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Docklands and the term 'showpiece' have yet to become close friends, at least within our context. The suburb's newest venue, Library by the Dock, will go some way to correcting that assertion as the venue prepares for its opening on Saturday 31st May.

Conceived by <a href="http://claredesign.com.au/" target="_blank">Clare Design</a>, documented by Hayball, Library at the Dock is a welcome contrast to Victoria Harbour's existing architecture and is designed as a multi-purpose centre consisting of library, community hub, 120 seat performance space and research/education space. To mark the opening, City of Melbourne and Places Victoria have devised a day of celebrations, including activities highlighting Melbourne's status as a UNESCO City of Literature.

<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_5997.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The point at which most visitors will view the new Docklands facility"><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_5997.jpg?itok=ESlN5CPW" title="The point at which most visitors will view the new Docklands facility" width="580"></a>

<blockquote>
Docklands' next generation Library at the Dock will open its doors on Saturday 31 May with the inaugural Melbourne UNESCO City of Literature Oration, presented by acclaimed author, Arnold Zable. The Oration will celebrate Melbourne’s status as a UNESCO City of Literature and mark the opening of Docklands’ spectacular new community hub at the intersection of Bourke and Collins streets.

Activities and programs throughout the open day will showcase the library’s special places and spaces – including the recording studio, performance space, children’s library and the digital, music and entertainment collections. Acting Lord Mayor, Cr Susan Riley said the opening event was the culmination of three years’ work from a unique tri-partnership of Lend Lease, Places Victoria and the City of Melbourne.

“Library at the Dock is the most modern public library, in the most spectacular setting, in Australia,” Cr Riley said. “The Library at the Dock will be a place of inspiration for generations to come. For the creative and the literary, for students and for families, this building will provide Docklands with a civic heart. “Globally Melbourne is recognised as a UNESCO City of Literature and this exciting new facility will enrich the culture of our city and the community of Docklands.”
<cite><a href="http://www.places.vic.gov.au/news-and-publications/media-releases/docklands-next-generation-library-to-open-its-doors2">Docklands' next generation library to open its doors - Places Victoria</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<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_5990.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Open space the order of the day"><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_5990.jpg?itok=6WtpH31E" title="Open space the order of the day" width="580"></a>

If talking about first impressions, Library at the Dock garners positive outcomes with the earthy feel, contrast and small-scale intimacy of the area working quite well. Whether by design or fault, the aqua reflections to the dark under canopy brings a shimmering, dynamic quality to the northern facade as well.

Library at the Dock distinguishes itself within the existing paved context quite well, by way of timber decking stretching from the edge of Victoria Harbour through to Collins Street/North Wharf Road to the south. While the architecture of Victoria Harbour can be hit-and-miss, the open spaces are generally excellent and Library at the Dock's associated park is no exception. It is functional, well sized and looks great.

<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_5991.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The finishing touches"><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_5991.jpg?itok=MQxDq-wG" title="The finishing touches" width="580"></a>

With additional community facilities to the west of Library at the Dock either planned or seeking approval, the area is envisaged as the thriving heart of Victoria Harbour. If these additions are to the standard of Library at the Dock, there will be plenty more positives to talk about down at Docklands soon enough.
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silvermb

Talking up Docklands' newest showpiece

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Recently Apartments.com.au sat down with James Tutton for a thoroughly interesting, jovial and at times colourful interview on all things urban. A man whose credentials are impressive as they are varied, chief amongst them is co-director of property development firm Neometro.

<blockquote>
James joined Neometro four years ago to drive the development and commercial side of the business while maintaining its strong design integrity. James is the entrepreneur behind the immensely successful Moonlight Cinema, pioneering the outdoor cinema business in Australia and eventually selling it to an ASX listed corporate group in 2006.
<cite><a href="http://neometro.com.au/cms-our-people/james-tutton.phps">Our People: Neometro Developments</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>The CV</h2>

<ul>
<li>Board Member - B Corporation, a not for profit organization which provides assessment &amp; certification for companies seeking to deliver positive social &amp; environmental outcomes while ensuring strong financial performance.</li>
	<li>Non-Executive Director - Shout For Good, a web and app based fundraising platform. Shout aims to leverage technology and social media to generate micro donations for its clients while providing consumers with a streamlined &amp; functional user experience</li>
	<li>Co-founder / Director - SMILING MIND - a "modern meditation for young people". An entrepreneurial not for profit organisation that has been established to teach young people Mindfulness Meditation as a stress management &amp; resilience tool.</li>
	<li>Director / owner - NEOMETRO</li>
</ul>
<h2>The interview</h2>

We begin by asking James: what challenges surround increased density and appropriately sized urban development?

The inefficiency is evident. I'm not a planner, just a guy with a BA in Philosophy, however to me it does not seem like rocket science. It makes so much more sense to build housing which is in immediate proximity to infrastructure, transport, employment, education and everything else. You go out there and look at broad acre developments; this is inefficient in the context of environmental issues, in context of community happiness, transport issues, hospitals etc. It goes on and on and on.

You then look at towers and think... well? I'm not saying towers are wrong, they absolutely have their place but it's about finding an appropriate balance. One of the things if find quite challenging is that you can have a precinct in immediate proximity to rail infrastructure etc. earmarked for medium density development in an area where there are ostensibly progressive thinkers, who then take developers to VCAT with the view that oh no you're evil, you're creating homes for people. That's so hypocritical!

It's the core of a real NIMBY culture which is just is not that positive. It's generalising but some of the views coming out of the Greens have been completely at odds with sensible environmentally focused planning. It can be madness.

Will planning zone reforms coax Neometro into markets beyond its established inner Melbourne footprint?

I look at Brunswick and think absolutely, there are opportunities there. Although can you afford to do an apartment development in Dandenong? No, that's the economics being what they are.

We love Brunswick; there's a lot of poor quality development there although my view is the poor quality development is not a reflection of demand. There's a lot of demand for high quality development from a buyers perspective.

Can you elaborate on why outer ring locations such as Dandenong or Frankston are difficult apartment market from a developers perspective?

It's a mixture of factors. Let me begin by saying inner city sites carry a higher land price therefore you need to get density to pay for it - a $6-7 million dollar slice of land requires you get yield by height. Construction costs being what they are dictate that lower density dwellings such as townhouses are not possible for the site. Should you go to Dandenong, the economics are that the land is cheaper and therefore building townhouses is more efficient in that context, and also meets the level of buyer demand.

I look at Frankston from a planning perspective and think why isn't there fast train and medium density housing in Frankston? It's an absolute no brainer and would entice property developers, but I don't think its going to happen.

<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/Dandenong_CBD_in_2013_as_viewed_from_railway_station.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Dandenong anyone? Image courtesy Wikipedia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Dandenong_CBD_in_2013_as_viewed_from_railway_station.png?itok=VvfDRcD4" style="height:397px; width:580px" title="Dandenong anyone? Image courtesy Wikipedia"></a>

<figcaption>Dandenong anyone? Image courtesy Wikipedia</figcaption></figure>Is Government investing public money via schemes such as Revitalising Central Dandenong a worthwhile pursuit?

Not my view as a professional, just my lay view but there's a tipping point where things become viable. I mentioned Frankston in the sense that I feel it's very underpriced from a residential perspective because there is no quality public transport infrastructure through to Melbourne. It's just my two cents worth but like Dandenong there is an amount of stigma attached in a social context which has an impact on prospective buyers.

Long term and with further investment it's highly doable. Box Hill for instance is now in its own right more of an economic hub and on top of that it's closer to Melbourne which is attractive to potential apartment buyers. Whereas in Frankston the rail line is not that workable which limits connectivity to Melbourne, although the beaches are beautiful and it has the infrastructure that goes with a small city.

What would make a property developer venture into outer suburbs?

Should the factors that we've discussed become reality, from Neometro's perspective we'd also need to have the comfort that people would recognise what we offer. Even in Fitzroy where we have a design literate audience, some people come along and say Neometro is selling product for x thousands per square metre and the bloke down the road is selling it for one thousand dollars a square metre less. On top of that Neometro's apartments are proportionately larger, because that's just what a nice apartments need to be.

The guy down the road has a dog box; you apply the lower per square metre rate and the fact is that it's smaller - the actual quantum in dollar terms between one apartment and another becomes significant. Around here (Fitzroy) people look at that and understand it - 'I'm getting what I pay for' - that's the key.

But when you hit outer suburbs such as Dandenong, do you have a buyer group who actually understand the variations of quality on offer? That's a challenging thing, I'm not saying they don't, I'm just not personally convinced there is that market.

<h2>To be continued</h2>

During this week, <a href="/news/james-tutton-on-all-things-urban-continued" target="_blank">part two of our chat</a> with James Tutton will focus on B Corporation status and what it means, inner-city issues plus Neometero's current and future direction.
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James Tutton on all things Urban

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Another chapter today in the evolving public interest story that has become the proposed Palace Theatre demolition and replacement with Australia's first W Hotel at 20-31 Bourke Street. Melbourne City Council have this week published plans for Bates Smart's third revision of the development scheme which sees a shortened, dare I say tubby hotel tower sans its apartment compliment included within the initial planning application.

As has been reported through the media, the proposal has been essentially cut in half and now tills in at 50.65 metres high with 11,047sq.m of net floor space. 193 rooms are slated for the 12 hotel floors with the three remaining floors configured to include a restaurant, pool, gym, outdoor terrace, lounge and function facilities.

<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/Image4_28.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Before and after. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="312" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_28.jpg?itok=4Jz04PTx" title="Before and after. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

Naturally the development team have prepared the planning documents to favour their argument; proponents aside, here are some telling statistics for and against the Palace Theatre development.

<h2>Save the Palace Theatre</h2>

<ul>
<li>Facebook page developed to oppose the development with just under 35,000 likes.</li>
	<li>27,955 have signed an online petition rejecting the loss of the existing venue via thepetitionsite.com.</li>
	<li>Demolition of the 5th bay of the adjoining Victorian three level terrace will remain as per revised plans.</li>
	<li>Neither the Palace Theatre nor 32-38 Bourke Street are included in the Victorian Heritage Register.</li>
</ul>
<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/auditorium-ceiling-7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ornate interiors lost? Image © savethepalace.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/auditorium-ceiling-7.jpg?itok=WBa2D-Tl" title="Ornate interiors lost? Image © savethepalace.com" width="580"></a>

<h2>The economic case</h2>

Deloitte Access Economics have quantified the expected benefits of a realised W Hotel to the Victorian economy as follows:

<ul>
<li>Direct capital investment in Melbourne of approximately $160 million.</li>
	<li>Construction employment generation equivalent to 82 full time equivalent jobs over the construction phase of the project.</li>
	<li>The development will generate between $21M and $58M annually in Gross Regional Product.</li>
	<li>Ongoing employment generation which will be in the range of 230 – 588 full time equivalent jobs, and tourism expenditure.</li>
	<li>Cumulatively, the proposed W Hotel and residential development is estimated to contribute up to $375 million in Gross State Product over the first 15 years of operation.</li>
</ul>
<h2>The crux of the matter</h2>

An excerpt from the Urbis planning report:

<blockquote>
It is noted that a recent planning permit application for a hotel and residential apartments was made to the Minister for Planning and not supported due to a number of concerns principally relating to the height of the proposal, in light of the lower scale of the Bourke Hill precinct. The City of Melbourne’s formal position on the application recognised the value and benefit that the proposed W Hotel use would bring to the city, but was unsupportive of the scale of the built form.

Hence, this revised proposal has been prepared to address the key concerns. In particular the changes to the height of the development ensure that shadows cast to the Parliamentary precinct are significantly reduced, and that the view over the city from the steps of Parliament is not substantially altered.
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

Prudence suggests that site proponent Jinshan Investments wouldn't purchase and consequently enter the planning process if they weren't confident of their ability to develop the site and ultimately turn a profit. This coupled with the above excerpt suggests that given the scheme has been halved in height, chances of approval may have increased considerably.

Machinations aside the merits of a design simply lopped in half need to be questioned for such a prime site within close proximity to the Parliament. While the facade is well articulated, the buildings bulk and rather basic form sit uncomfortably within the surrounding streetscape. While I don't particularly like the current design, I have a suspicion it has taken great strides toward approval - much to the disappointment of many.
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Palace Theatre redevelopment: Squat! But is it hot to trot?

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After snaring the site for $13 million during February 2013, Melbourne-based property developer <a href="http://www.hallmarc.com.au/" target="_blank">Hallmarc</a> has moved ahead with designs for its 14 Queens Road development parcel. Currently a 1970's vintage 12 level commercial complex known as Atari House, plans before City of Port Phillip are seeking permission to refurbish and extend the existing structure.

In the process Atari House would be no more, rebranded as Tyrian Queens Road in line with Hallmarc's existing serviced apartment brand.

<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/1238_20129x17356.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Atari House as it stands. Image courtesy Commercial Property Guide"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1238_20129x17356.jpg?itok=IM4i6Sh5" title="Atari House as it stands. Image courtesy Commercial Property Guide" width="580"></a>

<h2>Project profile</h2>

<h3>Tyrian @ 14 Queens Road, Melbourne</h3>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Hallmarc</li>
	<li>Architect: David Elliott Architects</li>
	<li>Site: 2326 m²</li>
	<li>Redeveloped to 14 levels and 45.15 metres in height</li>
	<li>143 dwellings split between 73 traditional apartments and 70 Tyrian-branded serviced apartments</li>
	<li>72 car parks, 54 stores and 42 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>Walkscore: 83</li>
</ul>
<h2>A familiar design</h2>

The single three-dimensional image within the planning application makes for uncertain viewing, aesthetically at least, with the design difficult to grasp. Upon viewing the existing <a href="http://www.tyrian.com.au/exterior-photos" target="_blank">Tyrian outlet on Johnston Street, Fitzroy</a> the design and colour impetus becomes apparent with the Fitzroy complex seemingly forging the way for 14 Queens Road.

External materials are near identical with 12 Queens Road featuring a mixture of charcoal, bronze and purple cladding, timber lining to Queens Lane, bluestone detailing, charcoal perforated metal screens and grey/purple glass. Purple being the necessary element, as Tyrian refers to the colour of dye obtained from some molluscs which in turn was used to dye fabrics.

<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_5786.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title=" A refurbished 14 Queens Road. Image © Malcolm Elliott 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/Img_5786.jpg?itok=hHKOYaCq" title=" A refurbished 14 Queens Road. Image © Malcolm Elliott Architects" width="580"></a>

The revamped 14 Queens Road will feature two additional levels atop the existing structure while plans also call for the floorplates to be extended toward Queens Road. The result would see a podium employed while floors 6-12 would feature curved/indented balconies, adding a point of difference to an otherwise generally rectangular design.

The existing basement structure will be slightly augmented to accommodate its new use while services will be bought up to an energy efficient standard. Overall the complex would be accredited with a 4 Green Star rating, with preliminary inspections awarding a score of 49.

<h2>The Tyrian touch</h2>

<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-0005-1-select.jpg" rel="gallery-all" style="font-size: 12px;" title="an existing Tyrian Fitzroy interior. Image © Tyrian"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="305" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img-0005-1-select.jpg?itok=gIq9JkSV" title="an existing Tyrian Fitzroy interior. Image © Tyrian" width="580"></a>

As mentioned the serviced apartment component absorbs 70 rooms, broken down to 20 x studio, 20 x one bedroom, 20 x two bedroom and 10 x three bedroom. Likely indicative of 14 Queens Road's interiors, the existing Tyrian's <a href="http://www.tyrian.com.au/images" target="_blank">gallery page</a> shows bright interiors contrasted by rich fixtures and furnishings.

Ground level features a Porte Cochere entrance while amenity includes the obligatory gym, common areas etc. Retention of the existing 130 m² cafe is proposed once works have been completed.

<h2>Love thy neighbour</h2>

Adjoining 12 Queens Road is also subject to a 20 level residential planning application, <a href="/news/planning-application-12-queens-road-melbourne" target="_blank">covered by Urban.com.au</a> during March. Assuming both projects receive planning approval within a similar time frame, it is feasible both may proceed to construction within close proximity of one another.

Should this be the case 408 new dwellings would flood into this pocket of Queens Road, further eroding the area's traditional commercial background.
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Tyrian Purple > 14 Queens Road, Melbourne

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A peculiar thing happened on the way to Bacchus Marsh... in 2008 mind you. Heading west for one reason or another, I noticed a tower crane on the horizon in Caroline Springs.
Relatively new Caroline Springs, tower crane, high-density development on the forsaken fringes of Melbourne? Hickory at the time were constructing a six level serviced apartment complex (now Quest branded) in the upstart western locale. For a suburb 25 kilometres from the big smoke, in an area considered beyond the borders of civilisation by many urbanists, this was confounding.
<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/121_04-12-2012_4370.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first strike. Image © Hickory"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="284" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/121_04-12-2012_4370.jpg?itok=-7gVdNFP" title="The first strike. Image © Hickory" width="580"></a>
More confounding has been the restrained yet constant thrust in apartment living post-2008 surrounding Lake Caroline, the suburb's principal activity area. What can this be attributed to given there are no public transport options save for the odd bus, solid retail offerings yet measly entertainment options. Let's not forget comparable house &amp; land packages within close proximity as well.
Could it be a shift in individual living preferences? It seems that like so many middle and outer suburbs in Melbourne - even Caroline Springs - have fallen for a fundamental cultural acceptance of high-density living. Apartment dwellers are a minority in Caroline Springs, but a growing minority.
Added to the aforementioned Quest serviced apartment complex is the Mercure Hotel Caroline Springs and a gaggle of small to medium-rise apartment buildings, the most noteworthy of which are:
Cascada &amp; Belise. Both via Boom Property Group with Cascada at registrations while Belise is at sales. Combined 136 apartments.
<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/Image26cs.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Belise &amp; Cascada. Image © Boom Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="208" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image26cs.jpg?itok=UCDhXiIS" title="Belise &amp; Cascada. Image © Boom Property Group" width="580"></a>
Aqua Lakeside nearing completion whilst Woodward Way is freshly completed. Combined 156 apartments.
<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/Image25cs.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aqua Lakeside and Woodward Way. Image © Varcon and MASBuild"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="237" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image25cs.jpg?itok=60H6K-G_" title="Aqua Lakeside and Woodward Way. Image © Varcon and MASBuild" width="580"></a>
Conceived by Metaxas Architects, Caravelle Lane (left) holds a planning permit while The Esplanade was completed during 2013. Combined 119 apartments.
<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/Image28cs.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Caravelle Way and The Esplanade. Image © Metaxas and Figurehead"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="197" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image28cs.jpg?itok=YDTmpFQy" title="Caravelle Way and The Esplanade. Image © Metaxas and Figurehead" width="580"></a>
While apartment development increases, news broke last week that Caroline Springs will <a href="http://ptv.vic.gov.au/projects/railway-stations/new-station-for-caroline-springs/" target="_blank">be serviced by a new railway station</a> located in neighbouring Ravenhall. With at-grade parking for 350 spaces, my only request is that another tower crane be used to create a community health hub/multi-level car park similar to the ultra impressive <a href="http://www.cundall.com/Projects/Euneva-Avenue-Community-Health-Facility.aspx" target="_blank">Euneva Complex</a> in Glen Waverley.
Too much too soon? Perhaps, but Caroline Springs has in part shifted toward a more robust urban environment by way of an increased penchant for high-density living. With plentiful brownfield sites around Lake Caroline, Caroline Springs will remain an interesting study as to how deeply high-density living can penetrate typical detached living, fringe Melbourne suburbs.
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A funny thing happened on the way to the Marsh

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Think Lygon Street, East Brunswick and the snapshot below is the vision many readers are familiar with: an evolving thoroughfare with all the bustle and colour expected of an area with a semi-bohemian feel and a rapidly increasing population.

<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_3518.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Lygon Street, East Brunswick vista"><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_3518.jpg?itok=C3G_vMjr" title="The Lygon Street, East Brunswick vista" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Lygon Street, East Brunswick vista</figcaption></figure>Most would not be aware of the labyrinth of half blocks, alleys and cul-de-sac's that are mere metres from Lygon Street. Forming a <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Brunswick+East+VIC/@-37.7689734,144.9749164,16z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x6ad64494291c9ac5:0x5045675218cd600" target="_blank">snaking border between Brunswick and East Brunswick</a>, the laneways immediately west of Lygon Street (many with no signage) create an oasis of sorts from the hubbub near by.

Frequented by few, the back street network also provides an ideal canvas for some of Melbourne's better known street artists to ply their trade. It seems the artists are drawn to the area in part due to the presence of artist studios and the like, with Ann Street particularly strong. Whatever the case some of the artwork is incredible!

<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_3429.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A typical Brunswick / East Brunswick back street"><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_3429.jpg?itok=P8bCe0Ze" title="A typical Brunswick / East Brunswick back street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A typical Brunswick / East Brunswick back street</figcaption></figure>Enjoy the pictures below featuring artworks west of Lygon Street on the border of Brunswick and East Brunswick, taken on a fine Sunday afternoon.
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East of Brunswick, West of Lygon

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Since being submitted nigh on one year ago, MAB Corporation's planning application for a prime piece of Fishermans Bend land has sat idle at the desks of State planning body DTPLI. As with all Fishermans Bend planning applications, no final decisions will be handed down until a point where a final Structure Plan for the urban renewal area is delivered by the State Government.

Not that MAB Corporation would necessarily be concerned by the delay as the Melbourne-based developer has held the land parcel in question for some years. Developing the low-rise Industry Business Hub at the western edge of 15-87 Gladstone Street prior to the announcement of rezoning, MAB Corporation subsequently enlisted prolific architecture form Hayball to take the lead in conceiving a staged, three tower residential scheme as seen below.

<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/Image23mab.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="15-87 Gladstone Street. Image © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="644" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image23mab.jpg?itok=Dlt_J1mx" title="15-87 Gladstone Street. Image © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<h2>Development Summary</h2>

<h3>15-87 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</h3>

<ul>
<li>Towers @ 29 levels/93m, 25 levels/81m, 26 levels/81m</li>
	<li>Site: approximately 140m x 40m and 5984 sq.m</li>
	<li>Apartments: 733 (1/1+study/2/3 bed options)</li>
	<li>Retail: 427 sq.m</li>
	<li>Cars: 579 &amp; motorcycles - 6</li>
	<li>Bicycles: 225</li>
</ul>
<h2>Diversity of design</h2>

According to Hayball's urban context report, three distinct tower designs have been created:

<ul>
<li>The fluid metallic form of the CITY TOWER reflects its significant location at the city end of the project and adjacent to the major infrastructural entities to the north.</li>
	<li>The CENTRE TOWER sits at the mid point of the site – horizontal and folded spandrels using palette of reflective materials, respond to its contextual role as a connecting element.</li>
	<li>The PORT TOWER is a more robust composition of stacking elements with colour and intricacy relating to the strong metaphor of port activity.</li>
</ul>
While the three towers forms offer visually different outcomes, "The PODIUM edge offers the greatest opportunity to instill a sense of richness and diversity into people’s experience of the project. Care has been taken to deliver the maximum sculptural and activation potential at ground level."

<h2>Oculus deliver</h2>

<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/Image22mab.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground and podium landscape plans. Image © Oculus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="256" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image22mab.jpg?itok=IgI_8VKT" title="Ground and podium landscape plans. Image © Oculus" width="580"></a>

Landscape design team Oculus have delivered a grand public/private interface at street level. "The selection of materials, the incorporation of trees and vegetation and the maintainability of the landscape all impact on the perception of a project and its wider site, helping to establish value, a local identity and to foster civic pride." The indicative renders (see link at bottom of page) show a malleable, green and interactive environment fronting public areas - just as anticipated in early visions for the precinct.

Via the landscape proposal, Oculus seek to:

<ul>
<li>Establish a hierarchy of green spaces adjacent to living spaces providing a diverse range of uses, microclimates and rooms</li>
	<li>Establish a clear network of paths connecting existing streets to residential dwellings</li>
	<li>Emphasise green pattern and hierarchy through the intense planting of trees and shrubs and retention of existing street trees in road reserves at the edge of the site</li>
	<li>Create a series of vistas to capture internal and external views</li>
	<li>Use landscape elegantly to create identity and maximise amenity for new and existing users</li>
	<li>Ensure that circulation is permeable and accessible to all by creating safe and convenient access between key destinations</li>
	<li>Provide a diverse planting palette between indigenous species contrasting with exotic species</li>
	<li>Establish ample opportunities for various outdoor activities on the podium level</li>
	<li>Ensure consistent palette of landscape elements that are deployed throughout the development to create a sense of identity, cohesion and place with the existing character of Gladstone Street.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Comment</h2>

"Both the sub-precinct ‘3 sites master plan’ and detailed design for the Gladstone St site have been developed with extensive consultation between the consultant team and DPCD (DTPLI), Places Victoria and City of Port Phillip." If this does not evoke a WTF moment regarding Fishermans Bend's progression I'm not sure what does!

After reading multiple other applications for Fishermans Bend it is somewhat bewildering that developers can prepare plans after consulting with relevant planning bodies only to have those plans shelved for an extended period of time. Perhaps a lesson for future Melbourne urban renewal projects - consult thoroughly, prepare a credible structure plan and only then allow the planning applications to flow.

Regardless an election year is afoot and there's no doubt an announcement regarding Fishermans Bend is imminent. Could there be a dual announcement finalising a Fishermans Bend Structure Plan while also heralding the approval of a select cluster of current planning applications (including 15-87 Gladstone Street) akin to '<a href="/news/victorian-government-announces-suite-of-super-tuesday-approvals" target="_blank">Super Tuesday</a>' earlier in 2014. If only I were a gambling man...

<h2>Development Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Client: <a href="http://www.mab.com.au/" target="_blank">MAB Corporation</a>
</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.hayball.com.au/" target="_blank">Hayball</a> (consultant lead, urban design and architecture)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.oculus.info/index.php" target="_blank">Oculus</a> (urban design and landscape)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.contour.net.au/" target="_blank">Contour Consultants Australia</a> (planning)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.mordueengineering.com.au/" target="_blank">Mordue Engineering</a> (structural)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.wge.com.au/" target="_blank">Wood and Grieve Engineers</a> (services + ESD)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.tgmgroup.com/" target="_blank">TGM Group Pty Ltd</a> (civil)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.traffixgroup.com.au/">Traffix</a> (traffic)</li>
</ul>
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Biding time > 15-87 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne

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Residential projects keep piling into South Yarra's Forrest Hill Precinct with the latest development at sales titled <a href="http://primetower.com.au/" target="_blank">Prime Tower</a>. Formerly home to private investment and property development business Lyons Capital, 47 Claremont Street's ownership now lies with another Melbourne-based developer, <a href="http://www.alpha14.com.au/" target="_blank">Alpha 14</a>.
Designed by Richmond-based David Earle Architects, Prime Tower will span 15 levels or 53 metres and hold 59 apartments over one and two-bedroom formats. Included within the distinct blue and yellow, 6 star energy rated building are allowances for 40 vehicles and 25 bicycles.
<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/1_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Prime Tower's entry point. Image © David Earle Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1_3.jpg?itok=KOhuwVWY" title="Prime Tower's entry point. Image © David Earle Architects" width="580"></a>
<h2>
	Forrest Hill as a whole</h2>
A 2013 report delivered by property consultancy Charter Keck Cramer outlines the current and future prospects of the precinct:
<blockquote>
	Forrest Hill is now characterised as a mixed use development, with in excess of 30 properties in the precinct either developed, under construction or at varying stages of development commencing preparation. Research by Charter Keck Cramer and Urbis both indicate that circa 3000 new apartments are expected to be delivered over the next ten years, driving the population to approximately 5000 by 2020, while employment is anticipated to grow to approximately 6000 by 2020.
</blockquote>
The precinct's most active architect, <a href="http://birddelacoeur.com.au/projects/details/forrest-hill-precinct" target="_blank">Bird de la Coeur</a> states:
<blockquote>
	In December 2005, Stonnington Council adopted the Forrest Hill Precinct Structure Plan, which included the implementation of an east-west pedestrian link and enhancements to the streetscape, public realm and infrastructure to accommodate this new high-density activity.
	A total $4 billion worth of development is slated for the precinct. By 2018, 10,000 people are expected to live and work here. The location - next to the railway station, near major tram routes and close to arterial roads and the Monash Freeway - makes Forrest Hill a showpiece for Melbourne's urban consolidation.
</blockquote>
<h2>
	Current precinct activity</h2>
The hum of construction activity reverberates through Forrest Hill with five major apartment projects currently moving skyward. Ella, Lucia/Chiara, Yarra House, Central South Yarra and Alto Apartments together are adding a massive 1179 dwellings to the precinct with roughly 3000 new residents to follow.
In addition to Prime Tower, the soon to be released Claremont Manor and a rejigged Capitol Tower have the ability to further add 863 apartments to the mix.
<h2>
	A new urban environment</h2>
<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/Image8_16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © goodfood.com.au &amp; POC Commercial"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="225" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image8_16.jpg?itok=cuMhoAFu" title="Image © goodfood.com.au &amp; POC Commercial" width="580"></a>
The precinct's ability to morph into a mixed-use hub has been successful beyond doubt, but what of the environment at street level. Has enough been done to activate and beautify the public realm to match the success of the many towers that surround it?
Aside from Zumbo Patissier, Two Birds One Stone and Yarra Lane the area still feels somewhat barren at street level. Works similar to those performed on Cremorne Street would fit in quite well particularly along Claremont Street; <a href="http://library.melbournewater.com.au/content/wsud/Case_Studies/Cremorne_St_Richmond.pdf" target="_blank">Bio-retention basins</a> and increased greenery fit the bill, but this is a topic for another day.
Forrest Hill continues to be a runaway success, yet as suitable sites within the precinct diminish in number it will be interesting to see the size and scope of future projects, and what they may add to the overall Forrest Hill experience.
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Prime Time in Forrest Hill

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The weather may be cooling off, but residential development sites remain hot commodities throughout greater Melbourne. With an increasing gaggle of overseas investors and developers looking to muscle in on the local apartment market in particular, competition for prime residential development sites remains high.
Here's a rundown of the current crop of premier development sites on the market.
<h2>
	<a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-melbourne-501089923" target="_blank">274-278 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne</a>
</h2>
A slice of prime CBD land is up for grabs with 274-278 Little Lonsdale Street offered for sale by CBRE. With the property available for the first time in over 50 years, the 708 sqm site is sure to garner interest amongst developers.
The adjoining Melbourne Star apartment complex at 41 levels gives a fair indication as to what size development can be expected for the site into the future.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/main%20%285%29.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/main%20%285%29.jpg?itok=m6Z3RLOs" title="Image courtesy CBRE" width="580"></a>
<h2>
	<a href="http://commercialpropertysearch.savills.com.au/155309/Sale/Southbank/65-71-Haig-Street" target="_blank">65-71 Haig Street, Southbank</a>
</h2>
At 1,001sq m, 65-71 Haig Street carries two street frontages and is within an established residential precinct. Selling agent Savills suggest that a residential tower of 33 levels or 100 metres is expected, although in gaining approval for an adjoining 37 level, 119 metre tower, architects Bruce Henderson suggest a tower of 200 metres or so is in the offing as seen below.
<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/Image70.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy Savills &amp; Bruce Henderson"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image70.jpg?itok=3b4MvKyF" title="Images courtesy Savills &amp; Bruce Henderson" width="580"></a>
<h2>
	<a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-preston-501064775" target="_blank">5 - 9 Blanch Street, Preston</a>
</h2>
Preston seems never to be without a handful of apartment project at sales and 5-9 Blanch Street may well join the herd once the site finds a new owner. With solid positioning, an approved Rothe Lowman design and Bell Station at the front door, the development site is for sale by tender.
Under the approved plans, 114 apartments and 1 commercial space can be realised.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image73.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy DTZ"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image73.jpg?itok=LTHLrbYh" title="Image courtesy DTZ" width="580"></a>
<h2>
	<a href="http://rca.colliers.com.au/property-land+development-vic-doncaster-501077287" target="_blank">642-654 Doncaster Road, Doncaster</a>
</h2>
Maintaining a steady rather than spectacular rate of apartment development, Doncaster Hill development sites are becoming all the more rare. Currently controlled by Englehart, 642-654 Doncaster Road is an approved Peddle Thorp-designed apartment complex of 273 apartments mixed with retail at street level.
Colliers suggest the site provides "The opportunity to construct a modern landmark development with a stunning architectural design."
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/main%20%283%29.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/main%20%283%29.jpg?itok=FwUgEDML" title="Image © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>
<h2>
	<a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-south+melbourne-501121667" target="_blank">1-13 Cobden Street, South Melbourne</a>
</h2>
1-3 Cobden Street has been subject to development speculation in the past as the above design by dKO Architecture demonstrates. Now subject to a preferred height of 45 metres, the 2000 sqm island site is still capable of accommodating 238 apartments according to agent Lemon Baxter.
45 metres equates to 15 levels of residential living, although with taller residential towers in the vicinity a few more floors may be in the offing.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image71.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy Lemon Baxter &amp; dKO architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="402" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image71.jpg?itok=ApfoF65q" title="Images courtesy Lemon Baxter &amp; dKO architects" width="580"></a>
<h2>
	<a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-south+melbourne-501088119" target="_blank">50 Park Street, South Melbourne</a>
</h2>
Located next to the newly completed Essence apartment project, 50 Albert Street South Melbourne consists of a 374 sqm site with two street frontages and an expected development envelope of 12 levels.
Bruce Henderson Architects carries a design for 50 Park Street on their website. Listed as at planning although now unlikely to proceed, the renders give a fair indication of what the site can accommodate post development.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image72.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy Savills &amp; Bruce Henderson"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="511" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image72.jpg?itok=ld9i86K5" title="Images courtesy Savills &amp; Bruce Henderson" width="580"></a>
<h2>
	<a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-melbourne-501114239" target="_blank">2 Bowen Crescent, Melbourne</a>
</h2>
Another Lemon Baxter listing sees a preliminary development scheme in place. The eventual buyer may choose to deliver the Elenberg Fraser designed apartment complex which sees 233 apartments over 18 levels.
Otherwise the 1,821 sqm site which currently acts as a commercial car park may well be subject to another scheme soon enough, owing to its location in an existing apartment hotspot.
<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/Image74.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser &amp; Lemon Baxter"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="448" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image74.jpg?itok=xL2qQR-Z" title="Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser &amp; Lemon Baxter" width="580"></a>
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Going, going... development sites almost gone?

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One of Hawthorn's most prominent buildings is nearing the construction finish line, with final touches now being applied to Swinburne University's Advanced Manufacturing and Design Centre (AMDC). This past Monday heralded the opening of the lower six levels, allowing staff and students an initial look within the learning facility, an image of which is provided below via Swinburne's Facebook page.
Site demolition commenced during September 2011 and although the subsequent ground works, build and fitout have taken some time, the end result is a visually challenging and architecturally unique building defined by its facade frills. With Sinclair Knight Merz (now Jacobs SKM) the driving consultancy behind the project, Swinburne AMDC is set to become "A hub of excellence in manufacturing and design innovation and collaborative learning."
<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/10310686_10152006012416496_4793694344524739792_n.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Swinburne University"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="512" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/10310686_10152006012416496_4793694344524739792_n.jpg?itok=_lQp_LBl" title="Image © Swinburne University" width="580"></a>
<h2>
	Project Summary</h2>
<h3>
	Swinburne University Advanced Manufacturing and Design Centre @ 453-477 Burwood Road</h3>
<ul>
<li>
		Architects: Jacobs SKM &amp; Wilkinson Eyre</li>
	<li>
		Project manager, ESD, structural/civil engineer, building services, acoustics: Jacobs SKM</li>
	<li>
		Green Star project score: 63</li>
	<li>
		Head contractor: Lend Lease via their Baulderstone division</li>
	<li>
		Initial budget: $100 million</li>
	<li>
		Size: 17,000 squares metres and 11 levels (including two basement levels)</li>
</ul>
<h2>
	Design Highlights</h2>
Externally the facility features heavy use of shaped vertical precast panels which are intended to resemble engine turbine blades. Intended to portray Swinburne's reputation as a leading design and research institute, the frilled facade also provides extensive sun shading while also adding a modern three-dimensional context to historic Burwood Road.
The Victorian-era facade along the Burwood Road frontage has been maintained and incorporated, with the new building set back and designed to 'float' above the heritage feature.
Internally the building consists of two basement levels, dual "Factory of the Future" spaces fronting Burwood Road (see slideshow below) and a sky lobby. Atop the Victorian facade the setback allows for a roof garden according to plans. Also included are lecture theatres, teaching classrooms and workshop space, office accommodation, display areas and student/staff break areas.
<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/Image75.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The then perspective view - now a reality. Image © Wilkonson Eyre Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image75.jpg?itok=4hCaP8a1" title="The then perspective view - now a reality. Image © Wilkonson Eyre Architects" width="580"></a>
<h2>
	Certified Green</h2>
Of the building's green credentials, SKM state the following:
<blockquote>
	One of Swinburne University's main goals was for a facility that minimised resource consumption over its life. To meet this goal the SKM services and ESD teams implemented environmentally sustainable design solutions on the facility which is being certified to 5 star Green Star. This includes the use of exposed thermal mass and radiant cooling, combined with under floor air distribution systems, utilising 100 per cent fresh air ventilation through the principle of displacement ventilation, providing a healthy and comfortable internal environment.
	The design of the atriums contributes to the maximisation of daylight in the building, and doubles as a chimney which utilises principles of thermal stratification to exhaust stale, warm air during summer and collect it in winter to pre-heat incoming air. Other features of the design include LED lighting, greywater recycling, rainwater harvesting, extensive external shading structures, and spectrally-selective glass which allows daylight penetration whilst inhibiting direct solar heat gains.
</blockquote>
NSW-based manufacturer of renewable and low carbon energy equipment, Simons Green Energy, were contracted to install a 230kWe natural gas fired trigeneration plant. A 230kW Ener-G Cogeneration Plant and a 250kW absorption chiller allows the simultaneous delivery of three forms of energy – electricity, heating and cooling via the use of natural gas. According to reports the system carries a total efficiency of 85 percent compared to the 25-30 percent efficiency of grid-supplied electricity.
<h2>
	Comment</h2>
From the adjacent AMDC is a cracking building that brings a unique element to the Burwood Road realm. As good as it is from certain angles, it doesn't necessarily impress from others. Exposed core and rooftop plant coupled with dare I say cheap looking facade panels leaves the viewer less than overwhelmed when viewing from the south.
Nonetheless AMDC along with its slightly older <a href="http://melbournedesignawards.com.au/mda2011/entry_details.asp?ID=10098&amp;Category_ID=4700" target="_blank">Swinburne ATC</a> to the west do complement one another nicely and provide the design statement that Swinburne University sought.
Further reading: <a href="http://www.globalskm.com/About-SKM/Key-Projects/Items/Swinburne-University-of-Technology.aspx" target="_blank">SKM Swinburne AMDC page</a>.
Enjoy the image set below taken in recent days.
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Shoot to frill - Swinburne's AMDC nears completion

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

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Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

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Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

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ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

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For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

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Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

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Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

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Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

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The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

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The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

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The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

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Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

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Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

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Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

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Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

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The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

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The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Mark Baljak

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