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.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Apartments

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The growing number of available apartments for-lease in Sydney; should send shivers down the spines of newbie investors that bought off-the-plan.
Not to mention, the investors that bought due to, fears of missing out (FOMO) and being pressured from so called financial-advisors (so called experts), the spruikers.
Unfortunately, this problem of oversupply and the lack of tenants won’t go away over the next few years, if not longer. Not even if you drank a few strong coffees and all to quell your fears.
Recent mainstream reports, are already talking about 200,000 new dwellings yet to be built and all coming to completion within the next 24 months.
Below is a preview of the growing local Sydney vacant-apartment market, in some of our suburbs. (Data sourced from leading property portal adds)
Tips on how to get your apartment tenanted, in a market of growing apartment-rental oversupply.
If you are one of the unfortunate investors, in any one of these apartment blocks or areas where there is a vast amount of vacancies; take these simple steps to have your property leased quicker than the others:
<ul>
<li>Insist on obtaining access to your unit prior to settlement: to take internal photos for advertising and to show the property to prospective tenants.</li>
<li>If you bought through an agency or marketing-company, note that this same company sold to a lot of other investors: therefore, list your property with a local property management agent (PM), they will focus more on your property.</li>
<li>Find out from the selling agents/marketing company, how many apartments are available for lease in your block. This information will give you a clear idea of the rental price offering: therefore, don’t be scared to be the first to drop the asking price in the block, if required.</li>
<li>Make sure your agent is aggressive. When you have 11-15 property managers on a building site and all waiting for potential tenants at the open: you need an agent that can move fast and one that is not shy.</li>
</ul>
Signs of the times
Our greater audience and readers, will no doubt have more tips on what to do. The four tips shared above, have worked well for our team, in the past and lately. Feel free to share.
The sooner your PM team has access to the unit, the better chance you have of renting your property and at a good price.
Recent experience
Our team has just leased a unit in a complex of 270 apartments. The team found out that there are approximately 256 available for rent; sold to investors that is. Our PM spoke to the landlord and he quickly put in place the tips shared above.
The leading selling agency and other PM agencies advertised at $620+/week on like units, for-lease. Our PM advertised the unit for $620 and on the day of the open: he scheduled for an early morning open, but he still had 10 other PM agents alongside offering their landlord's apartments.
When a tenant approached the group and walked around the building; our PM walked up to him, asked if he was after a rental. After discussions with the Landlord and further ongoing checks and balances from our team; they signed the tenant on a 12 month lease and for $600/week.
Two weeks on, and you will now see on the property portals and in the same building, adds for like apartments at $520-$580/week.
I dare say, there is probably another 150-220 apartments still available for lease in that complex.
 
EDWIN ALMEIDA is licensee in charge of <a href="https://www.just-think.com.au/" target="_blank">Just Think Real Estate</a>.<a href="https://www.just-thin.com.au/"> </a>
He is also the creator of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/JustThinkProperty" target="_blank">Oz Real Estate.TV</a> and a presenter for <a href="https://propertyinvestingvault.com/" target="_blank">propertyinvestingvault.com</a>.
 
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ealmedia-arK4DBYLjS

The rise and rise of Sydney rental apartments: Edwin Almeida's warning to landlords

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Cremorne-based Spacious Property Group have teamed with Hayball to create the developer's next two apartment projects.

Pending approval, St Kilda and West Melbourne will house the respective mid-rise projects, adding to Spacious Property Group's sole current Melbourne project located opposite Blackburn Station.

The St Kilda project involves a 2,110sqm site at 54-60 St Kilda Road which the developer secured at the turn of the year for a reported $13.7 million. The current low-rise commercial complex will make way for a 10 storey residential building holding 103 dwellings, including apartments, townhouses and three bedroom penthouses.

 504sqm of retail space is spread across the design's St Kilda Road frontage, whilst the facade features an urban lighting installation involving colour-programmed LED luminaires set behind perforated vertical metal screens.

 54-60 St Kilda Road adds to the recent upswing of apartment projects at St Kilda Junction; the largest of which is a 28 level tower slated for <a href="/new-apartments/8-12-punt-road-st-kilda">8-12 Punt Road.</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/image13_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="54-60 St Kilda Road. Planning image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_8.jpg?itok=TrhvmW1P" title="54-60 St Kilda Road. Planning image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>54-60 St Kilda Road. Planning image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>In West Melbourne, Spacious Property Group is attempting to pass its site through planning once more, post the rejection of an initial attempt for a <a href="/news/planning-application-488-494-la-trobe-street-west-melbourne">32 level residential tower</a>. The site at 488-494 La Trobe Street is back at planning with Hayball undertaking the revised design process that has now asked for a more modest 19 levels.

Within the tower 118 apartments are sought with one, two and two plus study options included. Two retail tenancies are at ground level, whilst 95 bicycle and 28 car parking spaces are located within a solitary basement level.

On its initial planning pass, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/vic/VCAT/2015/1895">VCAT provided</a> the following assessment on the initial 32 level version:

<blockquote>
We conclude that the proposed building is not an acceptable design response to it physical and policy setting due to its overall height, massing and lack of side or rear setbacks. We consider these are inconsistent with its existing and preferred character setting.

We do not seek to determine what an appropriate response is for this site as this is not our role. However, based on our concerns about visual bulk and direct amenity impacts we note that even if the height of the building was significantly reduced (even below 40 metres) it would not resolve our concerns about the direct building interface on boundary to the north and east or concerns with internal amenity.
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image10_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The revised 488-494 La Trobe Street. Planning image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="412" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_7.jpg?itok=dXE3QQGw" title="The revised 488-494 La Trobe Street. Planning image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The revised 488-494 La Trobe Street. Planning image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>Spacious Property Group's Melbourne development pipeline is rounded out with 55-65 Railway Road, Blackburn. Purchased by the developer with a planning permit in place, the project was quickly taken to market under the moniker of <a href="/buildings/boardwalk-55-railway-road-blackburn">Boardwalk Blackburn</a>.

The CHT Architects-designed development sees 33 apartments set above 7 retail tenancies over a 1,475sqm triple fronted site. Orange Building Solutions currently have the project above ground with construction with a likely finish date approaching the new year.
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silvermb

Spacious and Hayball team up to create two new residential projects

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After more than a decade of development activity within the Victoria Gardens precinct, Salta Properties is poised to launch their latest residential project within the precinct that will account for the bulk of the former MFB training college site.

Park House will add a further 539 apartments into the priority development zone which Salta has all but made its own. Fronting Victoria Street, Walmer Street and the Yarra River, Park House is also one of the final development sites in play along the Yarra River in the precinct.

The Victorian Government is in the process of introducing tighter planning controls for the Yarra River, with the aim of better managing development along its banks.

Completed during 2003, Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre has acted as a catalyst for the precinct, with Salta Properties subsequent development activity focused on mid-rise residential and commercial projects. Situated on a portion of the former MFB training college site which spans 17,000sqm, Park House also continues the long-standing association between developer and design practice SJB Architects in the area. 

<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/image5ph.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria Street perspective of the new development. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="431" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5ph.jpg?itok=i-93FEtm" title="Victoria Street perspective of the new development. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria Street perspective of the new development.</figcaption></figure>Similar to the adjoining Green Square development, Park House's footprint has been arranged around a large internal garden with adjoining communal facilities in tow.

Park House will see a mass of amenities folded into the project, including a home theatre, golf simulator, bike workshop, children's playroom and library. These are in addition to traditional features such as a gym, pool and lounge.

Likely owing to its proximity to the Yarra, Park House also sees a higher degree of landscaping and active frontages than adjacent projects. Walmer Street will be remodelled into a piazza of sorts while Park House's frontage to the Yarra River will be broken by terraced greenery.

<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/image7ph.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amenities on show within Park House"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="555" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7ph.jpg?itok=3mwuPsoT" title="Amenities on show within Park House" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amenities on show within Park House</figcaption></figure>The arrival of Park House follows on from the recent completion of Salta's A Place To Live with 61 apartments included. The developer's previous projects within the precinct include 400 apartments and 96 serviced apartments within Green Square and a further 355 apartments within RAPTL.

Salta has also built 35,000 square metres of commercial space at Victoria Gardens.

The recent VCAT approval of 649 Victoria Street adds to Salta's forthcoming projects within the precinct, as do a number of development sites east of Victoria Garden

Salta Is also placed to further deliver additional higher density living to a site south of Victoria Gardens. Dubbed Burnley Terrace, concept designs show an outcome as high as 20 levels for the site. Eventually Salta can expect to develop in excess of 2,000 apartments in 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/untitled-3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Previous Salta projects along Burnley street. Image: Salta Properties"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="306" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/untitled-3.jpg?itok=hRhIq3Bd" title="Previous Salta projects along Burnley street. Image: Salta Properties" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Previous Salta projects along Burnley street. Image: Salta Properties</figcaption></figure>
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Park House adds to the Victoria Gardens precinct

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The latest prospective Fishermans Bend entrant to be unveiled comes in the form of a peckvonhartel-designed 41 storey apartment tower, with a unique corten steel sculpture worked into the design.

Successfully delivering projects for over 35 years, peckvonhartel are an established Melbourne presence although their forays into high-rise design are few and far between. Subject to their design is the former Laycock Son and Co. woollen mills, otherwise known as Laconia Woollen Mills at 179-185 Normanby Road.

Located within Montague Precinct, the 3,439sqm Laconia Woollen Mills buildings is under the control of Normanby Group Holdings Pty Ltd, who are seeking a tower positioned to the rear of the large site.

<h2>179-185 Normanby Road, Southbank 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/image19_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective of the intended tower.Planning image: peckvonhartel"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="848" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_9.jpg?itok=uw8UudK1" title="Street level perspective of the intended tower.Planning image: peckvonhartel" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective of the intended tower. Planning image: peckvonhartel</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application submitted: 27/05/2016</li>
	<li>Laconia Woollen Mills site area: 2,008sqm</li>
	<li>Proposed 41 storey tower at 149.8 metres</li>
	<li>291 apartments: 56 x 1BR, 176 x 2BR, 59 x 3BR</li>
	<li>4003.75sqm of commercial office space &amp; one retail space at 404.12sqm</li>
	<li>191 car parking spaces including 45 commercial spaces (existing)</li>
	<li>191 bicycle parking spaces including 32 commercial spaces and 11 commercial visitor spaces</li>
	<li>842.43sqm of communal space</li>
</ul>
<h2>Internal inclinations</h2>

Internal areas for the project see the following: one-bedroom apartments range between 50sqm-52sqm, two-bedroom apartments range between 70sqm-94sqm and three-bedroom apartments weigh in at between 84sqm-128sqm.

City of Port Phillip have noted in their preliminary report on the application that the 20% of dwellings are dedicated toward three-bedroom dwellings, which far exceeds Council's preference of at least 10% of apartments contain three bedrooms.

Conversely Council also note that no affordable or social housing is proposed as part of the application. The Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan states that for developments containing 200 or more dwellings, an affordable housing component should be considered.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image20_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Landscaped external terrace atop the Laconia building. Planning image: peckvonhartel"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="230" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_5.jpg?itok=oiSktnX8" title="Landscaped external terrace atop the Laconia building. Planning image: peckvonhartel" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Landscaped external terrace atop the Laconia building. Planning image: peckvonhartel</figcaption></figure>Internally, peckvonhartel's design features multiple communal facilities which include lounge rooms over level 11, a cinema room, gym, children's playroom and an expansive rooftop area above the Laconia Woollen Mills building.

<h2>Corten of contention</h2>

Externally 179-185 Normanby Road would also see works to the public realm on Doran Street, with road narrowing and the delivery of planters, timber decking areas and timber pergolas.

Most notable is the corten steel sculpture that sits between the existing and proposed buildings, and shapes as a relief from typical Fishermans Bend proposals which see scant few sculptural features design into prospective buildings.

City of Port Phillip have raised concerns that both the sculpture and tower would overwhelm the existing Laconia Woollen Mills building which is subject to a heritage overlay. Also falling foul of City of Port Phillip officers is the proposal's lack of connection between Woodgate Street and Doran Street, inactive podium facing Doran Street and the impractical nature of the public works proposed.

In 179-185 Normanby Road's current form Council officers have recommended that Council advise the Minister that it does not support the application as proposed.
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Corten of contention: peckvonhartel's new Fishermans Bend tower in focus

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Little more than a week after <a href="/news/clifton-hill-in-for-a-dose-of-the-high-life-with-17-levels-planned">unveiling plans for Queens Parade's first high-rise</a>, Apartments.com.au can report on a second intended tower expected to grace the thoroughfare.

Prevalent local developer Gurner has gone to planning with a substantial proposal for 26-56 Queens Parade, seeking approval for a 16 level apartment tower over what is now a low-rise commercial premises.

476 dwellings are called for over the 8,500sqm site which is close to both Alexandra Parade and Brunswick Street. Purchased off-market by Gurner during January for in excess of $40 million, the estimated cost of the project is nominated as $85 million.

Sited with City of Yarra’s Gasworks Precinct, the current building is highly recognisable due to its pink façade, and holds a 120m frontage to Queens Parade.

It's been reported that Gurner has approached one international and three Australian architecture firms in a competitive design process with an aim of delivering a high quality built form outcome onsite. Which architect has the task of delivering the design remains to be seen.

<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/ftznorth.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site in question. Image: GURNER"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ftznorth.jpg?itok=RECS0DCE" title="The site in question. Image: GURNER" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site in question. Image: GURNER</figcaption></figure>Factoring in those projects at planning or with planning approval, and apartment living is set to take hold along Queens Parade. Gurner, Salta Properties, Wulff Projects and TLC Aged care as noteworthy developers active along Queens Parade, with as many as 1,000 new dwellings in the pipeline.

Nearby and the sizeable former 4-hectare Gasworks site is <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/property/fitzroy-gasworks-back-in-play-20160426-gof0pl">speculated to be heading toward development</a>, with Places Victoria looking to facilitate change over the underutilised land.

The only recent apartment development of note to grace Queens Parade is Graphite at 58 Queens Parade. Developed by BPM, Graphite was completed during 2015 and sees 46 apartments over 5 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/image58_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spanish Club's intended transformatiom. Image: Warren and Mahoney"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image58_2.jpg?itok=c5CD1MFb" title="Spanish Club's intended transformatiom. Image: Warren and Mahoney" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Spanish Club's intended transformation. Image: Warren and Mahoney</figcaption></figure>26-56 Queens Parade's 476 dwellings are in addition to Gurner's seven projects found within the Apartments.com.au Project Database, which amount to some 670 apartments.

Of those, 375 apartments are under construction by way of 107 Cambridge Street, Ikebana and 24-28 Stanley Street. 74 Eastern Road is awaiting construction after a successful sales campaign while 278-282 Kings Way, 7 Bowen Crescent and The Spanish Club at 57-61 Johnston Street are also at planning.

Gurner was also tied to <a href="https://developmentsites.melbourne/footscray/1-warde-street">1 Warde Street, Footscray</a> with the site which carries approval for 388 apartments now offered for sale with CBRE City Sales.
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Doubling up on Queens Parade as Gurner seeks approval for 476 dwellings

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A development consortium is hoping that a Clifton Hill site which recently went into planning will ultimately become the suburb's first high-rise building.

Plans for 249-261 Queens Parade were lodged with City of Yarra during May for a 17 storey tower of a consisting predominantly of apartments. The small stretch of Queens Parade abutting Hoddle Street has seen a limited number of mid-rise projects thus far, but nothing of the scale which has been designed for 249-261 Queens Parade.

With a development cost of approximately $30 million, 129 dwellings are designed to sit above ground level retail, with two basement levels also included.

Development Manager Wulff Projects carry the following description of the project on their website:

<blockquote>
Neighbouring the Patch Apartments, these adjoining sites were acquired separately and off-market by Wulff Projects on behalf of the Joint Venture comprising Wolf Capital and Salta Properties. Currently, over 100 apartments are planned, striving to be an exemplar of high quality design and all with high level amenity and priority ESD consideration.

This development is expected for completion in 2018.
</blockquote>

The two sites in question are 265 Queens Parade at 310sqm and 249-261 Queens Parade covering 885sqm. <a href="http://www.colliers.com.au/news/2015/off---market-sales-heat-up-in-clifton-hill/#.V4IUB7h9670">According to Colliers</a> the combined purchase price for the land parcels was $8.5 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/image9_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Colliers graphic for Queens Parade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_7.jpg?itok=oAkGs9kW" title="Colliers graphic for Queens Parade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Colliers International graphic for Queens Parade</figcaption></figure>Formerly light industrial, the eastern side of Queens Parade is gradually being repurposed as higher density development. 

The green plot seen in the Colliers International graphic above relates to Salta Properties and Wolf Capital's planned 17 level tower whilst the mustard site holds approval for an 11 level project at 243-247 Queens Parade. Dubbed <a href="http://patchapartments.com.au/">Patch Apartments</a>, a project website for the development is still operational.

Seen in orange above is aged care provider TLC's site for a 10 level integrated care hub at 217-241 Queens Parade. With revised plans submitted during January, Yarra City Council have the application listed as having a Notice of Decision; the final step prior to a planning permit being granted.

205-211 Queens Parade also shapes a future development with Colliers International recently running a campaign for the 1,440sqm land holding. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image10_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_6.jpg?itok=JrMMHsL3" title="243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade. Images: Fieldwork Projects &amp; Baldasso Cortese</figcaption></figure>
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Clifton Hill in for a dose of the high life with 17 levels planned

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Local and international developers now have the opportunity to run the ruler over what is one of Melbourne's largest permitted CBD development sites. 299 King Street has been placed on the market in the knowledge that it is one of the last remaining super-sized developments within Melbourne's CBD that was not subject to evised planning rules which were introduced during 2015.

Dubbed <a href="http://www.kingstowermelbourne.com.au/">Kings Tower</a>, the 208 metre residential scheme design by Plus Architecture looms as a trophy purchase for the eventual buyer, with CBRE Melbourne City Sales handling the campaign.

Included within the approved 66 level envelope are 400 plus dwellings above a podium featuring a variety of communal uses and provision for both car and bicycle parking. CBRE Melbourne City Sales expect that the eventual buyer may proceed with the residential scheme as is, or introduce other uses such as a hotel, serviced apartments and/or student accommodation, subject to Council 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/king_street_chinese_v2_cl_02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kings Tower as rendered from street level. Image: CBRE City Sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1305" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/king_street_chinese_v2_cl_02.jpg?itok=cBFdY6DW" title="Kings Tower as rendered from street level. Image: CBRE City Sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kings Tower as rendered from street level. Image: CBRE City Sales</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Only four major development sites have come to the market in 2016, and we are seeing a major uptick in demand from offshore developers who have been waiting for quality sites to become available.

After receiving planning approval, the vendor received several private approaches by local and offshore groups, and has subsequently decided to offer the property to the open market.
<cite>Josh Rutman, Director, CBRE Melbourne City Sales</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
It is interesting to observe the ongoing appetite from Asia for high profile development sites. We have seen almost $300 million of development site sales in Melbourne over the past two months, some with planning approval and others without.
<cite>Mark Wizel, Senior Director, CBRE Melbourne City Sales</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
A lot of the developments in the area are very rectangular," she said. "King Street is a main arterial road for people passing through the CBD and although this building is not at the edge of the CBD grid, it's close enough that it becomes a beacon travelling from the north and south.
<cite>Jessica Liew, Director, Plus Architecture</cite>
</blockquote>

<a href="/news/planning-application-295-309-king-street-melbourne">First appearing on Urban.com.au in early 2015</a>, 299 King Street's design impetus came chiefly from Constantin Brancusi's Bird in Space, Alvar Aalto's Savoy Vase and the iridescent nature of a bubble which captures the reflection and refraction of light waves via its surface. The resultant approved design features pearlescent façade would produce a pink, bluish, purple effect depending on how light is cast over the tower.

The tower also incorporates curvaceous lines with a bulge in form toward its peak, providing it with a point of difference in relation to many of the nearby buildings.

At a floor space ratio of almost 40:1, 299 King Street is an unrepeatable design, with the pending implementation of new planning controls seeing a ratio of 18:1 blanket the CBD and Southbank, although there is limited scope for an increased ratio subject to public benefit clauses.

<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/image3299.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kings Street frontage. Image: CBRE City Sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="758" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3299.jpg?itok=p83UOyFk" title="Kings Street frontage. Image: CBRE City Sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kings Street frontage. Image: CBRE City Sales</figcaption></figure>Located in the CBD's western precinct, Kings Tower is set to add to the continued transformation of the area, which has seen elevated levels of development over the last decade. Upper West Side and the pending delivery of West side Place which includes Melbourne's first Ritz-Carlton underline the degree of change seen within the western precinct.

CBRE Melbourne City Sales have cited government data within their sales material, showing that an estimated 45,000 new dwellings are required in the inner city over the next 15 years to accommodate population growth.
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A king sized opportunity presents itself in the CBD

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The development team behind Southbank's Monarch Tower have positioned the new project at the higher end of the apartment market, far from some of the projects which surround the mixed-use development.

Representatives of Altus Development, Moull Murray Architects and Bella Charlton recently spoke with Apartments.com.au prior to the project's launch, discussing the all-encompassing task of positioning the permium tower in a location where distingiushing one project from another can be difficult.

Post securing the site, Moull Murray Architects were tasked with refashioning the tower whilst remaining within the approved envelope. With the majority of projects nearby appearing as generic blocks, a high degree of variation was employed over Monarch Tower's facade, moving it aesthetically beyond its neighbours.

<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/image66_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Monarch Tower hero perspective. Image: Altus Development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="829" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66_2.jpg?itok=68cIhmcn" title="Monarch Tower hero perspective. Image: Altus Development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Monarch Tower hero perspective. Image: Altus Development</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The new architectural treatment, reinforces the tall, slender nature of the approved development envelope with an emphasis on vertical forms. The proportions of the tower have been treated In the classic sky-scraper tradition of a base, middle tower, and expressed top.

The podium utilises a grid framework to set up visually scaleable proportions that relate to the streetscape as well as the pattern overlaid on the tower facade. The podium is veneered with apartments on both frontages to reinforce a sense of human interaction with the public realm.
<cite>Moull Murray Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

Adding to Monarch Tower's stocks is the addition of serviced apartment operator Pan Pacific which will operate 130 five-star suites, situated over the lower 19 levels of the project. Not only does the addition of Pan Pacific provide Monarch Tower with a renowned worldwide operator, it also allowed for the expansion of communal areas and facilities within the building.

A pool deck including a fully-equipped gym, cinema, tranquil health spa, outdoor BBQ entertainment terrace and virtual golf range will service both typical apartments and the Pan Pacific suites. The development team also made note of Monarch Tower's proximity to Crown and the Southbank Entertainment Precinct, with either a short walk away.

<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/image67_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amenities finished to a high standard. Image: Altus Development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="186" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image67_2.jpg?itok=TahmJ7LB" title="Amenities finished to a high standard. Image: Altus Development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amenities finished to a high standard. Image: Altus Development</figcaption></figure>Premier apartments within Monarch Tower will have exclusive access to the 6-star Sovereign Lounge featuring a bar, spa, sauna, steam room and gym, plus unimpeded views toward the CBD.

Whilst the previously approved plans allowed for one and two bedroom apartments to the tower's summit, Altus Development has completely repositioned Monarch Tower to capture the premium apartment market. Set over the upper 43 levels, total apartment numbers within the project have fallen to 294.

Levels 51 through 58 will include adaptable penthouse and sub penthouse plans, capable of being reworked to a prospective buyer's their needs. Included is the opportunity to create a double-storey, super-sized loft.

<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/image63_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a penthouse living area. Image: Altus Development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="292" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image63_4.jpg?itok=fkY3VzXl" title="Artist's impression of a penthouse living area. Image: Altus Development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a penthouse living area. Image: Altus Development</figcaption></figure>Quizzed on Monarch Tower's interest prior to launch, Bella Charlton's Valentino Spyriadis divulged a number of reservations have been taken for apartments, with those to be firmed once the project officially heads to sales.

Further all penthouses within Monarch Tower will be held for the local market, with the high-end stock considered essential to the project's marketing perception and eventual place in the Southbank market. This is in line with the development team positioning Monarch Tower at the owner-occupier and premium investor.

The launch of Monarch Tower coincides with the firming of a head construction contractor for Docklands' Altus Tower, which follows a similar model to that of Monarch Tower. With a new PARKROYAL and private apartments headlining the Docklands project, Altus Development expect the high-end duo will spearhead their Melbourne development pipeline.
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Distinguishing oneself on Southbank as Monarch Tower enters the fray

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Property investors looking for an apartment for under $500,000 on the central Gold Coast are spoilt for choice according to the property valuation firm, Herron Todd White.
HTW's residential market report for July said potential buyers will need to be aware of body corporate costs, sinking fund balances and any extraordinary works however noted apartments under $500,000 can be purchased no more than 150 metres away from the beach.
"In this price bracket, two-bedroom units at Mermaid Beach would be a property our valuers recommend due to the beach being no more than 150 metres away, Pacific Fair’s recent upgrade and the lively café and bar scene.
"While there are many options available to purchasers with $500,000 to spend in the northern corridor growth suburbs of Pimpama and Coomera, if looking to invest money of my own, I’d be looking at more central Gold Coast areas in close proximity to the beach.
"This is partly due to the vast amount of new stock currently being developed or scheduled for development, as well as the over inflated prices charged for house and land packages which are the most common property type in this area.
"Detached dwellings still appear to be a better investment than units with agents reporting investors buying dwellings for land banking purposes in areas such as Labrador and Southport. These areas have possibly peaked for shorter term consideration. Investors in this case are looking for properties with higher density development potential for example duplex approved sites with dwellings that provide some holding return."
Property Observer found a two bedroom, two bathroom unit for sale on Mermaid Beach<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-mermaid+beach-119994605" target="_blank"> for between $279,000 to $309,000</a>.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Coastline Gold Coast unit purchasers still spoilt for choice under $500,000: HTW 

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Fridcorp and Elenberg Fraser's third joint project within South Yarra's Forrest Hill Precinct looks set to produce arguably the area's most interesting building.

Interesting in that plans currently on display for 627 Chapel Street show a residential tower set above a street interface that shapes as being something unique to the area.

In a recent chat with Apartments.com.au, Fridcorp founder and Director Paul Fridman outlined 627 Chapel Street's intentions of becoming a worthy conduit by way of meaningfully linking Chapel Street with the ever expanding residential population of Claremont Street and South Yarra Station beyond.

The tower itself has been inspired by the story of Jack and the Beanstalk, resulting in a sculptural building form layered with greenery that is expected to accommodate in excess of 450 dwellings.

<h2>627 Chapel 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/image5ef.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The undulating form of 627 Chapel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="446" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5ef.jpg?itok=syv69bh7" title="The undulating form of 627 Chapel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The undulating form of 627 Chapel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged June 2015 with a revision dated June 2016</li>
	<li>1,529sqm site, currently inhabited by a commercial building</li>
	<li>Proposed 42 level tower at 133m</li>
	<li>454 apartments: 147 x 1BR, 301 x 2BR, 6 x 3BR</li>
	<li>3 retail tenancies at a combined 297sqm</li>
	<li>Public room: 292sqm</li>
	<li>8 level basements for 286 vehicles and 130 bicycles</li>
	<li>Amenities: private dining and lounge, a sky bar and observatory, a meditative sky garden and a gymnasium incorporating a swimming pool</li>
</ul>
The glazed and balustraded finishes applied to 627 Chapel Street are contrasted by slithers of greenery. The scattered nature of each level's courtyards are tied together via vertical green gardens which accentuate the rippling nature of the design.

Residences are reinforced by three separate common areas over differing levels. Levels 1 and 16 host various amenities while level 40 hosts a north-facing private dining room.

<h2>The 'Public Room'</h2>

Coinciding with the application's semi-covered Public Plaza is the intended beautification of Daly Street. Elenberg Fraser and landscape architects 360 Degrees have taken a holistic approach to the tower's settings, resulting in a space dubbed the 'Public Room'.

<blockquote>
The public room will become an active meeting place for pedestrians travelling up/down Chapel Street and through Forrest Hill to South Yarra Station. It will become a centre for public interaction.

A public art piece will mark Chapel Street's connection through to the Forrest Hill Precinct. This marker will enhance pedestrian corridors and position the Forrest Hill gateway as a primary thoroughfare through South Yarra, directing traffic to the future prospects at South Yarra Station.
<cite>Elenberg Fraser: 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/image4ef.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Chapel Street perspective. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4ef.jpg?itok=4Df1BtwA" title="The Chapel Street perspective. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Chapel Street perspective. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Should 627 Chapel Street get the green light, both it and 16-22 Claremont Street will frame the Daly Street passage that leads to the heart of the Forrest Hill Precinct.

With Malaysian outfit Salcon Berhad revealed as the new purchaser of 16-22 Claremont Street last week, the prospect of South Yarra's two most ground level-inclusive developments rising in close proximity to one another is a very real possibility. While 627 Chapel Street sports the 'Public Room', 16-22 Claremont Street's best public asset will be a large through passage dubbed 'Claremont Plaza' as seen below.

On a wider note, 627 Chapel Street is the sixth residential development currently in play facing Chapel Street within the Forrest Hill Precinct. Of the six, both it and 671 Chapel Street are the two projects yet to receive planning 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/image8_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bookending Daly Street. Images: Elenberg Fraser &amp; Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="212" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8_8.jpg?itok=ftocQwWM" title="Bookending Daly Street. Images: Elenberg Fraser &amp; Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bookending Daly Street. Images: Elenberg Fraser &amp; Colliers</figcaption></figure><h2>627 Chapel Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Fridcorp</li>
	<li>Architects: Elenberg Fraser Architects</li>
	<li>Town planning: Meinhardt</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineers: One Mile Grid</li>
	<li>ESD report &amp; services: Murchie Consulting</li>
	<li>Waste management plan: Leigh Desig</li>
	<li>Wind analysis: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Landscape plan: 360 Degrees</li>
	<li>Land survey: Bosco Jonson</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: Webber Design</li>
</ul>
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