Property developer One Living, backed by former Macquarie banker turned investment manager Chris Green’s investment firm, has unveiled plans to bring more institutional capital into housing to help address the national supply crisis.

The New York-based investor has focused his firm, GreenPoint Partners, on addressing the supply shortage hitting middle market housing in Australia.

It is backing the new One Living business to develop more than 1000 units along the eastern seaboard. The new firm is starting with a development on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with around 140 apartments planned. They are eyeing off more sites across the city.

With cost pressures rising in the industry, One Living’s model is to be a vertically integrated developer-builder, so it can respond directly to the housing gap by removing the cost inefficiencies embedded in traditional residential delivery.

“We are building a platform designed to operate at scale and starting in a market where there’s a clear need for quality, attainable housing,” One Living joint managing director Joseph Scuderi said.

“It’s that missing middle – it’s that attainable end of housing… that’s what most Australians invest into and what Australians can actually afford.”

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="798dfa93-4941-4db6-a696-31e9dc18e81c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.31.50%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=mKBqi5C_DmeiXS.AtJkcR8LQIxqCqmFi" />

GreenPoint Partners brings years of experience assembling and scaling real estate operating businesses across major markets. And Green sees a big opportunity in Australia.

“For its size, sophistication and importance to the community, Australia’s living sector has remained largely under-institutionalised, which represents significant opportunity,” Green said. “GreenPoint identified that gap, assembled the right team, and is backing One Living to build a platform that is aligned to market needs.”

Green said being a builder-developer would give the company the capacity and flexibility it required to deliver reasonably-priced homes.

“We want it to be at that attainable level; not super high end luxury but at that attainable level,” he said.

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74a5344a-4b26-4d4a-ada3-056b1220be77" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.32.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=vY8hXHO4reBMdO8ZXMWCNtGZJofUPQ3j" />

&nbsp;

One Living will undertake a component of affordable housing in its schemes, which it will own and operate, and it could also run build-to-rent on some sites.

Green praised local policy settings.

“The NSW government is being very supportive, strategic and pragmatic in terms of how do we generate more supply of housing,” he said. “We think it’s actually positive for development and the bit that’s been lacking at that attainable level is that it’s lots of relatively small private developers, whereas we want to create an institutional platform.”

One Living is also&nbsp;looking at high-density projects and could take on more institutional funding in the future.

“The way we will be able to achieve economies of scale is through size,” Green added.

Joel Robinson

One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition

It's been several years since there's been an opportunity to buy a brand new townhome in Melbourne's coastal suburb of Mordialloc. Even apartment developments in recent times have been few and far between in the area.

Local developer LDS Property identified the gap in new housing, securing a site on White Street, directly opposite&nbsp;Woodlands Golf Club Mordialloc. They've recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/wm-residences-mordialloc-102-white-street-mordialloc-vic-3195">WM Residences</a>, just 13 townhouses which they have already started building.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson, who is selling WM Residences, says the townhouses x that perfect middle ground be

"Mordialloc residents have had limited options to downsize within the suburb, often forcing them to look elsewhere despite long-standing ties to the area," Thompson says.

"With very little comparable new supply coming to market, projects like WM Residences are well placed, particularly as buyers look to capitalise on current conditions amid constrained supply."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6109]

The development, designed by regarded architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>,&nbsp;adopts a deliberately restrained architectural approach, focusing on simplicity, durability and liveability rather than overt design gestures.

The boutique scale is central to the offering. With only 13 three-bedroom residences, each home is configured to prioritise functional layouts and everyday use, supported by private terraces and secure two-car garages.

Ewert Leaf’s design response leans into a calm, neutral material palette. Interiors are defined by oak flooring, white walls and soft finishes, creating a consistent and understated backdrop. The approach avoids trend-driven detailing in favour of longevity, with an emphasis on natural light and spatial clarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6110]

Beyond aesthetics, the homes are designed to meet contemporary performance expectations. Each residence targets a minimum 6-star energy rating, incorporating double glazing, comprehensive insulation and all-electric Bosch appliances.

The project’s location supports a walkable coastal lifestyle, sitting within close proximity to Mordialloc’s foreshore, Main Street retail strip and the train station. Local cafés and dining venues, including Suburbia Deli and Hendriks Café, are within a short walk, reinforcing the area’s established neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6116]

While <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is often defined by its beach and pier, the project taps into other areas of day to day living, offering easy access to local food, casual dining and transport, rather than positioning itself purely as a lifestyle retreat.

WM Residences reflects a continued trend across Melbourne’s coastal suburbs towards smaller-scale, design-led townhouse developments, particularly on infill sites where proximity to amenity is already established.

With construction commenced prior to its market entry, the project aligns with a growing preference among buyers for developments with visible progress and defined delivery timeframes.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134646]

WM Residences fills gap in Mordialloc townhouse market

&nbsp;

Developer GURNER™ Group has revealed $1.65 billion in residential sales nationally across the 12 months to December 2025, driven largely by the continued momentum of its Docklands wellness-focused precinct, Elysium Fields.

The sales result was generated across seven projects in Victoria and New South Wales, headlined by Elysium Fields, GURNER™’s $2.75 billion mixed-use precinct planned for Harbour Esplanade in Docklands.

The project has recorded more than $500 million in sales across the first three towers, equating to around 580 apartments sold.

The first tower, Helios, has now sold out of its 240 private residences, with GURNER™ preparing to release a premium penthouse collection comprising 15 three-bedroom penthouses in coming weeks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370975]

Elysium Fields is being developed on the long-held 20,000 sqm Docklands site at 208-226 Harbour Esplanade, which had remained undeveloped for more than two decades prior to GURNER™ taking over the project around four years ago.

Construction has now commenced across four towers ranging between 18 and 30 storeys, with Hamilton Marino and Maxcon appointed as builders.

Once complete, the precinct is expected to comprise around 1,100 residences, alongside retail, hospitality and public realm uses integrated throughout the site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370981]

Designed by Fraser &amp; Partners in collaboration with GURNER™ Design House, the project has been positioned around the developer’s broader focus on wellness-led residential living.

“We don’t sell apartments. We create a true luxury lifestyle that simply doesn’t exist elsewhere in the market today,” Founder and Executive Chairman Tim Gurner said.

“To deliver that requires an extraordinary level of detail, coordination and discipline across multiple verticals, from design and hospitality through to wellness and service.”

“We’ve always believed that living extends far beyond the physical residence. It’s about how you feel the moment you arrive, how you live day-to-day, and the ecosystem that supports that.” 
[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370977]

The project’s design places a heavy focus on landscaping, wellness amenities and biophilic design principles.

Plans include around 3,700 sqm of landscaped gardens and open space throughout the precinct, alongside a retail and dining offering spanning approximately 5,000 sqm.

The broader public realm strategy centres around what GURNER™ describes as the “Path of Life”, an urban forest and landscaped pedestrian environment intended to connect the various buildings and wellness spaces across the precinct.

The apartments themselves will incorporate a range of wellness-focused inclusions, including purified air and water systems, circadian lighting, antimicrobial surfaces, and optional in-home wellness upgrades.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370980]

Gurner said the company’s experience through its Saint Haven wellness clubs had directly informed the residential offering now being incorporated into Elysium Fields.

“We’re seeing a clear global shift toward longevity, performance and proactive health,” Gurner said.

“Our role is to deliver that in a way that feels seamless, highly private and beautifully resolved within the environments we create.”

A large component of the wellness offering is planned through the resident amenity and health facilities proposed within the precinct.

That includes plans for bathing and recovery facilities spread throughout the towers, incorporating mineral pools, saunas, steam rooms, flotation therapy, red light therapy and wellness lounges.

The developer is also seeking approvals for what it describes as a “reverse ageing medical clinic” within the precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370978]

According to project information released by the group, the proposed facility would include cryotherapy, IV infusion therapy, infrared and dry saunas, PEMF beds, MRIs, DEXA scans, brain scans and blood analysis services.

Within the first tower, Helios, residents will also have access to a dedicated amenity offering known as the Sky Private Club.

The upper 15 levels of the building will include private lounges, dining spaces, rooftop amenities and optional private wellness studios integrated within residences.

The Helios tower itself comprises 260 apartments ranging between 60 sqm and 300 sqm, including a collection of penthouses.

That includes a planned two-storey penthouse spanning around 600 sqm with uninterrupted bay views.

The Elysium Fields precinct is being delivered in partnership with Digital Harbour Holdings, a consortium that includes the Liberman family, which controls the development rights across the Docklands site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370979]

The sales result comes as GURNER™ continues expanding its national development pipeline beyond Victoria.

“We have a strong pipeline across Australia and are now focused on scaling into key markets including New South Wales and Queensland, while continuing to build on our Melbourne base,” Gurner said.

“We currently have more than $3 billion in the market, growing to over $5 billion by October, and expect to materially outperform last year in the 2026 calendar year.”

The result also reflects the continued strength of the upper-end apartment market in Melbourne, particularly for owner-occupier-focused product with large-scale amenity and lifestyle offerings.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144441]

Record result anchored by the Group’s “utopian” Elysium Fields precinct – defying market headwinds in Docklands.

Elysium Fields drive Gurner to $1.65 billion in apartment sales over 2025

National Australia Bank (NAB) will fund <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera</a>, a $1 billion, 52-level luxury residential tower being developed by Central Equity in one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held coastal locations at Northcliffe.

The project, launched recently by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a>, one of Victoria’s largest private residential developers, comes at a time when construction funding for large residential developments has become increasingly competitive as lenders tighten exposure to the sector.

Multiplex has been appointed the builder, and construction is now underway.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365784]

Since its first project, Central Equity has delivered more than 85 residential developments with a combined end value exceeding $8 billion.

Palmera reflects Central Equity’s growing focus on the Gold Coast luxury apartment market and continues a relationship between Central Equity and NAB that dates back to the late 1980s, when the bank funded one of Melbourne’s earliest inner-city residential towers at a time when high-rise apartment living in the CBD was largely unproven.

“NAB’s funding of Central Equity’s $36 million CBD development in the late 1980’s to the financing of the billion-dollar tower today highlights the long-term relationship between the two organisations in delivering major residential projects” said Central Equity Founder and Chairman Eddie Kutner.

He said NAB’s early support was instrumental in helping establish the company’s development model.

“When we commenced our first residential tower in the late 1980s the concept of funding off-the-plan apartments was still largely untested in Australia,” Kutner said.

“NAB recognised the opportunity early and supported the project when others were uncertain. That relationship has now continued for more than 37 years across many developments.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Central Equity was established in 1987 when Melbourne’s CBD and Southbank precinct were still dominated by warehouses and commercial buildings. Fewer than 100 residents lived in Southbank at the time, and large-scale residential development in the inner city was not widely considered.

Recognising changing demographics and lifestyle preferences, the company began developing high-rise residential projects designed to bring permanent residents into the city centre.

Central Equity has provided accommodation for approximately 40,000 residents across Melbourne’s CBD and Southbank, while also incorporating supporting infrastructure including essential lifestyle facilities like retail spaces, childcare facilities and neighbourhood activity centres.

Central Equity has spent many years assembling the Palmera development site on the corner of Garfield Terrace and Frederick Street in Northcliffe, creating a supersite of around 3,300 sqm.

The developer said the Palmera apartment tower reflects its long-term view of the Gold Coast as a growing and increasingly diversified economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365768]

Supported by infrastructure including the light rail network, major road upgrades expanded education, hospital and medical facilities and continued expansion at the Gold Coast Airport with more internation and domestic flights.

Positioned in the tightly held Northcliffe precinct, the 52-level tower will deliver 347 apartments, targeting buyers seeking a high-end coastal lifestyle, from downsizers to interstate investors.

Designed by Marchese Partners with interiors by DBI, Palmera has been conceived as a next-generation residential offering, featuring a collection of oversized apartments, with premium three-bedroom residences offering sweeping northern views stretching from Surfers Paradise through to Burleigh Heads.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

NAB funds $1 billion Surfers Paradise apartment development, Palmera

Two years after completing one of the newest developments in North Sydney, developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a> is turning its attention to the rapidly evolving St Leonards apartment market.

The developer, which completed AURA by Aqualand on North Sydney's Walker Street, has lodged plans for a 5,918 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/33-37-herbert-street-st-leonards-nsw-2065">33-37 Herbert Street, St Leonards,</a> seeking approval for a pair of residential towers rising above a shared podium opposite Royal North Shore Hospital.

The proposal forms part of the broader transformation underway across the St Leonards-Crows Nest precinct, where former industrial and commercial sites are increasingly being redeveloped into high-density mixed-use projects tied to major transport infrastructure.

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2cc428cf-fe70-4cac-9cd5-264ad53af62c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=otKSnHtbjAvAddOnovyXQMgcAwE6DMe1" />

According to the planning documents, the site sits “within the St Leonards–Crows Nest Strategic Centre, identified by the NSW Government as a key area for accommodating future jobs and housing across Sydney.”

The proposal has been designed by fjcstudio, formerly FJMT Studio, and is being progressed through the State Significant Development pathway due to its scale and affordable housing provision.

The scheme would comprise 413 apartments, including 46 affordable housing units, alongside retail and commercial uses fronting Herbert Street. The project would also include communal open space, landscaping, a swimming pool, gymnasium, children’s play areas and podium-level resident amenities.

Planning documents show the development would consist of a part-13, part-39 storey tower form positioned above a four-storey podium.

“The development comprises a unified podium that activates the street interface, and two setback towers to accommodate new housing supply while maintaining an appropriate human scale at ground level,” fjcstudio noted in its Design Report.

The northern and southern towers have been shaped to respond to the surrounding skyline while also limiting overshadowing impacts to nearby public open space, particularly Talus Reserve.

The design report said the differing tower heights were intended to “contribute to a varied skyline while responding to the surrounding built form context and solar access considerations.”

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36da62dc-ff9e-41f2-a7e3-7be38373751c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.45%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=Mo6Rp2r.XRLTzIfg_PEEpw8NepDH8UBs" />

The site sits directly opposite Royal North Shore Hospital and within walking distance of both St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

While the site itself sits just outside the formal Crows Nest Transport Oriented Development boundary, the planning documents repeatedly reference its alignment with the broader TOD objectives reshaping the Lower North Shore.

“The site is located adjacent to St Leonards Station and in close proximity to Crows Nest Metro which is within the Crows Nest Transit Orientated Development Accelerated Precinct which has been identified by the NSW Government to support housing delivery,” the Design Verification Statement noted.

According to fjcstudio, the project has been designed to respond to the broader transition occurring across St Leonards, where increasing residential density is being concentrated around transport infrastructure and employment hubs.

“The broader precinct is undergoing significant change, with a mix of existing mid-rise buildings and newer high-density developments,” the report stated.

“Recent and approved projects indicate a consistent shift toward taller built form, typically organised as tower-and-podium typologies with more active ground levels.”

The proposal includes close to 6,000 sqm of retail and commercial space across the ground floor and podium levels, designed to create a more activated street edge along Herbert Street.

Aqualand’s plans would also introduce a landscaped podium shared between the two towers, with communal open space in the form of a podium rooftop designed to support resident interaction and improve urban greening outcomes. The scheme would also introduce pocket parks at the northern and southern ends of the site, including a landscaped area at the corner of Herbert and Ella streets designed to improve pedestrian amenity and soften the streetscape.

&nbsp;

The proposal is being progressed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, which was introduced to accelerate housing supply across the state. The application was declared State Significant Development in April 2025 following an expression of interest process.

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="faf6d97d-2671-454f-b85a-fe1c6a7be608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=diVd28OBVr5.YV.7prrOz.uAanwwwm7a" />

St Leonards has been particularly active with new developments in recent weeks. Developer SP Setia’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-sp-setia-targets-st-leonards-skyline-with-40-storey-tod-tower">plans for a new 42-storey tower</a> recently went on exhibition through the same pathway, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">Stockland’s 52-storey tower proposal</a> was also recently unveiled.

Aside from the St Leonards project, which is expected to take around nine months to move through the approvals process ahead of a potential 2027 launch, Aqualand is also preparing to launch Boronia, a new apartment project in Roseville comprising around 111 apartments on Larkin Street.

The developer also has approvals in place for the next stage of the Barangaroo precinct, which will feature new residential, retail, hospitality and community uses, alongside a new metro entry across the five-hectare site.

More than 50 new retail destinations are planned for Central Barangaroo, alongside a 270-metre-long boulevard connecting Hickson Park to Nawi Cove. Together with Harbour Park, more than 50 per cent of the precinct will comprise public open space and parkland.

First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party

Apartments

<html><body>
<blockquote>
Elenberg Fraser is the architectural partner of choice to identify a specific architectural approach that realises all of UEM's ambitions. With this project there are not multiple answers like Google, there is one true answer.
</blockquote>

Bold assertions are best backed with bold outcomes and whilst a handful of poor quality images have been circulated of late, today we look at the full might of what may well become Melbourne's defining skyscraper. Purchased by Malaysian developer UEM Sunrise, 224-252 La Trobe Street is a 3197 sqm site opposite Melbourne Central which currently serves as a car park.

Via the work of a development team headed by Urbis and Elenberg Fraser, UEM Sunrise have been presented with a monolithic skyscraper which as the initial quote suggests, fulfills a stated UEM Sunrise ambition of "Changing the landscape of the City,"

<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/Image5_24.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A truly imposing proposition. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1109" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_24.jpg?itok=c_WWoda_" title="A truly imposing proposition. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<h2>Project Summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>88 levels &amp; 267.15 metres in height</li>
	<li>1139 apartments &amp; 204 serviced apartments, total 1343 dwellings</li>
	<li>Total Gross Floor Area 123,226 sqm</li>
	<li>364 car spaces within the 8 level above ground podium &amp; 786 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>3037 sqm of retail area and 3048 sqm of office space</li>
	<li>three dedicated common areas with no less than four pools on one level</li>
</ul>
<h2>New Connection to Melbourne Central Station</h2>

The planning application seeks to relocate the existing Melbourne Central Station entrance from La Trobe Street to the north east corner of the site which fronts Little La Trobe Street. In doing this, Basement level 2 retail exposure is maximised, acting as a new pedestrian thoroughfare which will join with Melbourne Central's lower ground food court and station entry. The food and drink options 224-252 La Trobe Street's Basement 2 will be arranged in a hawker market theme.

Urbis notes "the basement design is subject to further input from PTV to understand the proposal’s impact upon the existing rail network and any other considerations for public transport in this area."

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image7_25.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cross section of the interplay with Melbourne Central. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image7_25.jpg?itok=VUGgpjZ4" title="Cross section of the interplay with Melbourne Central. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<h2>Common People</h2>

Four separate communal facilities are proposed, which in total equates to a healthy 2.9 sqm of communal space per apartment. Level 8 carries the main recreational level which includes spa, cold pool, indoor and outdoor pools, yoga/pilates area, gym, internal/external daybeds, gym....and the list goes on. In addition to this recreational hub, communal areas are also located at ground level which are skewed toward visitors and those transiting ground level to access the relocated station entrance.

Whilst acting as a mid tower plant/services area, Level 54 is also described as a social hub facility with dual private dining areas, an expansive westerly-facing lounge and dual sky gardens included. At 257 metres above ground, the owners club covers level 83 and includes a cinema, private dining/lounge areas, library and fireplace, kitchen, pool table and card pods which resemble faux gambling tables.

<h2>Design Nous</h2>

The proposal essentially consists of two concave, U-shaped towers back to back. The highly articulated tower is described as "a unique, curvilinear design response utilising a cross-style layout with undulating setbacks to each site boundary... The cross-style layout limits wind impacts and facilitates angled view lines from apartments while also limiting overlooking opportunities to surrounding development."

The back to back format negates overlooking for the most whilst sections subject to a tight concave form are addressed with vertical fins, further enhancing privacy. Given the development's girth and sheer number of dwellings, it's impressive that all apartment habitable rooms will receive direct daylight and natural ventilation in this targeted 4 star Green Star rated proposal.

Elenberg Fraser has endeavoured to mitigate wind effects by way of the tower's sculptural form. "The building responds to the prevailing wind directions encouraging the wind to flow around the building rather than being directed to ground level, thus minimising the environmental wind effects at street level." Wind amelioration zones are also included through the design to minimise the effect of down drafts whilst wind tunnel testing determined open balcony distribution, maximising usability.

<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_19.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A view vortex. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="368" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image6_19.jpg?itok=U8wMk-Gp" title="A view vortex. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<h2>Author's Opinion</h2>

Whilst tall skyscrapers are becoming all the more common it's excessively rare that a skyscraper with such immense dimensions and unique silhouette has the ability to grace Melbourne's skyline. After too many years of viewing economically prudent, rectangular 'box' buildings expanding the city's skyline, its refreshing to see a proposal of this ilk for Melbourne - a true mould breaker such as Eureka Tower when initially proposed.

Whilst I'm well and truly ensconced in this development's corner, the clean cut nature of the podium which interacts with both La Trobe and Little La Trobe could be perceived by some as bare and incohesive with the existing streetscape, a potential cause for concern? Regardless Elenberg Fraser asserts the tower is "where Melbourne finds its destiny as an international south east Asian city" - an interesting notion!

<h2>Development Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Applicant and client: <a href="http://www.uemsunrise.com/UEMSunrise/Home" target="_blank">UEM Sunrise</a> (La Trobe Street Dev) Pty Ltd)</li>
	<li>Architecture: <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/" target="_blank">Elenberg Fraser</a>
</li>
	<li>Urban planning: <a href="http://www.urbis.com.au/" target="_blank">Urbis</a>
</li>
	<li>Wind mitigation: <a href="http://melconsultants.com/" target="_blank">Mel Consultants</a>
</li>
	<li>Aboriginal Cultural Heritage: <a href="http://www.alassoc.com.au/" target="_blank">Andrew Long and Associates</a>
</li>
	<li>Aviation Assessment: <a href="http://www.thompsongcs.com/www/home/" target="_blank">Thompson GCS</a>
</li>
	<li>Landscape Architecture: <a href="http://www.aecom.com/" target="_blank">AECOM</a>
</li>
	<li>Traffic engineering: <a href="http://www.traffixgroup.com.au/" target="_blank">Traffix Group</a>
</li>
	<li>Environmental Sustainable Design: <a href="http://www.ark-resources.com.au/" target="_blank">Ark Resources</a>
</li>
	<li>Waste management: <a href="http://www.leighdesign.com.au/" target="_blank">Leigh Design</a>
</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

silvermb

The Answer > 224 - 252 La Trobe Street, Melbourne

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It was only a short few weeks ago that Apartments.com.au highlighted the rolling application that was 57-61 City Road via <a href="/news/57-61-city-road-resubmitted-and-revisited" target="_blank">this article</a> and mused whether <a href="http://www.artisanarchitects.com.au/" target="_blank">Artisan Architects</a> would finally get one of their prolific high-rise portfolio off the drawing board and into Melbourne's skyline.

Evidently wheels were in motion with Melbourne City Council's approval of the amended planning application green lighted late February, whilst project developer <a href="http://www.lkproperty.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">LK Property Group</a> was quietly going about facilitating marketing and branding for what is now known as The Opus Tower.

<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-2-lrg.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Opus Tower. Image © LK Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="871" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img-2-lrg.jpg?itok=LapjE_e6" title="The Opus Tower. Image © LK Property Group" width="580"></a>

Revisiting Artisan Architects project description once more:

<blockquote>
The design of this new 37 level building of 246 Apartments and 144 carspaces was inspired by its context and its intended users.

Along with many ESD initiatives, the planning of this new tower also takes advantage of its long vista back to the Yarra River and Flinders Street Station.
</blockquote>

Gone is the initial awkward green, grey and white colour motif, replaced with a tower dominated by black and white horizontal bands and highlighted with a golden crown; a nod to neighbour Eureka Tower perhaps? It's impressive how a change of external colours can transform a project so markedly for the better.

<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-slide1-v4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Southbank with The Opus in place. Image © LK Property Group "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="412" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img-slide1-v4.jpg?itok=M1Aun-gJ" title="Southbank with The Opus in place. Image © LK Property Group " width="580"></a>

Currently taking <a href="http://theopustower.com.au/" target="_blank">registrations of interest</a> prior to public release, the Opus Tower seeks to join a throng of projects jostling for position on Southbank. With uninterrupted views directly north and east owing to its location, the project is one of few on Southbank that can boast such a luxury (for the time being at least).

The Apartments.com.au database shows The Opus Tower to be one of 24 high-rise residential projects ranging from planning application to under construction located within Southbank.
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The Opus Tower - an Artisan's work

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It seemed implausible at the time and that has proven to be the case. Last year Apartments.com.au covered <a href="/news/272-queen-street-in-depth" target="_blank">in detail</a> the near pencil-thin office tower proposed at 272 Queen Street which ultimately gained approval, yet had not advanced beyond that point.

Implausible in that an office tower of 205 metres in height carried a typical floor plate of only 832 sqm. The commercial trend of recent years has drifted toward larger, more economically favourable open-plan floor plates with ANZ Docklands, 720 Bourke Street and 121 Exhibition Street prime examples. In this light it was speculated that 272 Queen Street would go back to project architect <a href="http://www.pta.com.au/" target="_blank">Peddle Thorp</a> for reworking.

<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/Image27272.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="272 Queen Street design progression. Images © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="419" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image27272.jpg?itok=rZ-1mH2Z" title="272 Queen Street design progression. Images © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

That has proven to be the case with the third and most recent site design (above right) now holding approval. The mixed-use site and permit which incidentally has been listed by <a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-melbourne-500975255" target="_blank">Paragon Real Estate</a> as for sale via an EOI campaign closing May 9th 2014, would now see a mixed-use development of 210 metres grace the 1288 square metre site. Somewhat odd given <a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/chinese_developer_wins_huge_permit_qxFyYvPida8d1eNmcl6OdL" target="_blank">AFR</a> reported in December 2013 the site was purchased by a mainland Chinese developer for $23.9 million.

Nonetheless where previously 35,561 sqm of office space was available, that number has dropped to 10,000 sqm contained within the lower levels. Consequently 624 apartments have been added with total levels numbering 62, an increase of 12. Assuming there are 50 levels of residential use and floor plates remain at 832 sqm, average apartment size for the complex would equate to over 60sqm, likely indicating a healthy proportion of two bedroom dwellings.

Externally the tower maintains its feature faceted facade addressing Queen Street and Little Lonsdale Street. Gone is the blue facade and mid tower plant level, in their place a glazed, black curtain wall with recessed balconies running the height of the tower component.

<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%20%281%29.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="399 Little Lonsdale approved scheme. Image © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2%20%281%29.jpg?itok=L9MhBLQm" title="399 Little Lonsdale approved scheme. Image © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

272 Queen Street is not alone with the adjoining easterly property at 399 Little Lonsdale Street (above) also currently on the market with <a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-melbourne-500871539" target="_blank">CBRE</a>. Another Peddle Thorp design, the prospective tower of 39 levels would carry 219 apartments, although there is scope to increase both density and height.

It'll be interesting to see who purchases either site, particularly in the case of 272 Queen Street given its perceived level of stature in the eyes of potential overseas buyers. Early days yet but together these projects have the potential to deliver well over 1000 permanent residences to a generally placid part of Melbourne's CBD.
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Revised 272 Queen Street for sale

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Time today to look at the newest crop of apartment projects due for public release. Short and tall, far and wide, most projects below find themselves at registration prior to a full blown sales campaign.

Adding to a torrent of current apartment projects, here are some of the latest and greatest destined for Melbourne.

Assembly - 181 Capel Street, North Melbourne

Builder turned developer Equiset has released for sale 181 Capel Street. Featuring a cluster of low-rise residential buildings designed by <a href="http://www.woodsbagot.com/" target="_blank">Woods Bagot</a>, the project has pitched itself toward the higher end of the market.

http://www.assemblyapartments.com.au/

<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_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Enrich Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image24_2.jpg?itok=FivW-LA6" title="Image courtesy Enrich Property Group" width="580"></a>

Claremont Manor - 3-7 Claremont Street, South Yarra

With site demolition near complete and a neighbouring display not far behind, Claremont Manor is the latest offering within the Forrest Hill Precinct, South Yarra. It seems Southlink have teamed with architects <a href="http://birddelacoeur.com.au/" target="_blank">Bird de la Coeur</a> once more, their seventh joint tower within the precinct.

http://claremontmanor.com.au/aus/

<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/Image27.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy PDS Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="289" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image27.jpg?itok=e0e6qNsD" title="Image courtesy PDS Group" width="580"></a>

Edinburgh Village - 7-15 Reid Street Fitzroy

With ABD Group as the builder, Edinburgh Village will launch its public sales next weekend. Six levels, 44 apartments, 2 retail tenancies and 2 levels of basement car park.

http://edinburghvillage.com.au/

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image32_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy ABD Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="254" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image32_1.jpg?itok=vQlJ8x7y" title="Image courtesy ABD Group" width="580"></a>

Mirka - 30 Inkerman Street, St Kilda

Not much is known of the upcoming project, although if a 2011 planning application is any reference a six level project with 50 apartments opposite Newmarket Hotel is in the offing.

http://www.mirkaapartments.com.au/

<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/Image34.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Look Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="375" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image34.jpg?itok=cQGmMeqD" title="Image courtesy Look Property Group" width="580"></a>

Green Edge Richmond - 1 Railway Place, Richmond

Following on from their Dimmeys Richmond transformation, Green Edge Richmond is the latest project from Richmond Icon Pty Ltd. A nine level building of 42 apartments will feature a rooftop terrace laden with greenery.

http://greenedgerichmond.com.au/

<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/Image33_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © greenedgerichmond.comau"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="203" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image33_0.jpg?itok=SeOf-3nH" title="Image © greenedgerichmond.comau" width="580"></a>

Middle Burke - 436 Burke Road, Camberwell

The Camberwell apartment scene keeps marching on, with Middle Burke the latest project open to registrations. A joint effort by JD Group and <a href="http://www.ckdesignworks.com/" target="_blank">CK Designworks</a> the project is located near Toorak Road and will feature an activated street level with multiple retail tenancies.

http://middleburke.com.au/index.html

<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/Image38.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © middleburke.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image38.jpg?itok=sA7NaGwx" title="Image © middleburke.com.au" width="580"></a>

Victoria One - 452 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne

The tallest of what's on offer today, developer <a href="http://www.goldenagegroup.com.au/" target="_blank">Golden Age</a> has dubbed their upcoming 240m project Victoria One, although Central Equity also have <a href="http://victoriaone.com.au/" target="_blank">Victoria One</a> as a future project - seems someone is destined to finish second?

http://www.victoriaoneapartments.com.au/

<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/Image37.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Golden Age"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="200" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image37.jpg?itok=y48vMltA" title="Image © Golden Age" width="580"></a>

District - 160 Argyle Street, Fitzroy

Aesthetically pleasing, District is the latest offering from <a href="http://form.substancia.com.au/" target="_blank">Substancia Projects</a> and will incorporate the facade of the former Pfeiffer Engineering building which held contributory heritage status.

http://districtfitzroy.com.au/

<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/imageGen.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Look Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imageGen.jpg?itok=MWiBq47j" title="Image courtesy Look Property Group" width="580"></a>

Panorama - 101 Tram Road, Doncaster

A project with no name, the impending launch was touched upon recently by Apartments.com.au. With display and marketing in place, Panorama is a 13 level project atop Doncaster Hill that will eventually bring sweeping views to hundreds of residents.

http://www.101onthehill.com.au/

<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/slideshow_team_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © 101onthehill.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/slideshow_team_1.jpg?itok=frQ5VU3B" title="Image © 101onthehill.com.au" width="580"></a>

A Apartments - 96 Albert Street, Brunswick East

Purchased last year, the site will host <a href="http://www.blueearth.com.au/" target="_blank">Blue Earth Group</a>'s latest project of some 119 apartments over 6 levels. With <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/" target="_blank">ROTHELOWMAN</a> leading the design, the project has a slated completion of late 2015 with Hamilton Marino in charge of construction.

http://www.in2property.com.au/docs/flipbook_2.pdf

<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/Image30_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy in2property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="226" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image30_0.jpg?itok=wZ6hGX5h" title="Image courtesy in2property" width="580"></a>

This article was updated on Wednesday 26th March where we incorrectly credited the architect of 96 Albert Street, Brunswick East.
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New apartment releases - March 2014

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Days after being submitted for approval to state planning body DTPLI, the first image of what is believed to be the current design for 97 Franklin Street within Melbourne's northern CBD has surfaced. <a href="http://www.trafficonsulting.com/index" target="_blank">ML Traffic Engineers</a> have recently added the below render of the mind boggling, almost whimsical mixed-use tower of near 200 metres to their website.

ML Traffic Engineers also anticipate a construction cost of approximately $200 million for the 60 level complex which is slated to hold a mixture of apartments, serviced apartments, retail and office space according to the state planning register.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_half_width_290px" height="620" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_half_width_290px/public/pictures/article-images/97franklin_2.jpg?itok=CTHHzqTH" title="Image courtesy Traffic Consulting" width="290"><figcaption>Image courtesy Traffic Consulting</figcaption></figure>The site itself was sold by then land holder <a href="http://www.bancogroup.com.au/" target="_blank">Banco Group</a> to an unknown purchaser during mid 2013 according an article published online via the Sydney Morning Herald. Subsequently consulting firm <a href="http://www.urbis.com.au/" target="_blank">Urbis</a> has handled the pre-approval process, submitting an application last Friday on behalf of Artemis Hotel Group (Australia) Pty Ltd.

An online search shows Artemis Hotel Group (Australia) Pty Ltd to be based in Doncaster, with Artemis International Hotel the likely operating name for the serviced apartment component.

Working on the strong likelihood that the above image is in fact the submitted version of 97 Franklin Street, the design is unique to Melbourne and stupendously impressive. Atop the seven level podium sits a perpendicular mid-rise section, only for the high-rise section to once more shift 90 degrees in a fashion that seems to defy engineering common sense and gravity for that matter.

While the architect is unknown at this stage, Apartments.com.au will soon enough <a href="/news/a-point-of-difference-97-franklin-street-melbourne" target="_blank">cover this planning application in detail</a> and I for one hope the incredible design (assuming it is the design submitted for approval) sees the light of day.

See our piece from May 2014: <a href="/news/a-point-of-difference-97-franklin-street-melbourne">A Point of Difference &gt; 97 Franklin Street</a>.
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97 Franklin Street simply mind boggling

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I should preface this by saying 'dokily' was the only word (if you'd call it that) that I could think of that (kind of) rhymed with Oakleigh - sorry I'm not Eminem. The suburb of Oakleigh, located some 15km south-east of the CBD has been undergoing a metamorphosis of sorts in recent years with plenty of further development potential. As a casual visitor who passes through regularly but only stops by once or twice a month either for a coffee, gyros or pizza I thought it might be a good idea to set out on foot, trusty camera in tow.

Like a number of other suburbs, Oakleigh's centre is beginning to see a shift towards apartment living with development largely centred along the Hanover/Atkinson Street strip and Warrigal Road. These include <a href="http://www.athertonandatkinson.com.au/">Atkinson &amp; Atherton</a>, <a href="http://www.infinityoakleigh.com.au/">Infinity</a> and 29-31 Swindon Rd, although the last is technically in Hughesdale I've decided to still include it.

<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/oakleigh_apartment_devs.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Infinity; Atkinson &amp; Atherton; 29-31 Swindon Rd"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="105" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/oakleigh_apartment_devs.jpg?itok=2feO7cOV" title="Infinity; Atkinson &amp; Atherton; 29-31 Swindon Rd" width="580"></a>

Hanover Street in particular with its abundance of open air parking and proximity to Oakleigh Shopping Centre, Station and Dandenong Road, lends itself to further development with apartment buildings of around 5-8 storeys likely.

<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/GE_Oakleigh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Googlemaps image of Oakleigh showing extent of parking."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/GE_Oakleigh.jpg?itok=YqYZ3Paa" title="Googlemaps image of Oakleigh showing extent of parking." width="580"></a>

Additionally Eaton Mall, the main cafe and dining strip has seen a transformation with new paving, seating, lighting and hard and soft landscaping. This has been a very good outcome for the area with the cafes consistently packed, particularly on warm Saturday evenings.

<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/eaton_mall_compilation.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Eaton Mall improvement works."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="126" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/eaton_mall_compilation.jpg?itok=CC5_nGwy" title="Eaton Mall improvement works." width="580"></a>

So without further ado please enjoy the photos from my walk around Oakleigh - the weather unfortunately was nothing to write home about. A map of my walking route can be seen below:

<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/walking%20map_edit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Map of walking route I took."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="696" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/walking%20map_edit.jpg?itok=Z-MgP96K" title="Map of walking route I took." width="580"></a>
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Laurence Dragomir

Apartments in the 'burbs? Oakleigh Dokily

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Apartments.com.au recently had the privilege of being the only media outlet invited to peruse the recently completed Wrap apartment complex located at 133-139 City Road, Southbank. Championed initially by Melbourne based multi-disciplinary property company <a href="http://baracon.com.au/" target="_blank">Baracon</a>, project partners Leighton Properties, Qualitas and Baron Corporation joined the team prior to construction. Contexx Probuild act as head contractor for the $175 million dollar project, which saw site piling begin early 2012.

<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/4.1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Baracon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/4.1.jpg?itok=Oayhb_U3" title="Image © Baracon" width="580"></a>

Designed by Plus Architecture, the 41 level complex was christened Wrap due to the unique exterior feature frame that envelopes the facade. Drawing inspiration from Melbourne's Arts Centre spire and Beijing's Birds Nest Olympic Stadium, the white lattice structure was married to the tower progressively during construction to create a distinctive form, distinguishing itself from other more generic developments nearby.

A heritage warehouse fronting city road was incorporated into the tower's podium and marks the entrance to the residential development. Upon entry reflective glass floor panels and a podium void promoting a sense of light and space soon give way to one of, if not the most impressive common areas that we've viewed within any residential development.

Included within the ground floor are a cafe, bar, lounge and high end lobby. Whilst projects can be lost in marketing hyperbole when describing facilities and finishes, Wrap Southbank's communal space is genuinely a quality space. An understated elegance is perhaps the best way to describe the area which features marble, recycled brick and dark trim that combines to produce a warm, earthy space - a space where residents and visitors alike would want to go!

<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_3871.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Wrap Southbank's enclosed pool. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_3871.jpg?itok=n5umdlrj" title="Wrap Southbank's enclosed pool. " width="580"></a>

Sauna, pool and gymnasium round out residents facilities atop the podium whilst the proceeding 31 levels host a majority of the 300 1 bedroom, 1+study, 2 bedroom and penthouse apartments. One of the premier apartments in the tower is afforded to the live-in manager however; a massive abode within the podium running the entire southern boundary of the complex.

Plus Architecture describe the interiors as "Sophisticated luxury meets contemporary living...the fixture and fittings within each apartment are unsurpassed." Apartments are well presented with extra's such as etched kitchenette splashbacks available at time of purchase, which add yet another dimension to an already impressive space. And of the buyer who at the time of combined two adjoining apartments, we should all be so lucky.

Dual penthouses are afforded massive wraparound terraces, ideal for taking in the spectacular panorama (or a game of cricket). Much like the development itself, the views are far from being crowded out and provide a unique experience on an ever expanding Southbank.

<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_3885.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The penthouse view"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_3885.jpg?itok=ocfW8o_3" title="The penthouse view" width="580"></a>

And what next for Baracon following the success of Wrap Southbank? An even grander project looms large as Baracon teams with Urban Matrix &amp; Urban Cube to deliver the spectacular 54 Clarke Street.

At 74 levels and 244 metres in height, 54 Clarke Street will be a revolutionary 288 apartment project incorporating a modular building method and a unique almost scaled facade. Launching a public sales campaign during the latter part of 2014, Baracon expect 54 Clarke Street will appear unlike any other tower on Melbourne's skyline.

Definitely one to watch for, but for those wanting more, registrations of interest can be submitted <a href="http://baracon.com.au/54-clarke-street-southbank/" target="_blank">here</a>.

In the mean time enjoy the image set below, taken during Apartments.com.au's recent visit to Wrap Southbank.
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In Focus > Wrap Apartments @ 133-139 City Road, Southbank

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Apartments.com.au couldn't possibly write a finer preamble to today's video/article than what is found on the exceptional <a href="http://smithstreetlife.com.au" target="_blank">Smith Street Life</a> website which dedicates itself to all things Smith Street. Regarding the increasing number of apartment developments on and immediately surrounding the famed strip, the website states of the Street itself:

<blockquote>
Smith Street's public face is under reconstruction, with at least three major development works in progress presenting a shift to Smith Street's cultural and community evolution. 
Melbourne’s oldest shopping strip, Smith Street’s revival is likely to be enhanced with construction taking place at various stages, and faces, along Smith Street's historical façades. 
With history and heritage dating back to the early 1800’s there is no doubt that Smith Street’s changing facades are providing a new pillar in Melbourne’s history. The changing identity of Smith Street, from a place of diversity, history and heritage, towards a more likely gentrified future is reflected in three different property developments each with their own different approach.
<cite><a href="http://www.smithstreetlife.com.au/the-changing-faces-of-smith-street" target="_blank">Smith Street Life: The changing faces of Smith Street</a></cite>
</blockquote>

The newest addition to <a href="/architects/grimshaw-architects" target="_blank">Grimshaw Architects</a> Melbourne office and regular Apartments.com.au contributor Laurence Dragomir along with <a href="/developers/neometro" target="_blank">Neometro</a>'s founder Jeff Provan feature in Apartments.com.au's most recent video - produced by our partners <a href="http://www.thevideoagency.com.au/" target="_blank">The Video Agency</a> - Hotspots: Smith Street

<iframe frameborder="0" height="300" scrolling="no" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/87231917" width="100%"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://vimeo.com/87231917">Hot Spot: Smith Street</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user19840635">The Video Agency</a> on Vimeo.

See below a summary of the aforementioned 16 current apartment projects on and around Smith Street.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:100%"><tbody>
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<td style="width:243px">Under Assessment</td>
			<td style="width:245px">Registration and Sales</td>
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<td style="width:243px"><a href="/new-apartments/atrium-fitzroy-230-moor-street-fitzroy">229 Smith Street</a></td>
			<td style="width:245px">
<a href="/buildings/9-smith-street-9-smith-street-fitzroy" target="_blank">9 Smith Street </a>(moved to sales post video)</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width:243px">Approved</td>
			<td style="width:245px"><a href="/buildings/oxford-peel-22-peel-street-collingwood">Oxford &amp; Peel - 22 Peel Street</a></td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width:243px">7 Hodgson Street</td>
			<td style="width:245px"><a href="/buildings/tapestry-apartments-80-stanley-street-collingwood" target="_blank">Tapestry - 80 Stanley Street</a></td>
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<td style="width:243px"><a href="/buildings/the-lantern-195-wellington-street-collingwood" target="_blank">195 Wellington Street</a></td>
			<td style="width:245px"><a href="/buildings/haus-apartments-416-smith-street-collingwood" target="_blank">Haus - 416 Smith Street</a></td>
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<td style="width:243px"><a href="/buildings/221-kerr-street-fitzroy">221 Kerr Street</a></td>
			<td style="width:245px"><a href="/buildings/41-peel-street-collingwood" target="_blank">41 Peel Street</a></td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width:243px"><a href="/new-apartments/237-smith-street-fitzroy" target="_blank">237 Smith Street</a></td>
			<td style="width:245px"><a href="/buildings/little-ox-2-johnston-street-collingwood" target="_blank">Little Ox - 2 Johnston Street</a></td>
		</tr>
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<td style="width:243px"><a href="/new-apartments/305-311-smith-street-fitzroy" target="_blank">305-311 Smith Street</a></td>
			<td style="width:245px">Under Construction</td>
		</tr>
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<td style="width:243px"><a href="/buildings/yorkshire-1-robert-st-collingwood" target="_blank">Yorkshire - 1 Robert Street</a></td>
			<td style="width:245px"><a href="/buildings/smith-co-132-172-smith-street-collingwood">132 Smith Street</a></td>
		</tr>
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<td style="width:243px"> </td>
			<td style="width:245px"><a href="/buildings/you-and-i-450-smith-street-collingwood" target="_blank">You &amp; I - 450 Smith Street</a></td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width:243px"> </td>
			<td style="width:245px">Oxley - 46 Stanley Street</td>
		</tr>
</tbody></table>
<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/9SMITH_IMAGES_FINAL_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" style="font-size: 12px;" title="The latest project to reach sales - 9 Smith Street. Image © Neometro"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/9SMITH_IMAGES_FINAL_1.jpg?itok=tB9M6nSt" style="height:336px; width:580px" title="The latest project to reach sales - 9 Smith Street. Image © Neometro"></a>

With 9 Smith Street the most recent project to proceed to sales, it breaks the sequence of all projects currently at sales or under construction being located on the eastern side of Smith Street.

It would be an interesting social study to track over the coming months and years how the influx of new dwellings and residents will affect Smith Street's current dynamic. With an abundance of suitable development sites on and within close proximity to Smith Street, the trend of higher density living and increased population looks set to continue.
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Alastair Taylor

Hotspot Video: Smith Street apartment boom in focus

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Ideally bland designs have no place in our fair city so a degree of quirkiness is generally a good trait when you're a leading architecture firm. <a href="http://eatas.com.au/" target="_blank">Architects EAT</a> certainly can't be accused of being dull, with their website carrying a host of interesting, visually appealing projects located both in Melbourne and the Philippines.

So it was with great mirth that Architects EAT list Darth Vader sporting purple sunnies as the principal inspiration for an in progress apartment development on Emo Road, Malvern East.

<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/emo01__large-landscape.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Architects EAT"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/emo01__large-landscape.jpg?itok=cEkiS-EO" title="Image © Architects EAT" width="580"></a>

In the words of Architects EAT:

<blockquote>
Located in Malvern East near the university precinct, this is a 5 storey plus basement apartment building, containing 35 apartment units across 3400sqm. It features landscape and roof top garden design by renowned landscape architect Jack Merlo. The double curved, bluestone clad facade is a design response for experiencing architecture form from a vehicular perspective.

The highly reflective facade, both stone and glazing, will mirror the surrounding mature trees and further enhance the transient experience of passing by. Darth Vadar finally gets the SPF that he needs from purple Frogskins!
</blockquote>

<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/emo02__large-landscape%20%281%29_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Architects EAT"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/emo02__large-landscape%20%281%29_0.jpg?itok=s_qCEXaX" title="Image © Architects EAT" width="580"></a>

The Emo Road project does look to be a quality apartment development for Malvern East, but it's not alone. With the possible exception of The Clarence, nearby current apartment developments such as <a href="/buildings/vanguard-781-807-dandenong-road-malvern-east" target="_blank">Fortuna</a> and Gascoigne Apartments exercise a high degree of architectural nous, that is they're articulated, interesting designs that aren't visually offensive.

Naturally to some readers any development of this size in an established suburb such as Malvern East would be totally reprehensible. Fair Enough. But I would counter that view by saying that if small and mid size apartment developments are to become more common (and they will), I'd rather they carry a high degree of design integrity than not.

Hats off, or in this instance helmets off to Architects EAT for their Emo Road design!
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Some Architects EAT style for Malvern East

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Most readers would be aware of the AXF Group project titled Sovereign Square which has garnered considerable media attention of late owing to the fact it will become suburban Melbourne's tallest building. Whilst Sovereign Square has moved to public registrations of interest via its <a href="http://www.sovereignsquare.com.au/" target="_blank">website</a>, a raft of other projects in Box Hill are set to rapidly transform the scale and feel of the area.

<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/External%20Image_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sovereign Square. Image © Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1030" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/External%20Image_0.jpg?itok=PWdsKFr_" title="Sovereign Square. Image © Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

Looking through the Apartments.com.au database Sovereign Square is one of nine projects in Box Hill and Box Hill North that are at various stages of the development cycle. Together these projects will deliver near 1000 new dwellings to the area.

With established education, health, transport and retail options plus a diversified population base Box Hill also lends itself to a myriad of mixed-use developments. Leading the charge is the currently under construction 20 level, near 80 metre office complex at 913 Whitehorse Road. Built by Grocon for Cromwell Property Group, the 19,680 square metre facility is 97% leased to the Australian Taxation Office and marks a break-out tower for Box Hill both in terms of height anf bulk.

On the hotel scene, 1 Elland Avenue (below left) is currently for sale with a pre-lease for the development's 49 serviced apartments held by City Edge Apartment Hotels, adding further diversity to the City of Whitehorse's primary hub.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image6_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Ellard Avenue &amp; 913 Whitehorse Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image6_14.jpg?itok=vx-F4vSc" title="1 Ellard Avenue &amp; 913 Whitehorse Road" width="580"></a>

The latest proposal for Box Hill comes in the form of a dual tower development designed by Peddle Thorp Architects. At 26 levels the complex may well raise eyebrows in the area due to size and height, yet the approval of Sovereign Square has set a precedent to a degree.

Peddle Thorp's take on the project:

<blockquote>
The Box Hill Mixed Use Development will consist of 330 apartments over 26 levels. The residential tower amenities are enhanced by the new 'retail street' at ground level. At podium level the 'sky garden' gives access to a range of cafes, bars and restaurants that spill onto a sun filled green space. The second skin to the residential tower allows the occupants to control the light and privacy in their homes, whilst creating a facade which is 'alive' and forever changing.
</blockquote>

<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_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" style="font-size: 12px;" title="Image © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="718" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image18_1.jpg?itok=LsIedXDk" title="Image © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

So what will the Box Hill of the future resemble? South Yarra immediately comes to mind, particularly in terms of developing a mini-skyline with similar proportional characteristics - a throng of medium sized towers of 7-12 levels perforated by a handful of high-rise buildings nearing or beyond the 100 metre mark.

The major advantages that Box Hill holds over suburban centres such as South Yarra, Doncaster Hill or Preston is its well established and centralised institutional and commercial sectors which act as strong employment generators for the area, allowing in part apartment developments to flourish. All the ingredients are there for Box Hill to expand immensely, the question posed is how big could Box Hill of the future become?
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