<html><body>
One of Melbourne's longest running planning applications has found resolution after four years. Stymied by planning authorities owing to its poorly resolved design, 212-222 La Trobe Street's owners scored a win at VCAT during March, with the tribunal granting approval following the commission of Melbourne-based Jackson Clement Borrows to redesign the twin-towered scheme.

It seems now that four years of time and expense on the proponents behalf may result in a serious windfall as the freshly approved scheme has been listed for sale weeks after approval. Billed as one of Melbourne's premier development proposals, the timing of both approval and site sale could not be better, given the record prices currently being paid for CBD development sites by developers.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image159.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The failed proposal. Image © Simon Greenwood Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image159.jpg?itok=SjDcifH5" title="The failed proposal. Image © Simon Greenwood Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The failed proposal. Image © Simon Greenwood Architects</figcaption></figure>The initial scheme conceived by Simon Greenwood Architects and submitted during 2011 would have seen two towers containing 296 apartments, 100 car spaces, ground floor retail and in excess of 1,800sqm of commercial office space. At 142 metres in height the tower was considered excessive but in today's context that would not necessarily be the case.

<blockquote>
The building would appear as an extremely prominent structure, being much taller than development around it. A particularly high quality design may potentially be warranted however this is not demonstrated in the current proposal.
<cite>Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee Report, 2013</cite>
</blockquote>

City of Melbourne were less than enthusiastic about the proposal during 2012, citing concerns over height and lack of setbacks, overdevelopment, poor on-site amenity and lack of activation of the street. It was eventually rejected by the State Government in its then form.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image3_1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="212-222 La Trobe Street from the State Library. Image courtesy Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3_1_0.jpg?itok=mWR5MHQ1" title="212-222 La Trobe Street from the State Library. Image courtesy Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>212-222 La Trobe Street from the State Library. Image courtesy Savills</figcaption></figure>Fast forward and Savills are currently spruiking the site which has hit the market for the first time in over 30 years. 212-222 La Trobe Street and 17-25 Little La Trobe Street form part of the site's five street frontages, with total site area at 942sqm.

The revised scheme by Jackson Clement Borrows features 400 apartments within two towers of 39 and 54 storeys which can be delivered simultaneously or in a staged manner. All dwellings within the proposal will achieve a minimum net floor area of 50sqm (inclusive of balconies) according to the restrictions imposed upon the project.

Externally the two towers feature what looks to be fritted curtain wall glazing to all aspects, with a skybridge linking both.

<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/image157_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="New to the area. Images courtesy MGS &amp; EF"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="401" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image157_0.jpg?itok=3iEp9ykv" title="New to the area. Images courtesy MGS &amp; EF" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>New to the area. Images courtesy MGS &amp; EF</figcaption></figure>Working on the likelihood that 212-222 La Trobe Street will find a buyer willing to proceed with the approved scheme, it will find itself with new neighbours in the immediate vicinity in the not too distant future.

<a href="/buildings/aurora-melbourne-central-224-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Aurora Melbourne Central</a> is due to have its site cleared next month in order for Probuild to commence construction works, while 377-391 Swanston Street looms as another large-scale residential development on the radar. Situated on the corner of La Trobe and Swanston, the MGS-designed 33 level tower would see hundreds of new student apartments delivered. Developer Far East has yet to proceed with the scheme which was approved during 2014.
</body></html>

silvermb

212-222 La Trobe Street: a story of chocolates and boiled lollies

<html><body>
Michael Smith, Director of architecture firm Atelier Red + Black and Apartments.com.au Industry Hub member, has gone to extraordinary lengths to mark the occasion of his 100th article on his personal blog, <a href="https://theredandblackarchitect.wordpress.com/about/">The Red and Black Architect</a>.

No stranger to regular Apartments.com.au readers, Michael's commentary on all aspects of architecture provides valuable insights and adds another layer of depth to Apartments.com.au's content. So what better way to mark his 100th article on The Red and Black Architect then to glean insight from leading Melbourne figures and fellow industry participants.

Below is an excerpt taken from <a href="https://theredandblackarchitect.wordpress.com/2015/05/04/the-red-black-architect-post-100/">his recent post</a>. The responses below as to why good architecture is so important could not have been answered in a more telling and comprehensive manner.

<hr>
<h2>What is your favourite building or space in Melbourne? And why?</h2>

Peter Hitchener – Chanel Nine News Presenter, Melbourne Icon. <a href="https://twitter.com/phitchener9">@phitchener9</a>

It’s hard to decide on one favourite building or space – there are so many in Melbourne… The Royal Exhibition Building, Flinders Street Station and St Paul’s are obvious choices.. Fed Square continues to be hugely popular as a meeting place, but my favourite Melbourne building is the National Gallery in St Kilda Road designed by Sir Roy Grounds, as well as the Arts Centre theatre and concert hall. I find the art gallery in particular induces feelings of calm, reflection and creativity; and I love the famous stained glass ceiling. It’s always worth a visit and I am never disappointed.

Jeff Kennett – Former Premier of Victoria, (Via Twitter). <a href="http://twitter.com/jeff_kennett">@jeff_kennett</a>

The Treasury Gardens in Spring Street, outside my old office. The gardens are a restful place for clear thinking and contentment. There are also many other great open spaces in Melbourne and Victoria as well.

Alison Cleary – Chapter Manager, Victorian Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects

My favourite place in Melbourne is both a place and a moment in time. Federation Square February 13th, 2008. Standing with 10,000 Melbourneites, black and white, watching the big screen as the Then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd apologised to the Stolen Generations. The feeling of connection and togetherness, standing shoulder to shoulder with 1000s of others who had longed for this moment – the opportunity to say we are sorry and this should not have happened. A quintessential Melbourne moment contained within a quintessential Melbourne space.

Sonia Sarangi – Co-Director Atelier Red + Black. <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSarangi">@TheSarangi</a>

Heide MOMA II (by McGlashan &amp; Everist) is simply magical and one of Melbourne’s hidden gems. Previously a home for the Museum founders, it is now a gallery. It demonstrates beautifully how art, architecture and landscape are intertwined. I cannot do justice to describing it; you have to go there! But it reaffirms my belief that great architecture doesn’t age – it is robust and continues to enrich lives for decades. Heide III by O’Connor &amp; Houle is a fitting addition to this building and a testament to the thriving architectural scene in Melbourne.

Cr Rohan Leppert – Melbourne City Councillor. <a href="https://twitter.com/RohanLeppert">@RohanLeppert</a>

I have so many favourite spaces in Melbourne, but up there would have to be the Meat Market on Blackwood Street, North Melbourne. As a performing arts space, it’s got to be one of the most unusual buildings around – which is one of the reasons why so many emerging and contemporary artists love it. Its long history, which is central to the story of Melbourne’s growth as a city and as a community, continues to evolve in ever more interesting ways, without one ever losing the sense of this building’s remarkable working past.

<h2>Why is good architecture so important?</h2>

Jill Garner – Associate Victorian Government Architect

Utilitas (function? commodity? utility?), firmitas (solidity? materiality?), and venustas (beauty? delight?). Design’s power to make ordinary objects desirable can confuse its (more? equally?) important capacity to make things and places safe, understandable, durable, functional, affordable and energy efficient. The true value of (good) architecture lies in its capacity to integrate a solution to the mundane problems of occupation, with the capacity to change our perception of place, and the very best architecture integrates use with space, material and light in such a way that our senses soar.

Bad architecture – or no architecture – costs so much.

Peter Malatt – Architect, President of the Victorian Chapter of the Australian institute of Architects

Good architecture enriches our lives in ways which make every day a better day

Good Architecture stimulates all the senses of touch, taste, smell, sight and sound.

Good Architecture lasts longer, looks better, smells better, is better for the public and uses less energy.

Good Architecture gets better as it gets older.

Stuart Harrison – Architect, Writer, Broadcaster, Director of Harrison and White Architects. <a href="https://twitter.com/stuartnharrison">@stuartnharrison</a>

Better designed cities, buildings and public spaces make life more productive, satisfying and enjoyable whilst fostering a sense of community. Architecture is central to this, it is a glue to bring together people, spaces and stories. Good architecture should be promoted, debated, tested and understood to become truly good, in the minds of all who use, see and experience it.

Leone Lorrimer – Architect, CEO DWP Suters. <a href="https://twitter.com/LeoneLorrimer">@LeoneLorrimer</a>

I often reflect on the power of good architecture to change behaviour. Historically, churches, town halls and court houses were symbols of civic power. The Sydney Opera House was the first public building to challenge the cultural status quo of an entire city – daring the city to re-evaluate its role on the world stage. The design of the Sydney Opera House was the equivalent of the moon landing; without it the boundaries of technology in design and construction would not have been pushed so hard and so fast. With the Sydney Opera House, innovative architecture took on a new role as the visual identity of a city. Today the Sydney Opera House still creates awe, raises aspirations and changes behaviour. Where else would you stage the Festival of Dangerous Ideas?

<h2>How would you like to see the architecture profession change?</h2>

Warrick Mihaly – Architect, director of Mihaly Slocombe Architects, Writer of Panfilocastaldi. <a href="https://twitter.com/MihalySlocombe">@MihalySlocombe</a>

The architecture profession has been in a sustained crisis for as long as I can remember. I’d like to see us respond to this by diversifying our contribution to society into new territory. This will mean accessing segments of the building industry currently closed to us (like volume built housing), as well as generalising our skills beyond it. Our education and training bestow upon us a unique and valuable worldview. We need to put this to use wherever there is need for complex thinking and sophisticated creativity. Politics, strategic planning, finance, the media and entrepreneurial start-ups would be a great start.

Tania Davidge – Architect, Writer, Director of OpenHAUS. <a href="https://twitter.com/taniadavidge">@taniadavidge</a>

The reality is that the profession is already changing. Globalisation and the ever increasing speed of communication have opened up new contexts for architects to practice in. New technologies and the outsourcing of architectural services are changing how architects go about their business. This change is double-edged – it opens up possibilities for architects and broadens the audience for architecture but at the same time it has the potential to decrease architectural agency and relegate architects to the position of spatial image makers if we don’t pay attention.

If we want the profession to change for the better we need to redefine the practice of architecture for ourselves rather than let external pressures shape architecture. Within this context, I would like to see the practice of architecture expand to encompass greater diversity and to make a shift from object-centric preoccupations to incorporate more strategic ways of thinking about the city and the people who inhabit it.

Kim Irons – Architect, Director of Irons McDuff Architecture, Principal Adviser, Architecture + Transport OVGA and Architectural Adviser to Public Transport Victoria. <a href="https://twitter.com/IronsMcDuff">@IronsMcDuff</a>

I would like to encourage the profession to work more collaboratively in all aspects of research, academia, advisory, advocacy, and practice to demonstrate the value of good design – not just as an outcome but as a process. If we measure and demonstrate the value of design both in economic and social terms, we could be better advocates for our contribution to the built environment. Evidence exists for value of design in schools and hospitals, but we need more evidence across other typologies, and the public realm. The evidence for good design could lever our capacity to advocate the role and worth of architects to drive innovation and reduce ‘design risk.’

Timothy Horton – Architect, Registrar Architects Registration Board, New South Wales. <a href="http://twitter.com/timhorton_">@timhorton_</a>

More than anything I’d like the profession to own its own data. Why? Succeeding in advocacy, engagement and change often means having numbers to hand to either give shape to a problem (look at the movement on gender equity that comes from being confronted by the facts), or to sketch out a model of the opportunities on offer. This might mean collecting the data to validate those early promises on how a project will increase workplace productivity, or to put some quantities around the supply chain implications of decisions on materials or assemblies. Without its own cache of data, architecture risks being viewed as unverifiable overspruik.

<h2>How would you like to see Melbourne evolve over the next 20 years?</h2>

Clay Lucas – City Editor at The Age newspaper. <a href="https://twitter.com/ClayLucas">@ClayLucas</a>

Two planners from NSW I had a meeting with this week remarked how, compared to Melbourne, Sydney’s CBD had too many wind tunnels and dark corridors where you felt over-powered by skyscrapers. Over the next 20 years, I hope Melbourne’s CBD can accommodate high-rise residential development without making the central city an unpleasant place to be. More widely, it would be great if affordable, quality housing was created in the middle-ring suburbs – the lack of it drives some of the city’s more serious planning problems. And major transport projects will hopefully henceforth be built based on facts, not propaganda or a vibe; both the East West Link and the Regional Rail Link were supported without a transparent and honest exploration of the city’s needs.

Monique Woodward – Architect, Director of WOWOWA Architecture. <a href="https://twitter.com/WOWOWA_Arch">@WOWOWA_Arch</a>

What if Architects fees were tax deductible? What if the polite but inevitable cocktail party conversation regarding real estate and tax breaks merged into contributing higher quality housing stock for wins at tax time? After all, financial planner fees can be taken from a client’s superannuation fund because the perception is their service contributes to overall wealth. For most, the Australian fiscal dream revolves around money made from renovation after renovation but so few use an architect. What is it about architecture that people have a problem with? I wager a fear of cost blowouts coupled with seemly exorbitant fees. Making our service seem more attractive and accessible starts to address at least part of this issue.

Alastair Taylor – Urbanist and an Editor of the Apartments.com.au website. <a href="https://twitter.com/tayser82">@tayser82</a>

Plain and simple: more urban growth, more walkable, less suburban growth and less auto-centric. We can now safely say the centre of Melbourne fits this bill however the challenge over the next 20 years will to replicate this success to areas further afield, and in an appropriate form. Smaller scale projects like those in the Anstey precinct of Brunswick are the type of development I’d like to see all over Melbourne – medium to high density, 5-7 levels high, right next to existing public transport infrastructure.

And speaking of Anstey, one thing to keep an eye on is how architects will have an impact on the development industry. The Nightingale project might just spawn a whole new direction for the way urban development is undertaken in this city.

Emma Appleton – Director of the Victorian Design Review Panel, Office of the Victorian Government Architect

To retain Melbourne’s cherished live-ability, our transition to a medium density future needs to be supported by sustained and deliberate investment in the green and blue infrastructure of our city.

We must transform the way we think about, design and manage our public realm, and protect and enhance the natural systems which sustain us, to meet the demands of more intensive use, increased consumption and pollution and to support our quality of life.

The streets, boulevards, parks, and public places, and our river corridors and natural landscapes are the lungs and connectors of our city, essential to our well-being and health, and central to the character and identity of Melbourne and who we are as citizens.

<hr>
Congratulations to Michael and as always architecture is for everyone! See the remainder of Michael Smith's <a href="https://theredandblackarchitect.wordpress.com/2015/05/04/the-red-black-architect-post-100/">milestone post</a> on the Red and Black Architect blog. You can also follow Michael on <a href="https://twitter.com/Red_Black_Archi">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/redblackarch">Facebook</a>.

Lead image courtesy <a href="http://melbournedaily.blogspot.com.au/">Melbourne Fresh Daily</a>.
</body></html>

Melbourne and architecture: prominent figures voice their opinion

<html><body>
Haig Street continues to prove popular with developers, with the latest application in the area seeking permission for a substantial residential tower against the West Gate Freeway. Sunvale Development is behind the proposal which would see a 170 metre structure replace what is for the most an open air car park.

Perhaps in a sign that Sunvale Development intends to proceed with the project should planning approval be gained, construction firm Built has been nominated within the planning documents as an early project team member.

<h2>65-71 Haig Street, Southbank 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/image119.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="65-71 Haig Street, Southbank. Image © Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="883" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image119.jpg?itok=fSYPkGAH" title="65-71 Haig Street, Southbank. Image © Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>65-71 Haig Street, Southbank. Image © Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Lodged October 2014, updated February 2015</li>
	<li>Current site use: double storey commercial building and vacant at grade car park</li>
	<li>Proposed 55 storey tower @ 169.2m</li>
	<li>361 apartments: 134*1BR, 227*2BR</li>
	<li>376sqm resident common area atop the podium</li>
	<li>118sqm retail space fronting Haig Street</li>
	<li>93 car park allocation via stackers plus 268 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>GFA: 32,262.7sqm</li>
</ul>
<h2>On the design</h2>

<blockquote>
The design of the proposed development has evolved through an iterative process and responds to the opportunities and constrains identified through investigation of site, urban context and planning context. The development supports and shares the objectives identified in the Southbank Structure Plan 2010 in shaping the suburb with attractive, connected and livable places.

The tower form has been sculpted to appear as a slender form - in particular when viewed from along the West Gate Freeway. The proposed tower height is set at 169.2 metres which is comparable to the heights of neighbouring proposed and approved buildings.
<cite>Fender Katsalidis - Urban Context Report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Apartment breakdown</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/image123.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Saddle back apartment layouts. Image © Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image123.jpg?itok=fl1pH3t_" title="Saddle back apartment layouts. Image © Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Saddle back apartment layouts. Image © Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>Split between one and two bedroom apartment options, 65-71 Haig Street's living areas begin within the podium where they provide an active frontage to Haig Street. Beyond the podium a mostly generic floor plan is employed which sees a typical floor carry 5 two bedroom and 2 one bedroom apartments, with balconies designed into a solitary two bedroom dwelling.

According to planning documents the 134 single bedroom apartments sum to 6,334.4sqm which equates to an average area of 47.3sqm per apartment. With a total of 14,917.6sqm between all dual bedroom dwellings, the average sees 65.7sqm allocated to each dual bedroom apartment within the proposal.

<h2>Up against it</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/image122.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="65-71 Haig Street and surrounding developments. Image © Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image122.jpg?itok=6zMoFvo6" title="65-71 Haig Street and surrounding developments. Image © Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>65-71 Haig Street and surrounding developments. Image © Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>65-71 Haig Street is not alone in seeking a piece of the Southbank apartment sector with three projects in the immediate vicinity also yet to be realised. <a href="/news/334-344-city-road-revised-in-order-to-address-planning-concerns">334-344 City Road </a>at 190 metres is the tallest proposal in the Haig Street pocket and also fronts the West Gate Freeway, while <a href="/news/57-haig-street-seeks-extra-height">57 Haig Street</a> is also at planning. A forthcoming Meydan Group project, 57 Haig Street has been resubmitted in order to increase in height to 155 metres.

Yet to be seen is 61-63 Haig Street which in the Fender Katsalidis Urban Context Report is listed as approved. <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/property/southbank-site-sold-for-75m-20140624-3ar6q">Reportedly</a> bought by Melbourne-based Blue Earth Group during 2014, the only imagery for the 865sqm site looks to be <a href="http://chtarchitects.com.au/projects-3/multiresidential/haig-street-southbank/">CHT's proposal</a> for a Haig Street residential tower, although this is not a firm indicator of the project. Regardless a distance of 10 metres is shown to separate 61-63 Haig Street 65-71 Haig Street's apartments.

<h2>Comment</h2>

65-71 Haig Street conjures parallels to New York's United Nations Headquarters by way of sheer precast elements running the height of the tower. Some will consider this strong design while others will think it altogether very simple… or worse.

One can only assume Fender Katsalidis have designed the above proposal to meet the brief delivered by the developer; for a firm with such a rich history in producing exceptional design outcomes 65-71 Haig Street is run-of-the-mill.

<h2>65-71 Haig Street, Southbank development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Sunvale Development</li>
	<li>Development manager: Loi Projects</li>
	<li>Architect: Fender Katsalidis Architects</li>
	<li>Early contractor: Built</li>
	<li>ESD &amp; Building Services: Cundall</li>
	<li>Planning: URBIS</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: 4D Workshop</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Wind Assessment: MEL Consultants</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Planning Application: 65-71 Haig Street, Southbank

<html><body>
The struggles of Bridge Road have been well documented both on Apartments.com.au and via many other media outlets. For so long synonymous with 'warehouse fashion' shopping, many have said Bridge Road has suffered a sustained decline due to the rise of DFO's and the substantial investment pumped into the CBD's retail offerings in recent years.

Remedies such as <a href="/expert-insights/buying/will-free-parking-save-bridge-road">free parking</a> have been put forward, while others such as Fred Nucara of Beller Commercial suggested during 2014 that Bridge Road is due for a <a href="/news/bridge-roads-apartment-transformation-gathers-pace">fundamental shift</a> in how and who uses and peruses the precinct. As destination shoppers choosing Bridge Road diminish, the struggling retail segment is likely to drift toward catering for the burgeoning population now choosing to call the area home.

This reshaping of Bridge Road into an apartment hotspot has gathered a head of steam over the preceding six months in particular, with a raft of residential planning applications in progress. Now three more new residential projects seek to compound the trend, appearing on City of Yarra's Major Development page within the last fortnight. They are in no particular order:

<h2>195 Bridge Road</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/image109.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The slight 195 Bridge Road. Image courtesy Archsign"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image109.jpg?itok=EoVW3Nxg" title="The slight 195 Bridge Road. Image courtesy Archsign" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The slight 195 Bridge Road. Image courtesy Archsign</figcaption></figure>This eight storey building designed by Archsign on behalf of a private developer seeks to fill a slender site with Bridge Road frontage. Located next to the at sales <a href="/new-apartments/richmond-vic-3121">Newbridge Apartments</a>, 195 Bridge Road would maintain a simple form behind a retained frontage holding a 130sqm retail space.

With only 10 apartments split between 7 one-bedroom, 2 two-bedroom and 1 three-bedroom options, 195 Bridge Road's apartments will range between 52sqm for a single bedroom apartment through to a dual level 228sqm penthouse of sorts. Two car parking spaces have been included with general access via Leggo Place.

<h2>19-21 Judd Street</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/image112.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="19-21 Judd Street. Image courtesy Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image112.jpg?itok=126Kjm3e" title="19-21 Judd Street. Image courtesy Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>19-21 Judd Street. Image courtesy Hayball</figcaption></figure>50 dwellings are included within this Hayball-designed planning application. Holding 5 one-bedroom, 44 two-bedroom and 1 three-bedroom apartments, the distinctly precast design is initially valued at $12 million and is on behalf of Bridge Road-based G3 Projects.

Included at ground level is a 33sqm cafe while 33 car parking and 59 bicycle spaces have been catered for. 19-21 Judd Street finds itself in close proximity to Charlie Richmond; the 96-apartment development on of the area's early large-scale residential developments.

<h2>239-245 Church Street</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/image111_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Armsby Architects' 239-245 Church Street."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="643" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image111_0.jpg?itok=gY4u8sBJ" title="Armsby Architects' 239-245 Church Street." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Armsby Architects' 239-245 Church Street.</figcaption></figure>Consultancy Planned FX has lodged documents on behalf of Katama Pty Ltd and Bider Pty Ltd for a redevelopment of a low-rise string of retail tenancies metres from Bridge Road. A structure dated 1925 is amongst the buildings slated to go in favour of an eight level apartment block with an initial development value of $8.5 million.

With basement car parking, the Armsby Architects-designed building will hold 53 apartments, split between 16 one-bedroom, 29 two-bedroom and 8 three-bedroom options. Retail tenancies line Church Street while basement access is via Tullo Place to the rear.

<h2>A bridge from here to there</h2>

The fresh planning applications above join the list of eleven projects either on or in the immediate vicinity of Bridge Road as seen below. At varying stages of the planning process, only Isola is at construction with Collingwood-based construction firm Lexicon at the reigns of the build which is in its infancy.

Estelle by Milbex and Newbridge Apartments on behalf of Longriver Group are at sales, with the remainder at lower rungs of the development process.

If the projects shown above and below are realised, the Apartments.com.au Project Database indicates that in excess of 1,130 new apartments will be pumped into the Bridge Road Precinct in the medium term. Add large-scale peripheral projects such as Lend Lease's Studio 9 and Riverlee's multi-staged Jaques site redevelopment, and the transformation of Bridge Road from retail destination to a strip serving the needs of a burgeoning and immediate population looks to be in full swing.
</body></html>

Bridge Road's apartment transformation gathers pace

<html><body>
The best part of a year from completion and the new <a href="http://www.vcccproject.vic.gov.au/">Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre</a> (VCCC) is beginning to show why it looms as one of, if not the most important building to be delivered in Melbourne since Federation Square. The $1.27 billion project located on the highly visible Haymarket roundabout holds prime position within Melbourne's medical and research precinct.

What makes the VCCC impressive even this far from completion is its spectacular exterior. Hospitals by their nature are inward-looking institutions; what happens internally is exponentially more important that how the actual building expresses itself to its surrounds. This is evidenced by recent equivalent large-scale or current hospital builds around Melbourne such as <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.panoramio.com/photo/26365400">Austin Hospital</a>, <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/east/doors-open-at-new-box-hill-hospital-building-worth-448m-in-arnold-st/story-fngnvlxu-1227021797380">Box Hill Hospital</a>, <a href="http://lostoncampus.com.au/img/poi/l/the-royal-womens-hospital-29459.jpg">The Royal Women's Hospital</a> and <a href="http://www.irwinconsult.com.au/experiences/monash-childrens-hospital/">Monash Childrens</a>.

All four examples are externally functional/austere without being altogether much more. Even the recent <a href="http://www.batessmart.com/bates-smart/projects/sectors/health/the-new-royal-childrens-hospital-architecture/">Royal Children's Hospital</a> with it's excellent frontage to Flemington Road is dominated by precast to its remaining elevations.

<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_7022.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The north west aspect prior to the final exterior application"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7022.jpg?itok=TDwnUBmy" title="The north west aspect prior to the final exterior application" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The north east aspect prior to the final exterior application</figcaption></figure>This is not the case for the VCCC. From every aspect the building is highly expressive while carrying splashes of McBride Charles Ryan's trademark purple. Flowing lines define the exterior as does the depth of colour and detail; most of which has yet to be applied and will appear as an elongated white ribbon over parts of the building.

It's quite apparent that the parties involved in the design and delivery of the VCCC have made a conscious and concerted effort to produce a facility with both form and function; a statement building for its time.

<blockquote>
The new design is to be symbolic and representative of the bringing together of the project partners, of the creation of new networks and clusters of collaboration. The building will have an imagery that is expressive of optimism and progress.

It will be instantly recognisable, both locally and internationally.
<cite>Plenary 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/img_7020.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="VCCC's interface with the existing medical precinct"><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_7020.jpg?itok=UpQXcv47" title="VCCC's interface with the existing medical precinct" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>VCCC's interface with the existing medical precinct</figcaption></figure><h2>VCCC Project highlights</h2>

<ul>
<li>Client: Victorian Government</li>
	<li>Builder: Grocon/PCL Joint Venture</li>
	<li>Architects: STHDI + MCR – a partnership of Silver Thomas Hanley and DesignInc with McBride Charles Ryan</li>
	<li>13 level 120,000sqm facility</li>
	<li>​Royal Melbourne Hospital 12,000sqm extension and refurbishment</li>
</ul>
The project will deliver:

<ul>
<li>160 overnight inpatient cancer beds</li>
	<li>42-bed capacity intensive care unit</li>
	<li>110 same day beds</li>
	<li>Dedicated clinical trials unit with 24 treatment places</li>
	<li>25,000sqm of research space</li>
	<li>8 operating theatres and two procedure rooms</li>
	<li>8 radiation therapy bunkers</li>
	<li>Education and training facilities (a 250 and 60 person lecture theatre plus 47 seminar/meeting rooms throughout).</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/11208501_1087668371248754_1504356717_n.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The view from the top. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="580" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/11208501_1087668371248754_1504356717_n.jpg?itok=1HRxmNnG" title="The view from the top. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The view from the top. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>As for the interiors, VCCC is on target for a mid 2016 completion. Dominated by a large internal atrium casting natural light to all areas, the central void is a key element of the design which projects partners say will immeasurably enhance the internal environment of the centre.

While the atrium and other interior design features are something to look forward to, see below a set of images taken in recent days covering all external perspectives the VCCC has to offer.
</body></html>

VCCC a triumph of design

<html><body>
During 2013 Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/wooden-you-know-it-architecture-and-timber">highlighted the worth of timber</a> as an exterior architectural feature, with the material becoming increasingly popular due to its many positive features.

<blockquote>
Architects employ timber for many reasons - some for the warmth it brings to a space, others to provide a more 'natural' finish - a counter balance to manufactured glass and steel. This softer, natural finish is becoming more prevalent throughout metropolitan Melbourne as an increasing number of architects incorporate timber into their designs, some going so far as to clad entire building exteriors.

Above all else timber is visually stimulating and provides a welcome change to a typical Melbourne urban setting.
<cite>Laurence Dragomir, "<a href="/news/wooden-you-know-it-architecture-and-timber">Wooden you know it - architecture and timber</a>", October 4 2013</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/10_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="56 Princes Street, Kew. Image courtesy Splinter Society"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="742" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/10_5.jpg?itok=GSr3o9oQ" title="56 Princes Street, Kew. Image courtesy Splinter Society" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>56 Princes Street, Kew. Image courtesy Splinter Society</figcaption></figure>Two projects which drew particular attention at the time were the new <a href="http://www.kerstinthompson.com/index.php?id=38">Marysville Police Station</a> and the purely residential 56 Princes Street, Kew. The latter, perhaps appropriately designed by <a href="http://www.splintersociety.com/">Splinter Society</a>, is an apartment block with a near complete timber exterior which has over time changed its appearance due to the weathering of its exterior.

The topic of timber exteriors has been raised once more with dKO Architecture and developer Milieu Property advancing plans for a new townhouse development predominantly clad in timber. Replacing a Victorian weatherboard house on the corner of George and Andrew streets within Windsor, the project features strong horizontal timber lines with vertical timber cladding also providing contrast.

<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/gabrielsaunders-milue-andrewstexternal-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new perspective on George and Andrew. Image courtesy Milieu"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders-milue-andrewstexternal-1.jpg?itok=EeTS2zOh" title="A new perspective on George and Andrew. Image courtesy Milieu" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new perspective on George and Andrew. Image courtesy Milieu</figcaption></figure>As Milieu Property's first foray into a project south of the Yarra, the intention between developer and architect was to create a project that found balance between function and finish, while positively contributing to its surrounds. Milieu Property Director Michael McCormack described the building as "positively contributing to the neighbourhood by incorporating intelligent design features that will continue to benefit their owners throughout the property’s lifetime."

I'd suggest anyone would be hard pressed to say that of a polystyrene walling clad or precast finish.

Elsewhere, the latest apartment project to feature timber is Jackson Clement Burrowes' 179 Gladstone Street, seen below, with its frontage carrying a natural timber finish. As projects employing timber exterior features continue to increase, so too will diversity and richness of Melbourne's architecture - and there's nothing wrong with that.

<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/image99.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="179 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne. Image courtesy JCB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="404" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image99.jpg?itok=hYgvXQvz" title="179 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne. Image courtesy JCB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>179 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne with exterior timber highlights. Image courtesy JCB</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

The finesse of timber revisited

<html><body>
Hassell Studio in conjunction with Places Victoria and City of Melbourne have devised a master plan for what many observers would consider the 'missing tooth' of Docklands. Harbour Esplanade was in years gone by expected to be an urban showcase for the area, but has stuttered and stumbled to the point where it is now akin to a patchwork of attempts to enhance the central waterfront area.

With wheels set in motion during 2014, the Harbour Esplanade Master Plan Report was put before Council for consideration during late March.

<blockquote>
The ambition of this master plan is to establish a vision of great aspiration; a vision conceived unmistakably for, and about this place, Melbourne’s primary urban waterfront. A vision that is underpinned by a number of clearly articulated and achievable design principles which will guide the realisation of a very special public place for all Melburnian’s.

A place for us to engage with our somehow yet undiscovered and wonderful harbour, place for us to invite the world to visit and be entertained. The role of the master plan is to define a clear physical structure or ‘zoning plan’ for the Harbour Esplanade waterfront promenade, that will facilitate a staged delivery of the precinct over time.
<cite>Harbour Esplanade Master Plan 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/image92_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A hotchpotch Harbour Esplanade to date. Image courtesy Hassell / Places Victoria"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="496" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image92_0.jpg?itok=FAjjrDG_" title="A hotchpotch Harbour Esplanade to date. Image courtesy Hassell / Places Victoria" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A hotchpotch Harbour Esplanade to date. Image courtesy Hassell / Places Victoria</figcaption></figure>Key to the master plan is a set of urban design principles conceived to ensure that future works are consistent with the overall intent of the site as defined by the vested parties. The seven principles are:

<ul>
<li>Embrace the water</li>
	<li>Provide a diverse range of experiences</li>
	<li>Integrate public spaces within the built form</li>
	<li>Take a restorative design approach</li>
	<li>Make it unique, reinforce its heritage character</li>
	<li>Re-prioritise pedestrian movement at key</li>
	<li>Program the space for day and night activation</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/image93_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The area subject to the master plan. Image courtesy Hassell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image93_0.jpg?itok=4jxMFDqF" title="The area subject to the master plan. Image courtesy Hassell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The area subject to the master plan. Image courtesy Hassell</figcaption></figure>Expected within the redevelopment is the construction of a continuous wharf edge to Victoria Harbour which would see the delivery of four new decks and increased landscaping and pedestrian accessibility to both the harbour edge and adjacent the Capital City Trail. Split into north and south basins, as divided by the historic goods sheds, there is scope within the proposed master plan to allow buildings ranging between 1-3 levels atop parts of Harbour Esplanade.

Slated as a staged redevelopment by Places Victoria, the Master Plan is designed to reflect the "Scale and complexity" of the site, while providing clarity for issues such as "Location, form and design intent of any future buildings and public realm spaces within the site."

<h2>Comment</h2>

Unfortunately there's no great imagery within the Master Plan to provide any indication as to what can be expected. Factoring in the decade it's taken to arrive at this point, and granted all but the very few are on the outside looking in, it seems to be a painfully slow process to deliver Docklands with a viable urban showpiece.

Truthfully parallels can be drawn with the St Kilda Triangle flop.

Nonetheless a Master Plan is coming. What better way to provide Docklands with something truly unique then to open the Harbour Esplanade redevelopment to a design competition. Federation Square and Flinders Street Station provided excellent outcomes, Harbour Esplanade should be afforded an equally as impressive outcome.

The Master Plan documents can be viewed at <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/BuildingandPlanning/Planning/Pages/Planningregisteronlinesearchresults.aspx?appid=224797">City of Melbourne's website</a>.

Lead image courtesy The University of Melbourne.
</body></html>

Places Victoria moves ahead with Harbour Esplanade 

<html><body>
Continuing the focus on City of Port Phillip this week, the municipality's planning department is currently occupied with a cluster of medium-sized planning applications currently going through the approvals process. Following on from yesterday's <a href="/news/designed-to-inspiire-k1-union-street-melbourne">profile of K1 Union Street</a>, five further planning applications are highlighted below, representing the next wave of apartment developments in the municipality.

<h2>228 Dorcas Street &amp; 10-14 Charles Street, South Melbourne</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/image59.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 228 Dorcas Street. Image courtesy Wood Marsh"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="279" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image59.jpg?itok=7vmRvOvJ" title="Artist's impression of 228 Dorcas Street. Image courtesy Wood Marsh" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 228 Dorcas Street. Image courtesy Wood Marsh</figcaption></figure>Following their recent Mint apartment block design, Wood Marsh have been enlisted by Piccolo Developments to deliver the boutique developer's next project just off Clarendon Street, South Melbourne. Initially at 10 levels, the proposal has been revised to seven levels in order to meet Council expectations.

Demolition is expected for the Victorian era building and adjoining stable on the Charles Street property, with the new building likely to hold 36 dwellings, a 336sqm office level (most likely for Piccolo Developments) and two retail spaces at ground level of 160sqm and 200sqm. The project has been recommended for approval.

<h2>80-86 Market Street, South Melbourne</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/img_6948.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The market Street office proposal. Image courtesy Billard Leece Partnership"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="360" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6948.jpg?itok=yGlGFIfD" title="The market Street office proposal. Image courtesy Billard Leece Partnership" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The market Street office proposal. Image courtesy Billard Leece Partnership</figcaption></figure>Generally more accustomed to health projects, Billard Leece Partnership are responsible for a new six level commercial design on Market Street, South Melbourne. Firewall Pty Ltd are behind the proposal which would see the 24.3 metre high structure replace a low-rise commercial complex and open air car park.

Market Street is becoming increasingly popular with both commercial and residential developments of late. Directly opposite 80-86 Market Street , <a href="/buildings/the-walker-apartments-79-market-street-south-melbourne">The Walker</a> at 79 Market Street is under construction while <a href="/buildings/teri-apartments-85-market-street-south-melbourne">Teri Apartments</a> at 85 Market Street is at sales.

<h2>550 Williamstown Road, Port Melbourne</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/img_6941.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 550 Williamstown Road. Image courtesy JCB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="337" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6941.jpg?itok=nozQHRtN" title="Artist's impression of 550 Williamstown Road. Image courtesy JCB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 550 Williamstown Road. Image courtesy JCB</figcaption></figure>Bordering Fishermans Bend's Sandridge Precinct, 550 Williamstown Road has been devised for SG Port Melbourne Pty Ltd. On a 967sqm site, the six level building seeks to replace an onsite auto garage and car park with a Jackson Clement Burrowes design of some 33 apartments.

Living spaces are slated to range between 47.9sqm for single bedroom dwellings to 143.3sqm for the largest 3 bedroom apartment on offer. A communal vegetable garden is located atop one of the setbacks while a reflective garden is located at ground level as seen in the above image.

<h2>179 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</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/image64_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The initial and new 179 Gladstone Street design. Images courtesy CBRE and JCB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="253" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image64_2.jpg?itok=3OCP-Wum" title="The initial and new 179 Gladstone Street design. Images courtesy CBRE and JCB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The initial and new 179 Gladstone Street design. Images courtesy CBRE and JCB</figcaption></figure>Jackson Clement Burrowes features once more with Crowbuild commissioning the practice to redesign an already approved scheme within Fishermans Bend. As submitted, the JCB design will also span seven levels with an art gallery approved for the previous proposal removed, while a 66sqm rooftop terrace will be incorporated to service the 16 apartments.

The design has been described as architecturally well resolved to all elevations with the project recommended for approval.

<h2>165-167 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</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/image65.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="North elevation. Image courtesy dKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="316" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image65.jpg?itok=1qip0OSk" title="North elevation. Image courtesy dKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>North elevation. Image courtesy dKO Architecture</figcaption></figure>Almost next door, City of Port Phillip are assessing the merits of an eight level apartment block designed by dKO Architecture which supersedes an <a href="/news/bpm-awaiting-a-decision-for-their-south-melbourne-tower">18 level proposal for the site</a>. Predominantly precast with highlights of metal clad and stone/tile finish, 165-167 Gladstone Street will carry a retail tenancy, 45 apartments, 22 car parking spaces and associated bicycle storage.

A mix of one, two and three bedroom dwellings are included for the project on behalf of BPM. Apartment sizes range between 45sqm and 106sqm within the proposal, which has also been recommended for approval.

Further to the above a handful of additional projects are in the pipeline, including the redevelopment of 103 Beach Street opposite Station Pier and 278-282 Kings Way, South Melbourne. The application seeking a seven level apartment complex looks to correlate with GURNER's concept image for their forthcoming Kings Way development as seen below.

<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/image73_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A propsective Kings Way match? Image courtesy GURNER"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="399" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image73_1.jpg?itok=GVv-k-Fa" title="A propsective Kings Way match? Image courtesy GURNER" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A prospective Kings Way match? Image courtesy GURNER</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

New applications roll into City of Port Phillip

<html><body>
The recent news that the State Government will proceed with a review of the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan means it's time to have a look at the current state of play up to this point.

The City of Port Phillip have been listing the majority of all proposed and approved planning applications within Fishermans Bend as part of any planning application that is lodged with the council within their part of the urban renewal area.

The latest applications which have been lodged and are currently being assessed by the City of Port Phillip are 165-167 and 179 Gladstone Street in South Melbourne.

<h2>Approved</h2>

<ul>
<li>161 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</li>
	<li>164 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne</li>
	<li><a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">6-78 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/15-85-gladstone-street-south-melbourne">15-87 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/buildings/normanby-199-201-normanby-road-southbank">199-201 Normanby Road, Southbank</a></li>
	<li><a href="/buildings/gravity-tower-89-montague-street-south-melbourne">89-103 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/134-buckhurst-street-south-melbourne">134-150 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</a></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/main_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The approved 15-87 Gladstone Street for sale. Image courtesy CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/main_3.jpg?itok=ch8KM3mt" title="The approved 15-87 Gladstone Street for sale. Image courtesy CBRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The approved 15-87 Gladstone Street for sale. Image courtesy CBRE</figcaption></figure>Approved by the Planning Minister during 2010, prior to the rezoning of Fishermans Bend

<ul>
<li><a href="/new-apartments/400-430-city-road-southbank">400-430 City Road, Southbank</a></li>
</ul>
​These eight projects provide for 4,349 dwellings or roughly 8,000 new residents for Fishermans Bend should they be built. This equates to approximately 10% of the envisaged final population of around 80,000 residents.

<h2>Proposed</h2>

City of Port Phillip have given their provisional decision on the majority of all outstanding planning applications which have yet to be ruled upon by the MPA. Projects which have Council support include:

<ul>
<li><a href="/new-apartments/60-82-johnson-street-south-melbourne">60-82 Johnson Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/228-238-normanby-road-southbank">228-232 Normanby Road, Southbank</a></li>
	<li>101 Salmon Street, Port Melbourne</li>
	<li>165-167 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</li>
	<li>179 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</li>
</ul>
Applications which have not gained support or in which City of Port Phillip have marked concerns include:

<ul>
<li><a href="/buildings/134-142-ferrars-street-south-melbourne">134-142 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li>2-4 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</li>
	<li>​​320-332 Plummer Street, Port Melbourne</li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/171-183-ferrars-street-south-melbourne">171-183 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li>261, 271-281 Ingles Street Port Melbourne</li>
</ul>
It's worth noting that 60-82 Johnson Street is according to the MPA website close to a final decision, although their latest update was provided during January. It's believed the project is either approved or very close to.

<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/image-tools_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="60-82 Johnson street. Image courtesy Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image-tools_0.jpg?itok=cFzNy-jZ" title="60-82 Johnson street. Image courtesy Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>60-82 Johnson street. Image courtesy Rothelowman</figcaption></figure><h2>And of the rest?</h2>

City of Port Phillip are not listing any Lorimer Precinct project within their <a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/FBURA_Planning_Apps_-_MPA_-_Apr_15.pdf">April application summary</a>, given the area falls within the City of Melbourne. All the applications below essentially abut Docklands, with ten towers spread across four development sites.

<ul>
<li><a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">351-387 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/150-turner-street-port-melbourne">150-160 Turner Street, Port Melbourne</a></li>
	<li>85-93 Lorimer Street, Port Melbourne</li>
	<li><a href="/developments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">850-858 Lorimer Street, Port Melbourne</a></li>
</ul>
Very much present on either respective architect's website as being active, yet not present on either the MPA register or City of Port Phillip's summary are both South Melbourne projects seen below. One wonders where the fortunes of these two developments lie?

<ul>
<li><a href="/new-apartments/166-168-buckhurst-street-south-melbourne">166-168 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/buildings/south-15-thistlethwaite-street-south-melbourne">15-35 Thistlethwaite Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>Addendum</h2>

There are indeed two April PDFs in circulation at the moment, showing either MPA or COPP delegated projects. Safe to say both above projects and a handful of newly found planning applications are alive and well.
</body></html>

Fishermans Bend proposals: an overview

<html><body>
Two of Melbourne's lesser known development entities have teamed to conceive what may become one of Melbourne's most recognisable and enviable apartment buildings. Under the guidance of integrated consultancy Spiire, KMK Developments and <a href="/architects/de-atelier-architects">DE atelier</a> architects have put forward for approval a new apartment tower located at the top end of Melbourne's St Kilda Road precinct.

Defined by an exterior dotted with mature trees and hanging gardens, <a href="/buildings/k1-residences-melbourne-1-union-street-melbourne">K1 Union Street</a> has been tentatively named 'Palatia' according to KMK Developments' website, and justifiably so based upon planning documents which show that each apartment will be spread over an entire floor, resulting in 13 super-large penthouse dwellings.

<h2>K1 Union Street, Melbourne 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/frontsideanglerender1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective. Image courtesy KMK Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="829" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/frontsideanglerender1.jpg?itok=juN8hj6y" title="Hero perspective. Image courtesy KMK Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective. Image courtesy KMK Developments</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged with City of Port Phillip during January 2015</li>
	<li>Current 612sqm site use: 3 level apartment block</li>
	<li>Proposed 13 level apartment tower @ 38.5 metres in height</li>
	<li>13 whole floor apartments: 3 &amp; 4 bedroom options</li>
	<li>26 vehicle spaces</li>
	<li>Rooftop amenities level</li>
	<li>Urban art installation featuring vertical greenery</li>
</ul>
<h2>Sky Gardens living wall</h2>

<blockquote>
The design of the building has incorporated a vertical landscaping theme to contribute a unique and artistic element within the St Kilda Road precinct. Cantilevered planters have been positioned along the southern and western elevations that are sufficient to accommodate small-medium trees.

The lift core will incorporate a series of hanging planters that are attached to a mesh screen.
<cite>Spiire: Urban Context &amp; planning 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/rooftoppoolrender.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pool with a view. Image courtesy KMK Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="502" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/rooftoppoolrender.jpg?itok=qrE5nt5y" title="Pool with a view. Image courtesy KMK Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pool with a view. Image courtesy KMK Developments</figcaption></figure><h2>All about the tension</h2>

Seen below are excerpts from the urban art and landscape statement surrounding the high-rise greenery:

<blockquote>
The proposition for the Urban Art response associated with the Sky Homes Apartment Tower development draws on the conflict that is manifested between humans and nature in our post (modern) - industrial society. The human/nature conflict also results in the disconnection of people from nature and natural processes. This not only distances us from systems that support our very existence, but also negatively impacts our personal wellbeing.
</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/img_6915.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Referenced projects within the planning documents"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="453" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6915.jpg?itok=GR5LBzb1" title="Referenced projects within the planning documents" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Referenced projects within the planning documents</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The Sky Gardens Living Wall is a reconciliation of the conflict between humans and nature. This dichotomy has manifested itself in literature throughout the ages. It has also set up the urban predicament we presently faced with in modern living. The Living Wall epitomises the contrast between built form and natural process by juxtaposing living systems and the building's residential infrastructure.

The periodic dance of the abseiling maintenance operatives up and down the facade of the Living Wall will be akin to performance art.
<cite>ASPECT Studios urban art statement</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

It has been a while since Apartments.com.au has come across a planning report with such bombastic flair… or fluff. The full Urban Art Statement conceived by ASPECT Studios makes for interesting, if not mildly amusing reading; nonetheless hats off to ASPECT for such dedication to the cause.

The building itself is an interesting design with mature trees in play over the height of the facade; always a positive addition. The design for obvious reasons is similar to Russell Street's approved <a href="/new-apartments/crystal-gardens-276-russell-street-melbourne">Crystal Gardens</a> tower, although there remains one difference. Whereas Crystal Gardens has its greenery positioned in a northern aspect, Palatia's intended flora faces south.

No direct sunlight, particularly for the planters, could make life interesting for the intended living wall.

Regardless K1 Union Street is the latest addition to Melbourne's super swank apartment segment which is bubbling away at the moment. From Australia 108's $25 million penthouse <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/residential/vic/australia-108-penthouse-sold-to-chinabased-businessman-for-record-25m-20150408-1mgeky">finding a buyer</a> to <a href="/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a> <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/mirvac-goes-for-the-top-as-penthouse-fever-picks-up-20150423-1mqw0f">shopping around</a> an $8 million abode within Yarra's Edge, demand for premium apartments remains strong.

<h2>K1 Union Street, Melbourne development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Skyhomes Melbourne Pty Ltd / KMK Developments</li>
	<li>Architect: DE atelier architects</li>
	<li>Urban context &amp; planning: Spiire</li>
	<li>Landscape: ASPECT studios</li>
	<li>Traffic: TTM Consulting</li>
	<li>Sustainability: Waterman</li>
	<li>Wind analysis: Windtech</li>
	<li>Waste management: Leigh Design</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Designed to 'Inspiire' - K1 Union Street, Melbourne

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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" dir="auto">
<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" dir="auto">
The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Mark Baljak

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News