The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

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>

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

Apartments

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Site purchase and demolition for one of Footscray's key renewal sites occurred during 2012. Thereafter the Binks Ford site has seen precious little activity.

But now plans are afoot for an intensive redevelopment of the 9,047sqm plot which abuts the Footscray rail corridor.  Developer AVIC Developments Pty Ltd is seeking the green light for 412 dwellings across four separate residential buildings, with the tallest maxing out at 10 levels.

Dubbed 'Cowper Village' within the application, 34 Cowper Street was sold some years ago by Places Victoria. In a push to regenerate the massive land holding, AVIC Developments Pty Ltd has teamed with architects ClarkeHopkinsClarke. 

<h2>34 Cowper Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image55_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed development's northerly aspect. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="564" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image55_6.jpg?itok=P0SBVfgG" title="The proposed development's northerly aspect. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed development's northerly aspect. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Vacant 9,047sqm site with 166.7m street frontage</li>
	<li>Proposed residential development of 412 dwellings across 4 separate buildings</li>
	<li>16 x townhouses, 192 x 1BR, 194 x 2BR, 10 x SOHO</li>
	<li>Maximum building height: 10 storeys or 31.7m</li>
	<li>4 retail tenancies: total of 518sqm available</li>
	<li>Provision for 196 vehicles and 84 bicycles</li>
	<li>Cost of development estimated at $100 million</li>
	<li>Ground, Level 1 and rooftop green spaces</li>
</ul>
Current plans for 34 Cowper Street are modest from a height perspective, relative to a number of earlier site-specific designs created (as seen below), and relative to the scale of development throughout the adjacent Joseph Road Precinct.

Indeed ClarkeHopkinsClarke's initial submission for 34 Cowper Street was significantly higher; 7 levels have been lopped from earlier plans in order to comply with preferred building heights under local built form guidelines. The loss of 7 levels hasn't demonstrably affected to total project apartment yield, with 33 less dwellings across the project.

Further design changes following Maribyrnong City Council's initial feedback also see a reworked open space plaza, enhanced pedestrian connectivity and amendments to the internal laneway.

<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/image57_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site concepts by Plus Architecture and Peddle Thorp Architects which advanced no further."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image57_6.jpg?itok=Tr2gGNiU" title="Site concepts by Plus Architecture and Peddle Thorp Architects which advanced no further." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Site concepts by Plus Architecture and Peddle Thorp Architects which advanced no further.</figcaption></figure>With Jospeh Road Precinct all but accounted for, and the Kinnears site <a href="/news/rf-property-australias-first-melbourne-project-enters-the-starting-gates">ready for its sales launch</a>, 34 Cowper Street is the last of Footscray's 'super sites' to enter planning. Beyond the Binks Ford redevelopment, smaller-scale blocks such as Ryco at 11-19 Whitehall Street and the 501 Receptions site at <a href="/new-apartments/495-507-barkly-street-footscray">501 Barkly Street</a> represent the next largest development sites in the pipeline.

The additions of 34 Cowper Street to the Apartments.com.au Project Database boosts the overall number of apartments monitored by Apartments.com.au within Footscray to an impressive 7,400. This figure is spread across 37 separate projects, with the majority of apartments found within Joseph Road Precinct.

Of those 7,400 plus apartments under 500 are at construction, alluding to the massive growth in Footscray's population that awaits.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image56_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A broadside development perspective. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="270" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image56_4.jpg?itok=DNs5j1ul" title="A broadside development perspective. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A broadside development perspective. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure><h2>34 Cowper Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: AVIC Development Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect &amp; Urban Context: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</li>
	<li>Planning: Hellier McFarland</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Sustainable Management Plan: F2 Design</li>
	<li>Environmental Noise Assessment: Marshall Day</li>
	<li>Wind Assessment : MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Landscape Plan: MDG Landscape Architects</li>
	<li>Statement of Environmental Audit: Golder Associates</li>
	<li>Social Impact Assessment: Ratio Consultants</li>
</ul>
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silvermb

Footscray's Binks Ford site finally in line for development

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The large-scale redevelopment of Richmond's former Jaques engineering complex has been marked by an number of onsite dedications.

Dating back to 1885 and with frontages to Palmer, Coppin, Dyer and Griffiths Streets, the 9,945sqm site's engineering heritage has been permanently embossed across the site. Planning Minister Richard Wynne and Riverlee Group's Clement Lee were recently onsite to unveil plaques dedicated to the Jaques family; these are in addition to the many original engineering sketches and blueprints dotted throughout the build.

The recent event signified completion of the $290 million redevelopment backed by Riverlee Group and Macquarie Real Estate Equity Funds, and which has been delivered in stages. Overall the Fender Katsalidis-designed complex includes 377 apartments and 17 townhouses, car parking provisions, two landscaped courtyards, a rooftop terrace and four retail tenancies.

2,530sqm or 30% of the site is provided for amenity, underpinned by Dyer Street, who's unveiling was marked by Yarra City Council's Lord Major Amanda Stone and Jack Dyer Jr.

<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/jaques_unveiling_of_historical_panels-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Commemorating Jaques' place in Richmond's history. Image:supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="704" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jaques_unveiling_of_historical_panels-1.jpg?itok=m6bRyEqP" title="Commemorating Jaques' place in Richmond's history. Image:supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Commemorating Jaques' place in Richmond's history. Image: supplied</figcaption></figure>After picking up the Jaques site during 1997, Riverlee Group and Fender Katsalidis reworked initial plans for the site to provide a heightened design outcome.

Works began an Stage One during 2012, with this month's event heralding the completion of the entire project which includes three separate buildings. Following on from Stage One's Boiler Shop Building &amp; Hammermill Apartments, and Stage Two's 5 Tonne Apartments &amp; Iron Works Building, Palmer Street was completed earlier this year.

Palmer Street includes 22 one bedroom, 23 two bedroom and 10 three bedroom apartments in a highly articulated building designed to be the precinct's most luxurious offering.

<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/image44_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Differing aspects of the now completed Jaques development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image44_0.jpg?itok=YsEAxaGb" title="Differing aspects of the now completed Jaques development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Differing aspects of the now completed Jaques development</figcaption></figure>Architect Karl Fender of Fender Katsalidis was on hand to walk Apartments.com.au through the completed project, paying much attention to the project's street-level interface along the way.

Upon taking on the project, Fender Katsalidis effectively scrapped the existing development scheme which Karl Fender described as being highly unsympathetic to the surrounding low-rise street character. Under the new design, Stage One saw the retention of the existing brick facade which was worked into the development, with higher levels set well back.

The scaled brick theme continues across Stage Two's lower levels, with Stage Three/Palmer Street a nod to modern design. Copper panels, white polished pre-cast framing, metal features and copper framing provide the building with a modern character.

Dyer Street is a cross-site link that includes the retail tenancies at ground level. Set on a skewed axis, it's expected that Dyer Street will link up with a new pedestrian link to be created on the opposite vacant site that will soon be home to the new <a href="http://www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/Pages/Schools/Richmond-High-School.aspx">Richmond High School and community-based Multi-Purpose Facility</a>.

On the corner of Palmer and Dyer streets the original main visitors entry from the original industrial building has been retained, with viewable displays charting the site’s history and paying tribute to Richmond icon Jack Dyer.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image43_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Jaques Stage 1. Image:supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image43_5.jpg?itok=-ydSGr8L" title="Jaques Stage 1. Image:supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Jaques Stage 1. Image:supplied</figcaption></figure>Jaques Richmond was the initial project between architect and developer, and has since spawned further projects.

<a href="http://riverlee.com.au/projects/108-flinders-street">108 Flinders Street</a> was completed during 2014 and features a Tract Landscape Architects-designed internal courtyard and 190 apartments. The <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">Northbank Goods Shed</a> is next on the duo's agenda, with Fender Katsalidis preparing plans for a mixed-use tower containing apartments and hotel suites.
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Karl Fender provides insight as Jaques Richmond reaches completion

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Lendlease is set to push ahead with the final stage of its Victoria Harbour development at Docklands, after receiving Ministerial approval for its Collins Wharf master plan earlier this week.

The primarily residential master plan for Collins Wharf will include an extension of Collins Street down the peninsula to the water’s edge, servicing more than 25,000sqm of public realm. A health and wellbeing centre with public swimming pool and gym, low rise waterfront SOHO's and approximately 1,500 new residences can be expected within the new waterfront neighbourhood.

Jackson Clements Burrows (JCB) in collaboration with Aspect | Oculus have developed the master plan, deliverable over five stages or 8 years. Collins Wharf's unique location along the end of the Victoria Harbour peninsula provides future built form the opportunity for dual waterfront aspects - the Yarra River to the south and Victoria Harbour to the north. 

The master has been designed to respond to the site’s history, built form and vernacular in a contemporary reinterpretation, with maritime-inspired roof forms and brick and timber textures - a reference to the site's industrial past. Additionally, sustainability remains a key driver for the precinct following Victoria Harbour’s recent achievement of a 6-star Green star Communities rating from the Green Building Council of Australia.

The already under construction No. 1 Collins Wharf, designed by Bates Smart, forms part of the existing Victoria Harbour master plan.

<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/victoriaharbour_s060_photomontage_03_final_2000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria Harbour + Collins Wharf approved Master Plan. Image: Lendlease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/victoriaharbour_s060_photomontage_03_final_2000.jpg?itok=d3HbhdfW" title="Victoria Harbour + Collins Wharf approved Master Plan. Image: Lendlease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria Harbour + Collins Wharf approved Master Plan. Image: Lendlease</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The Collins Wharf development will take advantage of Victoria Harbour’s existing retail and public space, including Library at The Dock, Community Hub at The Dock, Knowledge Market and more than 80 dining and entertainment options – while adding diverse new public spaces.

The design of this precinct offers future residents panoramic views and world-class public realm that maximises the unique waterfront location. Once complete, a pedestrian and cyclist promenade will enable people to walk, cycle or run all the way around the 2.5kms of the Victoria Harbour waterfront.

Following our consultation with the local community in 2015 and engagement with authorities over the past 18 months, I’m confident that our Collins Wharf vision will present one of Melbourne’s most desirable locations for residents, visitors and local workers to enjoy.
<cite>Mark Menhinnitt, Managing Director of Urban Regeneration, Lendlease</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/victoriaharbour_s010_designstudios_-_final_2000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Collins Wharf is set to provide small scale spaces for creative enterprise. Image: Lendlease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="304" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/victoriaharbour_s010_designstudios_-_final_2000.jpg?itok=ybuTDhrd" title="Collins Wharf is set to provide small scale spaces for creative enterprise. Image: Lendlease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Collins Wharf is set to provide small scale spaces for creative enterprise. Image: Lendlease</figcaption></figure><h2>KEY FEATURES</h2>

<ul>
<li>Extension of Collins Street as a tree lined boulevard to the water’s edge.</li>
	<li>High quality public open space that will encourage pride of place, support community wellbeing and create opportunities for water engagement.</li>
	<li>Located at the western tip of the Wharf, Eco Park will be an environmental oasis with native grasses, large specimen trees, an innovative floating wetland and access to the water’s edge.</li>
	<li>A diverse range of residences including coveted Collins Street terraces.A state of the art health and wellbeing centre located at the water’s edge.</li>
	<li>Small scale waterfront SOHO commercial / living space, offering a unique opportunity for boutique creative enterprises.</li>
	<li>Reduced car travel through the provision of pedestrian and cycling links and access to existing public transport connections.</li>
	<li>‘Yarra Walk’, a unique promenade experience to Docklands, creating a ‘water on both sides’ pedestrian experience.</li>
	<li>Approximately 1,500 residences over five buildings, with every home featuring high quality apartment layouts to maximise natural light and water views for every home.</li>
	<li>Residences will include a range of one, two and three bedroom apartments as well as the prestigious four level town homes lining Collins Street.</li>
</ul>
 The first Stage, No. 2 Collins Wharf (incorporating approximately 320 apartments), is expected to commence construction in 2018.

<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/yarra_walk.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Yarra Walk promenade. Image: Lendlease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="377" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/yarra_walk.jpg?itok=BCYyWOwZ" title="Yarra Walk promenade. Image: Lendlease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Yarra Walk promenade. Image: Lendlease</figcaption></figure>
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Laurence Dragomir

Lendlease's Collins Wharf Master Plan - the final piece of Victoria Harbour

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Straddling Brunswick East and Fitzroy North, Nicholson Street is in the midst of a development boom. Apartments.com.au is keeping tabs on approximately 1,000 new apartments currently in development toward the northern end of the increasingly popular thoroughfare. 

Due to the increasingly limited number of development sites along <a href="/buildings/east-brunswick-village-3-bluestone-way-brunswick-east">Nicholson Street</a>, and particularly those with a large footprint capable of handling hundreds of apartments, Nicholson Street is currently at the zenith of its development potential. 10 separate apartment projects are now in play, with the majority at sales or under construction.

By far the largest project is Banco Group's East Brunswick Village, which is a large-scale urban renewal project on the site of the former Tontine Pillow Factory. 

Hand in hand with the recent commencement of piling onsite is the project's reconfiguration of Lots 1 and 2. This initial stage of East Brunswick Village will see a slight increase in apartments to 307 (split between 218 x 1BR and 81 x 2BR), increased retail space equating to 4,254sqm, and an increase in both car parking and bicycle 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/image95_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An early East Brunswick Village render along with current piling works onsite"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="214" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image95_1.jpg?itok=1Rmz4UDz" title="An early East Brunswick Village render along with current piling works onsite" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An early East Brunswick Village render along with current piling works onsite</figcaption></figure>The overall development includes seven separate buildings with total apartments around the 600 mark. Whilst technically under construction, East Brunswick Village has yet to see its sales campaign formally launched. The same cannot be said for a handful of other projects along Nicholson Street.

Victory House with its 102 apartments is fresh to construction, with builder Element Five's signage freshly across the corner site. Fellow projects in their construction infancy include MiaMia and Fitz &amp; Co, whilst NYKO and 88-90 Nicholson Street are further into their construction cycle.

Combined these 5 projects which have successfully attained necessary presales, will yield approximately 220 dwellings which puts into perspective the massive nature of East Brunswick Village.

Next in line is Lt Miller and Mr Nichols; both having begun their marketing campaigns. The very swish 38 Nicholson Street designed by Hachem is also sitting on approval.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image94_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The stylish lines of 38 Nicholson Street. Image: Hachem"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="347" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image94_1.jpg?itok=6v0Tljmj" title="The stylish lines of 38 Nicholson Street. Image: Hachem" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The stylish lines of 38 Nicholson Street. Image: Hachem</figcaption></figure>Nicholson Street's dearth of pending projects at planning hints towards the diminishing number of sites available for future development.

77-83 Nicholson Street presents as the only noteworthy current planning application. Home to cafe and eatery Pope Joan, 77-83 Nicholson Street is subject to a 6-7 level development over two basement levels, with intentions for 6 retail tenancies and 73 dwellings.

With 29m of frontage to Nicholson Street and an area of 2,250sqm, the site was sold mid last year by Vinci Carbone.

Putting Nicholson Street's current apartment boom into perspective, the only recent major completion along its northern stretch has been TreViso at 91-93 Nicholson Street which added 31 apartments to the strip.
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Nicholson Street's apartment activity slips into top gear

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The long-dormant Kinnears site fronting Ballarat Road is all but ready to begin its transformation into one of Footscray's largest apartment-driven urban renewal projects.

An onsite display suite that will cater for the multiple towers to be developed over the life of the project is now complete, and ready to be swung into action once developer R&amp;F Property Australia launches the first phase of the project. And Kinnears' first stage looks to be a 15 level apartment tower at the eastern end of the sprawling site.

Kinnears which is addressed 124-188 Ballarat Road is R&amp;F Property Australia's first major development in Melbourne. 

Kinnears' rebirth first came to prominence <a href="/news/rf-properties-advance-plans-for-kinnears-footscray-redevelopment">during late 2015</a>, with Elenberg Fraser enlisted by the developer to create a new masterplanned residential enclave. In doing so, limited demolition and adaptation of existing heritage buildings spread over the site has been worked into the overall masterplan, which also includes provisions for 1,400 plus new dwellings.

The display suite model depicting the entire project is very much in line with the 2015 site plan, and sees a number of new north-south pedestrian and vehicle links dividing the 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/image2kinn.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Kinnears site masterplan."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2kinn.jpg?itok=cXhqcWcX" title="The Kinnears site masterplan." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Kinnears site masterplan.</figcaption></figure>Information within the display also elaborates on the project's public features. Shops and a supermarket will be set around a plaza, with communal facilities such as a childcare centre, kindergarden, maternal and child health centre also in the mix. Offices, a gym and further medical-based spaces add the the development's mixed-use nature.

R&amp;F Property Australia, part of Guangzhou-based R&amp;F Properties, has been trying to gain a foothold in Melbourne for some years.

At one stage the developer was primed to secure Fishermans Bend's <a href="https://urban.melbourne/projects/fishermans-bend-renewal-area/60-82-johnson-street-south-melbourne">60-82 Johnson Street</a>, but that deal <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/property/developer-mcnee-makes-a-30-million-killing-on-south-melbourne-apartments-site-20170124-gtxnkd">failed to materialise</a>, with local developer Salvo Property Group subsequently securing the approved site. R&amp;F Property Australia's next move was for Kinnears, successfully acquiring the site from <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/residential/richard-gu-nets-60m-for-footscray-development-site-20140722-jjllw">AXF Group for $60 million during 2014</a>, with development plans already in motion at that stage.

Based in Melbourne, R&amp;F Property Australia's first successful move on the national development scene was in Brisbane. Dubbed <a href="http://www.rfaustralia.com.au/project/brisbane-1/">Brisbane 1</a>, the project sees 600 plus apartments in development over multiple buildings on a 4,661sqm plot in South Brisbane.

With the imminent launch of Kinnears, R&amp;F Property Australia also now has a Melbourne-based apartment project that will be rolled out in stages over coming years. Imagery for subsequent stages of the Kinnears development can be seen <a href="http://www.starweekly.com.au/news/plans-lodged-for-first-stage-of-kinnears-rope-factory-redevelopment/pub/maribyrnong_hobsons_bay/">here</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/image77_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="R &amp; F Properties first Australian project. Image: brisbane1towers.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="724" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image77_1.jpg?itok=sb9vAKmn" title="R &amp; F Properties first Australian project. Image: brisbane1towers.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>R &amp; F Properties first Australian project. Image: brisbane1towers.com.au</figcaption></figure>
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R&F Property Australia's first Melbourne project enters the starting gates 

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Architecture and the construction industry in general can quite literally take years off your life. Projects often require many years of design, development and coordination, redesign and further refinement before they come to fruition.

From the moment they are first conceived as a sketch to when the the first of the residents or workers begin moving in and occupying these buildings, several years may have lapsed.

The latest skyscraper approved for Melbourne, which also happens to be the biggest of them all - the 90-storey, 323 metre One Queensbridge - is no different. Developed by Crown Resorts and Schiavello, the soaring tower has been designed by Wilkinson Eyre and Architectus, following their success in an invited design competition featuring other international and local firms.

Urban.com.au's forthcoming interview with Architectus will provide further insight into the specifics of the endorsed design, but today we will focus on its evolution over the last few years.

As a point of reference Melbourne's other 300 metre-plus tower, the now under construction Australia 108 (formerly known by its address 70 Southbank Boulevard) underwent many design iterations before becoming the 319 metre behemoth that has begun its skyward ascent. First mooted in early 2009 at 62-storeys and 208 metres, each subsequent design has superseded its predecessor for height, but not necessarily architecture, over the course of the ensuing eight years.

It will be a further two years before it is finally completed. Curiously during this period the design of the tower's podium has remained largely the same: a framed pergola structure housing a jungle of vegetation.

<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/australia_108_compilation.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The design evolution of 70 Southbank Boulevard."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="183" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/australia_108_compilation.jpg?itok=g8iUycR6" title="The design evolution of 70 Southbank Boulevard." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The design evolution of 70 Southbank Boulevard.</figcaption></figure><h2>A not so long time ago</h2>

For One Queensbridge Street the story begins with Schiavello Group's acquisition of the notorious QBH venue at 1-7 Queensbridge Street in 2010. Sometime in 2011 an image surfaced online of the first concept for the site by Enth Degree Architects (EDA) for a 52-storey residential tower characterised by a podium likened to swiss cheese.

<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/qbh_tower.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first concept for One Queensbridge? Image: Enth Degree Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="377" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/qbh_tower.jpg?itok=7SYHNpu2" title="The first concept for One Queensbridge? Image: Enth Degree Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first concept for One Queensbridge? Image: Enth Degree Architects</figcaption></figure>Little by little Schiavello's ambitions for the site grew with the further acquisition of 9-15 Queensbridge Street; along with joint venture partners PDG Corporation, the first application for the site was submitted shortly after. Designed by Bates Smart, the proposal sought the demolition of the existing structures onsite including the former Queensbridge Hotel*, with a 71-storey tower including 592 apartments rising to a height of 276 metres, making it the second tallest building (at the time) after Eureka.

The design was characterised by dual semi-cellular forms merging into a trefoil shaped extrusion sheathed in reflective platinum tinted glazing, atop a fine lattice like podium. A permit was issued for the 71-storey tower by then Planning Minister Matthew Guy in April 2012.

<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/art353-queensbridge-tower-200x0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The initial 71-storey Queensbridge Tower. Images: Bates Smart "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/art353-queensbridge-tower-200x0.jpg?itok=tCT31_fd" title="The initial 71-storey Queensbridge Tower. Images: Bates Smart " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The initial 71-storey Queensbridge Tower. Images: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>Following Schiavello's further acquisition of 7-23 Queensbridge Street, the site was merged into the development which allowed for a tower with larger floor-plates than its predecessor, and thus a third 'cell' was added to the tower, atop an expanded podium footprint.

It was at this point that debate about density and over development on the site really erupted with the approval of The Falls residential tower at 25 Queensbridge Street, nestled snuggly between QBT and Prima Pearl.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image14_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The revised Queensbridge Tower and the nneigbouring The Falls development. Images: Bates Smart and Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="193" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_9.jpg?itok=0QZsPY4S" title="The revised Queensbridge Tower and the nneigbouring The Falls development. Images: Bates Smart and Bruce Henderson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The revised Queensbridge Tower and the nneigbouring The Falls development. Images: Bates Smart and Bruce Henderson Architects</figcaption></figure>It was not long before 25 Queensbridge Street was added to the portfolio with the site now extending from Freshwater Place all the way to Prima Pearl encompassing 1-25 Queensbridge Street. This allowed the development and design team to address some of the issues relating to overlooking and proximity to surrounding towers via increased setbacks.

<h2>Enter Crown</h2>

During the course of 2014 Schiavello entered into a joint development agreement with Crown Resorts which would see the site form an extension of the existing Crown Towers and Entertainment Complex, by way of a skybridge over Queensbridge Street. Additionally the design was revised to rise 84-storeys and 308 metres above Southbank, overtaking Eureka and sitting just behind Australia 108.

The proposal included a 400 room five-star hotel in addition to the 626 apartments, along with a glazed lift that extended the full height of the tower's facade. The skybridge, overall size and scale of the development proved to be a sticking point for both Council and planning officers, so it was decided that for the site to be truly considered a project of state significance, which would be exempt from the usual planning process and instead fast tracked, an invited design competition would be held.

<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/queensbridgetower_crown.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Crown Plaza? Crown Resorts joined as a JV partner before running a design competition. Images: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="188" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/queensbridgetower_crown.jpg?itok=lKqmxLF6" title="Crown Plaza? Crown Resorts joined as a JV partner before running a design competition. Images: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Crown Plaza? Crown Resorts joined as a JV partner before running a design competition. Images: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>The design competition was eventually won by Wilkinson Eyre and Architectus, with plans proceeding for a 90-storey, 313 metre tower comprising a 388 room six-star hotel and 680 apartments. Almost six months later this was increased to a height of 323 metres.

On 9th February 2017, seven years since Schiavello acquired the QBH, the tower now known simply as One Queensbridge was given conditional approval by Planning Minister Richard Wynne.

<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/3366b78cdbb098097cfe7f2b38817cd8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One Queensbridge. Image: Wilkinson Eyre and Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/3366b78cdbb098097cfe7f2b38817cd8.jpg?itok=gi3ZZ0pS" title="One Queensbridge. Image: Wilkinson Eyre and Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One Queensbridge. Image: Wilkinson Eyre and Architectus</figcaption></figure>* The interior of the Queensbridge Hotel was gutted during the $12 million redevelopment previously undertaken in 1999 before it reopened and was rebranded QBH. As such it is not protected under a heritage overlay and exists in its current form primarily as a facade.
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All in good time: The evolution of One Queensbridge 

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The planning equivalent of a 'Days of our Lives' episode may be on the verge of a development resolution.

<a href="/developers/action-group-australia">Action Group Australia's</a> very long and public bid to redevelop a prime slice of land opposite Station Pier has entered its latest phase, with plans now on display for a new design seeking grace the defunct site. Since development plans for <a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">1-7 Waterfront Place</a> first surfaced early this decade, it has been subject to a local resident backlash, <a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/waterfront-place-development.htm">Council bids to protect the site</a> from overdevelopment, VCAT hearings and <a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/amendment-C104-Waterfront-Place.htm">Ministerial intervention</a>.

During 2015, the Minister for Planning approved site specific amendments to the Port Phillip Planning Scheme, which ushered in new policy and planning controls. Among them were a mandatory 35m maximum height limit, in addition to podium, setback and overshadowing requirements.

Via entity Waterfront Place Pty Ltd, Action Group Australia and long serving project architect <a href="/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a> have come back with revised plans for a substantial residential project featuring a mass of resident amenities.

<h2>
<a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">1-7 Waterfront Place</a> application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image39wp.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A broadside perspective of the proposed development. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="307" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image39wp.jpg?itok=Lgr8z1qc" title="A broadside perspective of the proposed development. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A broadside perspective of the proposed development. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 5,487sqm</li>
	<li>Currently a vacant amenities complex for the immediate area</li>
	<li>Proposed: 10 level residential building spanning 38.5m to plant level</li>
	<li>175 dwellings: 31 x 1BR, 8 x 1BR townhouse, 103 x 2BR, 14 x 2BR townhouse, 17 x 3BR, 1 x Penthouse</li>
	<li>Provisions for 244 car spaces across 2 basement levels</li>
	<li>184sqm of ground floor retail space</li>
	<li>A publicly accessible plaza and north-south laneway</li>
	<li>Amenities include: golf simulator, fitness studio, lounge, lap pool, library, business room, dining and events room.</li>
</ul>
Two retail tenancies opposite the Port Melbourne railway station frame a proposed western plaza that continues through the development at ground level. A large northern courtyard also breaks the building's form to Beach Street.

The Waterfront Place frontage is dominated by townhouses across the building's podium, whilst public artwork is also set to feature at ground level.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image41_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Development at the human scale. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_2.jpg?itok=FSGgs6Lx" title="Development at the human scale. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Development at the human scale. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>1-7 Waterfront Place has spawned a number of designs over the years, with the most notable being an early wave-shaped tower that was also the largest proposal seen for the site. Subsequently, following designs have been more modest in height, with the latest version being the shortest.

On the current scheme, planning consultancy <a href="/developers/urbis">Urbis</a> asserts "DDO23 is a site-specific overlay that has taken into account the strategic location and objectives for the site. Accordingly, this report assesses the planning permits of the proposal, primarily in regard to the objectives and requirements of DDO23 but also the relevant sections of the Port Phillip Planning Scheme."

All things being in accordance with the regulatory formwork, it now looks like one of this city's longest planning sagas will find resolution soon enough.

<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/image47_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Designs for Waterfront place that have been consigned to history"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="471" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47_4.jpg?itok=mSOnV1B_" title="Designs for Waterfront place that have been consigned to history" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Designs for Waterfront place that have been consigned to history</figcaption></figure><h2>1-7 Waterfront Place development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Waterfront Place Pty Ltd (Action Group Australia)</li>
	<li>Architecture and Urban Context Report: Fender Katsalidis</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Sustainability Management Plan: Norman Disney &amp; Young</li>
	<li>Traffic Impact Assessment: Cardno</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Salt</li>
	<li>Landscape Plan and Landscape Report: Tract</li>
	<li>Acoustic Assessment: Acoustic Logic</li>
</ul>
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Port Melbourne's long running Waterfront Place saga enters a new phase

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One of the northern CBD's new breed of skyscrapers reached a monumental construction marker last week. Hengyi Australia's <a href="/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Light House</a> apartment development appeared sans jump form, signifying the termination of the tower at 69 levels above Elizabeth Street.

Using Light House's milestone as a nominal halfway point of development for the current crop, it's an opportune time to provide an update on the progress of the many towers that are transforming the CBD's northern fringe into a much taller, denser environment.

<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/image60_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Light House and Empire will go no higher"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="433" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image60_1.jpg?itok=ue1c0L0n" title="Light House and Empire will go no higher" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Light House and Empire will go no higher</figcaption></figure>Light House has been joined by <a href="/buildings/empire-melbourne-398-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Empire</a> in having its jump form removed, with the latter terminating at 62 levels. Also along the north-south Elizabeth Street axis, the distinctly green <a href="/buildings/victoria-one-452-472-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Victoria One</a> is approaching the 200m mark, on its way to an eventual floor count of 75 and the mantle of Elizabeth Street's tallest building.

A'Beckett Street's <a href="/buildings/avant-60-abeckett-street-melbourne">Avant</a> is shaping as the precinct's most daring tower in terms of facade treatment, defined by its vibrant purple facade and stretched diagrid exterior; the project has approximately 35 floor left prior to its topping out.

<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/image61_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Avant, Aurora and Scape Swanston. Images: Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="302" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image61_0.jpg?itok=vzQwBskb" title="Avant, Aurora and Scape Swanston. Images: Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Avant, Aurora and Scape Swanston. Images: Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>Avant's purple exterior is matched by that of another Elenberg Fraser-designed tower nearby, with the curving <a href="/buildings/eq-tower-127-abeckett-street-melbourne">EQ Tower</a> all but complete.

At 63 levels, the tower reached its significant marker during December, with a <a href="/news/three-years-on-eq-tower-tops-out">topping out ceremony held onsite</a>. According to developer ICD Property, the balance of apartments are due to settle during April.

<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/7da108d5216cf984792a95fd23e84767.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="EQ Tower standing tall. Images: Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/7da108d5216cf984792a95fd23e84767.jpg?itok=w5Dzp1b8" title="EQ Tower standing tall. Images: Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>EQ Tower standing tall. Image: Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure><a href="/buildings/aurora-melbourne-central-224-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Aurora Melbourne Central</a> as the area's biggest build is progressing well, with the podium structure for the 88 level goliath at its mid point. Also marching along is Scape Student Living's first Melbourne project at <a href="/buildings/scape-melbourne-393-swanston-street-melbourne">393 Swanston Street</a>. Regular floor plates and a precast exterior which is installed with windows in situ has allowed construction on the 42 storey building to rocket along.

Further toward the CBD's north-east corner, both <a href="/buildings/conservatory-9-23-mackenzie-street-melbourne">Conservatory</a> and <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">42-50 La Trobe Street</a> are at early stages of their construction life, with both projects being undertaken by builder Hickory Group.

<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/melbourne_model_02_18082016_0.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Laurence Dragomir's 2016 depiction of Melbourne's CBD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="270" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melbourne_model_02_18082016_0.png?itok=k6eHUeKj" title="Laurence Dragomir's 2016 depiction of Melbourne's CBD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Laurence Dragomir's 2016 depiction of Melbourne's CBD</figcaption></figure>As the area's unprecedented construction growth changes the northern CBD's environs, it's far from a completed product. Various high-rise projects have yet to make their mark on the skyline, including some very tall buildings.

308 Exhibition Street, Queens Place, 111 A'Beckett Street, RMIT's new mixed-use A'Beckett Street tower and Scape Student Living's reworked 97 Franklin Street are but a few of the projects that can be expected in coming years. Add a raft of smaller skyscrapers that are either at planning or hold approval, in addition to Victoria Market's mooted high-rise buildings, and the built form transformation in the area has many towers yet to come.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image58_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="308 Exhibition Street, Scape CUB and 111 A'Beckett Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="309" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image58_4.jpg?itok=gxyemCpA" title="308 Exhibition Street, Scape CUB and 111 A'Beckett Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>308 Exhibition Street, Scape CUB and 111 A'Beckett Street</figcaption></figure>
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Where the tall ones are: a construction snapshot of the CBD's northern talls

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Box Hill continues to rack up significant planning applications, with the eastern hub showing no sign of slowing in its skyward progression. Three significant proposals are in the works, potentially adding hundreds of new apartments to the Box Hill market, which has well and truly blossomed over recent years.

Ausgood Development Pty Ltd is proposing a 14 level tower directly opposite Box Hill Hospital, the first time that a tower of that magnitude has ventured that far north within the Hospital and Western TAFE precinct. At 17-19 Arnold Street, Desyne Developments have conceived the proposal which includes 119 apartments above 4 medical suites.

Well away from Box Hill's Whitehorse Road spine, the proposal is more significant in size than any of the contemporary apartment developments adjacent to it.

<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/image8_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Arnold Street's potential new outlook. Planning image: Desyne Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="288" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8_9.jpg?itok=PL0jYLJY" title="Arnold Street's potential new outlook. Planning image: Desyne Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Arnold Street's potential new outlook. Planning image: Desyne Developments</figcaption></figure>More grandiose in its nature is 517-521 Station Street; the latest prospect for Golden Age Group.

Plans are afoot to rezone the land parcel acquired by the developer during 2016 from Public Use Zone to a Mixed Use Zone. If successful, the 7,344sqm site which cost Golden Age $51.8 million will be transformed into multiple residential towers.

Preliminary plans by DKO Architecture shows the site hosting dual 18 level towers, supplemented by a smaller 6 level building. In addition to 429 apartments, the scheme also calls for 6,638sqm of retail space, 77 serviced apartments, 1,950sqm of office space, a gym, 400sqm medical centre and a child care centre with capacity for 107.

Whitehorse City Council have provided support for the development, with the rezoning subject to a final nod from the Minister for Planning.

<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/image19_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Golden Age's latest Box Hill project. Planning image: DKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_13.jpg?itok=jrzauCTh" title="Golden Age's latest Box Hill project. Planning image: DKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Golden Age's latest Box Hill project. Planning image: DKO Architecture</figcaption></figure>Among some of the other more prominent planning applications for Box Hill within recent months is that of 34-36 Prospect Street. Sought is approval for the development of a 30 storey mixed use building for the 1,208sqm plot.

Last year Apartments.com.au speculated that a <a href="/news/is-this-box-hills-next-big-tower">current design for the site</a> by Taouk Architects may be the design which is at planning. Whilst that remains to be seen, what is black and white is Box Hill's position now as Melbourne's dominant suburban apartment market.

After the addition of 17-19 Arnold Street and 517-521 Station Street, Apartments.com.au's Project Database is now keeping tabs on 4,150 apartments across 34 projects which are currently in the <a href="/developments/box-hill-vic-3128">development</a> pipeline across Box Hill.

Falling under the Box Hill Structure Plan, although technically within Mont Albert, it's worth noting that 813-823 Whitehorse Road is also at planning. The high profile vacant corner site is subject to a Bruce Henderson Architects-designed 18 level apartment tower encapsulating 96 apartments.
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Box Hill bubbles along with multiple new towers at planning

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We are going to read a lot about apartment oversupply this year.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has already kicked off the discussion warning of the consequences of a flood of new apartments hitting the market.
The central bank pointed out that residential approvals have been almost 50 per cent higher across Australia than their long-term average during the past two years.
The RBA pointed out there are risks involved with the high level of activity in apartment construction.
It went on to pinpoint a geographic concentration "particularly in inner-city Melbourne and Brisbane". Significantly Sydney wasn't mentioned.
But this is not to say we are free of concerns.
Indeed oversupply of units in some Sydney inner city suburbs represents the greatest risk for invesors, according to the latest update from the valuation firm, Herron Todd White.
It has already detected a number of valuations for new units upon settlement not meeting their off the plan prices. 
It is particularly happening with suburbs with concentrated new stock along with a distinct difference in value between the new and original older style unit prices. 
HTW says this is more commonly in some second tier suburbs in western Sydney and additionally in some pockets of the northern suburbs. 
While mostly occurring for overseas buyers, it could trigger difficulties for locals obtaining finance.
There is also the concern that rentals might fall short of yielding enough to service mortgage repayments.
The valuers nominated areas with the lowest predicted growth for the inner city fringes where they envisage there may be an oversupply of new units.
They suggested developments that have been completed simply to cash in on demand could fall short in quality and "therefore won't have appeal to either owner occupiers and potential tenants." 
Middle ring suburbs HTW believe are at risk of oversupply or heavily investor led include Wentworth Point, Carlingford, Epping, Olympic Park, Macquarie Park and Parramatta.
"The supply of new units in these areas is well above long-term averages."
The RBA discussion pointed out that detecting oversupply was not simple noting an approved apartment takes around three times to complete as a detached house.
It noted the average completion time for an apartment was around six quarters.
It added that the lag between the decision to approve a higher-density dwelling and its completion "means that the impact on the supply of housing, including prices and vacancy rates, may be less predictable than in the past".
It advised the Australian residential pipeline was equivalent to 12 per cent of GDP, and dwellings yet to be completed accounted for 2.5 per cent of the country's total supply of housing.
The RBA warned developers might not be able to respond in time to signs of over-supply and waning house prices, "so a general oversupply is more likely to build up".
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