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<blockquote>
The quality of the ‘Melbourne Experience’ is closely aligned with the level of amenity at all campuses of the University. Programs that upgrade teaching spaces, develop student facilities, increase the functionality of research infrastructure and improve the presentation of the external campus environments are a critical component of this experience for students, staff and visitors.
<cite>UoM Enabler Strategy: Building Infrastructure</cite>
</blockquote>

Those are the opening words from the University of Melbourne's (UoM) 2011 Building Infrastructure document which provided an overview to the University's largest infrastructure upgrade since inception. At the time, UoM's portfolio consisted of more than 300 buildings over a number of campuses, with Parkville naturally the largest.

The University’s property portfolio during 2011 was valued in excess of $2.575 billion with a total replacement cost of the buildings alone approaching $2.65 billion.

<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/image38uom.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Peter Doherty Institute &amp; School of Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="251" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image38uom.jpg?itok=lRUTV5Wo" title="Peter Doherty Institute &amp; School of Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Peter Doherty Institute &amp; School of Architecture</figcaption></figure>During the last decade multiple new, landmark buildings have been delivered by UoM either solely or in partnership, they include:

<ul>
<li>
<a href="http://www.designinc.com.au/projects/david-penington-bio21-institute" target="_blank">Bio21 - David Penington Building</a> (itself subject to expansion plans)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.grollohistory.com.au/History/2000/University-Square-The-University-of-Melbourne" target="_blank">University Square</a></li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.metier3.com.au/workplace/faculty-of-business-and-economics-uom" target="_blank">Business and Economics Building</a> aka The Spot (seen below)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.a-r-m.com.au/projects_MTCTheatre" target="_blank">Melbourne Theatre Company</a> (MTC)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.hickory.com.au/projects/leicester-street/" target="_blank">100 Leicester Street</a></li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.brookfieldmultiplex.com/projects/australasia/vic/construction_and_development/health/under_construction/peter_doherty_institute/" target="_blank">Peter Doherty Institute</a> (above left)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.johnwardlearchitects.com/projects/project/40-faculty-of-architecture-building-and-planning" target="_blank">Faculty of Architecture, Building &amp; Planning</a> (above right)</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/5945136250_0c509a32b3_b.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Spot aka Law &amp; Business by Metier 3. Images © Ben Kreunen"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="489" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/5945136250_0c509a32b3_b.jpg?itok=va1SZE83" title="The Spot aka Law &amp; Business by Metier 3. Images © Ben Kreunen" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Spot aka Law &amp; Business by Metier 3. Images © Ben Kreunen</figcaption></figure>University Square and Bio21 were the vanguard of new generation developments with Metier 3 Architects' Business and Economics Building reaching completion during early 2009. According to the Enabler Strategy document, Melbourne University is in the midst of its most extensive program of building works ever, with total value of projects recently completed, in progress or in design well in excess of half a billion dollars.

As construction of the Faculty of Architecture, Building &amp; Planning nears completion, new projects have emerged to maintain the tertiary institution's forward momentum.

<h2>Current build - Leicester Street Student Accommodation</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/uom.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Leicester Street Student Accommodation. Image © campuslivingvillages.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/uom.jpg?itok=AY69CQBQ" title="Leicester Street Student Accommodation. Image © campuslivingvillages.com" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Leicester Street Student Accommodation. Image © campuslivingvillages.com</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Address: 123-127 Bouverie Street &amp; 116-128 Leicester Street, Carlton</li>
	<li>Operator: Campus Living Villages on behalf of Melbourne University</li>
	<li>Design: Architectus</li>
	<li>Head Contractor: Watpac</li>
	<li>15 levels at 49 metres in height</li>
	<li>648-bed student accommodation facility</li>
	<li>103 bicycle and 0 car parking spaces</li>
	<li>5 star Green Star Rating</li>
	<li>Construction value: $60 million</li>
	<li>Completion: construction commenced and ready for Semester 1, 2016</li>
</ul>
Although not of the same architectural pedigree as the above projects, the mammoth student housing facility has been designed with one eye toward turning the complex and immediate area into a 24 hour venue. Multiple retail spaces, multiple lounges, a large terrace and swimming pool radiate away from a central pedestrian spine which runs to a village square.

Campus Living Villages will operate the facility in in a 38-year Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) arrangement. In addition UoM have also recently purchased the former 11-storey commercial tower at 303-305 Royal Parade with a view to providing an additional 200-300 student beds, further adding to the University's development pipeline.
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silvermb

Melbourne University's building infrastructure upgrade

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In light of last week's <a href="/news/fishermans-bend-strategic-framework-plan-released" target="_blank">Fishermans Bend revised structure plan announcement</a>, it seemed an opportune time to meander through Montague Precinct, more specifically the area east of Montague Street and north of City Road.

This particular slice of Montague Precinct is home to the majority of current planning applications for the Urban Renewal Area, all of which are high-rise in nature. Expected to be a showcase of contemporary urban design, the area currently has little by way of urban character save for the odd structure worthy of retention.

<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_7580.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Remarkably wide roads present an opportunity "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7580.jpg?itok=qxaGsJes" title="Remarkably wide roads present an opportunity " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Remarkably wide roads present an opportunity</figcaption></figure>More than any other factor, the existing road infrastructure became immediately noticeable. Immensely wide roads that seemingly carry comparatively little road traffic.

Could it be that in the existing road network lies the key to avoiding some of the blunders of Docklands? This road network to my way of thinking provides much scope and opportunity to create a cohesive precinct-wide landscape and pedestrian plan, prior to the first tower even gaining approval.

By doing so, Montague Precinct could avoid the haphazard nature of Docklands in terms of road network, urban experience and dotted development which has led to the general malaise surrounding the precinct.

Regardless, enjoy the images below, for the most taken on a quiet Sunday morning.
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What Montague Precinct currently has to offer

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Urban.com.au recently spoke with Ariel Lopez, Design Leader at Spec Property Developments. Having a decade of experience in both his native Buenos Aires and Miami, Ariel made the move to Melbourne during 2003 and has progressed to lead the design team within the integrated property group.

And it's the integrated nature of Spec where all aspects of development, from design through to construction are handled in-house, which has allowed the Cremorne-based developer to provide a differentiated product within Helio Apartments fronting Flemington Road, North Melbourne.

Ariel explains that the integrated nature of Spec has allowed market research and buyer feedback to reach the design team promptly, thus shaping what living options and design features were to be included within their forthcoming project. In addition the firm has a network of repeat clients built over their 20 year history which they can draw upon for opinions while monitoring current trends.

<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/mslider_07_-_kitchen_b_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A genuine kitchen forms part of the Helio design ethos"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="234" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mslider_07_-_kitchen_b_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg?itok=zdx7beEL" title="A genuine kitchen forms part of the Helio design ethos" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A genuine kitchen forms part of the Helio design ethos</figcaption></figure>Consequently Ariel Lopez and his team have provided a handful of living options within Helio to appeal to a spectrum of buyers. The rise of Asian-based investors has not gone unnoticed with Spec seeking to offer prospective investors a departure from the norm. Families, young professional and staff from nearby medical facilities are also expected to feature in the sales, with the latter expected to use their apartments as potential 'crash pads.'

So how does this approach to innovative apartment design manifest itself in this instance? Ariel and his team have included within Helio a healthy number of loft-style apartments which they believe will hit a segment of the market as yet underserved, while also delivering spacious dwellings on an otherwise tight site.

Mini and Maxi lofts have been included within Helio in addition to typical apartments. Maxi lofts which are located over the Helio's top levels see dual bedrooms situated above the open plan living quarters and laundry/power rooms below. These aren't surrogate penthouses, rather a case of placing a product in a unique position given that most developments place loft-style apartments at or near street level.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mslider_08_-_bathrooms_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One particular version of a Helio bathroom"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="481" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mslider_08_-_bathrooms_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg?itok=FCadCOF2" title="One particular version of a Helio bathroom" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One particular version of a Helio bathroom</figcaption></figure>In speaking with Ariel it became evident that the initial concept of a malleable design to suit the location and buyer profile was gradually worked down to address the finer details which they believe give Helio its progressive nature. To that end the majority of dwellings will feature a multi/flexible layout where fixtures and fittings are moveable according to the residents desire.

As Ariel stated, "It's about giving those people who buy in Helio maximum living options."

<h2>Comment</h2>

One developer providing a differentiated product in this case does not constitute an industry-wide shift in thinking, nonetheless it's highly encouraging to see a Spec Property offer greater diversity in their latest project.

Helio's renders show that compact, clever design doesn't need to sacrifice quality useable space. Far too often touted 'high-end' apartments come with impracticably small kitchenettes and barely there bathrooms whereas Helio's kitchens in particular are generous in size and practical in nature.

Ultimately with Helio Spec Property have endeavoured to provide the buyer with greater choice and increased design input both pre and post purchase - and you can't fault that.
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Ariel Lopez on progressive apartment design and Helio Apartments

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Keen observers would have noted the increased media attention surrounding Melbourne-based property developer Golden Age in the lead up to the official launch of their most notable project, the gleaming Victoria One on Elizabeth Street. An informative piece on company head Jeff Xu was published last week in the <a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/melbourne_property_king_jeff_xu_6ZcdmWQNMcJVSstdILZqPI" target="_blank">Financial Review</a>, outlining the rise and rise of both man and company as Golden Age continues to assert itself upon the Melbourne property scene.

From their first modest development of some three levels in Box Hill completed three short years ago, Golden Age have since delivered the 32 level mixed-use 27 Little Collins Street and have witnessed their most recent project, the 20 level <a href="/buildings/emerald-35-albert-road-south-melbourne" target="_blank">Emerald</a> apartment development, reach structural completion in recent weeks.

At the Victoria One launch evening last week, the affable Jeff Xu announced that the soaring tower had financing in place after reaching 60% sales and that a preferred builder had been chosen. Probuild has the task of delivering the 75 level, 241 metre tower from late 2014 , marking the firm's tallest build to date.

<h2>Victoria One at a glance</h2>

<ul>
<li>$350 million dollar project</li>
	<li>115 one bedroom apartments, 482 two bedroom and 32 three bedroom apartments split across a 75 level tower</li>
	<li>Podium apartments feature featuring in-built planting boxes overflowing with greenery</li>
	<li>Apartment sizes range from 41sqm to 91sqm</li>
	<li>One bedroom apartments from $370,000 up to minimum 890,000 fro a three bedroom apartment</li>
	<li>Completion due 2017</li>
</ul>
A technical overview of the project can be seen in an associated <a href="/news/victoria-one-452-elizabeth-street" target="_blank">planning assessment article</a>.

<h2>Ins and Outs</h2>

Leading global colour systems firm Pantone in choosing emerald green as their <a href="http://au.pantone.com/pages/index.aspx?pg=21055" target="_blank">colour of the year</a> provided the following description: "Lively. Radiant. Lush… A color of elegance and beauty that enhances our sense of well-being, balance and harmony." The same could be said for Victoria One's facade as project architect Elenberg Fraser have designed a unique tower which will change consistently as light and shade and traverse the facade.

This is of course due to the prominent silver-white metallic fins cascading down this façade, thus "Creating curves and peeling away at the corner of Elizabeth and Franklin Streets."

A benefit of the curtain facade sees all apartments feature floor to ceiling windows, allowing for excellent natural light penetration. Wintergardens are included, featuring operable windows and built-in breakfast bars which is a bonus not generally included within contemporary designs. Customised lighting, wallpaper, hardware and bathroom accessories are available, while the dual available colour schemes coupled with timber flooring throughout add an earthy feel to internals. This earthy feel in turn flows into the communal areas.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/victoria_one_hero_external_render.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria One Melbourne. Image © Golden Age"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1134" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/victoria_one_hero_external_render.jpg?itok=ZVnMcSvd" title="Victoria One Melbourne. Image © Golden Age" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria One Melbourne. Image © Golden Age</figcaption></figure>Victoria One will include a pool, spa, gym and indoor/outdoor entertaining area over level nine. Featuring landscaping and barbecue areas, the podium-top facility is designed to reflect the beaches and rockpools of the coast. Elsewhere the residents facility on level 40 provides two resident lounges, double dining rooms and poker play facilities for private events.

As has become common over Melbourne's taller residential towers of late, an entire floor at a lofty height has been seeded to a communal residents-only retreat. Level 66 is home to the exclusive One Club, a lounge area consuming the entire floor and inspired by the beauty of the Yarra Valley according to Golden Age.

<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/vic5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria One's austere yet sophisticated swimming pool"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="593" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/vic5.jpg?itok=LSCbAfhT" title="Victoria One's austere yet sophisticated swimming pool" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria One's austere yet sophisticated swimming pool</figcaption></figure><h2>A golden year indeed</h2>

The new year will herald the arrival of Golden Age's latest development, a preliminary render of which is seen below. According to <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/property/st-kilda-road-office-space-is-being-turned-into-homes-by-developers-20140513-387rm" target="_blank">Business Day</a>, 450 St Kilda Road was purchased during April, and has since seen Golden Age act briskly to facilitate a Bates Smart-designed tower of 19 levels.

227 luxury apartments are slated for the project that will have an approximate market value of $180 million. The not yet submitted for planning approval scheme sees a streamlined residential building curving mildly away fom the abutting historic Airlie Mansion.

The location and ever increasing prowess of Golden Age should ensure the immediate success of 450 St Kilda Road upon release.

<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/photo111.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A pre-planning render for 450 St Kilda Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="790" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/photo111.jpg?itok=YNTp_uap" title="A pre-planning render for 450 St Kilda Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A pre-planning render for 450 St Kilda Road</figcaption></figure>
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The rise and rise of Golden Age

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Yesterday Meinhardt Australia's James Hargraves explored the growing trend of <a href="/news/the-rise-of-vertical-aged-care" target="_blank">higher density aged care facilities</a> throughout Melbourne. Exploring the changing dynamics within the sector, James outlined a new model where Ageing in Place has become more apparent.

"This is driving the demand for centrally located facilities: closer to the city, closer to existing amenities and closer to the families and children of residents." Consequently vertical buildings have become more prevalent; although not hulking towers they certainly account for an increasing number of tower cranes.

Urban.com.au has chosen to highlight five of the more impressive current vertical age care/retirement designs:

<h2>619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image261.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Image © Smith + Tracey"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image261.jpg?itok=dQ5F5Wp0" title="619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Image © Smith + Tracey" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Image © Smith + Tracey</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Operator: Jewish Care</li>
	<li>Architect: Smith + Tracey</li>
	<li>Ten levels at 36.3 metres</li>
	<li>156 beds and active living centre, fitness and lifestyle facilities</li>
	<li>Medical and allied health service, employment and education centre.</li>
	<li>Café, convenience store, pharmacy and hairdresser servicing residents and the general public.</li>
	<li>Construction start 2015</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
This dynamic development will offer our elders the opportunity to live in state-of-the-art ‘small households’ with their own self-contained lounge, dining, kitchen and recreational facilities.
<cite>Jewish Care</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>97 Elgin Street, Hawthorn</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/33_97_elgin_street_hawthorn_2_ecc98e_med.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="97 Elgin Street, Hawthorn. Image © Edgard Pirrotta"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="188" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/33_97_elgin_street_hawthorn_2_ecc98e_med.jpg?itok=eFB4dtIA" title="97 Elgin Street, Hawthorn. Image © Edgard Pirrotta" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>97 Elgin Street, Hawthorn. Image © Edgard Pirrotta</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Operator: St. Joseph's Aged Care</li>
	<li>Architect: Edgard Pirrotta</li>
	<li>$35 million retirement apartment complex</li>
	<li>Five levels at 19.28 metres</li>
	<li>70 two and three-bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>Construction imminent</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
A disused school adjacent to the site is to be converted into resident facilities including a restaurant, private dining room, lounge, library, coffee bar and billiards room, and support services. The refurbished 1908 building will integrate perfectly with the modern new apartment structure which provides additional facilities such as a theatrette, multi-purpose space and wellness centre.

Sensitive heritage and streetscape issues associated with the former school and the one-hundred-fifty-year-old St Josephs church on the site have to be addressed to ensure the contemporary apartment building complements these historic structures as well as the surrounding 19th century residential architectural style.
<cite>Buxton Construction</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>107-115 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East</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/image244.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="107-115 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East. Image © CHT"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="309" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image244.jpg?itok=YwKq3DUP" title="107-115 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East. Image © CHT" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>107-115 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East. Image © CHT</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Operator: Baptcare</li>
	<li>Architect: Carabott Holt Turnicov</li>
	<li>Six buildings with 142 independent living apartments &amp; 150 aged care beds</li>
	<li>252 car parking spaces</li>
	<li>Resident’s community centre</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
It is considered that the application constitutes a well conceived architecturally interesting development...The proposal fulfils a need for additional aged care and age in place accommodation within The Pines Major Activity Centre and the Manningham municipality in general.
<cite>Manningham City Council</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>39 Livingstone Road, Vermont South</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/livingstone_vermont_drone_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="39 Livingstone Road, Vermont South midway through construction. Image © De Nova Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/livingstone_vermont_drone_01.jpg?itok=4rjiavjQ" title="39 Livingstone Road, Vermont South midway through construction. Image © De Nova Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>39 Livingstone Road, Vermont South midway through construction. Image © De Nova Group</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Operator: BlueCross</li>
	<li>Architect: De Nova Group</li>
	<li>Part 2 and part 4 level aged care facility of 220 beds</li>
	<li>Part 4 and part 6 level building with 68 independent living apartments (Retirement Village).</li>
	<li>Lounges, communal areas, music room, commercial kitchen, hairdresser, physiotherapy</li>
	<li>Café, library, theatre, physic office, visiting practitioners suite, gym, hydro therapy pool</li>
	<li>Completion early 2015</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
The proposed development, together with the proposed supporting services and recreational facilities provide a complete range of services and facilities to ensure a high quality facility for future residents.
<cite>Urbis Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>7-9 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield North</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/image245.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="7-9 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield North. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image245.jpg?itok=_XlqzIjg" title="7-9 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield North. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>7-9 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield North. Image © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Operator: Emmy Monash Aged Care</li>
	<li>Architect: Bates Smart</li>
	<li>94 rooms over four levels</li>
	<li>49 basement car parking bays</li>
	<li>Dining, recreation and care facilities and communal courtyards</li>
	<li>Construction immediate</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
The Shape Tomorrow consultation process highlighted our community’s desire for innovative aged care programs to be seamlessly offered in 21st century architect designed facilities in a convenient Caulfield North location.

The new Hawthorn Road development will represent uncompromising style, whilst offering extensive lifestyle options with levels of care expected by our community.
<cite>Emmy Monash Aged Care</cite>
</blockquote>
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Vertical aged care in action

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Open House Melbourne is up and running with Planning Minister Matthew Guy launching the annual event yesterday at Scots' Church.

This year's event features 30 new sites open for viewing and 100 buildings and places overall open for inspection. New buildings and sites added this year include the Argus, Government House and Young and Jackson Hotel, in addition to working infrastructure such as the Spencer Street sub-station

For a genuinely unique perspective, visitors are also able to access Melbourne Central's glass cone and shot tower for some unique views.

<blockquote>
This is a once-a-year opportunity to explore areas usually hidden from the public eye, discover some of the city's newest and most innovative spaces, or gain a new appreciation of some of our iconic and much-loved buildings.

There are some amazing places and opportunities to learn something new about the city in which we live.

There is a rare chance to walk inside the intricately decorated Queen's Hall, which opened in 1859 but has been closed to the public since 2003. Or you can take the opportunity to visit Australia's first film studio, Limelight Studios, established in 1896. Or why not see the new performance and training facilities for Circus Oz, which has been 10 years in the making?

We are delighted to be associated with an event that is widely embraced by Melburnians and to help open even more doors this year.

Architecture and urban design add so much to our beautiful city, and this event showcases just how much they contribute to Melbourne's status as the world's most liveable city.
<cite>Matthew Guy, <a href="http://premier.vic.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/10546-rediscover-melbourne-s-great-buildings-and-places">"Rediscover Melbourne’s great buildings and places"</a></cite>
</blockquote>

As much as Apartments.com.au would love to employ a fleet of flying monkeys with cameras at the ready, that is not a possibility... at least this year. So if you have a few spare hours on your hands, venture into the inner city and see Melbourne from a different perspective.

http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings
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Open House off and running

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It doesn't exist on the Melbourne City Council register, nor the State register, which represent the two primary methods of monitoring inner Melbourne's major planning applications. Rather a proposed redevelopment of 502 Albert Road, East Melbourne has been listed on DTPLI's heritage register, as the application seeks demolition to part of the adjoining historic East Melbourne Synagogue.

502 Albert Road, East Melbourne served as the Salvation Army Printing Works complex once upon a time and according a report published in the The Age dated 2011, the site was <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/business/property/citadel-handed-over-20111216-1oyop" target="_blank">sold to Chinese-based interests</a> during that year for $9.7 million. The intended plans were bought to light once more by Apartments.com.au forum member, Fedsquared.

<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/image218.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The sites in question with tower rising behind. Image © DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="469" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image218.jpg?itok=30UPNnyj" title="The sites in question with tower rising behind. Image © DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The sites in question with tower rising behind. Image © DCM</figcaption></figure><h2>Application details</h2>

<ul>
<li>502 Albert Road, East Melbourne: existing 1901 three-level Romanesque-style building onsite</li>
	<li>Developer: Woodlink Design and Development</li>
	<li>Architect: Denton Corker Marshall</li>
	<li>27 level residential tower at 88.98 metres</li>
	<li>​66 apartments over 2/3/4 bedroom options</li>
	<li>87 car parking spaces over basement and podium levels, serviced by car vehicle lift</li>
	<li>Facilities include cafe/gallery, pool, gym and common area</li>
</ul>
<h2>Heritage consideration</h2>

<blockquote>
The East Melbourne synagogue is a mid-19th century bluestone and brick building based on the revival Greek Corinthian style. The building is significant as an example of the work of architects Crouch &amp; Wilson, prominent designers of ecclesiastical buildings in Victoria in the nineteenth century.

As the only surviving example of two synagogues designed by the architects, the East Melbourne building demonstrates the denominational diversity that characterised their practice during that time. It is one of a very small number of ecclesiastical buildings that they designed in the Classical tradition.
<cite>Roger Gibbins, Urbis</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>A quid pro quo solution</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/image220.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed ground floor layout. Image © DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="586" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image220.jpg?itok=Poe-yQdO" title="The proposed ground floor layout. Image © DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed ground floor layout. Image © DCM</figcaption></figure>In a solution designed to satisfy both parties, the development calls for the demolition of registered buildings at the rear of the Synagogue at 488 Albert Street East Melbourne in order to provide the intended tower with a viable footprint. The synagogue will contribute part of its land holding to the developer, in return the developer will fully refurbish the East Melbourne Synagogue.

In addition, new facilities over the tower's ground floor will be dedicated to the Synagogue, "Enabling it to provide a comfortable and safe environment for the congregation and visitors. This will enable the synagogue to remain viable, maintaining the congregation into the future."

Furthermore the proposed solution sees three two bedroom apartments, a café and a multi-purpose room seeded to the Synagogue as a means of future income.

<h2>Total luxury</h2>

From upcoming Spring Street giants to 150 Clarendon Street and Jolimont, the Parliamentary Precinct/Fitzroy Gardens are ringed by luxury apartment developments. Those behind 502 Albert Road have positioned the tower to sit within the ultra high-end of Melbourne's apartment market, with apartment sizes far beyond the norm; in fact some are just plain amazing:

<ul>
<li>Smallest 2BR at combined internal/external: 108sqm</li>
	<li>Typical 2BR internal/external: average 160sqm approximately</li>
	<li>Typical 3BR internal/external: average 220sqm approximately</li>
	<li>Penthouse split over two levels: 4BR at 372sqm internal + 170sqm external</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/image263.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed L10-12 layout. Image © DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="476" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image263.jpg?itok=6xwQKE90" title="The proposed L10-12 layout. Image © DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed L10-12 layout. Image © DCM</figcaption></figure>Applying a modest sales price of $9000 per internal square metre as a rough guide to apartment pricing, a three bedroom abode of 255sqm internal over levels 10-12 would sell for in excess of $2.3 million. Evidently the tower has been positioned to compete with Melbourne's elite residential towers, if not usurp them in the pedigree stakes.

<h2>Comment</h2>

The tower externally looks to follow the lead of Denton Corker Marshall's <a href="/news/85-spring-street-and-the-east-enders" target="_blank">85 Spring Street</a> which is also seeking planning consent, with colour palette and finishes quite similar; blue facades contrasted by lighter block elements. I guess this could be construed as an architect exploring a certain design path or lack of initiative, depends upon your perspective.

As for the few who may call this development home one day, half their luck!
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Is this Melbourne's most exclusive and expensive apartment development?

<html><body>
The latest in a mounting number of apartment developments centred around <a href="/new-apartments/carlton-vic-3053">Carlton's</a> Queensberry Street was launched last night. <a href="/buildings/the-eminence-139-queensberry-street-carlton">The Eminence</a>, which was <a href="/news/planning-application-139-155-queensberry-street-carlton" target="_blank">first highlighted last year</a> by Apartments.com.au as a planning application, celebrated its launch event with all relevant project partners in attendance.

Speaking to project architect Ian Briggs of <a href="/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a>, he explains that the design reflects its location - a marriage of the CBD's vertical nature and the low-rise, finer grain substance of Carlton. Consequently the project is split into three vertical volumes, they being the lower Queensberry or northern volume, central and CBD volumes.

Each of these is in turn broken into blocks of two or three levels by way of white external privacy panels/load-bearing features to signify the street level height of traditional Carlton housing. In another nod to the past street level frontages are broken by the use of cottage reliefs, either consisting of perforated metal as seen below or shotcreted forms along other boundaries according to the architect.

<blockquote>
The design is a delicate balance of its environment, responding to the low line, staccato street fronts of Carlton and the high-rise scale of the city. The building form is separated into three towers to capitalise on light entry, natural ventilation and views to every 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartment and social space. Floor to ceiling glass to capture views, and expressed fins to frame them, wrap around the façade in a modern day interpretation of classic architecture that is carried from the lobby to the rooftop retreat.
<cite>Developer's description</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/image205.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Eminence plays on Carlton's low-rise character"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image205.jpg?itok=cpgoTQON" title="The Eminence plays on Carlton's low-rise character" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Eminence plays on Carlton's low-rise character</figcaption></figure>Near on 30% of the 193 apartments have been sold prior to launch with the owner-occupier market firmly in mind. Paraphrasing what was said last night, an investor may buy in to an owner-occupier focused development yet an owner-occupier will shun an investment driven apartment development, and that's the case with The Eminence as owner-occupiers buyers are represented heavily to date.

In the broader context a search of the Apartments.com.au database shows The Eminence is joined by <a href="/buildings/queens-carlton-106-queensberry-street-carlton" target="_blank">Queens Carlton</a> at the registration and sales stage. In addition <a href="/buildings/81-cardigan-street-carlton" target="_blank">81 Cardigan Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/upper-house-516-520-swanston-street-carlton">Upper House</a> are at varying stages of construction with the latter receiving its finishing touches.

<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_6587.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queensberry Street with 81 Cardigan, Eminence and Upper House in view"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6587.jpg?itok=_6HzeyvK" title="Queensberry Street with 81 Cardigan, Eminence and Upper House in view" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queensberry Street with 81 Cardigan, Eminence and Upper House in view</figcaption></figure>Directly opposite The Eminence, the distinctive facade of <a href="/developments/carlton-vic-3053">152 Queensberry Street</a> is waiting in the wings with planning approval. Together these projects will inject in the vicinity of 430 apartments with little more than 200 metres separating the quartet.

Into the future <a href="/developers/grocon">Grocon's</a> redevelopment of the former CUB site is expected to yield three buildings fronting Queensberry Street. <a href="/news/days-of-future-past-cub-site-carlton-continued" target="_blank">Outlined previously</a>, the three future towers have the potential to yield hundreds of new apartments, but for now The Eminence holds sway over this emerging development corridor.
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The Eminence joins the queue on Queensberry

<html><body>
Last month City of Sydney implemented a scheme laden with the potential to deliver multiple positive social and environmental outcomes. Two new recycling machines capable of holding 2,000 empty deposited plastic bottles or cans are now available for use, and in return the user will be rewarded with a small donation to charity, a 2-for-1 food voucher from a local food truck or go into a draw to win two tickets to the 2014 Sydney New Year’s Eve Dawes Point event.

When the reverse vending machines are at capacity, they automatically send an email to council informing them it is full.

As the inner city population of Australia's capital cities increases, so too does the amount of waste and particularly littered waste. The basis of the below comment has seen City of Sydney take action.

<blockquote>
Beverage containers now outstrip cigarette butts as the most littered item (taken from the National Top 10 rubbish items collected on Clean Up Australia Day). 15,000 bottles and cans are littered or landfilled in Australia every minute.
It is a fact that a ‘cash for container’ scheme, will reduce litter and increase recycling rates to 80 – 95%. South Australia is leading the way with such a scheme and has double the rate of recycling than the rest of the country.
<cite>City of Sydney</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/10476396_10152262952753892_7723193446631685676_n.jpg.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Science Alert"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/10476396_10152262952753892_7723193446631685676_n.jpg.jpg?itok=6iSNM3iv" title="Image courtesy Science Alert" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>Image courtesy Science Alert</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
People who deposit bottles and cans in the reverse vending machines will not only be keeping the streets and the harbour clean, they will be rewarded with a small gift or charity donation.
The City has tried using recycling bins in public areas, but levels of contamination made it impossible to recycle the materials collected. The beauty of these machines is that they accept only items that can be recycled and reject anything else.
<cite>City of Sydney</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

Although in its infancy, the scheme holds a real prospect of achieving some important social and environmental goals, and not just harbourside. The potential for all citizens, including the homeless, to benefit by using the recycling machine, the potential for a better environmental outcome and potential to increase charitable donations makes the scheme a goer on many levels.

Great ideas such as the recycling machine will invariably need some fine-tuning but I would think it will eventually spread nationwide, including little old Melbourne.

More information is available at the <a href="http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/live/waste-and-recycling/clean-streets/envirobank-reverse-vending-machines" target="_blank">City of Sydney project website</a>.

Lead image courtesy Envirobank.com.au.
</body></html>

An idea too good to overlook

<html><body>
Rex Hunt once borrowed the German words and popularised the phrase "shizenhousen" and that's what the weather was on Thursday afternoon. But when an opportunity arises to visit the levels of <a href="/buildings/prima-tower-31-queensbridge-street-southbank">Prima Pearl</a> still under construction, you oblige.

In all fairness, a group of intrepid media types (and Apartments.com.au) ventured up to level 63 for a birds-eye view of Melbourne. With perimeter safety screens encasing the floors above and facade attached to those below, level 63 provided uninterrupted views and the worst weather Melbourne had to offer.

Work on deck had ceased due to high winds, so much so this man's hard hat nearly ended up on Power Street far below. Hand on hard hat and camera in hand, enjoy the views from Prima Pearl.

Click the image below to expand.
</body></html>

Hold on to your hard hats! Prima Pearl at level 63

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.

Joel Robinson

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

<main data-perf-region="main">
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]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

Mark Baljak

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