Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

Apartments

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Dahua Group's Managing Director William Huang recently sat down with Apartments.com.au to profile the company's upcoming Hawthorn Park development, and their wider intentions for the Australian market.

Exposure for the development is on the rise prior to its public launch next month. Hawthorn Park shapes as one of Melbourne's largest releases for 2017, with 362 dwellings slated for the 12,282sqm site which holds three street frontages; the major frontage is to Camberwell Road.

Located in the burgeoning apartment market that is Hawthorn East, Dahua Group have positioned Hawthorn Park with flexibility in mind. William Huang explains that dwellings, and particularly dwelling sizes and formats have been designed to broaden the project's appeal within the marketplace.

Rothelowman are responsible for both architecture and interiors, designing Hawthorn Park's gamut of living options which sees interiors range between 45sqm and 137sqm.

<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/hpark2.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="What residents of Hawthorn Park can expect"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hpark2.jpeg?itok=nLOdvWAu" title="What residents of Hawthorn Park can expect" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>What residents of Hawthorn Park can expect</figcaption></figure>Apartments aside, Hawthorn Park will feature a string of retail tenancies and dual cafes to Camberwell Road and Burwood Road. At present the only confirmed tenant is DOMO, with the furniture brand accounting for a Camberwell Road space.

Asked what additional features the projects boasts, William Huang states that the project will include Melbourne's first elevated pool that spans separate buildings. A gym, skywalk, cabana lounge, outdoor alfresco dining area, yoga/massage room and cycling workshop form the balance of amenities within Hawthorn Park.

Jack Merlo is responsible for the development's communal green areas, with one zone featuring a hammock lounge.

Quizzed on a likely start to construction, Dahua Group have pencilled in the second quarter of 2018. Hawthorn Park's construction tender process is currently underway.

<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/hpark22.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Jack Merlo's influence at Hawthorn Park"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hpark22.jpg?itok=etl_iFwv" title="Jack Merlo's influence at Hawthorn Park" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Jack Merlo's influence at Hawthorn Park</figcaption></figure>In the broader development picture, Dahua Group maintains a development pipeline of apartments and greenfield estates that will see it through to 2030.

Asked is Dahua Group is specifically looking for additional Melbourne apartment development sites, William Huang explains that if the right site and circumstances arise the developer would act, but their plan of hedging between apartments and detached housing has served them well to date.

Having created separate development arms in both Melbourne and Sydney during 2014, Shanghai-based parent firm Dahua Group joined the flow of Asian-based developers into Australia at the peak of the recent development boom.

In response to a question regarding the restrictions placed upon foreign investment by the Chinese Government and its subsequent effects on developers such as Dahua Group, William Huang is unperturbed. Given the string of restrictionary planning and financial changes make by both state and federal bodies in recent years, William Huang explains that developers in general have ridden those challenges.

As for Dahua Group, it's a business as normal approach to delivering their strengthening development portfolio across Melbourne.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_8556.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Noir South Yarra is part of the Dahua Group project catalogue"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="455" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_8556.jpg?itok=beGBkz75" title="Noir South Yarra is part of the Dahua Group project catalogue" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Noir South Yarra is part of the Dahua Group project catalogue</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Hawthorn Park solidifies Dahua Group's Australian presence

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Enzo Raimondo was kind enough to conduct a far-reaching chat with Apartments.com.au recently. Currently the Chief Executive Officer of view.com.au, Enzo's previous positions included a stint at Real Estate Institute of South Australia and 16 years as the Chief Executive of the Real Estate Institute of Victoria.

With this wealth of experience under his belt, Enzo Raimondo's knowledge of the hot topic that is rental affordability is equal to any in the market.

The chat began with questions regarding the overall state of Melbourne's apartment market, and consequently the state of the local rental market. Enzo explains the overall rental vacancy is hovering between 2.2% and 2.5%, thus from a rental perspective the overall market is understandably tight.

Certain pockets of the CBD and Southbank though have seen higher numbers in terms of apartment completions in recent years, which is a positive for rental affordability albeit in isolated areas.

In terms of prevailing trends within in the rental market, Enzo notes that the current rental market is flush with people who rent based upon lifestyle decisions. This demographic shift sees predominantly younger renters seeking proximity to amenities and employment options, as opposed to sourcing the cheapest possible rental.  

Another non-price related factor influencing the rental market is Melbourne's worsening commute times, and how this impedes lifestyle choices.

It's this scarcity of time and how individuals choose to utilise their limited time, coupled with the scarcity of land and higher dwelling prices which Enzo notes has resulted in higher proportion of Melbourne's population seeking a long-term rental-based solution.

With Melbourne coming off the peak of its largest ever apartment boom and vacancies hovering above 2%, Enzo Raimondo notes the need to address the supply issue longer term. So too does the state government by way of recently introducing the  (Long-term Tenancy Agreements) Bill 2017 to Parliament.

Enzo Raimondo applauds the move which in part seeks to facilitate longer-term rental agreements for tenants, providing certainty beyond a standard 12 month period. Having taken decades to evolve to this point, the bill seeks to equalise the relationship between tenant and landlord, and provide certainty for both parties over a longer period of time.

Enzo Raimondo also places pets on the agenda as a looming issue, given that allowances are generally not in rental agreements. This is particularly more prevalent in inner city apartments blocks which are a far cry from the suburban blocks with backyards that renters with dogs, in particular, are drawn to.

Quizzed on how scaled back foreign investment may mould the rental market, Enzo believes that this will only be a short term influence. Whilst foreign purchasers may dip, Enzo explains that a transitioning market will invariably pick up the slack in terms of purchasing Melbourne investment properties (read: added local rental stock), identifying expats from London and Hong Kong as likely sources in picking up the slack.

This, in turn, ties in with Apartments.com.au's question regarding the glut of vacant apartments across inner Melbourne, as has been reported in recent months.

Citing the low vacancy rate, Enzo Raimondo believes this is, for the most part, a furphy. He does caution though that a proportion of Asian-based buyers in recent years have purchased apartments for their children, whether they are studying in Melbourne and/or living here temporarily, and that this scenario can lead to the perception of masses of empty apartments.

Overall though Enzo Raimondo is not concerned about the perception or future prospect of swathes of empty apartments throughout inner Melbourne, citing Melbourne and Sydney as Australia's international destinations where investors will always be drawn to.

On Enzo Raimondo's relatively new position as CEO of view.com.au, he explains he is now at the helm of one of the nation's most astute website capable of delivering viewers real time property information.

The re-birthed view.com.au is designed to empower the consumer in their property choices, closing the data gap between the end user (the consumer) and agents. Enzo explains view.com.au empowers those who are on the hunt for a property, and the website's booming growth numbers underline this point.
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Enzo Raimondo talks about Melbourne's rental market

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On the back of selling 90% of apartments within the first Victoria Square tower, developer <a href="/developers/growland-group">Growland</a> has launched the second stage of the development located in <a href="/new-apartments/footscray-vic-3011">Footscray's</a> Joseph Road Precinct.

Growland will now pursue the local owner-occupier market even more vigorously in order to account for the bulk of the second tower's sales, having noted a decline in foreign buyer interest of late. The newly released tower has been dubbed VS02 and will include 168 apartments, spanning levels 4 to 21.

This refocusing on the local buyer has seen a diverse number of floorplates and design options made available across VS02; the strategy allows the tower to be an attractive option for as many potential buyers as possible. Growland has also begun single bedroom apartment internals within VS02 from 61sqm, a considerably large size in relation to many other Melbourne apartment projects.

<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/image17vic.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria Square's second stage has been released"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="829" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17vic.jpg?itok=6SDnjxee" title="Victoria Square's second stage has been released" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria Square's second stage has been released</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Interest from foreign buyers is slowing due to regulatory changes, so the market has adapted to meet the preferences of the local owner-occupier market, which is quickly gaining in strength. There are many aspects of a project that need special attention to cater to this demographic. Quality, diversity, and flexibility are crucial.

The scale of Victoria Square and VS02 means we can offer a significantly diverse range of residences. While Victoria Square is fantastic for young professionals, couples, and first-home buyers, there is a large range of larger apartments that are also perfect for young families.

This gives it a unique position in the market place: it will be a truly integrated community in Footscray.
<cite>Ronald Chan, CEO, Growland</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The need to add a study or separate office to apartments has been superseded by the need for flexible work zones. We have integrated flexible nooks and activity spaces throughout the Victoria Square apartments so residents can use these for work, relaxation, or children can use them for homework,” says Kavellaris.

This has meant we can adapt the floorplates to house the bigger bedrooms and living spaces that are crucial to creating apartments that modern families can enjoy over a lifetime.
<cite>Billy Kavellaris, Managing Director, <a href="/architects/kavellaris-urban-design">Kavellaris Urban Design</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image22_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amenities on show within Victoria Square"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="461" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_9.jpg?itok=apD0YdRp" title="Amenities on show within Victoria Square" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amenities on show within Victoria Square</figcaption></figure>VS02's greater design diversity includes three kitchen designs, two colour schemes and a wide array of floor plates. One, two, and three-bedroom apartments are available, and include flexible breakout zones in the living spaces.

Although part of a wider six tower development designed by Kavellaris Urban Design, VS02 will carry interior finishes independent to those of the first tower. On the amenities front, the entire development will include an Australian-first outdoor running track, fitness zones, split-level dining room and a Warde Street laneway retail hub.

The release of VS02 comes as Joseph Road Precinct begins to take shape with major projects either side of Victoria Square in development. 2 Hopkins Street has begun its sales campaign, while <a href="/buildings/riverina-22-hopkins-street-footscray">22 Hopkins Street's</a> first phase is well into construction.

Victoria Square at <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">8 Hopkins Street</a> will be among the urban renewal area's largest developments, having been granted approval for 939 dwellings.
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Growland aims for local buyers as Victoria Square's second stage is launched

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As construction progresses on its initial two Melbourne developments, UEM Sunrise is launching its third local project which shapes as a very definitive presence in Melbourne's high-end apartment market.

Mayfair will account for an existing commercial complex at 412 St Kilda Road. In its place, a $330 million Zaha Hadid Architects-inspired residential tower will rise with only 158 apartments included.

With the St Kilda Road precinct already heavy with apartment projects in development, UEM Sunrise have sought to place Mayfair at the pointy end of the pack. Mayfair's features will include private lift lobbies, a 24-hour concierge service and the opportunity to include custom-designed signature Zaha Hadid pieces within the apartments.

UEM Sunrise have sought to reinterpret the concept of ‘luxury’ from the idea of "ornamental embellishments, the adornment of space and the display of wealth and ostentation."

With Mayfair, UEM Sunrise has chosen to highlight the "unique experiences, personalisation and a sense of place. Mayfair exudes that next level of elegance, appealing to discerning buyers who wish to be a part of a living, breathing piece of Zaha Hadid art.”

<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/image9myf.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mayfair's lobby space"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="351" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9myf.jpg?itok=5nWAEK-7" title="Mayfair's lobby space" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mayfair by Zaha Hadid adorns the lobby space</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We wanted to create a landmark that is equally innovative and spectacular to its predecessors, if not more. We are extremely excited to launch Mayfair with internationally acclaimed Zaha Hadid Architects and Australian-based architecture practice, Elenberg Fraser.

The world’s most liveable city remains a key focus for UEM Sunrise, and Mayfair will add a legacy building to both St Kilda Road and Melbourne’s skyline that is unmatched by others, reinforcing our longstanding commitment to delivering sterling living spaces that resonate with Melbourne’s stature as a truly international city.
<cite>Anwar Syahrin Abdul Ajib: UEM Sunrise Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The location on St Kilda Road is another drawcard for buyers looking to make the move from established inner-city suburbs. Buyers looking for a complete lifestyle change for their encore years want nothing but the best – they want to walk to the theatre precinct, pop into the city for work or go shopping, and spend their leisure time at the nearby gardens and golf courses.

The breath-taking panoramic views of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Shrine of Remembrance, Albert Park and Port Phillip Bay remind them that they are not just in the heart of the action, but that they own a piece of Melbourne’s prime real estate.
<cite>Peter Kudelka: Director at Kay &amp; Burton</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image191_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mayfair's luxury rooftop "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="313" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image191_0.jpg?itok=x2X1WkNd" title="Mayfair's luxury rooftop " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mayfair's luxury rooftop</figcaption></figure>With the St Kilda Road precinct already heavy with premium apartment projects, Mayfair has been billed as offering "a new lifestyle previously unseen in the city’s ever-growing residential landscape, featuring bespoke residences and penthouses."

The 158 apartments range between one and five bedrooms, and from 70 square metres to 556 square metres for penthouses dubbed the Zaha Signature Suites. Pricing is reflective of the project's intended stature, starting from $823,000 and moving on up to $13.1 million for the very <a href="/new-apartments/the-mayfair-412-st-kilda-road-melbourne">best dwelling within Mayfair</a>.

Construction is due to begin during the first half of 2018, placing the project in the midst of a luxury-driven mini development boom which is occurring along St Kilda Road and Queens Road.

Developments such as Opera, K1 Residences, Victoriana and Albert Place Residences have all placed themselves at the luxury end of the market in the precinct.
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UEM Sunrise adds Mayfair to the ultra-luxury apartment circle

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The recent <a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.bdav.org.au_awards&amp;d=DwMD-g&amp;c=M50t_wfPryPkL4C2Nv6aB3q8AWPHmcy6NXnZ7db1zqg&amp;r=goapdA6bgLzr6yrIxf-zMqZi9f7ZqxQMoboCMwCo1eg&amp;m=CR_FEL7bfFqRRcMOAeNdgipiOYI3jYZTU7R_LQTWhWU&amp;s=ky_sWj3K8mYzf6LJOOsbr5MQ5j4ksfCK9SXTGhmZtRI&amp;e=">BDAV Building Design Awards</a> once more showcased the talents and expertise of Victoria's building designers.

2017 was the 22nd year of the BDAV Design Awards, which aims to "profile excellence in building design, as well as profiling the importance of the building design profession to both the building industry and to the broader community."

One project that ticked the boxes was Green Edge. Formerly an open air car park, the multi-residential design not only offers 9 star energy efficiency but also a certified Greenstar rating, demonstrating a holistic approach to sustainability. 

In light of Green Edge winning the category Energy Efficient Design – Residential and securing a commendation for Multi-Residential Design, Urban.com.au posed a number of questions to John Armsby of Armsby Architects, the design force behind Green Edge which was delivered by construction firm Team Building on behalf of developer Richmond Icon.

Urban.com.au: Were Green Edge's heightened sustainability credentials included at the request of the developer, or were you given a free reign of sorts to design as you saw fit?

John Armsby: Given the nature of the site being in such close proximity to a rail line and being off the main shopping strip I suggested to the developer we take this approach and he agreed, as long as it didn’t cost any extra to do so. Therein lay both the task and the challenge.

The project then became a real exercise in what I’d term ‘smart ESD’, meaning that every sustainability initiative had to be justified and ideally function in more than one way. There was no place for token or bolt-on sustainability in this 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/image2ge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Green Edge's pared back foyer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2ge.jpg?itok=hyVcCy9V" title="Green Edge's pared back foyer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Green Edge's pared back foyer</figcaption></figure>UM: Was there an added cost to the project (either in design or build phase) associated with the implementation of the added green/sustainability features? In a roundabout sort of way, I'm asking why do you think developments to this standard are not more common?

JA: There was an obvious Greenstar certification and associated consultant cost with the project but the aim was to try and get items that needed to be there regardless to also work sustainably.

Careful consideration was given to every element of the design and by attempting to make every element serve an alternative use, the additional cost turned out to be absolutely minimal. I’m not sure if every project would present the same opportunities to ‘double dip’ that this project has.

The whole aim of Green Edge was to push the limits of what I’d call Mainstream Green, more or less how to produce a green building without the client even noticing. Many green buildings often look ‘strange’ and are off-putting to many purchasers so I was trying to prove that a green building doesn’t have to look ‘odd’ to still be green.

Initially, I started this project by designing footprints for apartments that I thought would work well energy-wise and how and where they should fit together in the building envelope. That then evolved into an experiment in tweaking every aspect of the layout, eg. dropping window heads by 300mm from the ceiling creates a little heat trap which in turn captures the heating and stops the heated air from escaping.

The heart of this project's success lies largely in its energy efficiency. It has a lot of other great stuff going on but if you can get the heating and cooling requirements right then that is a major advantage for the entire lifespan of the building. Once you get energy efficiency up over 9 stars, the heating and cooling costs are negligible.

Interestingly in this project, I have been able to follow up on power and water use and been able to verify all of the original predictions on consumption have been met or beaten.

The project largely contains no west facing windows with most windows to the western side being turned to face north and being protected with a turret-like fin which also removes overlooking of the neighbours. Balcony depths were fiddled with until an optimum depth for solar efficiency was achieved.

This project also utilises an electric heat pump hot water system. While many argue that there are less greenhouse gas emissions from gas hot water systems, in this case the Owners Corp have the opportunity to have zero greenhouse gas emissions if signed up to Green power.

The hot water system is also partially powered by photovoltaics and uses heat pump technology which results in an ultra efficient solution. Another benefit to this hot water system is that when coupled with Induction Cooktops in the kitchens the entire project has an opportunity to be fossil fuel free. 

This system was accepted by the client because it meant no gas pipework was required throughout the building. Not having to run copper gas piping through the building largely compensated the additional cost of installing this system; additionally, the occupants are only paying one utility supply tariff instead of two.

<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/image3ge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A Green Edge apartment interior"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3ge.jpg?itok=32HuJRtq" title="A Green Edge apartment interior" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A Green Edge apartment interior</figcaption></figure>All south facing apartments are close to the railway so all balconies to the south have wintergardens. This not only creates a very large triple glazed acoustic barrier to the trains but also enormously improves the energy efficiency of the project

The building is full of little things like this that all add up to make it a very special project.

UM: What were the different design aspects of creating a green/sustainable building like Green Edge? For instance, greater cooperation between architect and the ESD team?

JA: In this instance, I had the advantage of being the ESD consultant for the initial design phases of the project. Given I have been right in the heart of the sustainability side of the industry for so long it has now become something that seems to find its way into everything we do, often without even specifically trying.

I did then hand the process over to a specialist sustainability consultant to take care of the Greenstar accreditation process.

I would like to see greater feedback and engagement from Sustainability consultants because there is a lot to be learned from the information and data that software such as Firstrate spits out, which architects can make great use of if they knew what it all meant.

The ratings can be used to tell you the weak points in the efficiency of any project if only you know how to interpret the numbers. Often the problem might simply be that a window is just too large and facing the wrong direction and the room is overheating in summer and losing too much heat in winter and this can be seen in the Firstrate data files.

A problem within the Energy Rating industry is that too many developers only want to achieve the minimum level of efficiency so many raters do not get the opportunity to experiment with pushing the limits of efficiency and really tweaking a design

UM: Can you provide a rundown of the major ESD features that distinguish Green Edge?

JA: Its quite an extensive list, with the vast majority covered below:

<ul>
<li>Glazing oriented to avoid west facing glass</li>
	<li>Any western glass protected with screening devices or frit</li>
	<li>Optimised north facing balconies and south facing wintergardens</li>
	<li>Exposed thermal mass</li>
	<li>Ceiling fans throughout</li>
	<li>Individual ducting to each exhaust fan or range hood</li>
	<li>Individual Energy efficiency less than 30mj/m2</li>
	<li>Sustainably sourced materials with low VOCs</li>
	<li>Electric PV boosted central hot water heat pump system</li>
	<li>Dwelling shut down switch</li>
	<li>Airtight building construction</li>
	<li>High CoP A/C units. These were installed because the Coefficient of performance meant that they would be cheaper to run annually than a stand alone small panel heater.</li>
	<li>Energy efficient lighting with motion sensors and timers to public areas</li>
	<li>Energy efficient fittings and fixtures</li>
	<li>Rooftop clothes drying racks and residents garden with native vegetation planting</li>
	<li>Rainwater tanks</li>
	<li>Recycling of onsite construction waste</li>
	<li>Recycling opportunity of discarded household objects within the building occupants</li>
	<li>1 bike space per apartment</li>
	<li>On-site reduction of parking below statutory rate</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/image4ge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The as yet matured plantings atop Green Edge"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="409" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4ge.jpg?itok=_f72T2wi" title="The as yet matured plantings atop Green Edge" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The as yet matured plantings atop Green Edge</figcaption></figure>UM: Do you have any other projects with similar green/sustainability credentials on the drawing board?

At the moment I have a small project in Port Melbourne which I am looking to construct using mass timber technology. It only has a small footprint but is actually a little taller than Forte in Docklands so will become the tallest residential tower in Australia if I can get it off the drawing board and under construction.

It has very large 3 bedroom and 4 bedroom apartments with only 1 per floor. It also incorporates many of the features of Green Edge, with no gas going into the building and in this instance I want to use individual heat pump hot water systems to each apartment.

It also contains a lot of PV panels however not as many as my Russell Street project (14-22 Russell Street) which has the entire north facing lift and stair core covered in many (thousands) of PV panels. The PV panels are to be used as a cladding system and rain screen to the building

With my latest project being preparing for planning lodgement in Port Melbourne, we are seeking to integrate PV panels right into the facade design. We have been in discussions with a PV panel manufacturer to get custom sized PV panels and have them glazed straight into the facade instead of alpolic or other spandrel finishes.

The cost of PV panels has dropped enormously to the point where this sort of thing is now financially viable. It is now possible to have a facade which can quite literally pay for itself. It is intended that this project will also have Greenstar accreditation but also has a lot of other interesting things going on which we are quite excited about.

That will need to be the topic for another day though.
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John Armsby discusses the merits of Richmond's award-winning Green Edge apartment development

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In the planning sense, <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> currently finds itself coming off an all-time high. Whilst numerous large-scale projects are either at construction or have just been delivered, developers have been somewhat more hesitant to plough on with larger planning applications over the course of 2017.

In between project delivery and initiating the planning process for the next generation of noteworthy buildings, there still remains a mass of applications lodged during 2016 at arguably the tail end of the recent apartment development boom which only now are finding resolution. This tranche of large but not exceedingly large apartment and mixed-use projects will form the backbone of construction across Melbourne in the years to come.

After the turn of the new financial year, an abnormally large number of these pending projects have been given the green light across metropolitan Melbourne, making for a plumper development pipeline.

A cross-referencing of the Apartments.com.au Project Database with the planning platforms of various councils has yielded a substantial number of projects that have been approved in the past two months. Thousands of new apartments and hundreds of student accommodation beds across 20 major projects are now clear to proceed at the discretion of the respective developers.

Whilst August boomed for approvals, part one of this focus on the new wave of approvals will account for July 2017.

<h2><a href="/new-apartments/highett-vic-3190">Highett on top</a></h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image15_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Highett's new tallest. Image: Growland"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="601" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15_10.jpg?itok=vwJ-mr8x" title="Highett's new tallest. Image: Growland" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Highett's new tallest. Image: Growland</figcaption></figure>VCAT paved the way for a planning permit to be granted during July for Highett's new tallest building.

Developer <a href="/developers/growland-group">Growland</a> has commenced soft marketing for what will eventually become <a href="/new-apartments/southpoint-highett-1233-nepean-highway-highett">HoriZon Highett</a>. At 13 levels the <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed building opposite Southland comfortably out does any existing Highett buildings for height, and is expected to contain 200 plus dwellings.

<h2>PDG Corporation primed </h2>

Two of developer PDG Corporation's four forthcoming developments gained the green light during July.

<a href="/new-apartments/west-melbourne-vic-3003">West Melbourne's</a> <a href="/developments/west-melbourne-vic-3003">17-37 Abbotsford Street</a> and <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">611-681 Elizabeth Street</a> shape as two substantial projects for the developer who's current interests also include the Munro site at adjacent to QVM and a prospective Barkly Street, <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a> apartment block.

As initially submitted, 17-37 Abbotsford Street included 200 apartments and a healthy retail aspect, whilst the reworked Elizabeth Street development on the current Melbourne City Toyota site will also yield hundreds of new dwellings.

<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/image17_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Melbourne and Elizabeth Street. Images: DKO Architecture and SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="203" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17_14.jpg?itok=ef9nvl8S" title="West Melbourne and Elizabeth Street. Images: DKO Architecture and SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Melbourne and Elizabeth Street. Images: DKO Architecture and SJB Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Suburban infill</h2>

The <a href="/architects/interlandi-mantesso">Interlandi Mantesso</a>-designed <a href="/new-apartments/31-43-puckle-street-moonee-ponds">31-43 Puckle Street</a> can now be delivered after receiving a planning permit.

Receiving a Notice of Decision during July, the project is spread over 10 levels and includes 84 apartments and an arcade that will host over 1,000sqm of retail space. The project's stand out feature is its multicoloured facade treatment to its southern and western facades.

Another infill development project adding to its respective suburb's apartment-driven credentials is <a href="/buildings/18-lilydale-grove-18-lilydale-grove-hawthorn-east">10-16 Lilydale Grove</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/hawthorn-east-vic-3123">Hawthorn East</a>. With both Lilydale Grove and the adjoining Montrose Street receiving higher density apartment projects in recent years, 10-16 Lilydale Grove is the latest to add to the area's rapidly evolving streetscape.

Residence Company Pty Ltd is behind the <a href="/architects/ellis-group-architects">Ellis Group Architects</a>-designed project that includes 86 apartments and a single retail tenancy.

<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/image18_19.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Puckle Street and Lilydale Grove. Images: Interlandi Mantesso &amp; Ellis Group Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="271" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_19.jpg?itok=pfnaZjQO" title="Puckle Street and Lilydale Grove. Images: Interlandi Mantesso &amp; Ellis Group Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Puckle Street and Lilydale Grove. Images: Interlandi Mantesso &amp; Ellis Group Architects</figcaption></figure><h2><a href="/new-apartments/st-kilda-vic-3182">St Kilda duo</a></h2>

The now demolished Greyhound Hotel at <a href="/buildings/1-brighton-road-st-kilda">1 Brighton Road</a>, St Kilda has received approval for a residential development. Initial plans for the prominent corner site saw <a href="/architects/terry-harper-architects">Terry Harper Architects</a> design an 8 storey building incorporating 43 apartments above 5 retail tenancies.

Approved by VCAT during July, site demolition has been undertaken despite an attempt by Port Phillip Council to gain heritage protection for the landmark structure.

Also nearly, <a href="/developments/st-kilda-vic-3182">190-192 St Kilda Road</a> gained the green light. It is noteworthy simply for its design prowess; small in stature consisting of limited commercial space plus a sole dwelling, the project is big on character with <a href="/architects/peddle-thorp-architects">Peddle Thorp</a> the design force.

<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/image20stk.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The works of Terry Harper Architects and Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="254" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20stk.jpg?itok=TmaA3bGJ" title="The works of Terry Harper Architects and Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The works of Terry Harper Architects and Peddle Thorp</figcaption></figure>Tomorrow Apartments.com.au will highlight the altogether more robust list of approvals granted during August 2017.
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The next wave: 20 freshly approved projects that will further redefine our city

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Continuing from <a href="/news/the-next-wave-20-freshly-approved-projects-that-will-further-redefine-our-city">yesterday's piece</a> covering the boon in recent approvals across greater Melbourne during July, August's approvals and NOD's take precedence below. 

Only last week Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/marriott-confirmed-for-docklands-as-malvern-scores-its-own-substantial-hotel-project">covered the news</a> that<a href="/buildings/the-docklands-residences-3-43-waterfront-way-docklands"> 3-43 Waterfront Way</a> within <a href="/buildings/the-docklands-residences-3-43-waterfront-way-docklands">Dockland</a> gained approval during August, with a new Marriott-branded hotel confirmed for the development. The second part of Melbourne's mid year planning bonanza continues below beginning with other projects that fall within City of Melbourne's boundaries.

<h2>CoM approve</h2>

In the City of Melbourne, after a number of design iterations the residential tower slated for 502 Albert Street, East Melbourne has a planning permit.

Created by DCM Architects, the tower has found resolution after 31 months at planning. The most recently advertised version design saw a 20-storey building intended for the site which overlooks Parliament Gardens. 

Included are 105 apartments which are skewed toward single bedroom abodes, after initially being submitted as an ultra-luxury development.

<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/image28melb.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East Melbourne, North Melbourne and Southbank in clockwise formation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="287" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28melb.jpg?itok=HLCobtrA" title="East Melbourne, North Melbourne and Southbank in clockwise formation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East Melbourne, North Melbourne and Southbank in clockwise formation</figcaption></figure>The planning process for two other developments is all but completed; <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">31 Coventry Street, Southbank</a> and <a href="/developments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">North Melbourne's 15-27 Wreckyn Street</a> both received a Notice of Decision to Grant Permit during August.

The former is an Elenberg Fraser-inspired tower of 120 apartments across 21 storeys for developer <a href="/developers/headland-properties">Headland Properties</a>. It is a redesign amalgamating two separate development sites to create a more substantial scheme with an increased apartment yield and improved resident amenity.

15-27 Wreckyn Street, on the other hand, is UniLodge's latest offering, with hundreds of new student beds sweating on a final permit prior to construction commencing.

<h2>CoPP approve</h2>

Three significant applications within City of Port Phillip can now become bona fide projects. August heralded the approval of <a href="/buildings/saint-moritz-st-kilda-14-16-the-esplanade-st-kilda">14-16 The Esplanade</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/the-charnwood-60-st-kilda-road-st-kilda">54-60 St Kilda Road</a> and <a href="/buildings/park-ave-39-park-street-south-melbourne">37-43 Park Street</a>.

<a href="/developers/barana-group">Barana Group's</a> bid to transform the current Novotel Melbourne <a href="/new-apartments/st-kilda-vic-3182">St Kilda</a> into 236 dwellings can proceed. Under plans conceived by <a href="/architects/metier3">Metier3 Architects</a>, The Esplanade will eventually be home to a collection of townhouses and apartments, with the mix weighted toward larger two and three bedroom apartments.

<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_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Park Street, St Kilda Road and The Esplanade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="403" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image32_8.jpg?itok=8vkIgGhM" title="Park Street, St Kilda Road and The Esplanade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Park Street, St Kilda Road and The Esplanade</figcaption></figure><a href="/developers/spacious-property-development-group-pty-ltd">Spacious Group</a> has also found joy with 54-60 St Kilda Road. The developer now has a <a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball-designed</a> apartment building in its keep, with the initial application calling for 103 apartments and 500sqm of retail space within a 10 level building, which will eventually replace a low-rise commercial building currently onsite.

Elsewhere and <a href="/developers/milbex">Milbex</a> has been successful in increasing the size of its intended tower at 37-43 Park Street, South Melbourne. Dubbed 39W, the tower can now accommodate circa 200 apartments across 20 levels and is a short distance to Milbex's initial project in the area at 52 Park street.

<h2>Middle-ring gains</h2>

387-403 Malvern Road received the go-ahead for Metrobuild Pty Ltd. Under plans devised by <a href="/architects/cbg-architects">CBG Architects</a> the 6 level building can accommodate upwards of 40 dwellings.

<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/image36app.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Airport West, Hawthorn and South Yarra in clockwise formation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="499" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image36app.jpg?itok=gH4pDvux" title="Airport West, Hawthorn and South Yarra in clockwise formation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Airport West, Hawthorn and South Yarra in clockwise formation</figcaption></figure>Key projects in <a href="/new-apartments/hawthorn-vic-3122">Hawthorn</a> and <a href="/developments/airport-west-vic-3042">Airport West</a> also received a Notice of Decision during August.

<a href="/new-apartments/hawthorn-vic-3122">538-542 Burwood Road</a> is primed to add 25 apartments for <a href="/developers/miura-group">Miura Group</a> whilst <a href="/developers/one-pacific-asia-group-pty-ltd">One Pacific Asia Group Pty Ltd</a> is closer to making a mixed-use building at <a href="/new-apartments/83-matthews-avenue-airport-west">83 Matthews Avenue</a> a reality. That project shapes as the first major development within the rezoned Airport West Activity Centre, and as submitted would include apartments, serviced apartments and commercial space.

<h2>Suburban splendour</h2>

<a href="/developments/glen-waverley-vic-3150">Glen Waverley</a> continues to attract a solid stream of higher density projects, with the latest approved being <a href="/new-apartments/glen-waverley-vic-3150">50 Montclair Avenue</a>. The development will see 38 apartments and commercial space over 13 levels, in a scheme devised by <a href="/architects/life-design-architecture">Life Design Architecture</a>.

<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/image40app.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Glen Waverley and Moorabbin's sprawling South Road development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="253" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image40app.jpg?itok=tDDHZ1pq" title="Glen Waverley and Moorabbin's sprawling South Road development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Glen Waverley and Moorabbin's sprawling South Road development</figcaption></figure>With its permit issued mere days ago, the largest project on the agenda is <a href="/developments/moorabbin-vic-3189">420 South Road, Moorabbin</a>.

<a href="/architects/peddle-thorp-architects">Peddle Thorp Architects</a> and <a href="/architects/rpc-architects">RPC Architects</a> have combined for the expansive project that sees hundreds of new apartments and a substantial serviced apartment building approved. As submitted the development consists of five buildings of up to 10 levels across a 20,000sqm site.

420 South Road, Moorabbin was at planning for 14 months prior to its permit being granted.
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The next wave: August's planning approval bonanza

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One of Melbourne's larger infill developments is progressing somewhat under the radar in Williamstown.

Mere kilometres from the CBD, Waterline Place within the bayside suburb is gathering momentum as developer AV Jennings pushes through with the delivery of near on 600 townhouses and apartments in total. Holding a nominal value of $450 million, Waterline Place marked the traditionally greenfield developer's push into Melbourne's apartment market.

Having acquired the sprawling site which was formerly the Port Phillip Woollen Mill and historic Oriental Hotel. AV Jennings now has Waterline Place in full development mode.

First residents were onsite last month within Rosny. The SJB Architects-designed apartment building of some 71 apartments was completed by builder LU Simon at the turn of July, with an adjoining townhouse aspect all bar complete.

According to AV Jennings' recent ASX release, Rosny achieved total presales for the 71 apartments of $42 million, with "the mix of predominantly 1 bedroom plus study and 2 bedroom apartments sold for between $355,000 and $1,200,000."

<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/image21_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rosny apartments at the point of completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="247" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_14.jpg?itok=biAWZ_sf" title="Rosny apartments at the point of completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rosny apartments at the point of completion</figcaption></figure>With Rosny complete, AV Jennings will shift focus to <a href="/buildings/gem-25-windsor-terrace-williamstown">Gem apartments</a> at Waterline Place and further townhouses fronting Kanowna Street.

Gem shapes the precinct's largest development to date, incorporating 92 new apartments and penthouses. The work of design practice Elenberg Fraser, Gem spans 10 levels and includes 28 single, 36 dual and 28 three-bedroom apartments, with the largest spanning 132sqm.

The building garnered its name from the Gem paddle steamer that ferried people from Williamstown to Port Melbourne during the mid to late 1800's. 

In terms of construction, contractor Buildcorp Commercial has carried out early works for Gem.

<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/image22_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gem is the latest building at sales. Image: AV Jennings"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="298" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_8.jpg?itok=OpGkpR9K" title="Gem is the latest building at sales. Image: AV Jennings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gem is the latest building at sales. Image: AV Jennings</figcaption></figure>In line with their work upon Waterline Place's masterplan vision, Elenberg Fraser is also responsible for Lot 8 which shapes as the next apartment building in waiting within the precinct. 

Incorporated are 62 apartments within the building which carries a NSA of 5,081sqm. In the project's current configuration, apartments are split between 8 single, 41 dual and 13 triple bedroom apartments, and are supplemented by 83 car parking spaces and 62 bicycle spaces.

From a design perspective, Elenberg Fraser has referenced nautical shapes and strong horizontality above the podium to create an undulating outcome.

A communal rooftop terrace is included in order to take full advantage of the unimpeded views directly east over Port Phillip Bay.

<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/image20_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lot 8 is currently at planning. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="301" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_10.jpg?itok=LEmQUnet" title="Lot 8 is currently at planning. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lot 8 is currently at planning. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Beyond Lot 8 above, 15 townhouses are also in the pipeline for Lot 4 which fronts Nelson Place. Adjoining the Titanic theatre at 1 Nelson Place, the townhouses span three levels and provide a lower interface to the immediate surrounds.

Furthermore, Hobsons Bay City Council has lots 5,6 and 7 at 3-39 Nelson Place as still at planning. Combined theses future buildings are slated for a further 200 dwellings.
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Williamstown's Waterline Place moves into full development mode

Marriott International&#39;s long held <a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a> aspirations have been confirmed on the back of developer <a href="/developers/capital-alliance-investment-group">Capital Alliance</a> gaining approval for a mixed-use development last week.

The hotel operator will absorb 200 hotel suites within the <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture-designed</a> scheme at <a href="/buildings/the-docklands-residences-3-43-waterfront-way-docklands">3-43 Waterfront Way</a>. 110 apartments account for the balance of the development, with the building to be crowned by a publicly accessible infinity pool and bar/dining facilities.

Capital Alliance&#39;s associated media release expects the apartments to be taken up by owner occupiers, with the project&#39;s sales campaign set for launch later this year.

In delivery phase, the $200 million project is expected to create 500 direct and indirect construction and development jobs, with 100 ongoing positions created as part of the Marriott Hotels &amp; Resorts-branded facility. Construction is slated to start mid next 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/capital_alliance_marriott_approval_view_02_a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The approved new mixed-use Docklands development. Image: Capital Alliance"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/capital_alliance_marriott_approval_view_02_a.jpg?itok=anVBIA2g" title="The approved new mixed-use Docklands development. Image: Capital Alliance" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>The approved new mixed-use Docklands development. Image: Capital Alliance</figcaption>
</figure>

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
This will deliver the first contemporary Marriott to Melbourne and its rooftop infinity pool will give the city an experience it has never seen before &ndash; akin to the renowned pool bars and lounges of New York City. Marriott is the world&rsquo;s largest hospitality company and the opportunity it sees in Melbourne and Docklands is a huge compliment to our city.

We are very excited to get started and deliver on our original vision.

This project will be a true destination in Melbourne and something special that will add to the city&rsquo;s tourism potential.
<cite>Mohan Du, Managing Director, Capital Alliance</cite></blockquote>

<blockquote>
We are excited to bring our flagship Marriott Hotels &amp; Resorts brand to Docklands as part of this visionary, mixed-use project. The hotel will be a flagship in Australia and a true example of the Marriott brand&rsquo;s sophisticated style and innovative functionality. We&rsquo;re grateful for Capital Alliance&rsquo;s support.
<cite>James Doolan, Regional Vice President Hotel Development, Marriott International</cite></blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image13_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Corno Nero's bid for Malvern. Planning image: D-Arc Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_18.jpg?itok=xeAqGq5E" title="Corno Nero's bid for Malvern. Planning image: D-Arc Architects" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Corno Nero&#39;s bid for Malvern. Planning image: D-Arc Architects</figcaption>
</figure>

Meanwhile, <a href="/new-apartments/malvern-vic-3144">Malvern</a> may be in for a substantial new residential hotel project, with a company tied to <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> developer/builder <a href="/builders/cornonero">Corno Nero</a> seeking the right to deliver an 85-suite serviced apartment project.

Accounting for a portion of the Malvernvale Hotel site, <a href="/developments/malvern-vic-3144">1321-1341 Malvern Road</a> has been designed by CBD-based <a href="/architects/d-arc-architects">D-Arc Architects</a> as a five level building consisting predominantly of 24sqm single bedroom suites, with a limited number of larger suites pushing beyond the 50sqm mark.

The project&#39;s ground floor includes an office tenancy of 352sqm alongside various hotel facilities.

The play by Corno Nero for a serviced apartment building along this stretch of Malvern Road follows on from a string of residential projects that have been built or are proposed for the area. According to the <a href="/developments">Urban.com.au Project Database</a>, seven apartment projects in development currently stud Malvern Road.

Marriott confirmed for Docklands as Malvern scores its own substantial hotel project

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Hawthorn's Queens Avenue is emerging as an apartment hot spot of sorts, as developers realise the worth of converting the light industrial and commercial strip into a higher density apartment enclave.

Running parallel to Burwood Road, Queens Avenue now has six apartment developments in progress. The latest to emerge via City of Boroondara is 21-27 Queens Avenue which is seeking to add a further 66 apartments within a 9-storey building.

Leinard Constructions Pty Ltd is the owner and prospective developer of 21-27 Queens Avenue, with Rothelowman tasked the development's design.

<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/image7_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="21-27 Queens Avenue with Queens Avenue and Agustra. Images: Rothelowman, FKD &amp; Ascui &amp; Co"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_14.jpg?itok=3bQG1XAR" title="21-27 Queens Avenue with Queens Avenue and Agustra. Images: Rothelowman, FKD &amp; Ascui &amp; Co" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>21-27 Queens Avenue with Queens Avenue and Agustra. Images: Rothelowman, FKD &amp; Ascui &amp; Co</figcaption></figure>Should 21-27 Queens Avenue progress successfully through planning, it will join a handful of fellow apartment projects bringing change to the area.

Bond Hawthorn and the CHT Architects-designed Queens Avenue Apartments are currently under construction, jointly adding 103 apartments. The former also maintains a second frontage to Burwood Road, as does 563 Burwood Road.

Design practice Ascui &amp; Co currently maintains a relevant presence along Queens Avenue, responsible for three of the six current projects. Along with 563 Burwood Road which backs onto Queens Avenue, Ascui &amp; Co have also created 22-24 Queens Avenue and 4 Queens Avenue which has been marketed as Augusta Apartments.

Although the above three projects have yet to reach fruition, Ascui &amp; Co were also the design driver behind Syracuse Apartments at 8 Queens Avenue; a project of 26 apartments which was completed during 2015 and was the first high-density residential development to grace Queens Avenue.

All told there are 229 apartments currently in development along Queens Avenue; not a particularly large number in Melbourne's larger apartment market, but a sign nonetheless that another well positioned commercial/industrial strip is heading down the path of apartment development.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_6910.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queens Avenue construction activity as seen from Burwood Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6910.jpg?itok=O2XsFadE" title="Queens Avenue construction activity as seen from Burwood Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queens Avenue construction activity as seen from Burwood Road</figcaption></figure>Incidentally, 21-27 Queens Avenue is the fifth current project designed by Rothelowman within Hawthorn to enter the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

Earlier this month, City of Boroondara provided a Notice of Decision for 538-542 Burwood Road, which will see 25 dwellings above a cafe and a retail space within a 7-storey building. The Rothelowman creation went to planning as a green-covered residential building sitting aside the historically significant Zion Particular Baptist Church at 536 Burwood Road.

Other current Hawthorn projects under the Rothelowman banner include the at sales duo of Sierra Hawthorn and The Kent at 382 Burwood Road, plus the approved 9 Montrose Street.

<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/image4_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Kent and 538-542 Burwood Road. Images: CDG &amp; Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="265" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_17.jpg?itok=a7ypExQ2" title="The Kent and 538-542 Burwood Road. Images: CDG &amp; Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Kent and 538-542 Burwood Road. Images: CDG &amp; Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>
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