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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It's not every day an intended project can lay claim to being the largest mixed-use development outside of Melbourne's CBD.

Clayton will soon enough host <a href="/buildings/m-city-2107-dandenong-road-clayton">M-City</a>, a massive project on a 35,000sqm site located at 2107-2125 Dandenong Road. Controlled by local developer Nick Saraceno for the best part of 25 years, the long-dormant site's new launch as M-City comes after previously being referred to as the Nova Centre.

Having been in the works for a decade, the state planning minister of the day became the approving authority for the project during 2009, with the green light granted thereafter.

Schiavello have since been enlisted as joint developer alongside Saraceno Group for M-City, which at the time of approval carried a price tag of $600 million.

<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/image36mc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of M-City's first stage. Image: CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="193" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image36mc.jpg?itok=1VTiv6PW" title="Artist's impression of M-City's first stage. Image: CBRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of M-City's first stage. Image: CBRE</figcaption></figure>Stage One of M-City sees 170 one, two and three bedroom apartments on offer, with apartment internals ranging between 46sqm and 102sqm. CBRE have been installed as the master sales agent.

Beyond the initial apartment release, three additional residential buildings are in the works, as is a 225-suite international hotel, 189 serviced apartments and a commercial office building. During planning the commercial aspect consisted of a seven-level office building containing approximately 13,000sqm of leasable space, although the final figure under the M-City banner is unclear.

Kmart and Woolworths have been earmarked as anchors for the sizeable retail portion of the mixed-use project, with a cinema complex also in the works.

Long serving project architects Buchan Group continue to oversee the project, tweaking the approved plans to create M-City. Amenities include the ubiquitous pool and gym, a landscaped rooftop garden, tennis facilities, open air games area and  BBQ space. M-City will also host a child care 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/image39_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of an M-City apartment interior. Image: CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="257" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image39_7.jpg?itok=-fVSMJTE" title="Artist's impression of an M-City apartment interior. Image: CBRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of an M-City apartment interior. Image: CBRE</figcaption></figure>Such a scale of M-City, it has been listed as a stand-alone future activity centre within the Monash National Employment and Innovation Cluster.

In the middle of the Victorian Planning Authority's freshly released <a href="https://vpa-web.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Monash-NEIC-framework-plan_March2017_WEB.pdf">Draft Framework Plan</a> for the Monash Cluster, M-City will be surrounded by the largest concentration of jobs outside of the Melbourne's CBD. An ongoing target for a number of large commercial and institutional developments, Monash Cluster includes Monash University's ongoing transformation and the Frasers-backed 60,000sqm commercial development at <a href="/news/a-commercial-mini-city-beckons-as-melbournes-southeast-flourishes">254-294 Wellington Road, Mulgrave</a>.

Construction on M-City's first phase is slated to begin later this year, with an approximate construction timeframe of 18 months expected.
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silvermb

Melbourne's largest mixed-use development outside the CBD lands in Clayton

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Perhaps in line with the current market sentiment, the release of apartment projects within Fishermans Bend for public purchase has been sluggish at best.

The recent green light for 134-142 Ferrars Street brings to 14 the number of residential projects within the Apartments.com.au Project Database which hold approval within the Urban Renewal Area, but have yet to go to sales. Put another way, these 14 projects equate to approximately 4,800 apartments that are being held back by developers.

Looking to buck the trend is the developer behind SOUTH, Fishermans Bend's latest release.

Australia Ruiyi has cemented its local intentions with SOUTH, a $48 million creation of Rothelowman. At 15 Thistlethwaite Street, SOUTH includes 69 apartments across an eight level building capped by a 'Rooftop Club'.

<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_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="SOUTH includes a rooftop dining space. Image: Australia Ruiyi"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image12_7.jpg?itok=6KqT1CRS" title="SOUTH includes a rooftop dining space. Image: Australia Ruiyi" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>SOUTH includes a rooftop dining space. Image: Australia Ruiyi</figcaption></figure>Backed by Chinese developer Ruiyi, SOUTH is Australia Ruiyi's vanguard project. It along with future developments in North Melbourne, Coburg and Diamond Creek sees the new developer's local portfolio valued at $400 million.

On SOUTH and Melbourne's underlying strength, General Manager of Australia Ruiyi Rachel Wang provided the following statement:

<blockquote>
SOUTH is located in one of Melbourne’s most affluent areas, with a high concentration of renters and a great local atmosphere. 

Located just 3km from the CBD with a Walkscore of 92, and a local population set to increase by 91.9% over the next 20 years, we see South Melbourne as a key strategic suburb to either live or invest in. It’s no secret that Melbourne has a strong property market; it is consistently ranked as the world’s most liveable city, has strong population growth, good schools and a thriving employment sector.
</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_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="PM Port Melbourne and Vivid are also at sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_15.jpg?itok=FGfJbsCl" title="PM Port Melbourne and Vivid are also at sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>PM Port Melbourne and Vivid are also at sales</figcaption></figure>The developer's confidence in the project is high, with SOUTH currently at construction tender prior to the project officially being launched later this month.

SOUTH's pending launch means it along with <a href="/buildings/pm-port-melbourne-320-plummer-street-port-melbourne">PM Port Melbourne</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/171-183-ferrars-street-south-melbourne">Vivid</a> are the three major developments currently at sales within Fishermans Bend. Whilst pending sales speculation revolves around a handful of projects such as <a href="/new-apartments/15-85-gladstone-street-south-melbourne">15-87 Gladstone Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/lilix-51-59-thistlethwaite-street-south-melbourne">51-59 Thistlethwaite Street</a>, only two residential projects have to date advanced to construction within the massive Urban Renewal Area.

As the backlog of approved projects mounts, the next wave of planning applications within Fishermans Bend has come through during the initial months of 2017.

Applications have been lodged for 112 Salmon Street, 253-273 Normanby Road and 365-391 Plummer Street. In excess of 1,000 apartments are planned for the trio of sites which are controlled by Gunnersen, R Corporation and Third Street respectively.
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SOUTH looks to buck a sluggish Fishermans Bend trend

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The humble nursery continues to provide developers with sizeable redevelopment opportunities across Melbourne.

Latest to the public eye is the former Going, Going Green nursery within Hawthorn which has been christened Sierra. The apartment development on the corner at Burwood Road and Drill Street is the latest release by expanding Doncaster East-based developer JD Group.

Having secured the site reportedly for $30 million, JD Group have created a new purpose for the roughly 7,000sqm site.

<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/image6_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a Sierra Hawthorn interior. Image: JD Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_14.jpg?itok=qh9DujPm" title="Artist's impression of a Sierra Hawthorn interior. Image: JD Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a Sierra Hawthorn interior. Image: JD Group</figcaption></figure>Architecturally the building has been described as a dynamic architectural statement which "ventures beyond pure aesthetics to create a tremendous sense of space via its unique ‘S’ shaped configuration. A staggered roof line and shimmering exterior finishes present a building that blends seamlessly with its surrounds."

"Nestled within the building’s elegant curves sit two, large landscaped courtyards that deliver intrigue and a broad outlook by departing from traditional urban clichés."

Internally, JD Group have elected to provide one, two and three-bedroom configurations, with four- bedroom terrace homes also on offer.

<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_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alexa Essendon is well into construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="280" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_14.jpg?itok=A2440Gqt" title="Alexa Essendon is well into construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alexa Essendon is well into construction</figcaption></figure>As Sierra gears up for its sales launch, another example of a nursery transitioning into a major apartment development is nearing construction completion in Essendon.

The former Essendon Plant Farm/Direct Plants centre across 1048-1060 Mount Alexander Road was purchased by Accord Property Group, and now hosts Alexa. 95 apartments and a ground floor retail tenancy are set across the 2,003sqm land holding. 

Designed by ClarkeHopkinsClarke, the building spans seven storeys above a double level basement. Buildcorp Commercial are applying the finishing touches to the building, which also has frontage to Allison Park.

<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/image2rlc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amenities space within the Warrigal Road development. Planning image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="324" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2rlc.jpg?itok=x2o9cv-c" title="Amenities space within the Warrigal Road development. Planning image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amenities space within the Warrigal Road development. Planning image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>Also in the wings is 695 Warrigal Road, Chadstone which as of last month gained a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning Permit. The proponents for the former Flower Power Garden Centre are all but assured in their push to realise a major residential redevelopment for the site.

Entity Chadstone Investments Pty Ltd are behind the development application. Initially seeking heights of up to 11 storeys, City of Monash have decreed that the development be allowed to proceed with two seven storey apartment buildings, 11 standalone townhouses within a three storey building, a child care centre, supermarket and additional retail tenancies.

Spanning 50,821sqm, part of the site is used as a homemaker centre, with the development to be located across the former plant nursery portion of the massive land holding.

<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/image3rlc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Townhouses fronting Collins Street form part of the development. Planning image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="319" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3rlc.jpg?itok=3nsury4W" title="Townhouses fronting Collins Street form part of the development. Planning image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Townhouses fronting Collins Street form part of the development. Planning image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>
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A green thumb's loss the developer's gain

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May 2017 has thus far brought with it a string of cold mornings and a rash of news relating to various developments across Melbourne's CBD.

On the planning front, VCAT have delivered good news to interests seeking to turn the historic Phillips Shirts building at 274-278 Little Lonsdale Street into a substantial tower. Originally planned as a 59-storey residential tower, the design has been substantially clipped to approximately 100 metres in height or 30 levels.

278 Little Lonsdale Pty Ltd is the entity behind the tower which has now been approved for hotel use. Brady Group are the controlling force behind the project, perhaps suggesting that 274-278 Little Lonsdale Street may be developed under the Brady Hotels banner, in a similar move to what the developer has in store for 109-111 Little Lonsdale 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/image135_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Exhibition Street perspective."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="259" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image135_3.jpg?itok=XkwCc9Op" title="A new Exhibition Street perspective." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Exhibition Street perspective.</figcaption></figure>Also widely reported last week is the news that Malaysia's SP Setia have crucially been given the green light from City of Melbourne to pursue redevelopment of 288-326 Exhibition Street. Under the plans dual towers approaching the height of Rialto will be constructed, with unconfirmed whispers that Shangri-La assume control over the development's 500 hotel suites.

Final approval rests with Planning Minister Richard Wynne.

Continuing the hotel theme is news of construction tenders being released for a new Vivo Hotel at 33-35 King Street. Originally approved for 120 apartments across 29 levels, developer BPM have reworked the scheme after purchasing the site, with Elenberg Fraser reportedly installed as the architect of choice.

In projects sales news, 555 Collins Street is due to launch shortly with the project's display suite freshly complete. Replacing a drab existing onsite office building, the Bates Smart-designed tower will stand 47 levels upon completion.

<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/image162.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="555 Collins Street's envisaged pool deck and Paragon Apartments "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="271" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image162.jpg?itok=hpI9chHK" title="555 Collins Street's envisaged pool deck and Paragon Apartments " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>555 Collins Street's envisaged pool deck and Paragon Apartments</figcaption></figure>555 Collins Street adds to Fragrance Group's other Melbourne pursuit, Premier Tower, which will over the coming months begin to rise above street level on its way to an eventual height of 249 metres above Spencer Street. 555 Collins Street's launch comes as the AFR reported last week on Paragon's early sales success within Malaysia. 

49 apartments within the tower located at 316-320 Queen Street have been sold to to Malaysian buyers; accumulated the sales have an end value of $70 million.

Finally the construction front also brings fresh news during May.

Probuild signage has appeared across 271 Spring Street, heralding construction commencement of Australian Unity's new headquarters. The $110 million office tower set over 16 levels includes 15,600 square metres of commercial office space and is due to be completed during 2019.

<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/image158.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Probuild's dual new commercial CBD projects. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image158.jpg?itok=pUqP26Vs" title="Probuild's dual new commercial CBD projects. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Probuild's dual new commercial CBD projects.</figcaption></figure>Probuild are also <a href="http://www.probuild.com.au/news/news/probuild-appointed-as-preferred-contractor-to-construct-new-victoria-police-centre-482">set to begin works</a> on Victoria Police's new building at 311 Spencer Street this month. Across 39 levels, 311 Spencer Street encompasses 65,000 square metres of commercial space.

Finally the remaining tower crane servicing Light House at 450 Elizabeth Street is making its way back town to terra firma, indicating that completion is nearing for Melbourne's latest tower to reach the 200 metre club. Hengyi Australia's latest includes over 600 apartments within the 218 metre tower. 

<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_0059.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Light House stands centre of shot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0059.jpg?itok=X6FTQwpW" title="Light House stands centre of shot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Light House stands centre of shot</figcaption></figure>
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The May CBD development wrap

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Augmented planning rules introduced over recent years has made it impossible for the 'skinny skyscraper' to grace the vast majority of inner Melbourne's skyline. That is, after a number of eyebrow-raising developments were approved under now defunct planning regulations.

Whilst the <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">CBD</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> may be off limits, a proposal has landed upon Elizabeth Street that looks to keep the typology viable in Melbourne. Kerstin Thompson Architects are the driving force behind <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">656-658 Elizabeth Street</a>, with the hope of realising a 15-storey tower on a 169sqm site.

Carrying a 7.9m frontage to Elizabeth Street, the site also fills in another relatively minuscule plot along the thoroughfare that has been subject to intense development over the past decade.

<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/image129_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A street level perspective. Planning image: Kerstin Thompson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="452" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image129_0.jpg?itok=irF_1OXN" title="A street level perspective. Planning image: Kerstin Thompson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A street level perspective. Planning image: Kerstin Thompson Architects</figcaption></figure>Whilst not a skyscraper in the strictest interpretation, 656-658 Elizabeth Street does fall into the 'skinny' category, with the project's particulars reflecting this.

Ground floor will host a 21.6sqm retail tenancy with the immediate two floor above hosting offices; both of which carry 123sqm floor plates. Apartments planned within the tower are varied in size, ranging up to four bedroom dwellings set over split levels. 10 dwellings will be included within the tower which will be serviced by 3 basement levels.

In order to facilitate the development, an 1870's era building onsite will be demolished.

A former foundry, the single-storey structure falls within the Elizabeth Street North (Boulevard) Precinct is a graded heritage building. The development's proponents argue that its loss and the subsequent tower "will not have an unacceptable impact on the character, appearance or identified significance of the heritage place that is...Elizabeth Street North (Boulevard) Precinct."

<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/image128_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Phoenix Flinders Street &amp; Collins House. Images: Bosco Johnson &amp; Golden Age"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image128_2.jpg?itok=yhsVaNnw" title="Phoenix Flinders Street &amp; Collins House. Images: Bosco Johnson &amp; Golden Age" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Phoenix Flinders Street &amp; Collins House. Images: Bosco Johnson &amp; Golden Age</figcaption></figure>Although not of their scale, 656-658 Elizabeth Street is reminiscent of Phoenix Apartments and <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">Collins House</a>; both super skinny residential towers.

Prior to Planning Minster Richard Wynne's regulatory intervention, towers such as Phoenix Apartments were touted as becoming more prevalent across Melbourne's CBD owing to the decreasing number of viable large sites available for development. Rising 28 storeys, the site which Phoenix Apartments sits upon spans a mere 6.7m.

Perhaps better described as a skinny tower, 656-658 Elizabeth Street's fate is with City of Melbourne. Lodged during January, the Elizabeth Street project is currently at advertising prior to City of Melbourne deciding whether there is still a place for the skinny tower in Melbourne.
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Is there still a place for the 'skinny skyscraper' in Melbourne?

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A beachside location in the Gold Coast with development approval for 38 apartments has been listed for sale by Savills.
The site at 3550 Main Beach Pde &amp; 33 Pacific Street, Main Beach, has views over the ocean, the Broadwater and south to Surfers Paradise and beyond.
The site area is 1,510 sqm and the zoning is multi-unit.
The DA approval provides for 38 end-user apartments and 22 levels.
The site is close to Tedder Avenue Restaurants, Marina Mirage and Versace International Hotel and shopping.
Apartments designed for end users are in very short supply in Main Beach, according to listing agent Kevin Carmody
He said this was the “last development opportunity on Main Beach Parade”.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Beachside site with approval for apartments in the Gold Coast listed through Savills

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PACE Development Group have pushed further into the suburban apartment market. Adding to their already impressive list of residential apartment projects is news that the firm will be involved in two new developments.

Whilst the wraps are due to come off a significant project in Melbourne's South East in which PACE will be a development partner, there's no mistaking their newest development at 554-558 High Street Road, Mount Waverley.

PACE as developer is seeking approval for 90 dwellings across the Mount Waverley site, replacing two low-rise brick commercial buildings which themselves form part of the Syndal Activity Centre along Blackburn Road. Staggered to a height of 8 levels, 554-558 High Street Road has been designed by Cera Stribley Architects.

Two basement levels and three ground floor tenancies form the balance of the development, with one space earmarked as a medical centre. Above, a mixture of one, two and three bedroom apartments are expected, ranging between 50sqm and 129sqm respectively.

<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_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="High Street Road perspective. Planning mage: Cera Stribley"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="294" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image116_1.jpg?itok=U5GeEyUk" title="High Street Road perspective. Planning mage: Cera Stribley" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>High Street Road perspective. Planning mage: Cera Stribley</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The proposal is broken up into three distinct blocks - The Podium that addresses High Street Road and the rear carpark and recreational reserve, The Sandwich, which creates an immediate layer and The Crown, that floats above.

The primary design element is the grid. A simple yet powerful architectural expression that provides a balanced and subtle design response. This well refined expression ensures the building co-exists within its surroundings without trying to be overly striking, attention seeking or iconic.
<cite>Design Statement: Cera Stribley Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

The site in question covers 2,619sqm and has a 61.5 metre frontage to High Street Road. According to plans advertised with City of Monash, the project's complexion will be a mixture of glazing and metal cladding. Bronze, pale grey charcoal and white elements will define the building's look.

Cera Stribley Architects are also the design force behind another PACE development under construction, namely Pace of Northcote.

<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_9054.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Making way for Pace of Doncaster East"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9054.jpg?itok=aHyVHrx1" title="Making way for Pace of Doncaster East" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Making way for Pace of Doncaster East</figcaption></figure>PACE Development Group's stable of current projects has expanded into virgin suburbs in recent times.

Mount Waverley joins Collingwood, Abbotsford, Doncaster East, Brunswick and Northcote as suburbs in which PACE has a current development interest. All six current projects also represent PACE's first foray into the respective suburbs, and a marked departure from the inner South East where PACE effectively served its development and construction apprenticeship.

With the recent commencement of works at Pace of Doncaster East, this brings to four the number of PACE projects under construction. The remaining projects at construction include Pace of Collingwood, Pace of Northcote and 808 Sydney Road.

<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_9847.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Looming large over Sydney Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="395" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9847.jpg?itok=Y3lIQ-kw" title="Looming large over Sydney Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Looming large over Sydney Road</figcaption></figure>
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PACE push further into Melbourne's suburban apartment belt

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Mirvac has ushered in the completion of another tower within its long-running Yarra's Edge enclave. 

Forge Tower is the latest building to welcome residents to Docklands; it along with a series of low-rise townhouses represent Mirvac's first gesture within the final Wharf’s Entrance sub-precinct. The continued push by Mirvac westward within Yarra's Edge and into the final Wharf’s Entrance stage comes 17 years after the developer began formulating the precinct that holds well over one kilometre of Yarra River frontage.

Valued at $200 million, Forge includes 228 apartments within the 30 storey, 100 metre tower and was built over a two year period.

<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_9684.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The bulk of Forge's apartment maintain a CBD aspect"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9684.jpg?itok=htQ6lzwD" title="The bulk of Forge's apartment maintain a CBD aspect" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The bulk of Forge's apartment maintain a CBD aspect</figcaption></figure>Aiding Forge's apartments are 302 parking spaces, 84 bicycle spaces and 229sqm of retail space at ground level, which interfaces with the new Wharf's Landing park.

Mirvac's in-house design team were responsible for the tower's overall design, and have included a broad selection of apartments within. The spread of apartment options includes five one and two-bedroom artist studios, 10 one-bedroom lofts, 56 one-bedroom apartments, two two-bedroom maisonettes, 111 two-bedroom apartments, five three-bedroom terraces and 39 three-bedroom apartments ranging up to 151sqm in size.

Artist and sculptor Ned Kahn had a hand in the design process, contributing ’Fluid Lines’ to the tower's podium. The kinetic urban art installation to the corner of Lorimer Street and Regatta Way relies upon the wind to drive ripple-like movements across the podium facade.

<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_9687.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Forge's kinetic facade element"><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_9687.jpg?itok=hvBPyMUl" title="Forge's kinetic facade element" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Forge's kinetic facade element</figcaption></figure>In a media release marking Forge's completion, Mirvac’s General Manager of Residential Victoria, Elysa Anderson provided the following:

<blockquote>
Wharf’s Entrance transforms what was once an old wharf, and follows the success of Yarra’s Edge to date in creating one of Melbourne’s most culturally vibrant and liveable communities with unparalleled waterfront access, a realisation of Mirvac’s purpose to reimagine urban life.

The completion of Forge is a momentous event for Yarra’s Edge, which is now home to a lively community of more than 3,000 people.

We are proud to be one step closer to realising our vision for the precinct – which has been more than 17 years in the making - of a well-connected neighbourhood of diverse residents who enjoy an enviable waterfront lifestyle, while being just a stone’s throw away from the best of what Melbourne’s CBD has to offer.
</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/img_9680_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium apartments within Forge's podium"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="399" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9680_1.jpg?itok=8ysPFU45" title="Podium apartments within Forge's podium" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Podium apartments on show</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

As recently as last week, negative media reports continue to dog Docklands.

And the negative commentary in some regards is justified - Docklands for the most is by no means the design and urban Shangri-La that many had hoped for.

Yet it is highly successful in certain regards. The flood of residents and white-collar workers to the 'new' suburb that effectively doubled Melbourne's CBD is an undisputed success and is evidenced by the 3,000 odd residents that choose to call Yarra's Edge home.

As precinct's such as Yarra's Edge continue to add new residents, its will be intriguing to see if this 'critical mass' of people goes some way to creating more of a '24 hour' feel within Docklands, rather than the '9 to 5' moniker it has attracted.

<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_9683.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The oversized podium design gesture"><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_9683.jpg?itok=stV-b2Mm" title="The oversized podium design gesture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The oversized podium design gesture</figcaption></figure>
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Mirvac forges a new chapter within Yarra's Edge

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LongRiver Group have ramped up their Box Hill development intentions. The privately owned property player is poised to launch a major apartment tower fronting Whitehorse Road whilst simultaneously working to secure the right to build Melbourne's latest DoubleTree by Hilton outlet.

820 Whitehorse Road's redevelopment came to light early last year, with Whitehorse Council ultimately granting LongRiver Group the right to proceed with the 30 storey building just prior to the turn of 2017. Valued at around the $200 mark, <a href="/buildings/east-central-tower-820-whitehorse-road-box-hill">East Central Tower</a> as it will be known is now accepting registrations of interest.

Included within the tower designed by Fender Katsalidis are approximately 280 apartments, 1,500sqm of residential facilities plus 3,000sqm of combined office and retail space.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image111_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East Central Tower is nearing its sales launch. Image: Longriver Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="832" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image111_3.jpg?itok=b-m7nOYO" title="East Central Tower is nearing its sales launch. Image: Longriver Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East Central Tower is nearing its sales launch. Image: Longriver Group</figcaption></figure>East Central Tower's pending launch comes as LongRiver Group work on bringing DoubleTree by Hilton to Box Hill.

Integrated property and infrastructure consultancy APP have released details of the intended DoubleTree by Hilton tower at 874-878 Whitehorse Road. Whitehorse Council are still assessing the project which landed at planning late last year.

<blockquote>
The new hotel, to be developed in the <a href="/developments/box-hill-vic-3128">suburb of Box Hill</a>, will be the second DoubleTree by Hilton in Melbourne. Box Hill is a major commercial hub in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs and is an area of strategic significance with planned growth in employment, housing, business, services and public investment.

Currently in the design phase, the hotel will include 200 stylish and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar and gym coupled with an array of contemporary amenities consistent with the DoubleTree by Hilton brand. 

DoubleTree Hilton is renowned for delivering upscale, full-service hotels and identifying key markets around the world, and the new development is no exception. Expected to open in 2020, the hotel is in a prime position surrounded by education, government and healthcare facilities and is anticipated to inject a fresh, energetic presence to the Box Hill area.
<cite>APP </cite>
</blockquote>

874-878 Whitehorse Road has an expected project value of $90 million.

<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/image114_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="DoubleTree by Hilton is headed for Box Hill. Image: APP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114_3.jpg?itok=ealmaEpR" title="DoubleTree by Hilton is headed for Box Hill. Image: APP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>DoubleTree by Hilton is headed for Box Hill. Image: APP</figcaption></figure>Whilst Box Hill has over recent years transformed into a favoured apartment market, it's only now that the suburb has gained traction in terms of attracting hotel operators.

DoubleTree by Hilton's 200 suites will follow The Chen, an Art Series Hotel containing 100 suites which is nearing completion as part of the larger Whitehorse Towers development. Also in play atop the hill are 150 approved hotel suites within Spotlight Property Group's 845-851 Whitehorse Road project and 77 serviced apartments as part of Golden Age Group's proposed 517-521 Station Street development.
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Doubletree by Hilton and East Central Tower define LongRiver's Box Hill aspirations

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There's movement regarding a number of imposing skyscrapers planned for Southbank.

The Planing Minister has granted approval for 51-65 Clarke Street during April, allowing developer Newcity Development (One) Pty Ltd to proceed with the hulking 70 storey tower. The twisting multi-coloured design by Elenberg Fraser which tops out at 233m would rank the tower among Southbank's tallest, although still well short of the suburb's tallest approved tower - 1 Queensbridge Street at 323m.

Spanning a GFA of 52,313sqm, 51-65 Clarke Street consists predominantly of 512 apartments, supported in turn by 327 bicycle bays and 120 car parking 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/image72_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="51-65 Clarke Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="417" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image72_2.jpg?itok=nka0KwWu" title="51-65 Clarke Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>51-65 Clarke Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Although well in excess of the desired Southbank/CBD plot ratio, both Melbourne City Council and the Planing Minister saw fit to support the project.

<blockquote>
With a proposed height of 233m and setbacks that comply with the requirements of DDO10, the development will not overwhelm or dominate the public realm or adjoining buildings

As the development exceeds the maximum plot ratio of 24:1, the applicant is required to demonstrate a public benefit contribution. With the provision of a new through block link between Catherine Street and Hancock Street and contributions to nearby streetscape upgrades and projections actions with the City Road Masterplan and Southbank Structure Plan, it is considered that the plot ratio of 30.8:1 can be supported.
<cite>Report to Future Melbourne Planning Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

Also offered in principle support last month by Melbourne City Council was 87-105 Queensbridge Street. With Melbourne City Council's support or otherwise a prudent indicator as to whether a project will receive support from the Minister's office, 87-105 Queensbridge Street is now seemingly in the box seat to receive the green light.

If approved, the 170m tower would prove to be a boon for developer Aohua Sheng Le Property Pty Ltd.

Whether they choose to develop or move the site on, a permit for 852 apartments on Southbank is a substantial outcome. The planning application is also seeking the right to add 312 bicycle bays and 453 parking spaces within the Fender Katsalidis-designed project. 

87-105 Queensbridge Street's apartment split sees 354 single bedroom, 471 dual bedroom and 27 triple bedroom dwellings within the edifice which holds a massive GFA of 113,401sqm.

<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/image73_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="87-105 Queensbridge Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="443" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image73_4.jpg?itok=06TQZqvO" title="87-105 Queensbridge Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>87-105 Queensbridge Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>As the above duo navigate the planning process, a further two projects are looking for new owners as their current vendors choose to offload their respective assets.

38 Freshwater Place is the higher profile project of the duo up for sale. Knight Frank and CBRE have jointly listed the project, with its EOI campaign closing mid May. Up for grabs is the right to deliver a 273m mixed used tower featuring apartments, a hotel component and retail. After picking up the site at the turn of 2016, PCT Development &amp; Management have chosen to move on the trophy property.

Rounding out the Southbank do-si-do is 127-129 Kavanagh Street, which - save for a couple of months of piling activity at the turn of 2017 - has been dormant for some years. Designed by Squillace, 127-129 Kavanagh Street's approved permit allows for 780 apartments and multiple retails space across two towers, with the taller at 48 storeys. 

The above two projects are particularly valuable given the planning changes implemented over recent times, restricting height and density, and therefore apartment yield within the suburb. 

<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/image76_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="38 Freshwater Place &amp; 127-129 Kavanagh Street. Images: Knight Frank &amp; Squillace"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="287" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image76_2.jpg?itok=EosnoaVC" title="38 Freshwater Place &amp; 127-129 Kavanagh Street. Images: Knight Frank &amp; Squillace" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>38 Freshwater Place &amp; 127-129 Kavanagh Street. Images: Knight Frank &amp; Squillace</figcaption></figure>
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