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It's bewildering that a Melbourne-based property developer with no completed projects has in excess of 45,000 Facebook likes; an unconventional method to measure the success of a developer yet still valid? Of course scratch the surface and King Street-based Asia One's roots go much deeper with the firm having over 900 dwellings currently under development in Malaysia.

According to Asia One's website the firm is championed by three men, including founder and Executive Director Roger Lim. With the company's headquarters located at 33-35 King Street Melbourne, Asia One's website has also been updated to show two new Melbourne CBD projects under their keeping.

<a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">33-35 King Street</a> has been approved for some time but the project sure to garner most attention is 63 Exhibition Street. Lodged during August, the planning application was matched with images yesterday as discovered by Apartments.com.au contributor Nicholas Harrison.

<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/image3ao.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Asia One"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="399" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3ao.jpg?itok=xCdiwZJu" title="Image © Asia One" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image © Asia One</figcaption></figure>It was reported during March 2014 that Mulgrave-based Suleman Group offloaded the existing office block at 63 Exhibition Street to an Asian-based developer. Fast forward six short months and the images shown above depict a slim skyscraper for the 849sqm site.

Aside from carrying 328 apartments, 225 hotel rooms and 20 car parking spaces, little else is known of the project thus far. Located within close proximity to 101 Collins Street, 63 Exhibition is also opposite <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">80 Collins Street</a> which under the auspices of QIC is expected to begin construction in the new year, headlined by a new 187 metre commercial tower.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/slideshow-005_1600_600.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="63 Exhibition Street in context. Image © Asia One"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/slideshow-005_1600_600.jpg?itok=uSpDPHH9" title="63 Exhibition Street in context. Image © Asia One" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>63 Exhibition Street in context. Image © Asia One</figcaption></figure>Should both 63 Exhibition Street and 33-35 King Street come to fruition, a total of 468 apartments and 225 hotel suites would be added to Melbourne's stock. Apartments.com.au will provide an overview of the 63 Exhibition Street planning application in coming weeks.
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silvermb

A first look at 63 Exhibition Street

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Against the backdrop of a bustling Melbourne skyline heavy with cranes carrying the logo of many a builder, <a href="http://www.hickory.com.au/">Hickory Group</a> has forged ahead with <a href="/buildings/568-collins-street-melbourne">568 Collins Street</a> while simultaneously introducing new technology into the build process. With a construction value of $161 million and sited over some 1,200 square metres, 568 Collins Street is one of a new generation of towers riding the popular wave of apartment living within Melbourne's CBD.

<blockquote>
One of the tallest towers to grace the Melbourne CBD, the 65 level tower of 568 Collins St posed serious challenges due to its compact 30m by 40m site and height. Hickory worked closely on design buildability with the client, design engineers and architects, collaborating on a solution that is viable from a cost and design perspective while delivering a ‘transfer-free’ structure.

Featuring first class amenities befitting the cosmopolitan location, residents will enjoy access to a pool, spa, sauna, gym, an entertainment room and business centre.
<cite>Hickory Group</cite>
</blockquote>

Designed by <a href="http://www.bh-architects.com/">Bruce Henderson Architects</a> for Stamoulis Property Group, the design/build team was headed by Hickory Group and <a href="http://www.meinhardt.com.au/">Meinhardt</a> who acted as structural and civil engineers.

<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/image9sync.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sync pods from factory floor to site. Image courtesy Hickory Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9sync.jpg?itok=Ui8Xk582" title="Sync pods from factory floor to site. Image courtesy Hickory Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sync Pods from factory floor to construction site. Image courtesy Hickory Group</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au toured the site recently and was given access to all areas in order to understand the complexities involved in such a demanding build. From engineering innovations to tower stability and wind mitigation it was a fascinating insight into how towers are constructed and a snapshot into the amount of effort required behind the scenes to turn a vision into reality.

Pioneering the use of construction methods such as BubbleDeck and Unitised Building in Melbourne, Hickory have innovated once more with the use of <a href="http://www.syncbuildingsystems.com.au/">Sync Building Systems</a> within 568 Collins Street. The method sees all 794 bathrooms manufactured offsite in suburban Brooklyn; each bathroom pod is complete with tiling, joinery, finishes and fittings.

This parallel construction method merely requires the bathroom pods to be trucked to site, lifted to the necessary level and positioned in place. Weighing approximately 700kgs, each pod is simply maneuvered into position with only caulking required around the base.

<blockquote>
Sync’s off-site subassembly process removes multiple trades from a construction project’s critical path, and reduces the head contractor’s contact points from up to a dozen trades to just one. Sync fast-tracks the traditional, linear construction sequence by creating a parallel off-site and on-site programme.

Using Sync Bathroom Pods on a multi-unit project provides our customers with a faster delivery, lower cost, superior quality installation that produces less waste and is more environmentally sustainable than traditional bathroom construction. It also creates a safer, cleaner and less disruptive on-site environment.
<cite>Sync Building Systems</cite>
</blockquote>

With minimal trades and roughing-in required, the process has already proven its worth, so much so Hickory Group are now exploring the merits of Sync kitchen, laundry and building services pods.

<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/image10sync.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Et voilà, the Sync system before and after."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="274" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10sync.jpg?itok=HG9jmWu-" title="Et voilà, the Sync system before and after." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Et voilà, the Sync system in situ before and after additional framing.</figcaption></figure>With 65 levels to navigate materials and labour going up and down, Hickory has implemented two external high-speed hoists, one internal hoist within the lift core and a jump lift, as well as providing amenities at various levels. An espresso machine on the very top formwork level has been dubbed ‘Brunettis Collins Street’, and can boast one of the best views for a coffee in Melbourne.

Safety has been an important issue for the project, with both adjoining neighbour rooftops occupied by childcare centres. Mutually agreed access times to these rooftops have allowed Hickory to coordinate lifting above those elevations during non-access times.

As an added safety measure six level safety screens were developed to allow external works, such as curtain wall installation, to occur behind them, providing a barrier between the buildings. These also enable Hickory to perform structures and façade work concurrently behind the same screen, gaining on time and optimising sequence.

Hickory have advanced the tower floorplate to level 40, progressing past the transitional slabs over levels 31-33 which signify the halt to the towers slanted form. Generic rectangular floorplates ensue allowing the construction process to be further streamlined and thus maintaining the intended completion date of quarter one, 2015.

Prior to completion the current internally-climbing Favelle M310D tower crane will be replaced by a smaller unit, with ultimately four different cranes erected to dismantle the previously larger unit. The final crane will be ferried down within 568 Collins Street's goods lift.

More immediately, initial apartment settlements are due in a matter of weeks, allowing the first residents to move in during November 2014. The pace, accuracy and safety at which 568 Collins Street has progressed is a reflection of the intensive pre-planning and innovative solutions Hickory Group and the related design team have implemented, which goes toward the overall ease at which 568 Collins Street has slotted into Melbourne's skyline.

Enjoy the image slideshow of Apartments.com.au's recent visit to 568 Collins Street, moving from the upper-most levels down to terra firma.
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Innovation key to Hickory's 568 Collins Street build

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University of Melbourne's new Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning complex has recently been completed. Under the guise of the Melbourne School of Design, the new <a href="http://www.johnwardlearchitects.com/">John Wardle</a> and <a href="http://www.nadaaa.com/">NADAAA</a> designed building is located within the heart of the university's Carlton campus fronting Masson Road.

Subject to an international design competition, 133 submissions from 15 countries were initially received for the landmark structure. Six competing firms were subsequently invited to best deliver a design befitting of both the location and brief.

Included within the Melbourne School of Design are research spaces, lecture theatres, a library, exhibition and workshop spaces.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
The architecture, inherent planning, spatial arrangements and configurations, particular programmatic adjacencies and relationships foster a rich, dynamic environment that becomes a point of stimulus, a catalyst for creativity and inventive design research.

With its many inventive structural and environmental ideas, the building becomes a live learning tool for students and staff alike. Connecting back into the network of buildings and courtyards, our design operates as an urban gesture reinforcing the workings and systems of the campus.

The transparent facades and open permeable ground plane reveals the creative and collaborative activities to the rest of the university community.
<cite>John Wardle Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The competition jury noted the quality of the partnership between Melbourne based John Wardle Architects and Boston based practice Office dA. The Dean of the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, Professor Tom Kvan, says their scheme showed a strong understanding of educational, environmental, and social issues in a design that would generate excitement for all staff and students.

The winning design showed a detailed understanding of the teaching and research activities of the Faculty and the potential for contribution to research across the campus.
<cite>University of Melbourne</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_8943.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The northern cantilevered volume"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="747" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_8943.jpg?itok=tYBGVJ89" title="The northern cantilevered volume" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The northern cantilevered volume</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
On August 8, 2014 the new Melbourne School of Design building was handed over to our Faculty by Brookfield Multiplex. This represented a key milestone in the life of a project which commenced back in 2008 when the University of Melbourne first approved funding for the construction of a new building for the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning.

The intent was to create a landmark building for the University of Melbourne with world-class facilities for staff and students, and to establish a new standard for design education, research and delivery.
<cite>Melbourne School of Design</cite>
</blockquote>

The new building has also received a 6 Star Green Star Education Design – V1 rating via the Green Building Council of Australia. With a tally of 83 points the Melbourne School of Design is the largest building to strike this rating. According to the University of Melbourne it's their first 6 Star rated building and the only building to ever be awarded all 10 innovation points under the Green Building Council of Australia metric.

<h2>Comment</h2>

This is a building of great contrasts for mine; that it can speak volumes from certain angles and be mute from others is a little puzzling. In a general sense the building looks great when softened by the associated landscaping, yet altogether inhospitable over the eastern facade where the building spills on to an inactive forecourt.

Again the mesh screens look impressive from the northern aspect, but when applied over precast panels it looks more car park than design force. The southern facade evokes little emotion/response - which is a problem in itself - while the overall design I can appreciate but have no great admiration for.

Of course the building is not judged solely on wow factor, as was evidenced by the project winning a citation at this year's Annual Progressive Architecture Awards. Held in New York, Melbourne School of Design was one of only ten buildings to receive the award from 150 entrants. While the internal configuration will be subject to another article, the Melbourne School of Design will be open to the public come the first of December; well worth a visit if you are in a position to do so.

Enjoy the extensive image set of the Melbourne School of Design below, bearing in mind the incorporated historic western facade has yet to be revealed owing to continuing remediation works.
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Impressions of the Melbourne School of Design

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I can't think of a better case study than Lygon Street, East Brunswick when judging the interface between old and new, particularly given the robust construction activity over the strip in the last few years. Smith Street, Collingwood comes close but Lygon Street serves as an excellent example of existing dated buildings and new apartment blocks intertwining along an established transport corridor.

From historic buildings through to both questionable and exemplary contemporary apartment buildings, Lygon Street in this part of the world has on show the full gamut of what a modern urban Melbourne has to offer. With the below image set taken early autumn, the intent is to revisit the area once more next year to judge how much has changed on and within the vicinity of Lygon Street.

For now enjoy the image set below, with a particular eye toward the melding of old and new. An excellent outcome or frictional, overdeveloped chaos? Opinions do vary but in a modern higher-density Melbourne, does it get better than this?
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Old and new collide on Lygon Street

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Corrections are in order regarding the reporting of approvals for Fishermans Bend projects last week in the mainstream media which were subsequently picked up by Apartments.com.au last Friday. A handful of projects reported as approved are not so with other projects stepping into the breach.

After being contacted by both John Hair of <a href="http://artisanarchitects.com.au/">Artisan Architects</a> and Shane Rothe of <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a>, here is an accurate state of play for Fishermans Bend approvals:

<h2>2-4 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</h2>

Listed as approved last week although this is not the case as yet. There is still the possibility the site may become parkland as has been stated previously.

<h2><a href="/new-apartments/134-buckhurst-street-south-melbourne">134 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</a></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/image69aa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The dual towers of 134 Buckhurst Street. Image © Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="205" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image69aa.jpg?itok=ynhbY381" title="The dual towers of 134 Buckhurst Street. Image © Artisan Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The dual towers of 134 Buckhurst Street. Image © Artisan Architects</figcaption></figure>Although not reported as so last week, 134 Buckhurst Street is approved. The dual towers by Artisan Architects are slated for 645 apartments, 495 carspaces and 11,970sqm of retail space over a scheme of some 64,869sqm GFA.

<h2><a href="/buildings/south-15-thistlethwaite-street-south-melbourne">15-35 Thistlethwaite Street, South Melbourne</a></h2>

Another project reported as approved, although this is not yet reality. Designed by ROTHELOWMAN for Circa Property Group, the 132 metre tower with 291 apartments is still at planning.

<h2><a href="/new-apartments/15-85-gladstone-street-south-melbourne">15-87 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</a></h2>

Reported as approved and this is the case. MAB Corporation can now focus on bringing to reality the 733 apartments within the tri-tower project.

<h2><a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">6-78 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</a></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/image67rlo.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ths basis of the approved development. Image © ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image67rlo.jpg?itok=F9AHFHVJ" title="Ths basis of the approved development. Image © ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ths basis of the approved development. Image © ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>Absent from media reports, the development of four towers has been approved. The above image depicts the initial version of the project destined to replace the 9,000sqm Carlins Automotive site, although all towers have been capped at 30 levels requiring further design alterations.

<h2><a href="/buildings/normanby-199-201-normanby-road-southbank">199 Normanby Road, Southbank</a></h2>

Artisan Architects second approved project for Fishermans Bend consists of a 40 level tower with 262 Apartments and 174 car parking spaces available over a GFA of 28,200sqm.

The approved projects equate to ten new towers for the Urban Renewal Area, although last week 11 approved towers was the figure bandied about. It's unclear if there is another approved project at this point.
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An accurate list of Fishermans Bend approvals

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PDS Group believe it to be the only relationship of its kind and scale in existence within the Australian property development sphere. Following Malaysian developer Mammoth Empire's entrance into the local market, they promptly locked away the Melbourne-based multi-disciplinary property firm to cover all aspects of their local venture.

PDS Group Managing Director Andrew Fortey explained that all aspects literally means all aspects - from solely representing Mammoth Empire's interests in Melbourne through to determining project participants, marketing budgets and distribution, project management onto coordinating buyer settlement. In effect PDS Group offered a "One-stop shop" solution for the newly completed MY80 apartment project.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/melbourne-sunset-second-star.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="MY80 midway through construction. Image © benwesleyphotography.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melbourne-sunset-second-star.jpg?itok=m69Mlq_6" title="MY80 midway through construction. Image © benwesleyphotography.com" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>MY80 midway through construction. Image © benwesleyphotography.com</figcaption></figure><h2>Inside the newly completed MY80</h2>

​Designed by Southbank-based architects Hayball, the internals hold a feel synonymous with the prolific architecture firm. In line with the tower's exterior, the foyer, passages and communal areas are crisp, clean and modern without being ostentatious.

The A'Beckett Street entrance is defined by a perforated metal screen punctuated by strip lighting while the separate Elizabeth Street entrance carries the almost trademark Hayball textured/ruffled precast panel finish. MY80 Assistant Project Manager Mitesh Achari explained the dual entrances were the result of initially intending to hold a separate serviced apartment component within the tower. Ultimately further apartments were added into the podium and lower levels in lieu of the serviced apartment component.

The 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments within MY80 are supported by dual communal areas, with level 1 consisting of pool and sauna, cinema, residents lounge, external terrace and business centre. Perhaps the best feature of level 1, and a feature that should be more commonly implemented is the external terrace perched above A'Beckett Street and Elizabeth Street. The open terrace provides a point of interest back from street level while also giving the user an active muse to gaze upon.

Level 53 holds the rooftop sky lounge with impressive if not time-limited views (owing to future surrounding developments) over a 180 degree arc. Furnished by Doherty Design Studio, splashes of colour cut through the charcoal and reclaimed timber finishes throughout the sky lounge which includes a kitchen, external terrace and sizeable fireplace.

<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_0031_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Level 53 sky lounge stylings"><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_0031_0.jpg?itok=HyrdIpL4" title="Level 53 sky lounge stylings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Level 53 sky lounge stylings</figcaption></figure>Despite initial forecasts of roughly a thirty five month build time, MY80 was completed over a 28 month period. PDS Group in conjunction with head contractor Probuild refined the build process both pre and during construction to allow for maximum possible efficiency. Commencing in March 2012, practical completion was achieved mid-August 2014.

<h2>Continuing success</h2>

Looking ahead PDS Group will continue the fruitful relationship with Mammoth Empire as construction of the Malaysian developers second project, <a href="/buildings/empire-melbourne-398-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Empire</a> draws near. Directly opposite MY80, Empire has already notched up near in excess of 400 sales of the 474 apartments on offer within the 181 metre project.

Preliminary planning and design works have also been set in motion for Mammoth Empire's third Melbourne project located at 15-27 Wreckyn Street. PDS Group will once again act as superintendent, development and project manager for the upcoming Hayball-designed residential project which will yield in the vicinity of some 150 apartments.

Elsewhere, PDS Group have a number of high-profile projects under their guidance, with <a href="/buildings/marco-42-48-balston-street-southbank">Marco Melbourne</a>, <a href="/buildings/claremont-manor-7-claremont-street-south-yarra">Claremont Manor</a> and <a href="/buildings/560-flinders-street-melbourne">560 Flinders Street</a> approaching construction start. Also stay tuned for a pending announcement regarding one of Melbourne's more recognisable redevelopments, details of which will be announced by PDS Group shortly.

See below the set of images taken during our recent visit to MY80.
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MY80: a mammoth success for PDS Group

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Melbourne-based property developer BPM is awaiting a final planning decision for what would be their first high-rise project. Submitted during November 2013, 165-167 Gladstone Street South Melbourne - like many other projects proposed for the Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area - was in a state of flux up until the State Government's recent announcement of the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan.

With an initial tranche of Fishermans Bend towers <a href="/news/scores-of-fishermans-bend-apartments-approved">publicly approved last week</a>, BPM would be expecting a final decision soon enough (as is the case with many other developers) in order to move forward with the residential project laced with an international design presence.

<blockquote>
BPM has recently acquired a new site in South Melbourne. The new project will see boutique apartments with a design collaboration between BPM and designers from New York's Meatpacking District.
<cite>BPM</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Project 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/image58dko.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="165-167 Gladstone Street as taken from the planning application. Image © dKO Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="723" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image58dko.jpg?itok=FNIwTOm4" title="165-167 Gladstone Street as taken from the planning application. Image © dKO Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>165-167 Gladstone Street as taken from the planning application. Image © dKO Architecture</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site of 702sqm currently used as warehouse / photo studio</li>
	<li>Proposed 18 level tower at 58 metres in height</li>
	<li>90 apartments, all with terrace or balcony</li>
	<li>56 * 2 bedroom apartments + 34 * 1 bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>69sqm retail space fronting public realm</li>
	<li>52 vehicle and 29 bicycle spaces</li>
</ul>
<h2>A style all its own</h2>

dKO Architecture have seemingly added a further degree of contrast to the Fishermans Bend precinct which has to date been inundated with curtain wall facades or the unique stylings of Artisan Architects clutch of project within the precinct. The planning application sources New York's 41 Bond Street and London's Bulgari Hotel as design inspiration

Included over the external facade is a grid pattern of textured precast panels which present in an almost retro manner. Possibly not every person's design preference but a welcome contrast nonetheless.

<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/image59dko.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected materials palette. Image © dKO Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="93" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image59dko.jpg?itok=m3-uR7s4" title="Expected materials palette. Image © dKO Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Expected materials palette. Image © dKO Architecture</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The proposed development employs a contemporary architectural style incorporating a range of materials and finishes to provide visually interesting and textured façades. The materials proposed include varying types of white finish pre-cast concrete with dark grey tender framing elements interspersed with metal through the perforated and slat screens, bronze anodised metal and bronze and grey tint glazing together with clear glazing
<cite>Contour Town Planners</cite>
</blockquote>

Situated within a discretionary height limit area of Fishermans Bend, this is the first public viewing of 165-167 Gladstone Street South Melbourne, which at nearly a year in planning may have been subject to design alterations although not subject to height restrictions.

Regardless 165-167 Gladstone Street South Melbourne is the latest in a slew of projects from BPM. Others including the currently under construction duo of <a href="/buildings/collins-queen-40-collins-street-essendon">Collins and Queen</a> on Essendon's burgeoning Keilor Road apartment strip plus <a href="/buildings/walter-280-neerim-road-carnegie">Walter Carnegie</a>, also a product of dKO Architecture.

<h2>Project team as at November 2013</h2>

<ul>
<li>Architect: DKO Architecture</li>
	<li>Town Planners: Contour Consultants</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineers: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Environmental Sustainability Consultant: Lucid Consulting Australia</li>
	<li>Environmental Consultants: Alpha Environmental</li>
	<li>Waste Management Engineers: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Wind Consultants: MEL Consultants</li>
</ul>
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BPM awaiting a decision for their South Melbourne tower

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No <a href="/tag/super-tuesday">Super Tuesday</a>-like announcement in sight but State Planning Minister Matthew Guy has in recent days approved six additional towers throughout inner city Melbourne.

The Australian Financial Review has today reported the approval of three key projects: 888 Collins Street in Docklands, 2 Riverside Quay on Southbank and 499 St Kilda Road.

Additionally Minister Guy announced via twitter that 9 Mackenzie Street, 605 Lonsdale Street and 28-66 Dorcas Street have also been approved.

2 Riverside Quay aside, the five remaining projects are largely residential and represent an additional 2,187 apartments into Melbourne's development pipeline. Of those residential projects approved, Lend Lease's 888 Collins Street and Far East Consortium's The Fifth at 605 Lonsdale Street have already moved to registration and sales.

Recently Mirvac Group snared PriceWaterhouseCoopers as tenant for the forthcoming 20,000 square metre 2 Riverside Quay commercial development, increasing the likelihood that three of the six projects outlined today will advance to construction this financial year.

Details on each project can be viewed by clicking the Apartments.com.au Project Database links below.
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Six towers approved for Melbourne

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Blink and you'll miss the near daily evolving landscape of Melbourne's apartment sector as the current wave of apartment projects continues to intensify. This week alone news regarding a handful of marquee projects has surfaced through a variety of media outlets, as each project in their own way strives to redefine the norm.

11-13 Hancock Street, Southbank opens proceedings as news has surfaced that the tower based on a miniscule site has won VCAT approval. Developer Branson Group has the tower listed on <a href="http://www.bransongroup.com.au/properties/southbank/">their website</a> as an upcoming project, looking to upscale massively upon their previous projects while also capitalising upon current market conditions.

At 33 level and 103 metres in height the building is only 8.13m wide and holds an area of 168 square metres, making it comparable to another super thin tower - <a href="/news">Phoenix</a> located on Flinders Street.

<blockquote>
Our signature city tower with all the difference… This amazing bronze glass apartment tower will feature sky gardens every 5th floor, for year round entertaining
<cite>Branson 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/image37sbk.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="11-13 Hancock Street, Southbank. Image courtesy Branson Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="212" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image37sbk.jpg?itok=8YkbbXgD" title="11-13 Hancock Street, Southbank. Image courtesy Branson Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>11-13 Hancock Street, Southbank. Image courtesy Branson Group</figcaption></figure>With thin towers in vogue, The Age yesterday <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/developers-flipping-projects-for-huge-profits-20140901-10b3a8#ixzz3C5taNzhE">reported</a> that Equiset have applied to increase by six levels their <a href="/news/just-another-week-in-melbourne">464 Collins Street</a> development. Dubbed the 'Pencil Skyscraper,' the 54 level had attained planning approval at 181 metres, with a site width of 11 metres ensuring the slender tower to be like no other.

The addition of six levels would likely take the project past the 200 metres in height, thus adding another member into Melbourne's <a href="/news/melbournes-200-metre-club-bursting-at-the-seams">200 Metre Club</a>. Elsewhere City of Melbourne have a planning application listed for 134-160 Spencer Street, aka Melbourne's long-suffering bombsite the Savoy Tavern.

Seen below is an image prior to an evidently temporarily refurbished Savoy along with an unrealised mixed-use scheme by <a href="http://f2architecture.com.au/experience/urban-living/w-hotel-and-apartments/">F2 Architecture</a> which would have included a W Hotel. Under the new ownership of Singaporean firm Fragrance Group, a mixed-use tower (including hotel component) will replace the brick facade and it's suggested that the tower will reach RL296 metres, or 280 metres+ above ground.

Savoy becomes member number 25 to the 200 Metre Club of current Melbourne towers.

<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/image38sav.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site ands former proposal. Images courtesy Ben McGee and F2 Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image38sav.jpg?itok=83QEkZW4" title="The site ands former proposal. Images courtesy Ben McGee and F2 Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site ands former proposal. Images courtesy Ben McGee and F2 Architecture</figcaption></figure><a href="http://cbdnews.com.au/2014/09/council-ready-to-support-overshadowing/">CBD News</a> reported this week that City of Melbourne are ready to support CBUS's 300 metre tower as a viable replacement for the dilapidated 447 Collins Street. As a choice of two schemes, the taller 300 metre concept has generated debate as it would overshadow Southbank temporarily during certain days of the year.

While final approval lies with State Government, City of Melbourne's apparent willingness to accept height in return for a large Collins Street civic space looks to have removed a potentially rather large and public stumbling block.

<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/pasjyz2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Is this the way forward for 447 Collins Street? Image courtesy Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/pasjyz2.jpg?itok=H5ABReC1" title="Is this the way forward for 447 Collins Street? Image courtesy Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Is this the way forward for 447 Collins Street? Image courtesy Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Finally testament to the current inner city apartment surge, City of Melbourne Councillor Richard Foster announced last night via Twitter that no less than 2,585 new apartments in Melbourne being considered by the Future Melbourne Committee in merely one of their two monthly meetings. Under consideration last night were the revamped <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">85 Spring Street</a> proposal, <a href="/news/hiap-hoe-supersize-their-380-lonsdale-street-development">380 Lonsdale Street</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">1 Shiel Street North Melbourne</a> and <a href="/news/changes-afoot-for-224-252-la-trobe-street">224-252 La Trobe Street</a>.

And the juggernaut rolls on!
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Just another week in Melbourne

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An Expression of Interest (EOI) campaign to develop Federation Square East is almost upon us, with a release on Monday 15 September 2014 slated. The 3.3 hectare site represents one of Melbourne's most crucial and intriguing development opportunities, with design and public realm parameters allowing for and seeking design excellence.

The development will effectively serve to develop the glaring hole in Melbourne riverfront vista, whilst also acting as a nexus between multiple city precincts.

Public opinion will vary wildly as to what should be delivered onsite, but the EOI document excerpts below go some way to providing guidance as to what the chosen scheme will entail.

<h2>Building design</h2>

<blockquote>
The preferred design outcome is to provide for a generally lower rise development commensurate with the human scale of Federation Square, with the inclusion of discrete, well-designed buildings of greater height in the appropriate locations.

The built form Design Guidelines require:

<ul>
<li>Consistency with the urban scale of Federation Square</li>
	<li>Some variety in height</li>
	<li>Active frontages</li>
	<li>Inviting, public interface to Birrarung Marr negotiating level differences</li>
	<li>Limited number of high buildings of exceptional design quality</li>
	<li>Greater height to be located to the north-east of the site</li>
	<li>Limited overshadowing</li>
	<li>Compliant with air space protection requirements</li>
</ul>
<cite><a href="http://www.majorprojects.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/8578-MPV-Federation-Square-East-A4-8pp-Developers-Brochure-WEB-V2.pdf">Federation Square East EOI overview document</a></cite>
</blockquote>

On the face of it there seems to be much leeway in terms of tower height, should the respective entrant include the typology. "Some variety in height" is usurped by the need to be "Compliant with air space protection requirements" which Nicholas Harrison <a href="/news/flight-paths-and-tall-buildings-in-melbourne-explained">aptly explained</a>. In effect the door is open to deliver a scheme with a tower in the proximity of 300 metres should the applicant so desire.

<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/image36fse.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Is there a better landmark Melbourne development opportunity? Image courtesy Major Projects Victoria"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="211" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image36fse.jpg?itok=At2OzD1v" title="Is there a better landmark Melbourne development opportunity? Image courtesy Major Projects Victoria" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Is there a better landmark Melbourne development opportunity? Image courtesy Major Projects Victoria</figcaption></figure><h2>Public realm</h2>

<blockquote>
Any development of the site is to contribute a significant improvement to the existing public realm by providing connections with adjoining areas, taking advantage of the site’s locale at a junction of the city, parklands, river, sporting and cultural precincts.

The nature and quality of the spaces on the site need to be carefully designed to offer diversity of uses and work as civic spaces and places in their own right. Generally the civic spaces should be intimate rather than catering for large gatherings, which are already served well by Federation Square.

The mixed-use project involving commercial, retail, residential and cultural uses will create:

<ul>
<li>Multiple north-south connections which are not regimented</li>
	<li>East-west connection from Federation Square</li>
	<li>Open to the sky and sun</li>
	<li>Views of the river and to the north</li>
	<li>Varied, highly considered open spaces of appropriate dimension</li>
	<li>Visual links within and through the site</li>
	<li>Protection of Russell Street and Exhibition Street view corridors</li>
</ul>
<cite><a href="http://www.majorprojects.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/8578-MPV-Federation-Square-East-A4-8pp-Developers-Brochure-WEB-V2.pdf">Federation Square East EOI overview document</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

On the face of it Major Projects Victoria look to want another Federation Square-style development with connectivity to Birrarung Marr and the Hoddle Grid. They also seem cognizant that by handing the project over to private interests, a reasonable return on investment from the developer is expected over and above the cost of delivering the deck structure. Hence the ajar door for increased height.

There's a certain intangible to the design brief (height being the most obvious) which should allow for some hugely varied designs from a raft of local and international consortia. Interesting times ahead!

See the <a href="http://www.majorprojects.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/8578-MPV-Federation-Square-East-A4-8pp-Developers-Brochure-WEB-V2.pdf">EOI overview document</a> for further details.
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Design requirements that will define Federation Square East

<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.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

“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.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]

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.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360966]

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.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360969]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

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.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

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Mark Baljak

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