale Street perspective. Planning image: Urbis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="373" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_6.jpg?itok=VRIBT64d" title="The project's Little Lonsdale Street perspective. Planning image: Urbis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The project's revised Little Lonsdale Street perspective. Planning image: Urbis</figcaption></figure>Many of City of Melbourne's concerns focus on the project's impact upon the heritage buildings in the immediate area, along with the appropriateness of the tower's form. The concerns in many ways mirror the stance taken by Melbourne Heritage Action, which considers the proposal to be <a href="https://melbourneheritage.org.au/2016/07/01/call-for-action-objection-to-facadism-of-elms-famil-hotel-and-demolition-of-surrounding-heritage/">demonstrative to the heritage precint's overall existing character</a>.

<blockquote>
Not only will the proposed office block involve the facadism of the 1925 Elms Family Hotel, it will dominate other heritage buildings on the site, like the 1913 Mission Hall, and the cottage on Casselden Place behind. It will also destroy some of the last remnants of the famous (infamous!) ‘Little Lon’ district, including the last section of Griffin Lane, and two small-scale 1920s red brick buildings that do not have individual heritage protection.

Melbourne Heritage Action believes that the precinct as a whole, from the Mission in Spring Street down to Oddfellows Hotel, is one that should obviously have been made a Heritage Precinct many years ago. This group of buildings not only creates an area and streetscape that hasn’t changed since the 1920s, but is the largest intact remnant of the notorious ‘Little Lon’ area.

<cite>Melbourne Heritage Action</cite>
</blockquote>

As of last week 38 objectors had taken their concerns to Council.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image46_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The tower's exterior. Planning image: John Wardle architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="629" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image46_6.jpg?itok=DtA-1m6M" title="The tower's exterior. Planning image: John Wardle architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The tower's exterior. Planning image: John Wardle architects</figcaption></figure><a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/building-and-development/property-information/planning-building-registers/Pages/town-planning-permits-register-search-results.aspx?appid=257302">Urbis' response</a> acknowledges the concerns raised by the objectors, while also asking Council to consider the "balance of objectives sought by the planning scheme and the extended consultation process conducted between the proponent and Council." Further to this Urbis point out that 267-271 Spring Street with Australian Unity in tow would be a boost to the CBD's economic success, given very few permitted commercial developments have proceeded to construction within the CBD during recent years.

For the most, the development team's response justifies the design ethos and outcome of the originally submitted scheme. Essentially Urbis' response adds further weight to the development team's stance, rather than making wholesale changes to the tower's design.

Concerns regarding heritage issues, setbacks to Spring Street and Littler Lonsdale Street, the project's perceived community benefit (or lack of), overshadowing and overlooking have all been addressed by Urbis. Following consultation with Melbourne Heritage Action and other vested parties, the only discernible changes to the proposal have been to retain the internal rear and side walls of the Elms Hotel and a change to the podium treatments to Little Lonsdale by way of additional glazing.

Beyond the above machinations, 267-271 Spring Street's fate lies in the hands of City of Melbourne, with a final approval decision likely to be some months away.
</body></html>

Key sticking points hammered out as ISPT seeks approval for its Spring Street tower

<html><body>
Another Fishermans Bend proposal has broken cover, taking Hayball as the architecture firm responsible past a noteworthy milestone. With the addition of 272-280 Normanby Road, Southbank-based Hayball now has in excess of 3,000 apartments in play across Fishermans Bend.

Referencing the Apartments.com.au Project Database, 272-280 Normanby Road's 396 apartments takes Hayball's total apartment numbers for submitted projects within Fishermans Bend to 3,229. In the process Hayball have made a stretch of Normanby Road their own, with seven separate residential towers at planning maintaining a Normanby Road address.

Proponent 280 Normanby Road Pty Ltd is behind the latest proposal which at 40 levels would peak at the maximum floor limit, as per the interim mandatory height limits in place. Currently housing a dual level commercial building, the repurposed site would see the new 126m tower rise in its place.

<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/272-280.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="272-280 Normanby Road. Image: proUrban"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="661" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/272-280.jpg?itok=b8mU3Ueh" title="272-280 Normanby Road. Image: proUrban" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>272-280 Normanby Road. Image: proUrban</figcaption></figure>Of the 396 apartments within 272-280 Normanby Road, 156 have been designated as single bedroom dwellings, 201 hold two bedrooms and 39 or 10% of the total number of apartments maintain three bedrooms.

An affordable housing element exists within the proposal, with two single bedroom apartments to be transferred to a specified housing trust while a further three single bedroom apartments are set to be leased for 20 years at 75% of market rental value, with management of these dwellings apportioned to the housing trust.

A 342sqm space is allocated within the tower's podium as a public community facility area. This is supported by multiple commercial and retail tenancies, with 736sqm allocated to commercial and 530sqm retail respectively. 124 car spaces and 204 bicycle bays are also part of the proposal.

Externally the tower will be dominated by pewter coloured precast concrete, charcoal and grey coloured panel-rib metal and aluminium cladding, pewter coloured glass, glass balustrades and grey coloured double glazing.

Lodged with DELWP during May, the proposal has been referred to City of Port Phillip (CoPP) for comment. As has almost become the norm, CoPP have indicated they are against the development, citing issues such as tower height, tower setbacks from street and side boundaries, tower separation between neighbouring properties, justification for tower seeking the maximum allowable height, cumulative wind and traffic impacts and the proposal's overall community benefit aspects as being sticking points.

Nonetheless <a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/Report_5_-_272-280_Normanby_Road.pdf">CoPP in their report on 272-280 Normanby Road</a> have also included various draft conditions that they believe would improve the proposal.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image52_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Assorted Hayball-designed projects within Fishermans Bend"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="302" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image52_3.jpg?itok=7FxQYeCX" title="Assorted Hayball-designed projects within Fishermans Bend" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assorted Hayball-designed projects within Fishermans Bend</figcaption></figure>As touched upon earlier, Hayball leads the way within Fishermans Bend in terms of the number of apartments under design for projects that are public knowledge. Its nine projects and 3,229 apartments shadow the work of ROTHELOWMAN which currently have six apartment projects and in excess of 2,000 apartments within the urban renewal area.

By far Hayball's largest project in Fishermans Bend is 850-858 Lorimer Street within Port Melbourne. One of the early batch of applications for the area, the reworked tri-towered scheme's most recent iteration carries in excess of 1,100 apartments for developer Goodman Group.

Other design firms also prevalent in the Urban Renewal Area include Elenberg Fraser, Artisan Architects and CHT Architects. To date 17 different architecture firms are represented across a gamut of residential projects within Fishermans Bend.
</body></html>

272-280 Normanby adds to Hayball's dominant Fishermans Bend portfolio

<html><body>
Three years after its completion, 171 Collins Street has achieved a milestone by becoming the first building in Victoria to notch a 6 Star NABERS Energy rating. In doing so it becomes only the second commercial office buildings in Australia to gain the rating.

Jointly owned by Cbus Property and Charter Hall, 171 Collins Street's gong is in line with the objectives of City of Melbourne's concerted sustainable building push which in part encourages developers, building owners and facility managers to constructing or retrofit their buildings in order to become as efficient as possible.

Built by Brookfield Multiplex, 171 Collins Street is the design work of Bates Smart with engineering by Umow Lai. In taking the 6 Star NABERS Energy rating, the commercial tower achieved its target of emitting 50% less greenhouse gases than a building with a 5 Star rating; a 5 star rating was long considered the benchmark for contemporary sustainable office buildings.

<h2>Sustainability features</h2>

<ul>
<li>9 storey glass atrium that maximises natural light</li>
	<li>Floor to ceiling double glazing with thermal insulation to help maintain occupant comfort</li>
	<li>High-performance ceramic fritted glass façade to reduce heat gain and glare</li>
	<li>Dedicated waste storage area for separation, collection and recycling</li>
	<li>Advanced rainwater and greywater reuse system</li>
	<li>Highly flexible under-floor air distribution system for superior indoor air quality</li>
	<li>Highly optimised lighting design with extensive controls for occupancy and daylight harvesting</li>
	<li>Energy-efficient fixtures and fittings</li>
	<li>Low-VOC and formaldehyde emissions</li>
	<li>Premium end-of-trip facilities with 280 bicycle spaces, showers, change rooms and lockers</li>
	<li>Destination controlled lift systems</li>
</ul>
<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/mayfair_exterior_ret_v3_vers_a_2500px.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="171 Collins Street from above. Image: Cbus Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="772" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mayfair_exterior_ret_v3_vers_a_2500px.jpg?itok=BwFtZRbB" title="171 Collins Street from above. Image: Cbus Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>171 Collins Street from above. Image: Cbus Property</figcaption></figure>What these sustainability features equate to, relative to a 5 star rated building, is a real world saving of more than 1.3 million kilograms of carbon dioxide per annum, or put differently 568,000 litres of petrol or the annual energy use for 139 homes. 171 Collins Street's 6 Star NABERS Energy rating is in addition to the development being awarded a 6 Star Green Star As Built Office V2 rating by the Green Building Council of Australia. The latter was done so with a record score on the rating scale.

Additionally, 171 Collins Street features an Australian-first ceiling tile system that absorbs office pollutants and creates a healthier office environment for workers. The development also includes a greywater treatment program that collects used water from the end-of-trip facilities for reuse throughout the building’s cooling towers and toilets, allwoing for a 90% offset of the cooling towers’ water consumption.

The building's radiant cooling and heating system and an under-floor air distribution network also provides an energy efficient thermal outcome internally.

<h2>What the say</h2>

<blockquote>
171 Collins Street is a lighthouse example of how premium grade buildings can deliver architectural beauty, world leading sustainability and exceptional occupant amenities without compromise.

It is a true 21st century workplace and embodies all that we strive to achieve at Cbus Property in delivering projects that are of international architectural value and achieve exceptional environmental outcomes. This milestone caps off several years of dedication by the entire project team as well as 171 Collins Street’s tenants in delivering and maintaining a truly green and sustainable building.
<cite>Adrian Pozzo, Chief Executive Officer, Cbus Property</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We are very pleased with the performance of 171 Collins Street. It is a building that continues to be recognised for its innovation in sustainability and we hope sets the benchmark for the industry into future.

It has been a terrific effort to get to where we are today and key to that has been ensuring all team members, contractors and tenant customers share our vision to create a sustainable workplace
<cite>Adrian Taylor, Head of Office, Charter Hall</cite>
</blockquote>
</body></html>

171 Collins Street achieves a 6 Star Victorian first

<html><body>
A fresh presence has brought a new design perspective to Fishermans Bend in the form of a planning application for 118 Bertie Street, Port Melbourne. With the majority of the development team behind the intended 18 level tower based in New South Wales, the result is a design that distinguishes itself from the majority of the pack within the fledgling Urban Renewal Area.

118 Bertie Street represents Sydney-based MAKO Architecture's first listing in the Apartments.com.au Project Database; the same can be said for Lateral Estate with the Fishermans Bend application their first project in Melbourne as developer/builder.

The conceived tower form coupled with an almost eccentric exterior allows 118 Bertie Street to sharply depart from the norm within Fishermans Bend, where many intended towers to date employ clean curtain glazed exteriors.

More pertinent to Fishermans Bend's strategic planning goals, 118 Bertie Street acknowledges the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan (April 2015) and has been designed with the Better Apartments Discussion Paper (May 2015) objectives in mind.

<h2>118 Bertie Street application summary</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/image42_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design and greenery combined over 118 Bertie Street's exterior. Image: MAKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image42_1.jpg?itok=OcX3N0pL" title="Design and greenery combined over 118 Bertie Street's exterior. Image: MAKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design and greenery combind over 118 Bertie Street's exterior. Image: MAKO Architecture</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged: June 2016</li>
	<li>3,031sqm site currently utilised as a warehouse</li>
	<li>Proposed 18 level tower at 67.9 metres</li>
	<li>264 apartments: 8 x studio, 115 x 1BR, 111 x 2BR, 30 x 3BR</li>
	<li>554sqm of commercial space over four tenancies</li>
	<li>191sqm of communal recreational space</li>
	<li>191 car spaces &amp; 303 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>GFA: 32,954sqm</li>
	<li>Estimated development cost: $66 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design Statement</h2>

<blockquote>
This design proposal has been conceived of as an activator for the local community and a signal of the future residential neighbourhood. The design intentionally seeks to maximise the available envelope to provide additional density and vibrancy to the public domain surrounding the proposal. The design is able to straddle the varying context of the building over time, and throughout the at present unknown context of the future open space network.

The podium is conceived of as a visually distinctive landmark in the short term context of the light industrial area. It should be a herald of the future and begin to suggest the change in use to a vibrant residential neighbourhood and address the future green linear park. The podium combines three strong elements; textural patterned mesh, varyingly proportioned active windows to the podium apartments, and large scale “green” openings screening the resident parking beyond.

The tower is a carefully modulated distinctive object appearing as a sharp black onyx piece contrasted against the sky. A subtle variation of black and bronze glazing starts to break down the monolithic quality of the broad facade and begins to give direction and movement to the composition. The tower adopts a fluidity, with the reflective qualities of dark glazing surrounding north, east, south and west frontages.
<cite>MAKO Architecture: Urban Context Report</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/image23_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="118 Bertie Street's envisaged street level integration. Image: MAKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image23_5.jpg?itok=n6ioY9kN" title="118 Bertie Street's envisaged street level integration. Image: MAKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>118 Bertie Street's envisaged street level integration. Image: MAKO Architecture</figcaption></figure>The above image is perhaps best mirrors early concept sketches that were bandied about for Fishermans Bend during its planning infancy.

The development team have gone to great lengths to ensure the tower's podium is front and square in terms of adhering to design ideals, likening the podium to a beacon in that it was conceived as a visually distinctive landmark in the existing context of the light industrial area. Project landscape architects NBRS+Partner have established a green zone as part of the project that aligns directly with the open space network as described in the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan.

Further the Bertie Street frontage is activated at ground level by way of Soho apartments that have the ability to be used as either home offices, or retail spaces depending upon demand.

<blockquote>
The tower itself consists of the irregular placement of geometric forms to create an interesting and innovative design response. At the ground floor, the building will appear almost entirely glazed with the podium above treated with grey brickwork or a copper coloured perforated screening, used to hide the internal car park from street view.

The tower form above appears to be separated into different structural elements, breaking up the built form and softening its appearance. The tower façade is treated with dark grey and bronze tinted glazing with black, bronze and champagne coloured metal framing.
<cite>Urbis: Town Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

The Port Melbourne proposal also includes 30 three bedroom dwellings, a disproportionately high number relative to many of the adjoining developments slated for Fishermans Bend.

<h2>118 Bertie Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Lateral Estate</li>
	<li>Architecture: MAKO Architecture</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Landscape Architect: NBRS+Partner</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineer: TTPA </li>
	<li>Waste Management: Elephants Foot</li>
	<li>Sustainable Design: ARK Resources</li>
	<li>Acoustic Engineer: Acoustic Logic</li>
	<li>BCA Consultant: McKenzie Group</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

MAKO make their mark in Fishermans Bend: 118 Bertie Street, Port Melbourne

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

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News