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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GUEST OBSERVER
Secret Agent has updated its price per square metre index for secondary apartments in inner Melbourne. 
An additional 478 apartments have been added to the index so that it now consists of a total of 870 apartments which have sold between 1st January 2016 to 30th June 2016. 
<a href="/images/2016/08/26/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-26%20at%2011.48.21%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/08/26/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-26%20at%2011.48.21%20AM.png" alt="">
The new average square metre rate for apartments in inner Melbourne is $8,679/sqm.
The inner South remains the most expensive region for apartments with the average totalling $9,664/sqm. 
This is closely followed by the inner East at $9,089/sqm. 
Central and inner North apartment rates are $8,466/sqm and $8,395/sqm respectively. The cheapest region to buy secondary apartments in is the inner West, at $7,124/sqm.
For more information, <a href="https://secretagent.com.au/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Inner Melbourne’s most affordable and expensive apartments: Secret Agent

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Developer Riverlee is seeking to rework an approved commercial scheme within Docklands, in order to capitalise upon Melbourne's near rampant hotel sector.

The developer has released details regarding its intended project at 731-739 Flinders Street which encompasses the heritage Northbank Goods Shed. Under plans submitted this week, the approved plans for a commercial building straddling the goods shed will be dropped in favour of a mixed-use hotel and residential proposal.

Included in the new scheme are 180 hotel suites, which would further bolster the hotel pipeline along the Yarra. Four Points By Sheraton, PARKROYAL and Quest Newquay are at differing stages of development, with another hotel project at nearby Victoria Harbour also a possibility.

Opposite Northbank Goods Shed, Probuild are undertaking an expansion of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre which incorporates the construction of a 331-room hotel 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/riv_northbank_v01_across_river1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Riverlee have chosen Fender Katsalidis for North Wharf. Image: Riverlee"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/riv_northbank_v01_across_river1.jpg?itok=xINjgmkw" title="Riverlee have chosen Fender Katsalidis for North Wharf. Image: Riverlee" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Riverlee have chosen Fender Katsalidis for North Wharf. Image: Riverlee</figcaption></figure>Riverlee have installed Fender Katsalidis as project architect, with the hotel supplementing 250 intended apartments.

In line with original plans, landscape architects Oculus have been retained and are tasked with creating a new 3,500sqm public park that Riverlee expects will act as the missing connector between Docklands and the Yarra River’s north bank. As part of the intended works the onsite heritage listed crane will also be brought up to scratch with a complete restoration planned.

Retail and event spaces are envisaged within the restored Goods Shed. Creating a new waterfront promenade will see the refurbishment of the area's wharf, while a pontoon is optioned with an eye toward waterfront activation.

Riverlee's change of use for the project is underpinned by the aforementioned expansion of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the precinct playing host to a multitude of conferences and conventions. The subsequent undersupply of hotel suites has prompted the change of use; the state of the commercial leasing sector would have also been taken into consideration.

<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/nw03_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The superseded scheme. Image: Oculus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nw03_0.jpg?itok=_KBr7tUo" title="The superseded scheme. Image: Oculus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The superseded scheme. Image: Oculus</figcaption></figure>The change of use is also expected to bring activity to the area around the clock, something that the 25,000sqm commercial scheme would have struggled to achieve.

How the intended public aspects of the building stack up relative to the initial scheme remain to be seen. With Oculus retained and Lovell Chen acting as Heritage Architects, the new scheme's public interface is difficult to judge based on the sole image released by Riverlee.

<blockquote>
Our plans include an extruded glass pavilion at the eastern end of the shed both to help preserve the heritage façade and hero it within the design, particularly at night when the façade will be lit from within the glass to create a beacon for night-time activity.

We’ve created a number of places to integrate and encourage interaction with these heritage elements, such as the former slipway which will be covered with glass inside the pavilion so people will be able to walk literally right on top of this unique piece of history
<cite>Karl Fender, managing principal architect, Fender Katsalidis</cite>
</blockquote>

What's established is the developer's existing work along the Yarra's north bank in the area. <a href="http://riverlee.com.au/projects/world-trade-centre">Riverlee refurbished more than 150 metres of water frontage</a> in the adjoining World Trade Centre complex, with the subsequent WTC Wharf retail zone completed during 2010.

Riverlee also initiated <a href="http://riverlee.com.au/projects/7-23-spencer-st">redevelopment of the former Melbourne Convention Centre</a> with the site now nearing demolition completion. In the interceding time, approval was obtained for a tri-towered residential complex onsite, with the site recently sold.
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silvermb

A reborn North Wharf adds to Melbourne's swelling hotel numbers

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Two highly prominent locations are now free to host substantial residential buildings after receiving planning approval in recent days.

VCAT has green-lighted St Kilda's tallest development to date at 8-12 Punt Road while Darebin City Council were satisfied with the merits of what is set to become Reservoir's biggest apartment development at 830 Plenty Road.

8-12 Punt Road, which is also referred to as One St Kilda Junction first <a href="/news/st-kilda-junction-subject-to-its-biggest-development-yet">appeared on Urban.com.au during February</a>, with subsequent planning movements landing the Plus Architecture-designed tower at VCAT.

For its part, City of Port Phillip's <a href="https://jaagstkilda.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/cpp-punt-8-12-1227-2015-delegate-report.pdf">report for VCAT</a> determined that it had made the decision to refuse the application based upon the development unreasonably impacting the amenity of the immediate and wider neighbourhood. This can be read as an overdevelopment of the subject site.

In response, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/vic/VCAT/2016/1396">VCAT's decision</a> was to approve the project which consists of a main 26 level tower, with a smaller 10 level extension to its east. In total 203 apartments will be serviced by 397 car spaces across seven basement levels.

<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/image1_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One St Kilda Junction. Image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_5.jpg?itok=gjbqshaE" title="One St Kilda Junction. Image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One St Kilda Junction. Image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>On the opposite side of town, 830 Plenty Road was issued a permit yesterday for an expansive multi-building apartment development. Dubbed <a href="http://www.architeria.com.au/reservoir-reflection-star-island">Star Island</a> and conceived by Architeria Architects, final numbers for the project will see 338 apartments and townhouses, in addition to commercial and retail spaces.

Submitted for approval during June of 2015, 830 Plenty Road had been subject to numerous proposals prior to the current iteration headed by Architeria Architects.

Three separate apartment buildings will front Plenty Road, with a fourth building and 17 townhouses nested in behind.

The expansive 10,194sqm site coupled with its elevated position and low-rise surrounds allows Star Island to hold a very pronounced position along one of Melbourne's major northern transport corridors.

<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/1507_reservoir_front_architeria_architects_email_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Star Island. Image: Architeria Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1507_reservoir_front_architeria_architects_email_1.jpg?itok=eGjljuLS" title="Star Island. Image: Architeria Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Star Island. Image: Architeria Architects</figcaption></figure>
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Two major residential projects receive approval

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It seems a little counter-intuitive that in an apartment market coming off its peak, there's still scope for locations around Melbourne to be shaping as apartment hot spots.

Malvern Road is such an example; while the majority of projects are quite small relative to those of the CBD and surrounds, they do shape as the right stock for current market preferences which have drifted toward larger suburban dwellings.

Focusing on Malvern and Glen Iris, the number of Malvern Road apartment projects in the Apartments.com.au Project Database weighs in at 22. Added to these are a healthy number of projects queued, and which have yet to enter the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

<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/15_images2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bonview is one of the few existing apartment projects. Image: Balmain &amp; Co"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="402" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/15_images2.jpg?itok=-7Kcr2Pp" title="Bonview is one of the few existing apartment projects. Image: Balmain &amp; Co" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bonview is one of the few existing apartment projects. Image: Balmain &amp; Co</figcaption></figure>With a limited number of apartment projects completed along this stretch of Malvern Road, the pending surge of projects set to call the thoroughfare home could well push future apartment stock in the area beyond 550 dwellings.

Typically spanning 3-5 levels, these Malvern Road apartment projects are defined by larger internal apartment sizes which are on average supported by a proportionately larger number of car spaces. This is very much a reflection of the type of purchaser developers are chasing, and a reflection of the suburbs in question.

What also bolsters Malvern Road's emergence as an apartment hot spot is that very few of the 22 projects at the foot of the article have yet to reach construction.

Grace at 1555-1559 Malvern Road is all but complete, with Vivid on Malvern also well into its construction schedule. Backing these projects up are Abby Apartments, The Henderson and Turner Residences which are at sales.

<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/v16021_1hero_b_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Henderson is symptomatic of Malvern Road apartment projects. Image: thehendersongleniris.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="272" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v16021_1hero_b_0.jpg?itok=eiyuLg3S" title="The Henderson is symptomatic of Malvern Road apartment projects. Image: thehendersongleniris.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Henderson is symptomatic of Malvern Road apartment projects. Image: thehendersongleniris.com.au</figcaption></figure>That leaves the bulk of projects along Malvern Road at either planning assessment or approval. Falling within City of Stonnington's borders, the planning process for a number of projects has been lengthy.

Two of the more recent projects to gain approval are 1437-1441 Malvern Road and 1795 Malvern Road, both of which are located in Glen Iris. After an initial failure to determine, Stonnington issued a permit for 1437-1441 Malvern Road on the 29th of August. Spanning six levels when submitted for approval, the Ascui &amp; Co-designed project is one of the larger projects to filter through in the area.

1795 Malvern Road which gained approval during September is more a typical Malvern Road development; three levels with 20 apartments in tow.

The remaining projects are generally at planning, leaving Malvern Road with a strong development pipeline and a claim to being an up and coming apartment hot spot.

<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/image24_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1437-1441 Malvern Road, Glen Iris. Planning image: Ascui &amp; Co"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image24_7.jpg?itok=gvuW-lrN" title="1437-1441 Malvern Road, Glen Iris. Planning image: Ascui &amp; Co" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1437-1441 Malvern Road, Glen Iris. Planning image: Ascui &amp; Co</figcaption></figure>
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Malvern Road emerges as another apartment hot spot

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Another Fishermans Bend proposal has broken cover, taking Hayball as the architecture firm responsible past a noteworthy milestone. With the addition of 272-280 Normanby Road, Southbank-based Hayball now has in excess of 3,000 apartments in play across Fishermans Bend.

Referencing the Apartments.com.au Project Database, 272-280 Normanby Road's 396 apartments takes Hayball's total apartment numbers for submitted projects within Fishermans Bend to 3,229. In the process Hayball have made a stretch of Normanby Road their own, with seven separate residential towers at planning maintaining a Normanby Road address.

Proponent 280 Normanby Road Pty Ltd is behind the latest proposal which at 40 levels would peak at the maximum floor limit, as per the interim mandatory height limits in place. Currently housing a dual level commercial building, the repurposed site would see the new 126m tower rise in its place.

<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/272-280.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="272-280 Normanby Road. Image: proUrban"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="661" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/272-280.jpg?itok=b8mU3Ueh" title="272-280 Normanby Road. Image: proUrban" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>272-280 Normanby Road. Image: proUrban</figcaption></figure>Of the 396 apartments within 272-280 Normanby Road, 156 have been designated as single bedroom dwellings, 201 hold two bedrooms and 39 or 10% of the total number of apartments maintain three bedrooms.

An affordable housing element exists within the proposal, with two single bedroom apartments to be transferred to a specified housing trust while a further three single bedroom apartments are set to be leased for 20 years at 75% of market rental value, with management of these dwellings apportioned to the housing trust.

A 342sqm space is allocated within the tower's podium as a public community facility area. This is supported by multiple commercial and retail tenancies, with 736sqm allocated to commercial and 530sqm retail respectively. 124 car spaces and 204 bicycle bays are also part of the proposal.

Externally the tower will be dominated by pewter coloured precast concrete, charcoal and grey coloured panel-rib metal and aluminium cladding, pewter coloured glass, glass balustrades and grey coloured double glazing.

Lodged with DELWP during May, the proposal has been referred to City of Port Phillip (CoPP) for comment. As has almost become the norm, CoPP have indicated they are against the development, citing issues such as tower height, tower setbacks from street and side boundaries, tower separation between neighbouring properties, justification for tower seeking the maximum allowable height, cumulative wind and traffic impacts and the proposal's overall community benefit aspects as being sticking points.

Nonetheless <a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/Report_5_-_272-280_Normanby_Road.pdf">CoPP in their report on 272-280 Normanby Road</a> have also included various draft conditions that they believe would improve the proposal.

<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/image52_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Assorted Hayball-designed projects within Fishermans Bend"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="302" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image52_3.jpg?itok=7FxQYeCX" title="Assorted Hayball-designed projects within Fishermans Bend" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assorted Hayball-designed projects within Fishermans Bend</figcaption></figure>As touched upon earlier, Hayball leads the way within Fishermans Bend in terms of the number of apartments under design for projects that are public knowledge. Its nine projects and 3,229 apartments shadow the work of ROTHELOWMAN which currently have six apartment projects and in excess of 2,000 apartments within the urban renewal area.

By far Hayball's largest project in Fishermans Bend is 850-858 Lorimer Street within Port Melbourne. One of the early batch of applications for the area, the reworked tri-towered scheme's most recent iteration carries in excess of 1,100 apartments for developer Goodman Group.

Other design firms also prevalent in the Urban Renewal Area include Elenberg Fraser, Artisan Architects and CHT Architects. To date 17 different architecture firms are represented across a gamut of residential projects within Fishermans Bend.
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272-280 Normanby adds to Hayball's dominant Fishermans Bend portfolio

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A fresh presence has brought a new design perspective to Fishermans Bend in the form of a planning application for 118 Bertie Street, Port Melbourne. With the majority of the development team behind the intended 18 level tower based in New South Wales, the result is a design that distinguishes itself from the majority of the pack within the fledgling Urban Renewal Area.

118 Bertie Street represents Sydney-based MAKO Architecture's first listing in the Apartments.com.au Project Database; the same can be said for Lateral Estate with the Fishermans Bend application their first project in Melbourne as developer/builder.

The conceived tower form coupled with an almost eccentric exterior allows 118 Bertie Street to sharply depart from the norm within Fishermans Bend, where many intended towers to date employ clean curtain glazed exteriors.

More pertinent to Fishermans Bend's strategic planning goals, 118 Bertie Street acknowledges the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan (April 2015) and has been designed with the Better Apartments Discussion Paper (May 2015) objectives in mind.

<h2>118 Bertie 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/image42_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design and greenery combined over 118 Bertie Street's exterior. Image: MAKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image42_1.jpg?itok=OcX3N0pL" title="Design and greenery combined over 118 Bertie Street's exterior. Image: MAKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design and greenery combind over 118 Bertie Street's exterior. Image: MAKO Architecture</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged: June 2016</li>
	<li>3,031sqm site currently utilised as a warehouse</li>
	<li>Proposed 18 level tower at 67.9 metres</li>
	<li>264 apartments: 8 x studio, 115 x 1BR, 111 x 2BR, 30 x 3BR</li>
	<li>554sqm of commercial space over four tenancies</li>
	<li>191sqm of communal recreational space</li>
	<li>191 car spaces &amp; 303 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>GFA: 32,954sqm</li>
	<li>Estimated development cost: $66 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design Statement</h2>

<blockquote>
This design proposal has been conceived of as an activator for the local community and a signal of the future residential neighbourhood. The design intentionally seeks to maximise the available envelope to provide additional density and vibrancy to the public domain surrounding the proposal. The design is able to straddle the varying context of the building over time, and throughout the at present unknown context of the future open space network.

The podium is conceived of as a visually distinctive landmark in the short term context of the light industrial area. It should be a herald of the future and begin to suggest the change in use to a vibrant residential neighbourhood and address the future green linear park. The podium combines three strong elements; textural patterned mesh, varyingly proportioned active windows to the podium apartments, and large scale “green” openings screening the resident parking beyond.

The tower is a carefully modulated distinctive object appearing as a sharp black onyx piece contrasted against the sky. A subtle variation of black and bronze glazing starts to break down the monolithic quality of the broad facade and begins to give direction and movement to the composition. The tower adopts a fluidity, with the reflective qualities of dark glazing surrounding north, east, south and west frontages.
<cite>MAKO Architecture: Urban Context Report</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/image23_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="118 Bertie Street's envisaged street level integration. Image: MAKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image23_5.jpg?itok=n6ioY9kN" title="118 Bertie Street's envisaged street level integration. Image: MAKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>118 Bertie Street's envisaged street level integration. Image: MAKO Architecture</figcaption></figure>The above image is perhaps best mirrors early concept sketches that were bandied about for Fishermans Bend during its planning infancy.

The development team have gone to great lengths to ensure the tower's podium is front and square in terms of adhering to design ideals, likening the podium to a beacon in that it was conceived as a visually distinctive landmark in the existing context of the light industrial area. Project landscape architects NBRS+Partner have established a green zone as part of the project that aligns directly with the open space network as described in the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan.

Further the Bertie Street frontage is activated at ground level by way of Soho apartments that have the ability to be used as either home offices, or retail spaces depending upon demand.

<blockquote>
The tower itself consists of the irregular placement of geometric forms to create an interesting and innovative design response. At the ground floor, the building will appear almost entirely glazed with the podium above treated with grey brickwork or a copper coloured perforated screening, used to hide the internal car park from street view.

The tower form above appears to be separated into different structural elements, breaking up the built form and softening its appearance. The tower façade is treated with dark grey and bronze tinted glazing with black, bronze and champagne coloured metal framing.
<cite>Urbis: Town Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

The Port Melbourne proposal also includes 30 three bedroom dwellings, a disproportionately high number relative to many of the adjoining developments slated for Fishermans Bend.

<h2>118 Bertie Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Lateral Estate</li>
	<li>Architecture: MAKO Architecture</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Landscape Architect: NBRS+Partner</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineer: TTPA </li>
	<li>Waste Management: Elephants Foot</li>
	<li>Sustainable Design: ARK Resources</li>
	<li>Acoustic Engineer: Acoustic Logic</li>
	<li>BCA Consultant: McKenzie Group</li>
</ul>
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MAKO make their mark in Fishermans Bend: 118 Bertie Street, Port Melbourne

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VicTrack's gradual purge of ancillary land is set to encompass a handful of additional stations, as the Government-backed body looks to further facilitate development around its key assets.

The first station to receive development under the Station Precinct Enhancement Program was Glen Waverley, which with development partner Consolidated Properties saw the delivery of the $70m IKON mixed-use project. Completed in late 2013, IKON is still a leading example, winning the national award for ‘Government Leadership’ at the Property Council of Australia’s Innovation and Excellence Awards during 2016.

With <a href="/news/jewell-stations-all-encompassing-ethos-set-to-provide-a-unique-development-outcome">Jewell Station's urban renewal underway</a>, which are the next locations that are set to fall into line under VicTrack's development program?

<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/36_05-05-2016_1802.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hampton isw set for change. Image: epc.Pacific"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/36_05-05-2016_1802.jpg?itok=Vqx6ItdK" title="Hampton isw set for change. Image: epc.Pacific" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hampton is set for change. Image: epc.Pacific</figcaption></figure>Hampton Train Station has been announced as the next precinct to receive change. VicTrack has entered into a development agreement with Southbank-based developer epc.Pacific and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in order to create a new residential precinct adjacent to Hampton Station.

Set over 7,056sqm, VicTrack have seeded the land in order to "make the area around Hampton Station safer, more vibrant and more accessible, by delivering station precinct improvements funded by an adjoining mixed-use development." New buildings will incorporate social housing units in order to replace units currently onsite which will be demolished for the much larger development.

For its part, epc.Pacific have described the project which fronts Koolkuna Lane as carrying four separate five level buildings that will result in one, two and three bedroom apartments. With a nominal value of $120 million, the Hampton project is in the hands of ARM Architecture and Jam Architects, according to the developer's website.

Having been awarded the development rights for Hampton Station Precinct during 2015, the project has a tentative completion date of 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/image127_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Longhouse was initiated by VicTrack. Image: JAM Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image127_1.jpg?itok=WTXg_NKD" title="Longhouse was initiated by VicTrack. Image: JAM Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Longhouse was initiated by VicTrack. Image: JAM Architects</figcaption></figure>Initiated by VicTrack, the subsequent approval of a land slither fronting Lynch Street, Hawthorn was sold to APL Developments. It has consequently proceeded to sales with the project having been dubbed Longhouse.

While Lynch Street was a land disposal, VicTrack do have a number of projects in the pipeline.

Essendon, Windsor, West Footscray, Victoria Park, Watsonia, Ringwood and East Richmond are stations that have been bandied around, with some locations seemingly more advanced than others. SMA Projects for instance have <a href="http://This%20includes%20a%20fresh%20agreement%20with%20developer%20SMA%20Projects%20to%20build%20above%20the%20railway%20tracks%20at%20Windsor%20station,%20between%20Chapel%20Street%20and%20a%20park%20called%20the%20Windsor%20Siding.">secured a land parcel above rail lines leading to Windsor Station</a> that will most likely result in apartments and community facilities.

An announcement regarding West Footscray is also nearing with a VicTrack spokesperson describing the <a href="http://www.starweekly.com.au/news/more-apartments-planned-opposite-west-footscray-station/pub/maribyrnong_hobsons_bay/">5,000sqm site as moving closer to reality</a>. Interestingly Maribyrnong City Council recently rejected development of an adjacent West Footscray site, even though Council planners raised no objections to the scheme for some 86 apartments over 7 levels. The project is seen below.

VicTrack will invariably be hoping that its intentions for West Footscray Station and surrounds fare better.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image17_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Footscray's first attempt at higher density living. Image: 11 Dimensions"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="223" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17_7.jpg?itok=Cd2BgiyL" title="West Footscray's first attempt at higher density living. Image: 11 Dimensions" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Footscray's first attempt at higher density living. Image: 11 Dimensions</figcaption></figure>
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The stations set for change under VicTrack's development drive

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From a purely aesthetic perspective, Melbourne's suburbs have received a wave of project completions of late that achieve more than a pass mark in terms of design nous.

Over the last quarter, Apartments.com.au has tracked in excess of 40 separate projects that have reached completion, with the vast majority residential in nature and given little to no coverage upon completion. Far from the precast, cookie cutter design flops that are symptomatic of early builds in suburbs such as Preston, Footscray and Doncaster, the current rash of completions bring a heightened level of design flair.

Editorialising for a moment, aesthetically better design should of course be the norm as opposed to the exception, or at least one would hope. Thankfully a healthy number of recently completed projects do indeed distinguish themselves in the design stakes.

Dotted around metropolitan Melbourne, the cream of the crop of recent completions can be seen below, beginning with a trio in Melbourne's North West.

Opened during late July, the mixed-use Brimbank Community and Civic Centre shapes as the most daring build Melbourne has received of late. The clash of colours and atypical shapes are trademark Lyons Architects features, particularly among their civic projects.

Project Group recently completed works on Leake Apartments, with the Essendon build featuring two floors clad in gold banding. Designed by BBP Architects, the final result provides the immediate area with a focal point, as does North Melbourne's Assembly apartments. A low-rise design by Woods Bagot, Assembly results in 138 dwellings across four separate buildings which are clad predominantly in metal.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image11_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Brimbank Community and Civic Centre with Leake and Assembly"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11_9.jpg?itok=7ki0taPw" title="The Brimbank Community and Civic Centre with Leake and Assembly" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Brimbank Community and Civic Centre with Leake and Assembly</figcaption></figure>Hawthorn East's Burwood Road has a contemporary design high point by way of Solstice Apartments. Its 106 apartments are arranged around a central courtyard with privacy over the higher levels consisting of a tight configuration of vertical batons, resulting in a screening that looks attractive from street level. Not far behind in the design stakes is Orbit Architecture's Radius Box Hill which is clad in a variety of finishes, including screening with circular motifs.

In neighbouring Doncaster, Panorama Doncaster Hill is over the line. The Peddle Thorp Architects design was built by LU Simon and its sheer size allows for its exterior to carry a differing design language to all elevations. From angular honeycomb-like balconies to sweeping bends, Panorama Doncaster Hill is an altogether crisp outcome.

<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_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Solstice, Panorama and Radius"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="748" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_9.jpg?itok=XhvMILrZ" title="Solstice, Panorama and Radius" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Solstice, Panorama and Radius</figcaption></figure>The South Eastern suburbs witnessed a disproportionately large number of completions, headlined by BPM's The Standard on Bay Road, Brighton. The Elenberg Fraser design carries vertical white 'ribbed' elements to all elevations, providing a uniform and clean outcome.

Jackson Clements Burrows' Elsternwick Place also looks sharp, albeit with a very different architectural language; simulated brickwork contrast by white mesh screens and an angular roof provide the project with a unique appearance. Beck Property's Stage 1 of Caulfield Heath is also complete with Probuild having delivered the initial buildings that were designed by SJB Architects.

<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_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Standard Brighton, Caulfield Heath and Elsternwick Place on show"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="560" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_8.jpg?itok=B5QKZEGJ" title="Standard Brighton, Caulfield Heath and Elsternwick Place on show" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Standard Brighton, Caulfield Heath and Elsternwick Place on show</figcaption></figure>Prahran bobs up with two residential projects; one definitely a step away from the norm. Zac Apartments is a smart design by Ascui &amp; Co Architects on behalf of developer Peregrine Projects and features 36 apartments.

Presenting an all red exterior, Vox Prahran at 59 Porter Street is the creation of Kavellaris Urban Deisgn. Built by Merkon, the seemingly uniform facade can be adjusted, with the retractable louvres revealing balconies behind. Definitely something out of the box in terms of appearance.

<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/image3_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Prahran style"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="299" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3_3.jpg?itok=oGBgEQtg" title="Prahran style" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Prahran style</figcaption></figure>Aged care also welcomed two new completions by way of Regis Aged Acre's Malvern build and the Emmy Monash Aged Care/Gandel House complex on Hawthorn Road. According to architect Bates Smart's website, Emmy Monash involves 97 rooms with a variety of amenities and internal landscaped courtyards.

Icon Co delivered Emmy Monash with a construction value of $43 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/image1ac.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Malvern and Caulfield North upon completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="727" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1ac.jpg?itok=6wodWCmW" title="Malvern and Caulfield North upon completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Malvern and Caulfield North upon completion</figcaption></figure>Not to be forgotten and staying close to Melbourne's CBD is the National Tennis Centre's Administration and Media Building. As the only commercial completion of late, the Hassell Studio-designed complex houses permanent admin offices above lower levels dedicated to media use. At peak use during the Australian Open, 600 media personnel can be accommodated over the building's lower levels.

<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_6865.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Administration and Media Building"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6865.jpg?itok=ZTv-yKi3" title="Administration and Media Building" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Administration and Media Building</figcaption></figure>Finally one of the longest running builds has drawn to a close with Eastland's makeover complete. Designed by The Buchan Group, builder Probuild has seen the final eastern expansion works over the line, bringing a new dynamic to large-scale retail design in the process.

Readers may recall an article by Apartments.com.au earlier in the year highlighting the project's <a href="/news/a-new-public-realm-for-ringwood">highly impressive urban realm works</a> that are soon to be added to with the addition of a new multi-level hotel within the 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/image2_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Eastland, where even the car park holds a level of design intrigue"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="713" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_7.jpg?itok=_cWdvFTm" title="Eastland, where even the car park holds a level of design intrigue" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Eastland, where even the car park holds a level of design intrigue</figcaption></figure>See below further images of the above projects.
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Recent completions bolster suburban Melbourne's design dymanic

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The successful relationship between developer, architect and development/project manager rolls on with the emergence of plans for 15-27 Wreckyn Street.

With Mammoth Empire Holdings securing the site post an expression of interest campaign dating back to July 2014 which was handled by CBRE City Sales, plans for the North Melbourne site have been lodged two years later. Called for over the 2,271sqm are 191 dwellings, by way of apartments and a solitary townhouse.

Hayball are once more the architect of choice with PDS Group returning as project manager. Wreckyn Street shapes as Mammoth Empire Holdings' third Melbourne apartment development.

Formerly owned by Lort Smith veterinarian hospital, the T-shaped land holding maintains 130m of frontage to four separate street addresses.

<h2>15-27 Wreckyn Street aplication 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/image18_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Wreckyn Street perspective. Planning image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="416" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_10.jpg?itok=WZxTHOFz" title="Wreckyn Street perspective. Planning image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Wreckyn Street perspective. Planning image: Hayball</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged July 2016</li>
	<li>Current use: vacant site post demolition </li>
	<li>Proposed: 11 level residential building at 33.9m in height</li>
	<li>191 dwellings: 1 x 2BR townhouse, 104 x 1BR, 85 x 2BR, 1 x 3BR</li>
	<li>71sqm retail space to Wreckyn and Vale intersection</li>
	<li>115 vehicle bays and 1119 bicycle bays within 3 basement levels</li>
	<li>Level 4 communal terrace at 151sqm &amp; level 8 communal lounge/terrace at 255sqm</li>
</ul>
With immediate buildings ranging between 5-6 levels, 15-27 Wreckyn Street is larger, although in the wider precinct context there are height precedents including the recently completed 33 Flemington Road at 18 levels.

The project's Urban Context Analysis report has identified the balance of the Lort Smith Animal Hospital as a prime development capable of handling multiple development outcomes on a similar scale to 15-27 Wreckyn Street. On the same block AZX Group are in control of <a href="/new-apartments/68-courtney-street-north-melbourne">68-74 Courtney Place</a> which involves another Hayball-designed apartment complex of 74 dwellings over 5 levels, raising the propects of the block bound by Wreckyn and Villers becoming a predominantly high density enclave.

15-27 Wreckyn Street itself will be finished off in a variety of brick patterned finishes with the hit and miss format prominent. Perforated metal screens, zinc cladding and brick snap precast panels will also be present over the project's exterior.

<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_7659.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Empire continues to make rapid progression at the top end of Elizabeth Street"><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_7659.jpg?itok=mxzJUYTw" title="Empire continues to make rapid progression at the top end of Elizabeth Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Empire continues to make rapid progression at the top end of Elizabeth Street</figcaption></figure>Should Mammoth Empire's Wreckyn Street proposal proceed as planned, the Malaysian-based developer would take its Melbourne development catalogue to in excess of 1,150 dwellings.

One of the early high-profile Asian-based entrants into Melbourne's property scene over recent years, Mammoth Empire has mirrored a number of its competitors by seeking a smaller development opportunities post a big entrance within Melbourne's CBD. That came by way of MY80 on Elizabeth and A'Beckett which produced 487 apartments.

Second in line was Empire on the corresponding corner to MY80, which involves 474 apartments. At the hand of head contractor Probuild, Empire is rapidly taking its place in the crowded northern CBD area, leaving Wreckyn Street as Mammoth Empire's next Melbourne play.
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Mammoth Empire seeks approval for a third Melbourne development

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The next wave of projects readying for construction will see well in excess of $1 billion worth of additional development across Melbourne. Supplementing recently awarded projects and open construction tenders, a handful of major projects are also seeking permits to begin the construction process.

The most recent site to receive builders signage is CBD Development Group's 288 Albert Street, with LU Simon snaring Brunswick's tallest current development. At 14 levels, 288 Albert Street joins the likes of Reflections and The Burgin Residence (ABD Group), Dux Richmond Hill (Hacer Group) and Meridian (Platinum Constructions) as projects which have builders in place, but have yet to start works onsite.

Combined the above five projects alone will add near enough to 750 new apartments to Melbourne's inner suburbs.

Whilst the above projects are poised to begin construction, a wave of additional projects are at construction tender. Among them are two aged care projects that continue Melbourne's verticalisation of retirement living.

<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/image28_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design firm smith+tracey's St Kilda Road development will become reality"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28_3.jpg?itok=f0986tyy" title="Design firm smith+tracey's St Kilda Road development will become reality" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Architecture firm smith+tracey's St Kilda Road design will become reality</figcaption></figure>Jewish Care Victoria and TLC Aged Care are both pursuing their respective projects on St Kilda Road and Queens Parade, Clifton Hill. With both freshly listed as new construction tenders, the end result will be hundreds of new aged care and community care beds, along with various facilities and services supplementing either development.

With its call to construction <a href="/news/construction-beckons-for-queens-place">recently outlined on Urban.com.au</a>, Queens Place Tower 1 headlines the prospective residential builds at tender. At the lower end of the size spectrum a swag of residential projects are also looking to lock away a builder. 

Rosslyn Apartments, Harvard Apartments, Piccolo Developments' 228-230 Dorcas Street, Rockley Gardens, 7-15 Little Oxford Street and the John Wardle Architects-designed 424 Malvern Road are all at tender.

<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/ext1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rosslyn Apartments. Image: The Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ext1.jpg?itok=jCpz-FKb" title="Rosslyn Apartments. Image: The Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rosslyn Apartments. Image: The Buchan Group</figcaption></figure>In the student living stakes two noteworthy projects are at tender.

IGLU's 229 Franklin Street is a roughly 30 level tower that will mark the provider's entry into the Melbourne market, whilst Flemington Road is in for another shot of student living development. This is likely in the form of 5-17 Flemington Road, although a number of other student apartment projects are also active in the area.

From a commercial perspective three projects are preparing their tilt at construction, headlined by 161 Collins Street's T&amp;G Building refurbishment which is at tender. Owner Pembroke Real Estate's plans for the historic building involve a Bates Smart-driven overhaul of the famed Melbourne landmark.

Direct off Apartments.com.au's Forum is news that two of the CBD's larger commercial proposals have taken steps toward construction. 405 Bourke Street is subject to a Construction Management Plan submission which is with City of Melbourne and reportedly calls for a 10 month demolition and excavation programme, followed by 27 months of construction.

A Demolition Management Plan is also up for 477 Collins Street, with the Mirvac-backed development inching toward construction. Demolition is slated through to mid 2017, with construction complete in time for accounting firm Deloitte as the initial tenant to take up space by June 2020.

<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/side-elevation.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="405 Bourke Street as per the development's website"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="813" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/side-elevation.jpg?itok=UdkioSBY" title="405 Bourke Street as per the development's website" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>405 Bourke Street as per the development's website</figcaption></figure>
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