<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3hvFB2uWTRfEyEcpTSnnK9" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis" target="_blank">Fortis</a>&nbsp;is continuing its stronghold on Sydn​ey’s eastern suburbs apartment market, launching&nbsp;in September&nbsp;its latest boutique&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0GI5S9-wNeiLUnM-d1uYkw" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">Double Bay</a>&nbsp;development,&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YNouJQcFjiTTgVHbgDLA-" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">55 William</a>.

55 William presents&nbsp;just eight north-facing&nbsp;two-bedroom, three-bedroom and full-floor&nbsp;residences to the market, priced from $4.5 million.

The upcoming launch comes just weeks after Fortis secured approval for the $80 million development, its third eastern suburbs approval in two months. Construction is already underway, with completion targeted for 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376250]

55 William adds to a growing concentration of Fortis projects in and around Double Bay, a market the developer has become increasingly active in over recent years.

Fortis previously completed the nine-residence Marmont on New South Head Road, while it is currently developing a mixed-use residential and retail project at 12 Cross Street. Its wider Double Bay footprint also extends into commercial and retail development.

The developer's broader Sydney residential pipeline is particularly concentrated across the eastern suburbs, with projects spanning Doub​le Bay, Ro​se Bay, Wo​ollahra, Dar​ling Point, Poi​nt Piper and Eli​zabeth Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376253]

At 55 William, Fortis has again turned to MHN Design Union, the architecture practice behind several of its eastern suburbs projects, while London-based 1508 London has been appointed to handle the interiors and Wyer &amp; Co the landscaping.

The six-level building will comprise a combination of two and three-bedroom apartments, including a garden residence, full-floor apartments, a sub-penthouse and penthouse. Each residence will have secure basement parking and private outdoor space.

A rooftop terrace for all residents, along with select apartments, enjoys views across Double Bay Harbour and toward the Sydney skyline.

Ceiling heights will reach up to three metres&nbsp;in select residences, while the kitchens will feature natural stone and integrated Gaggenau appliances.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The boutique nature of the project reflects the type of stock Fortis has increasingly targeted across Sydney's eastern suburbs, where larger apartments and smaller buildings are being pitched primarily toward local owner-occupiers and downsizers.

Fortis Group General Manager Ed Eve said the developer continues to see demand from buyers wanting to remain in the eastern suburbs but move into newer, lower-maintenance housing.

“We're seeing continued demand from local owner-occupiers and downsizers looking for high-quality homes that allow them to remain in the eastern suburbs, close to the lifestyle and community they know,” Eve said.

55 William is also one of the early projects to respond directly to the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms. Fortis had previously secured approval for just two townhouses on the 599 sqm site before revising the scheme to eight apartments following the planning changes.

Situated one street back from Double Bay's water's edge, the project enjoys an enviable harbourside setting within walking distance of Double Bay Village and the ferry wharf.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376252]

Fortis has increasingly made the eastern suburbs a major focus of its Sydney pipeline. Beyond Double Bay, it recently completed the 14-residence Piper in Point Piper and has projects underway or planned across Rose Bay, Woollahra and Darling Point.

The developer recently secured approval for Verano in Rose Bay, a six-level development comprising 21 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, also designed by MHNDU.

55 William&nbsp;is soon to be release to the market with VIP appointments commencing early September,&nbsp;with residences priced from $4.5 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152579]

Joel Robinson

Fortis continues eastern suburbs push with 55 William launch

UAE-based developer Arada has unveiled plans for a $2 billion twin-tower apartment development in Broadbeach, marking its first move into Queensland as it continues its rapid expansion across Australia.

Arada will develop 952 apartments across two towers on a prominent site opposite the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the project targeted for completion ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The project represents Arada's largest commitment to the Australian market since arriving in the country in 2024 and significantly expands a local pipeline that has now grown to eight projects and more than 5,000 homes.

It will also be the first major Queensland project delivered by Roberts Co since the tier-one contractor was acquired by Arada Group in 2025.

Plus Studio has designed the Broadbeach development, which will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two towers connected by a landscaped podium.

A significant resident amenity offering will include lagoon and lap pools, a gym, sauna and steam room, alongside a mist room, infrared room and salt scrub facilities. Communal terraces, private dining areas, a library, residents' lounge and work-from-home spaces are also planned. Around 1,200 sqm of retail and hospitality space will occupy the ground floor.

The site puts Arada in one of the Gold Coast's most active apartment markets, directly opposite the convention centre and within walking distance of Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and Broadbeach's dining and retail precinct.

It also has immediate access to the Gold Coast light rail network and sits just a few blocks from the beach.

Arada Group Chief Executive Ahmed Alkhoshaibi said Broadbeach represented an opportunity for the developer to expand beyond its initial NSW pipeline.

“Broadbeach is a world-class address that gives us the canvas to create a community of exceptional design and lifestyle quality that genuinely enriches the daily lives of the people who call it home,” Alkhoshaibi said.

“This is our first development outside New South Wales, and it reflects our growing ambition to grow in key urban markets around the country.”

Alkhoshaibi said bringing Roberts Co into the project would give Arada greater control over the development and construction process.

“Delivering this project through Roberts Co, our own tier-one construction business, means we can bring the quality, pace and accountability that our buyers expect.”

The move into Broadbeach comes as Arada accelerates its Australian expansion following its entry into the market two years ago. The developer has assembled a pipeline of eight projects comprising more than 5,000 homes, while the acquisition of Roberts Co last year gave the group its own Australian construction capability.

Globally, Arada has a development portfolio valued at $50 billion comprising more than 55,000 homes across the UAE, United Kingdom and Australia.

The Gold Coast is emerging as the next major market for the developer, with strong population growth and infrastructure spending ahead of the 2032 Games continuing to underpin significant apartment development across the coastal strip.

Arada plots $2 billion Broadbeach towers in major Queensland move

Sydney’s downsizer market is changing, with a growing cohort of buyers prioritising the right home over simply finding a smaller one.

Coronation Property Head of Sales Cam Porter says the traditional idea of downsizing does not necessarily reflect what many buyers are now looking for, particularly those moving from established family homes across Sydney.

Instead, he says they are increasingly becoming “right-sizers”, seeking lower-maintenance homes without sacrificing the space, amenity or quality they have become accustomed to.

“We are increasingly seeing buyers who are not motivated by the idea of simply moving into a smaller property,” Porter says.

“They are right-sizers. They want a home that is easier to manage and better connected, but they still expect generosity, quality and a floorplan that supports the way they live.”

It is a subtle but important distinction in a market where apartment developers are increasingly targeting established owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377495]

For many of these buyers, moving from a house to an apartment is not driven by a desire to dramatically reduce their living space. Instead, the appeal is in removing some of the maintenance associated with a larger home while retaining generous living areas, storage and enough flexibility to accommodate family and friends.

Coronation’s sales team is seeing buyers place particular importance on natural light, practical storage and additional rooms that can be used as guest bedrooms, home offices or secondary living spaces.

Kitchens and dining areas are also playing an increasingly important role, particularly for buyers who regularly entertain or have children and grandchildren visit.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377494]

“These buyers still want their home to feel generous,” Porter says.

“They may want less maintenance, but they are not looking for less life.”

The challenge for the broader housing market is providing enough of the right stock to encourage that move.

While much of the discussion around Sydney’s housing shortage has centred on the number of homes being delivered, Porter says the diversity of those homes is equally important.

Older homeowners can remain in large family houses for longer when they cannot find an appropriate alternative in the neighbourhoods where they have built their lives.

“The decision is rarely as simple as wanting fewer bedrooms,” Porter says.

“People are weighing up their connection to a neighbourhood, the space they need for family, the quality of the home and whether it will continue to work for them over the long term.”

It also has implications beyond the downsizer market. Providing suitable apartments for smaller households can free up established houses for families who need the additional bedrooms and land, creating greater movement through the housing market.

<h2>Lillian targets the next stage of apartment buyer</h2>

It is a buyer Coronation is targeting at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, its new collection of apartments, terraces and penthouses at Erskineville Village.

Designed by Silvester Fuller, Lillian has been shaped around larger living spaces, natural light and flexible floorplans, alongside landscaped areas, wellness amenity and communal spaces for residents.

The development will form part of Coronation’s broader Erskineville Village precinct, which will combine new homes with green space, retail, hospitality and new pedestrian connections.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377688]

McPherson Park will sit at the centre of the precinct, creating a significant new green space alongside the project’s retail and hospitality offering.

For Porter, the opportunity is to give buyers another housing option without forcing them to leave the part of Sydney they already know.

“People should be able to change the type of home they live in without having to change their entire life,” he says.

“For many buyers, Lillian offers the opportunity to remain connected to the Inner West and the city, while gaining access to a more convenient, walkable and considered way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377687]

Coronation will explore the changing <a href="https://lillianresidences.com.au/news/lillian-x-space-x-downsizers-event-27-august/">right-sizer market at an event on August 27</a>, bringing together experts across property, design and lifestyle.

Held in partnership with SPACE, Poliform and Downsizer.com.au, the event will include a property market outlook from economist Michael Blythe alongside discussion around the considerations facing buyers planning their next move.

Attendees will also be able to learn more about the residences and amenity planned at Lillian Erskineville.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135149]

From downsizing to right-sizing: What Sydney buyers want from their next home

Family-owned builder and developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/omaya">Omaya</a> is bringing its 27-storey The Maybelle development to market, with the 229-apartment tower rising alongside Ismay Reserve near North Strathfield.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-maybelle-21-parramatta-road-homebush-nsw-2140">The Maybelle</a> will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with its height providing elevated outlooks towards the Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge, while other residences will look across neighbouring Ismay Reserve.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/squillace-architects">Squillace Architects</a>, the tower combines its parkside setting with proximity to the established retail, dining and transport amenity around North Strathfield.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376196]

Residences will feature open-plan living spaces and a choice of two interior schemes, while communal amenity is spread across two elevated levels of the building.

Level 8 will be home to the Garden Pavilion, a full-floor resident space incorporating communal entertaining and breakout areas, seating and recreation spaces. Further up the tower, a landscaped Sky Terrace on Level 14 will provide another communal area with panoramic views towards the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline.

At ground level, the development sits directly alongside Ismay Reserve, where lawns, walking paths, children's play areas, picnic spaces and recreational facilities extend the green space available immediately around the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376194]

The Maybelle is also within walking distance of North Strathfield and the Bakehouse Quarter, which provides a mix of cafés, restaurants, shops and everyday services.

Existing rail and bus services provide connections across Sydney, while the future North Strathfield Metro and access to the M4 will add to the transport options available around the precinct. Walking and cycling routes also extend via Powells Creek towards Sydney Olympic Park and its sporting, entertainment and parkland precincts.

Families are also well positioned for access to a broad selection of established schools and education options across Strathfield and the surrounding Inner West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376181]

Omaya has operated in Sydney for more than 35 years, managing projects from acquisition and design through to construction and delivery. The family-owned company is both developer and builder of The Maybelle.

Apartments start from $560,000, with the development protected by 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.

Construction is well underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026 and move-in anticipated from Q1 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134873]

The Maybelle brings 27-storey parkside tower to market near North Strathfield

Melbourne developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pdg-corporation">PDG</a> has unveiled its vision for the former Water Tank Site in Ivanhoe, which would see it transformed into a thriving residential neighbourhood, complete with a 2000 sqm public park.&nbsp;

Delivered in partnership with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a>, the proposal would transform the prominent corner of Bell Street and Upper Heidelberg Road into a connected community comprising two residential buildings, generous public open space and shared amenities.&nbsp;

The vision includes 287 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with a minimum of 10 per cent allocated to affordable housing, alongside a 2,000-square-metre publicly accessible park featuring a children's playground, activity lawn, indigenous planting, timber climbing logs, seating areas and a rock gathering circle.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>, the proposal draws on the site's industrial heritage, using a robust architectural language that references the former water tank through expressive structural elements and durable, self-finished materials.&nbsp;

Extensive landscaping has been woven throughout the development, creating a living landscape that strengthens connections to nature while responding sensitively to the surrounding neighbourhood. Two residential buildings ranging from three to 12 storeys are linked by a landscaped forecourt, creating a welcoming arrival experience and improving pedestrian connections through the site.&nbsp;

Residents would also enjoy more than 1,000 square metres of communal open space, including barbecue and dining facilities, vegetable gardens, landscaped seating pavilions and a dedicated coworking space.&nbsp;

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the vision reflected an opportunity to transform one of Ivanhoe's most recognisable sites into a place that balanced housing, community and landscape.&nbsp;

"This is an opportunity to reimagine an important site and create a neighbourhood that delivers lasting benefits for Ivanhoe," Giuliano said.&nbsp;

"We're creating much more than new homes. The vision brings together affordable housing, quality architecture, meaningful public open space and shared places that encourage people to connect, while respecting the site's history and its place within the local community."&nbsp;

Development Victoria’s Executive General Manager Precincts, Niall Cunningham, said the application is an important step for the government-owned site.&nbsp;

“This is about delivering more homes in a well-connected location, along with public open space that the Ivanhoe community will benefit from for years to come,” Cunningham said.&nbsp;

PDG was selected as development partner in late 2025 following a competitive tender process.&nbsp;

A planning submission for the project is currently being progressed through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program, with positive early engagement from both Banyule Council and the Department of Transport and Planning.

PDG unveils plans to transform landmark Ivanhoe Water Tank Site

Albert Road

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Albert Road is currently subject to a mini wave of apartment projects as developers seek to cash in on the already popular residential sub precinct.

Split between South Melbourne 3205 and Melbourne 3004, Albert Road and the immediate block either side sees no less than nine separate apartment developments in the works, with the smallest project sporting 50 dwellings.

The progressive morphing of Albert Road begins with detached single dwelling blocks at its westerly edge and transforms into a mini high-rise enclave toward St Kilda Road, or what will become Domain Station/Interchange.

Overall the nine projects highlighted below look set to add as many as 1,060 new apartments into the area, with none yet to advance to construction.

<h2>Largest of the lot</h2>

GURNER's latest residential development landed with City of Port Phillip during November, with its current status listed as at appeal.

The work of Elenberg Fraser, 7 Bowen Crescent is expected to accommodate approximately 200 apartments on a triangular site which is now a distinctively angular low-rise commercial building.

A more recent application comes in the form of a conversion of the current multi-level car park found at 2 Bowen Crescent. Chinese-backed Wuzhong Albert Pty Ltd is behind the $67 million scheme, with Plus Architecture handling the design.

At a height of 65 metres, the proposal calls for 214 apartments, 206 car parking spaces and 697 square metres of retail space.

<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/image69_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bowen Crescent is set for change"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="254" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image69_3.jpg?itok=j3Qd5JL8" title="Bowen Crescent is set for change" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bowen Crescent is set for change </figcaption></figure><h2>Kavellaris influence</h2>

Kavellaris Urban Design are responsible for two recent planning applications. 

159 Eastern Road is subject to a residential proposal on behalf of Le Tet Property Group Pty Ltd which is both the owner and prospective developer of the land. 78 apartments are included over the 12 level building which features a distinctive facade highlighted by perforated metal screens.

Another project at 180 Albert Road is Sydney-based AUSWIN TWT's first Melbourne development. Dubbed New Life Melbourne, the glass-clad building incorporates 101 apartments above two retail spaces, with 23 three bedroom dwellings set over the upper levels.

Submitted to City of Port Phillip during November, the current status of 180 Albert Road is listed as at appeal.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image59_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="159 Eastern Road and 180 Albert Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image59_2.jpg?itok=xiZhicHG" title="159 Eastern Road and 180 Albert Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>159 Eastern Road and 180 Albert Road</figcaption></figure><h2>Off Albert and on the radar</h2>

Three smaller apartment  projects are found off Albert Road within South Melbourne, headed by GURNER's at sales 74 Eastern Road. Elenberg Fraser feature once again as the design lead with 85 apartments set to be created.

Likewise Lakehouse Apartments on Palmerston Crescent is also available for purchase.

Developer Enshine Property is championing the project with Lakehouse representing their first Melbourne endeavour following extensive property experience within China's Shanxi region.

Palmerston Crescent also plays host to Carter Group's intended residential pursuit. Plus Architecture created the project at 61-65 Palmerston Crescent which has been at planning for the best part of 19 months. 50 apartments are expected within the 13 level project.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image68_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="South Melbourne is set to gain some additons"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="731" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image68_5.jpg?itok=72Ca06Jy" title="South Melbourne is set to gain some additons" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>South Melbourne is set to gain some additons</figcaption></figure><h2>Elenberg Fraser double up</h2>

<a href="https://urban.melbourne/planning/2015/02/03/planning-for-a-south-melbourne-double-dose">Covered during early 2015</a>, Elenberg Fraser's back to back residential towers have met differing planning outcomes.

The curvy 13-21 Palmerston Crescent ultimately found success via a trip to VCAT, with listed developer Round Bay Pty Ltd now free to proceed with the next phase of the development process. Included within the tower are near on 200 apartments set above ground floor commercial and retail spaces.

Not so fortunate was 28-32 Albert Road. Submitted at the same time as 13-21 Palmerston Crescent, it has gone back to planning with a revised scheme before City of Port Phillip.

Now more angular in appearance, the tower has also been revised from an initial 146 apartments down to 72, split almost evenly between two and three bedroom apartments. Evidently developer Lintime Pty Ltd has repositioned the proposal to capture the luxury apartment buyer.

<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/image67_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elenberg Fraser's proposed and approved additions"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image67_0.jpg?itok=fe9nUkaA" title="Elenberg Fraser's proposed and approved additions" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elenberg Fraser's proposed and approved additions</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

1000 new apartments set for Albert Road and surrounds

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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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