Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Apartments

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Brisbane's outer suburban Mango Hill is playing host to a major development application that is likely to rank amongst the largest Australia-wide for 2018. The application also reinforces the trend of large-scale apartment projects landing in growth corridor suburbs on the perimeter of Brisbane and Sydney in particular.

Moreton Bay Regional council fielded the application in the past fortnight for 700 plus apartments in the staged development.

Entity Mango Hill Property Pty Ltd is backing the development which is sited across a massive vacant 41,710 square metre plot which has multiple street frontages. Brisbane City-based Ellivo Architects has designed the development which is expected to be delivered over 13 separate stages.

<h2>1785 Anzac Avenue, Mango Hill application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image94_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Application image: Ellivo Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="353" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image94_3.jpg?itok=l6DIpfsN" title="Application image: Ellivo Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Application image: Ellivo Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 41,710sqm</li>
	<li>Anzac Avenue &amp; Mango Hill Boulevard frontages</li>
	<li>13 buildings to 6 levels in height</li>
	<li>715 apartments: 179 x 1BR, 480 x 2BR, 56 x 3BR</li>
	<li>2 retail tenancies amounting to 183.7sqm</li>
	<li>843 car parking bays across basement levels</li>
	<li>4 communal spaces</li>
	<li>Total GFA: 62,698sqm</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design intent</h2>

<blockquote>
Within this framework, Ellivo Architects developed an overall vision for the project which, identifies the key design themes and traits that will help create unique sense of place within the community and establish the bench mark for higher density residential development within the Mango Hill / North Lakes area.

Amongst other things, the vision document identifies the following key design elements which have informed the overall aesthetic and design:

<ul>
<li>Precinct Creation – Each of the communal areas are linked through a consistent landscape expression that continues through the site.</li>
	<li>Cohesion, simple and refined – It is important to establish a common thread of materials and forms that are refined and recognisable.</li>
	<li>Human scale individuality – The units located on the lower two levels of each building will directly interface with the street edge.</li>
	<li>An entry within the landscape – each entry is to sit as a feature within the landscape, marking the entry to each building as a focus point that draws you into the building.</li>
</ul>
PSA Consulting Australia - Planning report
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image96_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Staging plan. Image: Ellivo Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="250" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image96_0.jpg?itok=XlqHfoBA" title="Staging plan. Image: Ellivo Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Staging plan. Image: Ellivo Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Popular in in QLD and NSW, but not so Victoria</h2>

The Mango Hill application is very much reflective of the development model applied to outer suburban apartment projects nationwide in that multiple medium-rise buildings are envisaged in order to roll the project out progressively. 

The strengthening trend of low and mid-rise higher density apartment developments creeping into peripheral suburbs across both Brisbane and Sydney is not necessarily the case in Melbourne's outer suburbs though. Comparatively few apartment projects have made it into Melbourne's growth area corridors.

MAB Corporation's Merrifield and GPC's Mason Point developments well north of Melbourne's CBD is the notable exceptions; since inception they have included higher density living options.

The Mango Hill proposal inserts itself into an area light on for high density development, but heavy with other uses such as education, retail and transport. It underlines Brisbane's drift toward peripheral higher density living, but Sydney is by far and away the most advanced Australian city in this regard.

Multiple locations can be cited where greenfield development applications are heavy with apartment projects. Camden City council's Leppington is a prime example; Urban.com.au keeping tabs on six separate major projects amounting to 1,200 plus apartments within the suburb which is  55 kilometres south-west of Sydney's CBD.

<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/image46_10_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Leppington's 202 Byron Road. Application image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image46_10_0.jpg?itok=5jxjIY_3" title="Leppington's 202 Byron Road. Application image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Leppington's 202 Byron Road. Application image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Mango Hill shapes as one of the nation's largest applications for 2018

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The ‘Agent of Change’ provision has been cited by respondents in relation to a planning application seeking an 8 storey apartment development adjacent to live music venue Howler.

Introduced by the Victorian state government during 2014, the ‘Agent of Change’ principle effectively protects live music venues from residential development. A key planning consideration for Brunswick's <a href="/buildings/archer-8-14-michael-street-brunswick">8-14 Michael Street</a> was whether future occupants would be protected from unreasonable noise impacts emanating from Howler.

Moreland City Council's failure to determine the application within prescribed timelines has seen the proposal book a date with VCAT, with negotiations scheduled prior to a June 25th hearing.

VCAT's involvement though may be streamlined given that Council has been urged by internal planners to recommend a permit be granted by VCAT subject to conditions.

8-14 Michael Street's application garnered 426 objections and presentations to Council from Howler owner Brendan Brogan and Music Victoria. Despite Council planners recommending approval, Moreland City Council elected to reject the application based upon the weight of public discourse.

Brendan Brogan <a href="http://themusic.com.au/news/all/2018/04/27/howler-bar-safe-after-council-rejects-proposed-developments/">was quoted in The Music as follows</a>:

<blockquote>
The councillors rightly believed that 74 apartments next to a live music venue would be problematic. They saw that the design didn’t take into account the Agent Of Change principle and that more design would be needed to enable residents and Howler to co-exist.

It is a massive win for the music industry. It means music venues are genuinely starting to feel the protection of the Agent Of Change law.

They saw that Moreland needed development, but they also saw that live music formed a key part of why people would live in Brunswick.
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image116_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="8-14 Michael Street is still up for approval. Image: SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image116_2.jpg?itok=B62xf8MO" title="8-14 Michael Street is still up for approval. Image: SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>8-14 Michael Street is still up for approval. Image: SJB</figcaption></figure>Moreland City Council's Deputy Mayor, Natalie Abboud was also quoted in The Music regarding the application's perceived shortcomings. "We felt that the interface between it and Howler was too sensitive and the requirements regarding Agent Of Change and sound assessments (specifically related to vibration) had not been fully met."

To counter this, acoustic attenuation recommendations form part of the planning officers report on the intended development which will carry on to VCAT. Acoustic modelling prior to occupancy and testing post occupancy are recommended in order to satisfy concerns, with further works mandated if needed in order to make the apartments compliant with noise level guidelines.

Moreland City Council fielded the initial application for the intended development during December 2016.

Designed by SJB the application includes a mix of 33 single, 38 double and 3 triple bedroom apartments for developer Brunswick Holdings, with apartment sized ranging between 50 and 127 square metres.
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VCAT now the 'Agent of Change' for Brunswick's Michael Street apartments

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The next squadron of mid-sized apartment projects are closing in on a construction start if current build tenders are any indication.

With large-scale apartment projects in somewhat of a lull, small and mid-sized apartment projects have stepped in to absorb current demand. The varied locations of these projects at tender is also set to reinforce the continued proliferation of apartment developments to all corners of Melbourne.

First though a trio of projects that are being retendered due to the demise of contractor Project Group. Having gone to the wall during March, the builder has left a number of apartment projects and their respective developers in a bind.

Curve on Essendon North's Keilor Road was set to begin piling during March, whilst the builds on both Herbert King and Merri Green were in progress.

After a short hiatus the newly selected builders will seemingly have the apartment projects back on track in the weeks to come.

<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/image79_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Former projects under the control of Project Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="480" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_10.jpg?itok=K3E76zlC" title="Former projects under the control of Project Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Former projects under the control of Project Group</figcaption></figure>The remaining nine projects are dotted across Melbourne.

Burbank Group's Edge One in Werribee is at construction tender, with 100 apartments slated for the 10 level building. Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/burbank-advances-plans-for-werribees-riverbend-site">covered the planning application</a> at the turn of the year.

Also on Melbourne's periphery is Gibson Property Corporation's latest apartment release within Mason Point. Set for a public release shortly, the project's tender is for delivery of the final stage within the mixed-use precinct consisting of a six storey build; 55 apartments above multiple retail spaces at ground level.

Swinging to Melbourne's South East and two further projects have progressed to construction tender.

Mercuri at 8 Elliott Avenue Carnegie is poised to join the throng of apartment projects under construction in the immediate area whilst Balfour Development Group is ready to advance Malvern &amp; York. That project consists of 16 luxury apartments across 3 levels, and much like Mercuri it finds itself in the middle of much higher-density construction activity.

<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/image88_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mason Point, Malvern &amp; York and The Rochester are closing to"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="285" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image88_7.jpg?itok=R0CV-WGv" title="Mason Point, Malvern &amp; York and The Rochester are closing to" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mason Point, Malvern &amp; York and The Rochester are close to beginning</figcaption></figure>The balance of projects are within inner city suburbs; Brunwick, Fitzroy, Abbotsford and North Melbourne are all set to see additional construction in the near future.

Breese Apartments in Brunswick was <a href="/news/emphasis-on-sustainable-design-for-milieus-latest-in-brunswick">highlighted earlier in the week</a> whilst 22-28 Courtney Street's sales campaign has seen it also advance to a build tender.

The remaining three projects all front Johnston Street. GURNER's The Spanish Club and The Rochester are both dedicated apartment developments in Fitzroy whilst 344 Johnston Street in Abbotsford is also at tender. The mixed-use scheme for the site was during August last year and looks to be edging closer to reality.
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A dozen mid-sized apartment projects inch closer to construction

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An oddly placed and shaped sliver of land is up for development as City of Port Phillip processes an application for 195-199 Ferrars Street.

Tucked up against a light rail embankment and bound by Ferrars Street and City Road, the narrow site is now subject to a 10 level residential building looking to replace what was the Python Choppers Motorcycle Company digs. The site falls between the South Melbourne Central Activity Centre and Fishermans Bend.

The irregularly shaped and effectively isolated plot holds a roughly 50 metre frontage to Ferrars Street, with little more than 10 metres to City Road.

Tandem Design Studio have handled the design on behalf of 195 Ferrars Street Pty Ltd.

<h2>195-199 Ferrars Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image111_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Versus draft planning controls. Planning image: TANDEM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="362" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image111_4.jpg?itok=-vMYR-yY" title="Versus draft planning controls. Planning image: TANDEM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Versus draft planning controls. Planning image: TANDEM</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 594sqm</li>
	<li>Proposed: 10 storey building plus rooftop terrace at 34m to lift overrun</li>
	<li>47 apartments: 27 x 1BR, 18 x 2BR, 2 x 3BR</li>
	<li>26 apartment types on offer</li>
	<li>21 parking spaces and 21 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>Double storey 228sqm cafe + 140sqm office space</li>
	<li>Estimated cost of development: $16m</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design aspects</h2>

Tandem Design Studio have referenced a handful of South Melbourne buildings and their heritage brick character as influencing the Ferrars street design. Corten steel, glazing and concrete play secondary roles behind the application's use of brick.

<blockquote>
The subject site presents an opportunity to realise architecture deeply embedded in the past, present and future.

Our proposal for 195-199 Ferrars Street acknowledges this rich masonry architectural heritage by choosing brick as its primary material. This choice displaces the current practice of sheathing buildings in glass, reducing embedded energy, heat loads and adding thermal mass.

This banded treatment benefits apartments, creating freedom for furniture placement, enhancing privacy and the opportunity to build in terrace gardens and planted edges.
<cite>Tandem Design Studio: Design Statement</cite>
</blockquote>

Internally the development intends to create 26 separate apartment types with 97% of the included apartments subject to natural cross ventilation. The wide, narrow site leads to apartment floorplates that have been designed to capture as much light and natural ventilation as possible.

It is noted that 17 apartments comply with Better Apartments Design Standards, with the balance falling marginally short of the standards.

<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/image110_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective. Planning image: TANDEM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="372" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image110_1.jpg?itok=LtddrfLf" title="Street level perspective. Planning image: TANDEM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective. Planning image: TANDEM</figcaption></figure><h2>CoPP responds</h2>

Upon assessing the initial application, City of Port Phillip have noted some concerns with the proposal, although the major point of contention related to the building's scale and height.

Town planning consultancy Contour have countered by noting that the site has no sensitive interfaces, based upon its isolated position. Further to this the area directly opposite within Fishermans Bend is the Montague Precinct which is subject to developments spanning up to 18 levels.

195-199 Ferrars Street landed with Council just prior to the new year.
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Tandem tackles a tight Ferrars Street site

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Milieu Property's latest Brunswick residential project is looking to bolster the suburb's growing design-driven credentials in higher density living.

The area in and around Anstey Station, in particular, is establishing a reputation for high-end sustainable and community-driven design, with Milieu's Breese Street the latest project intent on becoming reality. DKO Architecture and Breathe Architecture have collaboratively designed the seven level project which Milieu notes as being their most community-centric to date.

So much so, design presentations took place last week with prospective residents, with the intent of refining the design further. 

This week's round of consultation follows on from a ‘Liveability Survey’ conducted for the project earlier in the year, facilitating the free exchange of ideas on all aspects of the building’s design. One outcome of the design symposium will see Breese Street limited to a maximum of five apartments per floor.

<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/180410_albion_preview.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Breese Street rendered in situ. Image: Milieu Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="814" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/180410_albion_preview.jpeg?itok=0Dm8t-8N" title="Breese Street rendered in situ. Image: Milieu Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Breese Street rendered in situ. Image: Milieu Property</figcaption></figure>With sustainability high on Milieu's agenda, the design team has shadowed other developments in the Anstey precinct by incorporating a highly active rooftop area. Described as a “backyard in the sky”, the building’s rooftop will see a communal vegetable plot plus native plants selected by landscape design practice MALA.

The intent is to create a bionetwork capable of attracting and sustaining butterflies, birds and introduced animals such as frogs.

Rooftop aside, Breese Street is targeting a 7.5 Star Energy Rating, positioning it as one of Melbourne's most environmentally sustainable developments. No energy will be required to heat or cool the building due to the characteristics of the project's design, although a 30-kilowatt PV solar panel system will be incorporated across Breese Street's sloping roof.

<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/180409_b_rooftop_preview.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Intended rooftop terrace. Image: Milieu Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/180409_b_rooftop_preview.jpeg?itok=BGpwQFLa" title="Intended rooftop terrace. Image: Milieu Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Intended rooftop terrace. Image: Milieu Property</figcaption></figure>Additional energy requirements for the development will come from 100% GreenPower purchased by the future owners’ corporation, which "utilises renewable energy sources, off-sets carbon and allows residents to access wholesale energy prices" according to Milieu. 
Further to this, the development is proposed to create or consume no fossil fuels.

Breese Street will join a trio of additional high density residential projects in the Anstey precinct that boast progressive design and sustainability credentials. Apartments.com.au has over recent years reported on <a href="/news/is-this-melbournes-best-new-residential-development">The Commons</a> which was a watershed development in the area. 
Directly opposite The Commons and a stone's thrown from Breese Street is <a href="/news/nightingales-initial-project-reaches-completion-as-more-in-the-series-begin-construction">Nightingale</a>, also the work of Breathe Architecture.

<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/180410_interior_living_00_preview.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Interior space. Image: Milieu Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/180410_interior_living_00_preview.jpeg?itok=9punk4Xd" title="Interior space. Image: Milieu Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Interior space. Image: Milieu Property</figcaption></figure>The trio of developments along with the forthcoming Nightingale Village development further south on Breese Street has prompted Milieu to describe the Anstey precinct as "on the precipice of a housing revolution of international significance." 

Nightingale Village has previously been <a href="/news/nightingale-housing-plans-seven-buildings-across-brunswicks-duckett-street">covered</a> by Apartments.com.au, and will see the collaboration of seven architecture firms in designing multiple buildings that will adhere to the social, environmental and financial sustainability principles of the Nightingale model. 

<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/nightingalevillagemap.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale Village. Image: http://nightingalehousing.org"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="321" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nightingalevillagemap.jpg?itok=PjClHjF5" title="Nightingale Village. Image: http://nightingalehousing.org" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale Village. Image: nightingalehousing.org</figcaption></figure>
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Emphasis on sustainable design for Milieu's latest in Brunswick

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Today marks the official commencement of construction across the Kinnears site in Footscray.

After years of laying dormant, developer R&amp;F Property Australia will turn the sod on the multiphased project which is valued at $750 million. Christened Live City, the development will see various aspects of the 1908 former Kinnears Ropeworks building retained or amalgamated into numerous residential buildings slated for the site.

Ultimately the urban regeneration project may include as many as 1,450 apartments plus retail, commercial office space and multiple publicly accessible areas.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image59_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Live City's initial construction stage. Image: R&amp;F Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="912" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image59_4.jpg?itok=xU9llV2X" title="Live City's initial construction stage. Image: R&amp;F Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Live City's initial construction stage. Image: R&amp;F Property</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The development comes with a vision to create a sustainable hub that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding local neighbourhood, along with increased housing and amenity for Melbourne’s inner west.

We want to create lively communities that have good transport connections, shops, cafes and access to employment and education facilities.
<cite>R&amp;F Property Australia Vice President Thomas Chiu</cite>
</blockquote>

Designed by Elenberg Fraser, the entire project is to be delivered over the next 6-8 years and includes six separate precincts.

Urban.com.au noted that builder LU Simon was <a href="/news/kinnears-and-victoria-square-add-to-footscrays-construction-upswing">onsite as of late February</a> for enabling works, with construction proper now set to commence. Expected within the first stage of Live City which accounts for the western portion of the massive 33,393 square metre site are 208 apartments across three buildings.

LU Simon's aspect of the build reaches 15 levels, with future buildings across the site ranging between eight and eighteen storeys. Currently, demolition works are in progress elsewhere across the site, gradually removing the structure that formerly housed the rope manufacturer. 

<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/live_city_3_preview_0.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial overview of the development in its entirety. Image: R&amp;F Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/live_city_3_preview_0.jpeg?itok=qXXBxyqI" title="Aerial overview of the development in its entirety. Image: R&amp;F Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial overview of the Footscray development in its entirety. Image: R&amp;F Property</figcaption></figure>Post purchasing the Kinnears site from AXF Group during 2016 for a <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/residential/richard-gu-nets-60m-for-footscray-development-site-20140722-jjllw">reported $60 million</a>, <a href="/buildings/live-city-124-188-ballarat-road-footscray">Live City</a> represents R&amp;F Property Australia’s first Melbourne project. Between site purchase and construction commencement R&amp;F Property Australia went through the planning process which included consultation with Maribyrnong City Council and Heritage Victoria in order for all parties to be satisfied with heritage aspects of the development.

Live City's commencement will see it be delivered in unison with another upcoming R&amp;F Property Australia project, in Brisbane's West End.

Earlier this month the developer confirmed intentions for the $500 million mixed-use precinct which spans 1.6 hectares. Expected to accommodate in excess of 1,000 apartments and a new public realm to the Brisbane River under the approved masterplan, R&amp;F Property Australia are chasing adjustments to the masterplan which includes a public plaza and retail/restaurant spaces.

<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/image56_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Brisbane's West End development. Image: R&amp;F Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image56_6.jpg?itok=iQOTdWGi" title="Brisbane's West End development. Image: R&amp;F Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Brisbane's West End development. Image: R&amp;F Property</figcaption></figure>Both the Kinnears and West End projects are in addition to Brisbane 1, which is R&amp;F Property Australia’s maiden Australian development. Hutchinson Builders are in charge of the build which will deliver 744 apartments across 3 towers and which has a 2020 targeted completion date.

R&amp;F Property Australia's penchant for large-scale projects will see their current apartment pipeline across the three Melbourne and Brisbane developments swell beyond 3,000 apartments, with further land holdings in both cities likely to bolster that figure further in years to come.
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Live City Footscray begins construction, pushing R&F's current apartment pipeline beyond 3,000

Brunswick, Brunswick East and Brunswick West's respective apartment markets continue to steam along at pace, regardless of where the wider Melbourne apartment market is at.

A handful of freshly completed apartment developments have been replaced by projects which have begun their construction phase, and a freshly launched development is adding further buyer choice to the market. <a href="/buildings/the-finery-267-277-lygon-street-brunswick">The Finery</a> is the area's latest release and is located across 267-277 Lygon Street.

Consisting of 30 apartments atop a string of retail tenancies, the newly launched development accounts for a single storey nondescript brick building, and finds itself surrounded by fellow apartment projects.

The Finery joins 13 other sizeable apartment projects noted at sales that Apartments.com.au is tracking across the three suburbs.

<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/image49_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Finery is available for purchase. Image: Jellis Craig"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="296" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_9.jpg?itok=jbEU4-vM" title="The Finery is available for purchase. Image: Jellis Craig" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>The Finery is available for purchase. Image: Jellis Craig</figcaption>
</figure>

Directly opposite The Finery, two apartment projects have received their finishing touches in recent weeks. Both designs&nbsp;of CHT Architects,&nbsp;<a href="/buildings/the-burgin-residence-260-274-lygon-street-brunswick-east">The Burgin Residences</a> and East Apartments are now complete and combined add approximately 140 new apartments to the area.

Freshly completed too is CBD Development Group's <a href="/buildings/288-albert-street-brunswick">288 Albert Street</a> in Brunswick, with 269 apartments over two buildings at practical completion at the hand of builder LU Simon. Brunswick West has also notched a completed project in recent weeks; Exner Building completing The Moreland at 444 Moreland Road, taking over the buiild post the collapse of Watersun Constructions.

Hundreds of further apartments are also nearing completion, in the form of Iseo, <a href="/buildings/rima-22-lygon-street-brunswick-east">Rima</a> and <a href="/buildings/8-lygon-street-brunswick-east">8 Lygon Street</a>, all of which are located on Lygon Street.

Despite the flood of newly completed apartment into Brunswick and surrounds, an even larger contingent of projects have just begun, or are about to tip into their construction phase.

<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/image43_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="288 Albert, East and Burgin have reached completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="513" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image43_11.jpg?itok=3Z0ifEap" title="288 Albert, East and Burgin have reached completion" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>288 Albert, East and Burgin have reached completion</figcaption>
</figure>

Demolition onsite signifies that <a href="/buildings/lygon-place-240-lygon-street-brunswick-east">Lygon Place</a> is on the verge of a construction start following its lengthy sales campaign. Its 96 apartments will soon join the approximately 1,470 apartments at construction across the three Brunswicks.

Chief among these projects at construction in terms of size are Blue Earth Group's 300 apartments in Brunswick West headed by&nbsp;<a href="/buildings/the-grove-1-5-olive-york-way-brunswick-west">The Grove</a>&nbsp;and Banco Group's first stage of&nbsp;<a href="/buildings/east-brunswick-village-3-bluestone-way-brunswick-east">East Brunswick Village</a>&nbsp;which includes 223 apartments. Both of these projects are in the early stages of their delivery.

Soon to join the construction rush is the combined <a href="/new-apartments/lt-miller-nightingale-55-nicholson-street-brunswick-east">Lt Miller/Nightingale Brunswick East</a> which has been awarded to Liberty Builders, as is <a href="/buildings/mr-nichols-65-nicholson-street-brunswick-east">Mr Nichols</a> a short distance away. Brunswick East's <a href="/buildings/seamstress-11-13-lygon-street-brunswick-east">Seamstress</a> is also closing in on a construction&nbsp;start.

<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/1715littlemiller_lucentcapital_external_cafecopy_cg_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale Brunswick East is set to begin construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="303" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1715littlemiller_lucentcapital_external_cafecopy_cg_0.jpg?itok=DlAQy4FH" title="Nightingale Brunswick East is set to begin construction" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale Brunswick East is set to begin construction</figcaption>
</figure>

As various apartment projects filter through their respective development phases, additional projects currently before City of Moreland are seeking to fill the breach. Apartments.com.au has already covered major intended projects such as <a href="/news/jw-lands-park-street-proposal-goes-down-a-different-design-path">699 Park Street</a> and <a href="/news/milieu-property-moves-on-lygon-streets-established-apartment-strip">121 Lygon Street</a> over the course of 2018, with a swag of other prospective projects also seeking approval.

Although smaller in stature, the latest application to enter the Apartments.com.au&nbsp;Project Database within the area is Brunswick West's <a href="/new-apartments/134-136-melville-road-brunswick-west">134-136 Melville Road</a>.

Orion Investments Pty Ltd is looking to take advantage of a vacant site by way of a&nbsp;Design Consortia Australia scheme for 15 apartments across a four level apartment block.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/melville.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design Consortia Australis'a Melville Road scheme"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melville.jpg?itok=79K7HOjp" title="Design Consortia Australis'a Melville Road scheme" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Design Consortia Australis'a Melville Road scheme</figcaption>
</figure>

Comings and goings in Brunswick's engaged apartment market

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In a move reflective of a number of RSL decisions in recent years, the Roseville Memorial Club has chosen to development its premises at 62-66 Pacific Highway.

A development agreement between the club and Hyecorp Property Group was conceived during 2017, culminating in last week's lodgement of a development application for the dual fronted 1,375 square metre site. Working under the project name <a href="https://www.newrose.com.au/">New Rose</a>, a new ground floor 759 square metre RSL club would be incorporated under the plans devised by PBD Architects.

Identifying the need to refresh the club whilst also taking advantage of Ku-Ring-Gai's favourable planning controls, the development application seeks 33 apartments above a rejuvenated club space.

A mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments are proposed, as are 3 basement levels incorporating 51 spaces.

<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/image30_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="PBD Architects have designed Sydney's latest RSL redevelopment"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="377" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image30_13.jpg?itok=7ZtLz2vS" title="PBD Architects have designed Sydney's latest RSL redevelopment" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>PBD Architects have designed Sydney's latest RSL redevelopment</figcaption></figure>At the time of agreement, Hyecorp Managing Director Stephen Abolakian provided the following statement on the redevelopment of the sixty year old venue:

<blockquote>
The building of new club premises is essential in ensuring the Club can continue to sustain itself for future generations to enjoy. We will be introducing new facilities and service offerings to accommodate a range of age groups and interests, creating a true community hub.

While an important goal of the redevelopment will be to attract younger members and visitors, we certainly recognise the need to preserve the traditions and attributes that have helped the Roseville Memorial Club become a much-loved community establishment.
</blockquote>

The redevelopment whilst maintaining a presence onsite is a palatable outcome in the eyes of many Sydney RSL clubs, given 31 of the institutions within New South Wales <a href="https://sourceable.net/property-development-imperils-sydney-rsl-clubs/">reportedly closed</a> during 2000-2010 timeframe. 

<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/image32_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kogarah and Bondi RSL developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image32_15.jpg?itok=1MjZAXu7" title="Kogarah and Bondi RSL developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kogarah and Bondi RSL developments</figcaption></figure>A handful of Sydney RSL's are currently in major development mode, seeking more robush outcomes than that of Roseville's.

The Kogarah RSL site is well into construction with the final outcome to include 220 apartments and a 2,000 square metre home for the Club. Bondi RSL's is currently at planning with the intend of creating a $200 million project over 13 storeys containing 124 apartments.

Developer Capital Bluestone will partner with the Bondi branch as it did with kogarah's.

Other intended projects around Sydney include Petersham RSL's transformation into approximately 300 apartments and Merrylands RSL pursuing 401 apartments across multiple buildings at their <a href="/buildings/10-15-military-road-merrylands">Military Road</a> address.

<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/image27_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne's Fairfield RSL site and failed Williamstown development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="234" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image27_14.jpg?itok=FAZxxVh4" title="Melbourne's Fairfield RSL site and failed Williamstown development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne's Fairfield RSL site and failed Williamstown development</figcaption></figure>The trend has taken root in Melbourne, albeit on a lower scale.

Most notable is Grocon and Fairfield RSL's partnership which created a residential opportunity on the site of club land at 7 Railway Parade. A $50 million residential project containing 83 apartments dubbed Greenwich Fairfield is now under construction.

Williamstown's RSL has been sold off with intentions for an early learning centre, replacing earlier plans for an apartment development which also involved Grocon. The latter's intentions were scuppered due to heritage overlays.
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Roseville reinforces the RSL development trend

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Crown Group have lodged their second development application within a month for a large tract of land in Waterloo.

Building D is the second of five separate land parcels within the developer's expansive site which falls across the Lachlan Precinct renewal area. Addressed 44-48 O'Dea Avenue, the development in its entirety will see buildings of up to 20 levels delivered.

For the time being though Crown Group has seen it fit to focus on the smaller-scale aspect of their budding precinct. The freshly lodged Building D at 7 levels is similar in scale to <a href="/news/koichi-takada-designs-crown-groups-next-considerable-residential-project">Building E which was lodged during March</a>, albeit with a lower overall apartment count.

As with the first stage, Koichi Takada Architects have been given the design duties.

<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/image11_22.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Archibald Avenue and Reed Street perspective. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="307" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11_22.jpg?itok=dXav2A5-" title="Archibald Avenue and Reed Street perspective. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Archibald Avenue and Reed Street perspective. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects</figcaption></figure>Building D contains 7 commercial tenancies and 44 residential apartments above 2 levels of basement parking and services. The intended apartment split sees 2 studios, 12 single bedroom, 24 double bedroom and 6 triple bedroom apartments rolled into the building.

Both Buildings D and E maintain similar external gold banding, although Building D's external arrangement is in a vertical configuration. Koichi Takada Architects describe Building D as follows:

<blockquote>
The development is organised in 2 primary masses formed in a L-shape. This comprises of a 4 storey low rise built form along Archibald street, and a 7 storey mid rise fronting Gadigal Ave.

The continuous awning both enhances the streetscape quality and continuous nature of the active street frontage. The upper floors integrate a vertical blade treatment along the facade which assists in breaking down the massing.

As the facade wraps around the building on the three primary frontages, it assists in creating a dynamic facade that helps to break down the apparent mass and visual bulk of the building. The built form is driven by principles of natural ventilation, solar access and visual privacy. 
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image14_16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Crown Group's initial Waterloo site. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_16.jpg?itok=37FzSdoj" title="Crown Group's initial Waterloo site. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Crown Group's Waterloo site. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects</figcaption></figure>Thus far combined apartment numbers between both lodged applications amount to 139.

Both are located within the Lachlan Precinct which forms part of the Green Square Urban Renewal Area. City of Sydney's vision for the Lachlan Precinct is that "it will continue to gradually transition from industrial and warehouse uses to a mixed-use residential neighbourhood with high-quality buildings and public spaces."

Crown Group's development site is strategic in that it holds the major axis intersection. Gadigal Avenue runs north-south and is pegged as a major mixed-use thoroughfare whilst Archibald Avenue is on an east-west setting and is slowly developing as the precinct's main retail and café strip.

Koichi Takada Architects' commentary on Building D's street level interaction included the following:

<blockquote>
Koichi Takada Architects focuses on a design that enhances both public and residential amenity. The ground plane opens to Archibald Ave, with a highly active retail frontage that will invigorate the streetscape and public domain, providing continuous row of retail tenancies.

The primary active frontage faces south while maximising the district outlook and enhancing available amenity.
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image12_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The prospective view from Gadigal Avenue. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="315" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image12_14.jpg?itok=Ug438OFN" title="The prospective view from Gadigal Avenue. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Building D view from Gadigal Avenue. Planning image: Koichi Takada Architects</figcaption></figure>
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Crown Group doubles up in Waterloo

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Urban.com.au whilst onsite during August last year reported <a href="/news/west-melbournes-destination-development-begins-construction">on the progress</a> of one of West Melbourne's largest developments.

At that time, the former Australia Post facility was well into demolition, with display suite staff stating Trenerry Property's West End mixed-use project would begin construction in the last quarter of 2017 under the guidance of head contractor Hamilton Marino. Despite piling equipment appearing onsite twice in the interim, West End has yet to formally start construction.

In the past week, the expansive project has been put back to tender, with submissions set to close during early May. This indicates that an announcement on a builder for West End which sits on a 9,200 square metre site will be revealed around mid this year.

<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/image41_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Mailing is now accepting sales. Image: Trenerry Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="790" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_7.jpg?itok=lkibjPik" title="The Mailing is now accepting sales. Image: Trenerry Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Mailing is now accepting sales. Image: Trenerry Property </figcaption></figure>Despite the pause in construction commencement, uptake across the project has been strong. Buyer interest as seen West End’s newest residential launch, The Mailhouse with its 98 New York-style loft apartments over 11 levels, released for sale.

Addressed 185 Rosslyn Street, The Mailhouse is reflective of the entire development in that it is a collaborative design effort. CHT Architects have teamed with interior design practice Mim Design to create the building which reflects the area's industrial character, utilising raw and natural materials as readily as possible.

<blockquote>
The design of The Mailhouse is completely holistic – the building’s interiors, outdoor spaces and architecture are all in harmony, which creates a harmonious lifestyle.

The interiors take cues from the industrial-style exterior, while also incorporating the sophistication and refined look that we are known for and pride ourselves on.
<cite>Mim Design Director, Mim Fanning</cite>
</blockquote>

The Mailhouse will share amenities with other residents and Adina Hotel guests, which adds to the mixed-use nature of the development. Those amenities for future residents include room service, cleaning on demand, near on 2,000 square metres of gardens designed by Eckersley Garden Architecture, pool and spa, a gym, plus a wine cellar and medical centre.

<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/image40_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kitchen space within The Mailhouse. Image: Trenerry Property "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image40_9.jpg?itok=XrEkkRc8" title="Kitchen space within The Mailhouse. Image: Trenerry Property " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kitchen space within The Mailhouse. Image: Trenerry Property</figcaption></figure>The Mailhouse's release follows on from that of The Adderley's, which utilised Carr Design Group for its interior finishes.

Apartments aside, West End will also see a 4.5 star hotel operated under the Adina Hotel brand and a full line supermarket. 14 restaurants/bars and cafes, the aforementioned medical/wellness centre, a public arcade and a public open space which will be ceded to Melbourne City Council upon completion.

West End's adjoining display suite dubbed the Lifestyle Gallery is reflective of the different design styles offered across West End.

Six Degrees, Mim Design, Carr Design Group and Hecker Guthrie are all responsible for one West End residential building each, with the varying design styles mimicked across the quartet of display suites over differing levels within the Lifestyle Gallery.
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