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Does anyone doubt that Hopkins Street Precinct on the footstep on Footscray proper will be an unbridled success one day? I don't, but the total lack of action in materialising any of the many projects within the Urban Renewal Area is a concern and points to some fundamental issues within the precinct.

The impetus for this article is news this week the first major apartment project for the area (approved over three years ago) has been put on the market. Then design lead Architecton summed up both <a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-footscray-501317143">10 Moreland Street</a> and Joseph Road Precinct as follows:

<blockquote>
The precinct has historically been used for a mix of industrial activities which are no longer viable or appropriate in this location. The precinct benefits from unrivalled proximity to both the Footscray CAD and the Maribyrnong River environs, and enjoys excellent multi-modal connections to other parts of Melbourne.

The strategic vision is for the area to be revitalised through new and innovative mixed use development. This proposal has received the first planning permit and hence the first step in the revitalisation of the Joseph Road precinct. It is therefore considered a catalyst for change which will assist in the implementation of the State and local government's broader vision for Footscray.
<cite><a href="http://www.architecton.com.au/34556/341918/select-projects/moreland-street-footscray">Architecton: Moreland Street Footscray</a></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/image196.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The current 10 Moreland Street. Image courtesy Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="416" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image196.jpg?itok=U2OI9YZQ" title="The current 10 Moreland Street. Image courtesy Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The current version of 10 Moreland Street. Image courtesy Colliers</figcaption></figure>Unfortunately there has been no catalyst for change within the 17 hectare precinct in recent years, and no prospect of there being so in the short to medium term. Fellow precinct permit holder <a href="/buildings/boat-house-2-joseph-road-footscray">2 Hopkins Street</a> is also currently for sale while <a href="http://www.8hopkins.com.au/">8 Hopkins Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/riverina-22-hopkins-street-footscray">18-24 Hopkins Street</a> successfully <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.starweekly.com.au/story/1811715/footscray-mayor-grant-miles-slams-developers-over-quick-buck-sales/">found buyers</a> earlier in the year, although there are no plans to immediately develop.

<a href="/new-apartments/footscray-vic-3011">4 Neilson Place</a> and <a href="/buildings/liberty-one-1-warde-street-footscray">1 Warde Street</a> are currently at planning with joint developer Urban Inc's Danny Ciarma indicating 1 Warde Street wasn't a priority development during an interview with Apartments.com.au during mid 2014. Whether at planning or approved, Joseph Street Precinct currently has approximately 3150 in just six projects listed on Apartments.com.au's Project Database.

At this point Joseph Street Precinct reminds me of an old adage, "All dressed up with nowhere to go."

<h2>The issues</h2>

From a laypersons perspective, these are the issues Joseph Street Precinct currently face:

<ul>
<li>The sites industrial heritage means it's little more than a decrepit wasteland. Which developer would be the first to deliver their project and have it site in total desolation, condemning residents to barren external environment?</li>
	<li>As evidenced the projects mentioned above, the average development to date in Joseph Street Precinct is huge. Understandable given the lot sizes on offer, but even in staged delivery these projects need to sell hundreds of apartments at a time which for a new residential precinct in this position is quite the ask.</li>
	<li>It seems no developer wants to be the first into Joseph Street Precinct. Taking into account the above and other factors it almost looks like game theory at play where one player is reactionary to other players. If one development is launched will the other immediately follow? Probably not, and therein lies part of the problem.</li>
</ul>
<h2>The solution</h2>

Forget Docklands as an example, in this instance, Dandenong's urban renewal program may just provide the blueprint to lift Joseph Street Precinct out of the development doldrums. <a href="/news/revitalising-central-dandenong-nothing-ventured-nothing-gained">Revitalising Central Dandenong</a> is an ongoing urban renewal project delivered by the State government via Places Victoria, in conjunction with the City of Greater Dandenong.

Critical infrastructure and extensive civic works continue to be delivered to Dandenong's CBD in order to stimulate private investment in the area - a ploy which to date has worked - with increased commercial and residential development the result. A similar program is precisely what Joseph Street Precinct requires in my view.

Joseph Street Precinct absolutely needs an initial infrastructure boost from the State government in order to promote the area as more than a current industrial wasteland. Implementing a road network and delivering some much needed civic works, particularly to Maribyrnong River, may just be the key to unlocking a flow of development that would begin the long sought transformation of the precinct.

Whether it be Places Victoria, City of Maribyrnong or both, Joseph Street Precinct is in desperate need of impetus by way of initial public works investment. To do nothing is to condemn the precinct to further dormancy.

So close to the CBD, yet so far from being reality!
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silvermb

The quandry that is Hopkins Street Precinct

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At roughly the same point in time where two adjoining residential towers gained approval, a planning application for 68-70 Dorcas Street, Southbank was submitted for consideration to State planning body DTPLI. According to the planning report a period of consultation between the development team, DTPLI and City of Melbourne was held prior to the submission of what would be one of the taller towers within this pocket of Southbank.

Located on the corner of Dorcas Street and Dodds Street, the development calls for the 274-apartment building to be crowned by a distinctive metal rooftop feature and a 360 degree communal rooftop facility.

<h2>Application summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Current site use: 3 level commercial building</li>
	<li>Application for development lodged August 2014</li>
	<li>29 levels at 92.2 metres</li>
	<li>Site area: 1,478sqm</li>
	<li>Apartments: 274 (1/2/3 bedroom options)</li>
	<li>Ground floor tenancies of 167sqm &amp; 73sqm</li>
	<li>193 basement car parking spaces &amp; 101 bicycle spaces</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/image165.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artists impression of 68-70 Dorcas Street. Image courtesy SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="709" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image165.jpg?itok=YXNXNGSV" title="Artists impression of 68-70 Dorcas Street. Image courtesy SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artists impression of 68-70 Dorcas Street. Image courtesy SJB</figcaption></figure><h2>External appearance</h2>

68-70 Dorcas Street discerns itself from its neighbours by employing an elliptical tower form, which is in contrast to the unbroken rectangular format of all surrounding buildings. Also noticeable is the lack of horizontal banding common with surrounding apartment buildings, rather a more uniform vertical finish has been applied.

<blockquote>
The defining characteristic of the design is the curved surface of the tower, skinned in a ‘patchwork’ of subtly contrasting facade panels. The panel types are presented in muted tones and have distinct surface qualities notable by texture, reflectivity and transparency.

The blend of panel types, combined with an offset grid arrangement, creates a dynamic surface which makes for a constantly changing experience in relation to the onlooker’s position and the light illuminating the facade.
<cite>SJB Architects - Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

Materials employed would see a mixture of glazing colours, a variety of metal clad finishes and stone veneer cladding with precast elements to less conspicuous areas.

<h2>Public Amenity</h2>

68-70 Dorcas Street is described as an "iconic" design within the planning report, with Urbis stating the development will provide positive benefits to the public realm. With atypical looks and an active street level interface, the tower would be more sympathetic/engaging to its surrounds than the current, dated commercial office building.

<blockquote>
Of key consideration in relation to this proposal is the impact of overshadowing by the development. The submitted Design Proposal prepared by SJB Architects includes shadow diagrams at the equinox which demonstrate that the proposal will not overshadow any significant features or parkland in the area.
<cite>Urbis - 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/image167.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="68-70 Dorcas Street in context. Image courtesy SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="421" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image167.jpg?itok=NyAddvv5" title="68-70 Dorcas Street in context. Image courtesy SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>68-70 Dorcas Street in context. Image courtesy SJB</figcaption></figure>The immediate area surrounding 68-70 Dorcas Street has seen a measured flow of apartment development over the last decade, with 8 on Dorcas the first of the new millennia apartment buildings in the area. More recently Elm by Fridcorp, Guildford by Evolve Development and Premier Capital Developments' Sunday Apartments have added a combined 876 apartments.

Pipeline projects joining 68-70 Dorcas Street nearby include the at sales <a href="/new-apartments/coventry-haus-33-coventry-street-southbank">33 Coventry Street</a> by VIMG and the recently approved <a href="/buildings/the-evermore-southbank-58-66-dorcas-street-southbank">58-66 Dorcas Street</a> which abuts the site in question. Limited sizeable development sites remain in the area making 68-70 Dorcas Street with its uninterrupted Southbank and CBD views a noticeable presence in the area.

<h2>68-70 Dorcas Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: 20Q Development Co P/L</li>
	<li>Architect: SJB</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Traffic: mga.</li>
	<li>Landscaping: Formium</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: 4D Workshop</li>
	<li>Services Engineer: O'Neill Group</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>ESD: ark resources</li>
</ul>
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Planning Application > 68-70 Dorcas Street, Southbank

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A supermarket at the base of a high-density residential or mixed-use development is nothing particularly new; the Apartments.com.au database has many an example allowing for full line venues in inner-city growth areas such as Fishermans Bend and the like.

However a trend that continues to be borne out is the push of large retail/supermarket chains adding value to their land allotments by inserting apartments above their intended future outlet. The highest profile exponent of this in recent times was Woolworths who successfully gained planning approval for 101 Canning Street, North Melbourne.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/news_nrth_melb.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of Woolworths' Canning Street development. Image courtesy Buchan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/news_nrth_melb.jpg?itok=FsIzXzQr" title="Aerial perspective of Woolworths' Canning Street development. Image courtesy Buchan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of Woolworths' Canning Street development. Image courtesy Buchan</figcaption></figure>The permitted scheme sees a mixed-use retail, residential and office development principally consisting of 300 residential apartments over two towers. Woolworths promptly sold off the site upon approval while maintaining the right to operate a full line supermarket of 4400m² should the scheme materialise.

Another large inner-city development sees Coles Group Property's existing Richmond Plaza at <a href="/buildings/261-271-bridge-road-richmond">271 Bridge Road, Richmond</a> subject to an approved, SJB-designed redevelopment plan which would include 333 apartments located above a revamped Coles full line outlet. 12,000sqm or retail space and 573 car parking bays are also envisaged within the eclectic design 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/273_10-04-2014_8060.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Richmond Plaza. Image © SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="283" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/273_10-04-2014_8060.jpg?itok=ack5M93L" title="A new Richmond Plaza. Image © SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Richmond Plaza. Image © SJB</figcaption></figure>Apartments above supermarkets is almost a given within arms reach of Melbourne's CBD, but as the practice extends into middle ring suburbs it demonstrates that apartments/mixed-use developments are not solely the domain of property developers. As of mid this year Aldi Foods received in principle approval for an five level Aldi store topped with 34 dwellings.

Located at 313 Doncaster Road, Balwyn North, the five level structure over a 2,167sqm site looks likely to be the first taste of substantial higher density living for the suburb dominated by detached housing. Across town Coles Group Property have also instigated construction of 180 Gaffney Street, Coburg North which will feature a Coles outlet in addition to commercial office space and a medical centre.

Coles Group Property parent company Wesfarmers have further shown their propensity to value add to their intended developments, this time utilising Bunnings as an anchor for a large mixed-use development at <a href="/buildings/north-eastern-tower-659-669-doncaster-road-doncaster">659-669 Doncaster Road, Doncaster</a>. Architecture firm Hayball have designed the approved complex which would feature podium space carrying a 10,532sqm Bunnings outlet and 1,598sqm of retail space, in addition to 887 car parking bays and 385 apartments spread over three separate buildings above.

<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/art-bunnings-620x349.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The expected Bunnings Doncaster Hill. Image © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/art-bunnings-620x349.jpg?itok=hvXknauG" title="The expected Bunnings Doncaster Hill. Image © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The expected Bunnings Doncaster Hill. Image © Hayball</figcaption></figure>The trend reaches further with Mimmo Holdings Pty Ltd seeking approval for a mixed-use complex at <a href="/buildings/pace-of-doncaster-east-3-mitchell-street-doncaster-east">3-11 Mitchell Street, Doncaster East</a>. A 2,378sqm supermarket, reception centre, 688sqm restaurant and 65 one and two-bed apartments round out the proposed development that once more seeks to set a height precedent in an otherwise low-rise area.

<h2>Comment</h2>

Whether it be opportunism, shifting with the times or a concerted push to diversify a business model, the practice of adding additional uses atop a traditional supermarket or the like is growing. Is it fair to assume that most future build supermarkets aside from those on the periphery of Melbourne will incorporate a degree of apartment living above? Most likely.

That chains such as Aldi and Coles are leading the charge shows how lucrative large tracts of land within metropolitan Melbourne have become.
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Is the stand-alone supermarket consigned to history?

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This week marked practical completion of developer Hengyi's maiden <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> project located within the CBD's legal precinct. Completed during 1966 and formerly known as Communications House, <a href="/buildings/the-william-199-william-street-melbourne">The William</a> has undergone a mass redevelopment after laying dormant for years on end.

August 2012 signified commencement of works which included gutting the internal structure and paring back the original facade. With a <a href="/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a> as the head Architect,  Built acted as head contractor for the project while Nash Management acted as project manager and client representative.

With The William's settlement stage in sight, Apartments.com.au visited The William in recent days and was given a guided tour with <a href="/developers/hengyi-australia">Hengyi</a>'s Stephen Speer and Nash Management's Simon Manley providing insight into the building attributes.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image157.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A transformed 199 William Street. Image courtesy Marcus Wong"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="220" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image157.jpg?itok=9ji3KCZH" title="A transformed 199 William Street. Image courtesy Marcus Wong" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A transformed 199 William Street. Image courtesy Marcus Wong</figcaption></figure><h2>Project summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Originally dual 20 level commercial towers dated 1966.</li>
	<li>Redeveloped as The William: expanded to 24 levels (eastern or William tower).</li>
	<li>Ground level: 12 retail tenancies dual entrance points (30-300sqm).</li>
	<li>86 serviced apartments over levels 1-4 titled Wyndham on William.</li>
	<li>443 apartments: 1 &amp; 2 bedroom options from level 5 and above (near on sold out).</li>
	<li>Level one amenities: gym, meeting rooms, conference space, open plan library/lounge area.</li>
	<li>Rooftop pool on William tower, with BBQ facilities.</li>
	<li>3 commercial spaces: one contract in progress.</li>
	<li>3 basement car parks accessed via Little Bourke Street.</li>
</ul>
<h2>External metamorphosis</h2>

<blockquote>
The transformation includes a new façade system and updated building services, as well as the introduction of significant environmental initiatives such as photovoltaic cells that will generate power back into the grid and rainwater harvesting.

The building is expected to achieve an impressive 7-star energy rating.
<cite>Bruce Henderson 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/img_0797.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level perspective"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0797.jpg?itok=Hd_Bnney" title="Ground level perspective" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level perspective</figcaption></figure>Gone is the dated cream facade of a bygone era, replaced by a contemporary skin of glass, louvred wintergarden spaces and aluminium composite panelling. A standout feature is the 'studded' southern facade as seen above which when illuminated during night hours will cast light via its triangular protrusions.

William Street and Little Bourke Street both hold pedestrian entry points, with Little Bourke Street connected to a remodelled Guests Lane. Guests Lane and surrounds will hold 10 retail outlets, with a number of contracts in process. Coupled with the revamped adjoining Owen Dixon Chambers West Building, the common area between the two buildings will act as a new retail and social hotspot.

<h2>From the ground up</h2>

The residential lobby fronting William Street holds a certain brooding yet refined tone owing to the colours and materials chosen. A product of Carr Design, the area features granite paving, dark wood finishes and walls of leather surrounding the lift area, all contrasted by light ceiling finishes.

<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_0799.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The William's residential foyer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0799.jpg?itok=xfyt9I59" title="The William's residential foyer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The William's residential foyer</figcaption></figure>Seven lifts service The William, split between four dedicated residential lifts, two dedicated Wyndham lifts and the ever present goods lift. Level one holds a variety of common areas over its sprawling layout, amplified by the lack of furniture during Apartments.com.au's visit; the area has since been fitted.

Separate recycling and garbage chutes are a feature, adding to other initiatives such as PV cells and rainwater harvesting which according to Bruce Henderson Architects will propel The William to a 7-star energy rating, although this has yet to be confirmed.

All apartments have access to either wintergardens or balconies over all aspects, with living areas generally abutting these areas. A portion of apartments carry second bedrooms that are reliant upon borrowed light, perhaps due to the depth of the existing structure while the overall apartment finishes are light and all in all very impressive.

The William is topped by an open yet heated pool with immaculate views of Melbourne skyline which would no doubt be well used during summer, perhaps less so during the winter months. Nonetheless an impressive space and one of the few open air pools available in Melbourne's CBD.

<h2>Comment</h2>

The William both externally and internally is quite competent in its proportions and finishes. Apartments.com.au's first visit to a refurbished building rather than new build threw up some perceptible differences. The William's <a href="/new-apartments">apartment</a> sizes would be mid range yet felt much larger; visually apartment ceilings felt higher than usual owing to the former commercial use of the tower. Communal spaces and passageways within the building were also more than ample, verging on massive relative to new build communal spaces.

I'd suggest The William's best feature is what it provides back to this area of Melbourne's CBD. The influx of retail space and residents/hotel guests will go a long way in activating a pocket of Melbourne's CBD that's dominated by commercial space and hence sees comparatively little street life outside work hours. All in all The William looks to be the right project in the right position.

See below an image slideshow of The William's internal spaces, apartment finishes and external form.
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In Focus - The William @ 199 William Street, Melbourne

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Last week Meinhardt Australia held their <a href="http://practicalimagination.info/imagin8/skyscraper-trends-in-melbourne-from-super-skinny-to-prefabulous/">Skyscraper Trends In Melbourne: From Super Skinny To ‘Prefabulous’</a> seminar which brought together a select group of Melbourne's development industry elite to consider the influences shaping the future direction of Melbourne's built form. The latest in a string of successful seminars held under the <a href="http://practicalimagination.info/">Practical Imagination - imagin8</a> banner, Apartments.com.au was present to cover the informal yet highly relevant gathering.

Speakers included three Meinhardt representatives with National Director - Land Development Jon Brock commencing proceedings, Managing Director of CBRE Residential Projects Andrew Leoncelli and Hickory Group Joint Managing Director George Argyrou. All presentations gave a synopsis of the current Melbourne market from their respective positions and explored likely future trends and innovations.

Followed by a lengthy open forum discussing all matters relevant, the evening provided great insight into Melbourne's trend of building taller buildings, and the fundamentals/technologies that underpin it. While further in depth articles will appear on Apartments.com.au in coming weeks, the most pertinent information for Apartments.com.au's readers were within the presentations of Jon Brock and George Argyrou; summaries of both are found below.

<h2>Jon Brock: the Victorian town planning context</h2>

Leading off Jon Brock spoke of the context in which Melbourne's tall towers have been allowed to flourish, alluding to strong population growth and Plan Melbourne's focus upon urban renewal. Also sighted within the presentation was the Metropolitan Planning Authority (MPA) whose role was effectively described as Melbourne's "Tall tower decider."

Given Menhardt's extensive catalogue of projects, urban renewal areas such as Fishermans Bend and Arden-Macaulay were discussed at length with Jon Brock citing <a href="/new-apartments/60-82-johnson-street-south-melbourne">60-82 Johnson Street, South Melbourne</a> and 114-116 Haines Street, North Melbourne (seen below) as prime examples where negotiations with the relevant planning body let to agreed upon development outcomes that benefited all parties.

Paraphrasing Jon Brock in relation to 60-82 Johnson Street, no one particularly cared that an additional four levels were added to the tower, of primary concern is podium interaction and increased public space. Also discussed was Arden-Macaulay where higher density is envisaged, and likely to be implemented via the <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/BuildingandPlanning/Planning/planningschemeamendments/Pages/AmendmentC190.aspx">C190 amanedment</a> which has been delayed to a degree due to East West Link.

<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/image137_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images taken from Jon Brock's presentation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="317" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image137_1.jpg?itok=lKHDbQy0" title="Images taken from Jon Brock's presentation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images taken from Jon Brock's presentation</figcaption></figure>Melbourne's new residential zones were also discussed, along with potential implications for existing high density areas due to tracts of land being locked away from redevelopment. Tips and pitfalls for successfully gaining project approval were also discussed in what was a comprehensive talk delivering a lot of otherwise unattainable information to the assembled audience.

A comprehensive overview of Jon Brock's presentation can be viewed online via the <a href="http://practicalimagination.info/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/imagin8_presentation-Tall-Buildings-3.pdf">practical imagination</a> website.

<h2>George Argyrou: Hickory Group leads the industry with HBS</h2>

Co-founder of Hickory Group and Managing Director George Argyrou was on hand to explain how Hickory has strived to make itself the industry leader in terms of pioneering new construction technologies. Providing a timeline of company achievements which includes the widespread use of Unitised Building, George Argyrou went on to speak of the unbridled success of Sync bathroom pods which now holds Australian orders in the thousands.

<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/image134_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Hickory Building Sytstem module. Image courtesy Hickory"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image134_0.jpg?itok=ZWMW-VcY" title="The Hickory Building Sytstem module. Image courtesy Hickory" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Hickory Building Sytstem module. Image courtesy Hickory</figcaption></figure>While the Sync bathroom system goes from strength to strength, Hickory have devised a new unitised construction technique aimed purely at high-rise structures which they believe has the best tolerances and quality control of any construction method currently employed worldwide. Constructed offsite, the new <a href="http://www.hickory.com.au/what-we-do/our-systems/hickory-building-systems/">Hickory Building System</a> begins with an engineered concrete floor requiring no human intervention.

Load bearing columns, fully fitted wet areas and a building facade are subsequently applied in what resembles a manufacturing production line process. Trucked to site, the integrated system locks together and provides exceptional structural stability and enabling fit-out to quickly progress due to the pre-attached facade; a traditional poured lift well is a thing of the past.

As George Argyrou stated, "We've taken existing technology and turned it into the best in the world." Hickory have been designing schemes and validating engineering for high-rise towers in Melbourne with the expectation it will make its debut shortly.

<h2>Next imagin8 seminar</h2>

While further articles for Skyscraper Trends In Melbourne: From Super Skinny To ‘Prefabulous’ will appear shortly, Future imagin8 seminars will consider trends in the Higher Education and Retail sectors.

You can register your interest to receive information on these by emailing <a href="mailto:Emily.lau@meinhardtgroup.com?subject=upcoming%20imagin8%20seminar">Emily.lau@meinhardtgroup.com</a>.
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Meinhardt's 'Skyscraper Trends in Melbourne' seminar reviewed

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It may not be as fluid a market as Melbourne's CBD, but much can change in the course of a week in West Melbourne. Last week's article <a href="/news/west-melbourne-the-new-southbank">highlighting a handful of the taller proposals</a> is complimented by a handful of new projects discovered in recent days.

Here is a revised standing for a number of new West Melbourne residential projects:

<h2>The Delukian - 91 Dudley 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.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="91-95 Dudley Street. Imames courtesy 1:1 Architects &amp; Phooey"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="285" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image111.jpg?itok=t2b1lpfH" title="91-95 Dudley Street. Imames courtesy 1:1 Architects &amp; Phooey" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>91-95 Dudley Street. Images courtesy 1:1 Architects &amp; Phooey</figcaption></figure>City of Melbourne are currently assessing the merits of a revised scheme located at 91-95 Dudley Street. Design firm <a href="http://www.one2one.net.au/">1:1 Architects</a> mark their high-rise debut with the design which is in close proximity and abuts the now under construction <a href="/new-apartments/419-421-spencer-street-west-melbourne">Duo Apartments</a>.

Designed for Dudley Street (Vic) Developments Pty Ltd, the project aims to deliver 48 apartments with one, two and three bedroom layouts. Some readers may recognise the site as once being subject to a unique design conceived by Phooey Architects which was to have employed recycled shipping containers in the construction process.

<h2>Ikebana - 130 Dudley 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/image114.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ikebana. Image courtesy PBG Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="267" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114.jpg?itok=xi7aNNzc" title="Ikebana. Image courtesy PBG Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ikebana. Image courtesy PBG Property Group</figcaption></figure>What was preparing for launch last week has just moved to registrations and pre-sales.  Ikebana West Melbourne's agent 360 Property Group is preparing for an imminent project launch with the display suite completed this week.

Ikebana will consist of an Elenberg Fraser-designed complex holding 241 apartments over 9 levels.

<h2>15-31 Batman 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/image115.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A revised 15-31 Batman Street. Image courtesy Inhabit Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="374" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image115.jpg?itok=VQcgo7Cl" title="A revised 15-31 Batman Street. Image courtesy Inhabit Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A revised 15-31 Batman Street. Image courtesy Inhabit Design</figcaption></figure>Touched upon last week 15-31 Batman Street was initially designed at 99 metres in height and holding 299 apartments. Subsequently City of Melbourne have since published revised plans which would see SPEC Property Group's future project lowered to 79 metres and be subject to a reduction of 56 apartments, allowing for 243 overall.

City of Melbourne's preferred height limit for the site is 40 metres, although owing to the developments size it falls under control of State planning body DTPLI. The 15-31 Batman Street planning application will be subject to a separate article in due course.

<h2>398 Spencer 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/image2a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A petential new skyscraper? Image courtesy TCI"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2a.jpg?itok=Ircu9yCO" title="A petential new skyscraper? Image courtesy TCI" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A petential new skyscraper? Image courtesy TCI</figcaption></figure>The Carron is touted as ripe for high-rise conversion according to sales agent TCI Teneketzis. The 458sqm site is offered as suitable for residential development or as a going concern/conversion into a showroom premises.

Given 420 Spencer Street is approved at 131 metres to the north of The Carron and the approved 123 metres <a href="/buildings/melbourne-village-377-spencer-street-west-melbourne">371 Spencer Street</a> is directly opposite, a precendent of height looks to have been set for 398 Spencer Street.

<h2>113-137 Rosslyn 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/image2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rossyln Street concept. Image courtesy Buchan Gtroup"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="400" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2.jpg?itok=vL5TxD6V" title="Rossyln Street concept. Image courtesy Buchan Gtroup" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rossyln Street concept. Image courtesy Buchan Gtroup</figcaption></figure>Also freshly listed for sale are two adjoining development sites in Rosslyn Street, divided by a laneway. Covering 3086sqm, the joint sites are accompanied by a Buchan Group concept design, both spanning nine levels.

191 apartments are penciled in for the above scheme that would see liberal retail/cafe offerings fronting Rosslyn Street and a distinctive brick facade.

Urban.com.au will continue to look closely at West Melbourne, provide insight into some of the larger planning applications on offer, while also reveal as yet unseen projects.
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West Melbourne apartment projects continue to flow

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Previously covered by Apartments.com.au regarding its excellent <a href="/news/public-permeability-and-the-tip-top-brunswick-east-development">public permeability</a>, <a href="/buildings/tip-top-brunswick-170-edward-street-brunswick-east">Tip Top Brunswick</a> can now boast the 2014 Property Review Australia, Heritage Property Award for the integrated six building complex of 411 dwellings. Developer <a href="/developers/little-projects-co">Little Projects</a>' Managing Director Michael Fox was on hand to provide a tour of Tip Top Brunswick, pointing out some of the lesser known qualities for the development while also providing guidance for upcoming projects.

Originally occupied by Northern Bakeries, the <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-east-vic-3057">Brunswick East</a> development provides for 32,088sqm of gross floor area over buildings rising up to eight levels. Initially encountering stiff opposition from locals, Michael Fox maintains the local perception of the project has changed appreciably now that the <a href="/architects/rothelowman">ROTHELOWMAN</a>-designed development is complete.

A highly walkable ground plane, retained heritage facades to both the Weston/Edward Street, stepped development maintaining sight lines, free public parking spaces within the underground car park and a 1,400sqm childcare centre have contributed to the Tip Top Brunswick's success and acceptance. Michael Fox was particularly proud of the Little Seeds childcare centre which consumes an entire floor of the westernmost apartment building and is the first of its kind in Brunswick East.

<blockquote>
ROTHELOWMAN sought inspiration from the original Dutch Modernist architecture throughout the development. With only the highest quality finishes and fixtures throughout, this clever redevelopment surpasses any other project in the area.
<cite>Little Projects</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_0767a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The retained northern facade of Tip Top Brunswick"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="827" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0767a.jpg?itok=ztVz3L38" title="The retained northern facade of Tip Top Brunswick" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The retained northern facade of Tip Top Brunswick</figcaption></figure>Since 2012, Little Projects has completed no less than 1,200 apartments, with inner city suburbs such as <a href="/new-apartments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/st-kilda-vic-3182">St Kilda</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">Port Melbourne</a> and Brunswick East favoured over <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's CBD</a>. Little Projects’ current <a href="/buildings/central-south-yarra-3-yarra-street-south-yarra">Central South Yarra</a> tower has sold out and is now midway through construction, with focus turning toward forthcoming developments.

Last week a planning application was submitted for <a href="/buildings/dux-richmond-hill-153-bridge-road-richmond">153-177 Bridge Road Richmond</a>, with the 2,700sqm site slated to host 191 apartments atop Richmond Hill.

Currently serving as a Thomas Dux grocer, the existing buildings are to make way for a ROTHELOWMAN-designed apartment complex save for the existing heritage facade which will be incorporated into the new build. The third collaboration between architect and developer, 153-177 Bridge Road Richmond was snapped up by Little Projects for near on $20 million in an off-market transaction.

<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/littleprojects_bridgeroadrichmond_newdevelopment_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="153-177 Bridge Road, Richmond. Image courtesy Little Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="374" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/littleprojects_bridgeroadrichmond_newdevelopment_3.jpg?itok=bX0mN9Aw" title="153-177 Bridge Road, Richmond. Image courtesy Little Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>153-177 Bridge Road, Richmond. Image courtesy Little Projects</figcaption></figure>Another forthcoming Little Projects development may just deliver the Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area its tallest tower to date. A revised planning application for <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">85-93 Lorimer Street</a> is under consideration which would see a 233 metre residential tower soar above the adjoining Yarra's Edge residential precinct.

Initially conceived by architects <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a> as dual residential towers, the scheme has since been revised to a single tower of 900 apartments in order to accommodate increased public open space at ground level. Asked of Little Projects' intentions for the Lorimer Street development, Michael Fox replied by stating the project upon approval would proceed to sales quickly thereafter.

<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/image105.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Preliminary image of 85-93 Lorimer Street. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="306" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image105.jpg?itok=GxAgm6Hn" title="Preliminary image of 85-93 Lorimer Street. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Preliminary image of 85-93 Lorimer Street. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>See below images taken from Apartments.com.au's visit to Tip Top Brunswick, beginning with the westerly Seeds apartment building/Little Seeds childcare centre and culminating with a look at the newly released Malt tri-level townhouses.

Lead image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN and Elenberg Fraser.
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Little Projects: current success and future intent

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Choosing from the immense range and sheer number of apartments on the market for the uninitiated buyer may seem a daunting prospect, but Melbourne-based developer <a href="http://www.hamton.com.au/">Hamton</a> has launched a new apartment configuration they believe will give their current <a href="/buildings/sanctuary-abbotsford-681-victoria-street-abbotsford-vic-3067">Sanctuary on the River</a> apartment project a glowing point of difference.

Designed by <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a> and dubbed ‘Convertible Spaces,’ a select number of one bedroom apartments within Sanctuary will feature a bedroom space capable of being incorporated into living space as required, with functional areas such as corridors becoming usable space without compromising apartment access.

Based on a system of integrated joinery placed through the open plan layout, ‘Convertible Spaces’ allows for a highly flexible, multi positioning option for dining, bedroom and lounge areas that otherwise would be fixed in position. In turn, living area can increase by 70% at the owners whim. This is best illustrated via the below video:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/f2mVxRq6vHA" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We're constantly striving to innovate with our product and ‘Convertible Spaces’ is the result of much research both domestically and abroad. Locations such as New York, London and Tokyo were studied given their high population and multiple compact living options available.

‘Convertible Spaces’ essentially delivers bang for buck in terms of utilising a compact apartment to its full potential; creating one large living space and maximising functionality. We believe that ‘Convertible Spaces’ has stepped into a gap evident in the market and we have only now released the product once we've been fully satisfied with its merits.

Sanctuary will feature only five apartments with ‘Convertible Spaces’ - an option exists for twenty existing purchasers to upgrade if the desire, with an element of that cost worn by Hamton.

Although Sanctuary is scheduled to be completed by July 2015, we're pushing contractor LU Simon to a completed ‘Convertible Spaces’ apartment finished in the new year which will act as a display suite.
<cite>Paul Hameister, Hamton Joint Managing Director</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
'Convertible Spaces’ allows you to make the most of your space. By day you can have a studio apartment and by night you can maximise your entertainment capacity by increasing your living areas.

By including a fold-down bed and moveable wall we add several metres to the apartment and offer occupiers an enormous amount of flexibility. When the bed is hidden away and the wall moved across into the bedroom area, the result is a 70% increase in living area".

The movable walls that transforms the apartment is itself a joinery unit continuing the Scandinavian theme whilst importantly providing useful functionality with a pull out pantry, soft close drawers and ample additional storage accessible from both sides.
<cite>Chris Hayton, ROTHELOWMAN principal</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Paul Hameister on 'Convertible Spaces' and the current marketplace</h2>

Asked by Apartments.com.au on the state of the current Melbourne apartment market from a developers perspective, Paul Hameister began by suggesting that the recent changes to zoning and certain councils' stance toward development has led to an imbalance in the marketplace.

<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/sanctuary_v09_hero_balcony-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The right location can still sell itself. Image courtesy Hamton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sanctuary_v09_hero_balcony-1.jpg?itok=ENRmBjNj" title="The right location can still sell itself. Image courtesy Hamton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The right location can still sell itself. Image courtesy Hamton</figcaption></figure>Describing the current Melbourne CBD apartment market as "cooked", Paul Hameister asserts Hamton will continue to develop in inner city locations while avoiding the CBD. He elaborates that while certain areas are in or face a pending glut of generic apartments, other well positioned inner and middle-ring locations offering innovative, attentive living options are subject to under supply.

It's these locations that developers such as Hamton will continue to be drawn to, with 'Convertible Spaces' a likely key platform to future projects.
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Convertible Spaces: the next innovation in apartment living

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Some pizazz has re-entered the top end of the Melbourne apartment market with a handful of penthouse offerings jostling to take centre stage. Far from the investor-driven stock of Melbourne's CBD towers, two current projects are showing their wares in the pedigree stakes.

Perhaps a sign of South Yarra's still exceptional pulling power, the two current projects are located within the locality maintaining differing but spectacular penthouses on offer for.

<h2>Washington 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/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="278" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000.jpg?itok=Sb8Skl-G" title="Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure>Jolson Architecture have conceived a fresh project for developer Orchard Piper titled Washington Street. Six oversize dwellings will be located within the three level complex, including a 'super penthouse' expected to fetch in excess of $15 million. A breakdown of internal area size speaks toward the luxury status of Washington Street.

Dual ground floor residences range between 589sqm and 648sqm, including large external terrace/gardens in excess 200sqm. Three first floor abodes average 260sqm of internal living while the 'super penthouse' is precisely that: 570sqm of internal space complimented by a 372sqm external terrace. A total of 942sqm ranks Washington Street's penthouse as one of the largest penthouse apartments available in Melbourne.

<blockquote>
Luxury to us is about making the most of the intangibles, such as light, proportion and aspect, not just the combination of the most expensive items available. We achieve a greater outcome by focusing on creating value through relentless and obsessive design.

Saving money through value management is a fruitless task when compared to the benefit of a truly design led outcome. It’s very rare to find a site where you can completely take the brakes of your design team. Washington Street is a true expression of the collaborative talents we have employed on this project.
<cite>Luke McKie, Orchard Piper</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/140908_-_washington_-_r013_-_bed_20001.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's prowess. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_-_r013_-_bed_20001.jpg?itok=r9Mbngzy" title="An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's prowess. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's grandeur. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure><h2>Yarra House</h2>

On a smaller land plot yet with height and never-to-be-built-out views to burn, the under construction Yarra House aims to bring dual penthouses to the South Yarra's Forrest Hill precinct. Designed by Scott Walker of Hassell Studio, the ‘North East Penthouse’ and ‘North West Penthouse’ together act as the crowning glory for the 26 level tower.

Refined stone benchtops, bespoke ensuites, fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling glazing, extensive walk-in robes, designated studies, kitchen walk-in pantries and entertaining space are included in the either three or four-bedroom residences, depending upon the buyers preference. At up to $3.995 million the penthouses represent a departure from the norm in Forrest Hill.

<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/yate8000_yarra_hp_v19_penthouse_01_to_view.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/yate8000_yarra_hp_v19_penthouse_01_to_view.jpg?itok=I9jZVw5X" title="The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co</figcaption></figure>Closer to the CBD a number of other prestige penthouse apartments and developments have appeared on the radar. Apartments.com.au highlighted what will likely be Melbourne's most exclusive development at <a href="/news/is-this-melbournes-most-exclusive-and-expensive-apartment-development">502 Albert Street, East Melbourne</a> with its massive sky homes, each of which could be considered a penthouse in its own right.

That a handful of luxury penthouses have been released to market loosely around the same time tends to suggest that the top end of the apartment market is still quite healthy with perceived underlying demand; the proof is in the penthouse (so to speak).
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Return of the luxury penthouse

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Asked once why I disliked fringe Melbourne housing estates so vehemently I replied those residing there were 'existing without living'. That is of course not the fault of those residents as for one reason or another (generally socioeconomic), they have found themselves at Melbourne's periphery.

Arcing from Tarneit to Cranbourne, far too many pathetically designed new housing estates have been created with little regard to good design and amenity - and no a lake doesn't count! The reprehensible aspect to all this is the lack of vital services and transport options that have not accompanied the urban sprawl, ensuring these peripheral suburbs rely too heavily upon vehicles in order to travel distance for essential services; I'm not referring to McDonalds either.

<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/housing_4_gallery_600x377.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="So close yet so far. Image courtesy The Age"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="364" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/housing_4_gallery_600x377.jpg?itok=eDjwPEwe" title="So close yet so far. Image courtesy The Age" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>No services and no hope? Image courtesy The Age</figcaption></figure>Thankfully there are signs that this trend of 'suburban destruction' is coming to an end as developers recognise that truly vibrant communities need to offer much more than shiny street lights and paved roads. Last year I wrote of Lyons Capital's plan to implement hundreds of apartments around their <a href="/expert-insights/buying/wyndham-harbour-a-precursor-to-how-the-west-might-be-won">Wyndham Harbour development</a> beyond Werribee, including multiple residential towers of up to ten 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/image86.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Merrifield's envisaged City Centre. Image courtesy MAB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="194" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image86.jpg?itok=l8HRVw40" title="Merrifield's envisaged City Centre. Image courtesy MAB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Merrifield's envisaged City Centre. Image courtesy MAB</figcaption></figure>In addition new locales such as Merrifield 30 kilmetres north of the CBD have included City Centres in their master planned community, with towers of up to 20 levels expected. In all this the dual approach of increased density around retail/transport/essential services plus having architects of note design town centres and associated services may just prove to be the solution.

And so it came to be recently that St Germain Village was announced as a new master planned community within City of Casey - although this development would be like no other. At the heart of the $270 million development is an employment catalyst in the shape of a state of the art medical precinct.

Designed by ClarkeHopkinsClarke, the St Germain Village medical hub will include therapeutic suites for heart specialists, psychologists, plastic and general surgeons and pediatric consultants. With a healthy amount of retail and commercial offerings also envisaged, 1500 dwellings will surround the medical hub and town centre, providing the development with a distinct sense of place.

ClarkeHopkinsClarke urban designer and partner Dean Landy highlights some of the objectives under which include: addressing the need for local and diverse employment options, developing strategies to engender greater social inclusion, initiatives and incentives to attract business and investment and early delivery of diversified housing options.

<blockquote>
The majority of locals now travel outside their municipality to work but injecting a variety of health services supports a diverse and vibrant community [...] to ensure the community remains interconnected and a healthy walkable place is created.
<cite>Dean Landy, ClarkeHopkinsClarke</cite>
</blockquote>

Spot on!

<h2>The St Germain checklist and what makes master planned communities work</h2>

What St Germain Village includes that many other greenfield/master planned communities don't:

<ul>
<li>A reputable architect creating a cohesive town/village centre.</li>
	<li>An employment driver at the heart of the development - between 3450 and 3590 new jobs created.</li>
	<li>Higher density living options around village square.</li>
	<li>Mixed use facilitators: medical and retail in this case.</li>
	<li>Local council input into the design process​.</li>
</ul>
The only element absent is a public transport link but in due course it's a fair assumption that at the very least bus services will extend to St Germain Village from other City of Casey hubs such as Narre Warren.

<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/urban_st-germain_04.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Germain's medium density component. Image courtesy CHC"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="284" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/urban_st-germain_04.jpg?itok=zOof7VQt" title="St Germain's medium density component. Image courtesy CHC" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Germain's medium density component. Image courtesy CHC</figcaption></figure>As a Metropolitan Planning Authority Demonstration Project, St Germain Village will be a test case and hopefully a benchmark for future master planned developments to follow. All going as envisaged St Germain Village's blueprint will be replicated elsewhere in future greater Melbourne greenfield site developments.

Without being melodramatic the significance of St Germain Village and other developments such as Merrifield cannot be passed over; these projects are critical in righting the many wrongs perpetrated throughout Melbourne's existing peripheral suburbs. Put simply the livability or quality of life for a substantial slice of Melbourne's future population may just depend upon it.
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Turning the tide in the badlands

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.

A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.

Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.

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“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.

From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.

The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.

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Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.

A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.

Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.

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Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.

“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.

Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.

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Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.

The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.

“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”

The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.

The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.

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Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

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The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

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Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

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Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

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Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

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Mark Baljak

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