<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA</a>&nbsp;doesn’t just rise over North Sydney, it redefines it. Now in its final release, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>’s $1 billion architectural statement is not just complete, but already reshaping the way people live, connect and dine in this rapidly evolving harbourside CBD.

Positioned beside the new Victoria Cross Metro Station and boasting panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, Aura’s 386 residences crown a mixed-use precinct designed with unapologetic ambition. The curvaceous sandstone-inspired form by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, paired with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richard Stanisich</a>’s understated interiors, sets a design tone that’s both monumental and intimate.

At its peak, literally, the two penthouses so spectacular they command their own names; La Davina and Il Magnate. The residents are spread across the&nbsp;entire top floor, offering what many consider the most refined residences ever built in North Sydney. Designed by Richard and Kirsten Stanisich, each four-bedroom home is meticulously crafted to evoke calm, space, and permanence.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VB70993aG-I?si=adRBlXQliYmYvaSz" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The kitchens are fully wrapped in natural stone, with integrated Gaggenau appliances, Sub-Zero fridges, concealed sculleries, and even a zip hydro tap delivering boiling, chilled and sparkling water on demand. A linear stone fireplace anchors the open-plan living space, dividing lounge and dining zones with quiet sophistication.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292861]

The master suite, meanwhile, feels more like a private retreat, complete with a custom stone makeup vanity, walk-through dressing area, and spa-inspired ensuite with heated stone floors, a freestanding Villeroy &amp; Boch tub, and timber veneer joinery throughout.

Kirsten Stanisich, Director of Richards Stanisich, said the penthouses offer incredible scale reflective of a single residence.&nbsp;

“We sought inspiration for these remarkable residences from the classic top-floor Parisian apartment," Stanisich said.

"We looked at what made these French apartments so elegant and found it really came down to their scale. It was ultimately this generosity of space that we used for the AURA penthouses, where we’ve designed considered rooms with deep large-scale proportions."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

Everyday living at Aura feels no less elevated. A dedicated 24-hour concierge, Technogym fitness centre, sky dining terraces, and a resort-style pool serve a lifestyle designed to rival luxury hotels.

At street level, Aqualand’s own hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, curates a precinct of LA-style bistros, Japanese fine dining, and local wine bars, all seamlessly integrated into the building’s sculptural podium.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

This final chapter, aptly dubbed The Finale, is more than a sales phase, it’s an invitation to two of the most exclusive apartments ever to be built in North Sydney.

With limited residences remaining, buyers can access curated incentives including stamp duty rebates, rental guarantees, legal fee coverage, and even $20,000 towards dining within the precinct.

From generous one-bedders to The Icons, two singular penthouses priced well into prestige territory, Aura’s offerings reflect a scale and calibre rarely seen in urban Sydney. And with move-in now immediate, this is no longer a promise of future luxury. It’s happening.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Staff Writer

Aqualand unveils penthouse collection at AURA By Aqualand in North Sydney

There’s no sign of the development wave that began several years ago slowing along Old Burleigh Road.

Around 10 new apartment developments are either underway or preparing to launch along the 800-metre strip stretching from the southern edge of Surfers Paradise towards the heart of Broadbeach, collectively adding just shy of 1,000 new apartments to the beachfront corridor.

The latest plans propose a further 30 apartments to replace an original six-unit walk-up on a 658 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/20a-old-burleigh-road-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">20A Old Burleigh Road</a>. The 14-storey building has been designed by Ferro Chow Architecture, which recently joined the Elevation Architecture Group.

The developer behind the project is Geoffrey Booth, whose Future Liv In has focused on delivering rental accommodation across regional Australia.

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99d393e7-d404-43bc-80cb-6255c39b83d6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ZFT8F3mOny4M4ut.kFF3woC9WH9oR5gT" />

The Old Burleigh Road development will comprise 18 two-bedroom apartments, 10 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom residence occupying the entirety of level 12. Above, the building will be crowned by a two-storey penthouse with its own private lift, several multi-purpose rooms, and two rooftop terraces — one featuring a puppy lawn and spa, the other offering a private swimming pool, sunset deck, and built-in barbecue.

Resident amenities will be located on the second level and include a pool with adjoining spa, cabana, and pool deck, along with an indoor residents’ lounge featuring a bar and an alfresco barbecue kitchen.

In the architectural statement submitted by Elevation Architecture, the project is referred to as “UMI”, which the firm says has been “inspired by the majestic hinterlands and shaped by the coastal climate”.

“It is an exemplar of how community living can still feel at one with nature, breathable, and deeply connected in place,” the architects noted.

They added that the site benefits from established building separation to adjoining towers, helping to maintain privacy, sunlight, and residential amenity, while still offering direct beach access within an urban setting.

“Drawing inspiration from the Gold Coast hinterlands and the region’s natural landscape, the podium and tower detail highlights the contrasting elements of treetop green and cliff-face peach. The vibrant texture and materiality shaped by time has a richness in depth and character.”

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3d6c923-a0ab-4d74-86da-177313447e8e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.38%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=i2fygmoVQM6hWpbATTAW_yTitoMTrnI1" />

Old Burleigh Road has become a hotspot for developers, with the three-tower Jewel development kickstarting a wave of projects up and down the strip when it was completed in 2020.

Currently under construction and approaching completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/faro-broadbeach-123-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">FARO Broadbeach</a> by 5Point and Bottega, 21 large-scale half- and full-floor apartments. 5Point is also behind the recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumara-108-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Lumara</a>, another 37 apartments to add to the pipeline.

Luxury builder GRAYA is progressing construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/enclave-by-graya-118-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Enclave</a>, its first Gold Coast tower, while Polycell remains the most active developer on the street. They are preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sandpiper-broadbeach-155-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Sandpiper</a>, a 50-storey redevelopment of the former Sandpiper Holiday Resort that will deliver around 200 apartments alongside extensive resident amenity. The group also has another 130-apartment project approved nearby, as does <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/dvb-approved-for-second-broadbeach-apartment-development">Dean Gallagher’s DVB Projects</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Old Burleigh Road apartment development wave continues

Sunshine Coast developer Habitat Development Group continues to position itself as one of the region’s largest new apartment developers.

Its latest project is in Maroochydore, where it is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-millwell-2-millwell-road-east-maroochydore-qld-4558">The Millwell</a>. Adjacent to the new 53-hectare Maroochydore City Centre project, Habitat is planning a further 180 apartments on a 3,468 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/132-136-aerodrome-road-maroochydore-qld-4558">132–136 Aerodrome Road</a>. The site was purchased with approval for a smaller 13-storey, 103-unit building.

Habitat will demolish the two existing retail centres, currently home to the Salvation Army Family Store and Neighbours Aid, and replace them with an 18-storey building featuring the significant rooftop amenities that have become a hallmark of Habitat developments in recent years. The rooftop will include both indoor and outdoor spaces, anchored by an infinity swimming pool.

<img alt="Maroochydore" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad434d07-666b-4614-b33e-530ad6a2d261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.33%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7pyLsPWKQuwv0us3_v.9DmbzEc2VZe9Z" />

There will be a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments.

The Development Assessment Report, submitted to the Sunshine Coast Council, says the proposal&nbsp;is not speculative, but a response to both zoning intent and demonstrated housing need.

“The proposed development represents an appropriate and logical intensification of the site, consistent with the planning framework and the intended urban outcomes for the locality.”

Across the Sunshine Coast, councils are increasingly scrutinising not just height or yield, but whether new projects genuinely align with the long-term structure plans underpinning growth corridors. The&nbsp;ASTP Planning Report&nbsp;reinforces the approach, noting that the project has been shaped around site responsiveness rather than generic typology.

“The development has been designed to respond to the physical constraints and opportunities of the site, while delivering a high-quality residential outcome that integrates with the existing and emerging urban context.”

<img alt="Habitat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a03fc54-4ca5-4868-88d0-eeced70604e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.28%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=1pkK3lJrrZjkghTLBReM2zatcas4Nc4B" />

In mid-2025, Habitat, a developer that also builds its own projects, commenced construction on The Millwell, located just over one kilometre from the new proposal. The Millwell will comprise more than 200 apartments across two eight-storey buildings.

Habitat also has two projects on Lake Kawana in Birtinya: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-clair-birtinya-930-931-waterside-retreat-birtinya-qld-4575">St Clair</a>, a 200-unit, two-building development launched last year and set to welcome buyers this year; and Esperance, a 175-apartment project currently progressing through the development approval process.

First look: Habitat continues to bolster Sunshine Coast apartment pipeline with Maroochydore development plans

John Camilleri, the breeder of legendary racehorse Winx, is set to deliver a landmark two-tower beachfront development that would redefine the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Camilleri, who spent around $100 million acquiring development sites across the Gold Coast in 2025, has lodged plans for two new towers on the dress-circle stretch of Garfield Terrace, just two days before Christmas.

In assembling the site, Camilleri's Celestino Developments has effectively acquired the 71 Garfield project by Iris Capital and AALTO by Weiya Holdings, creating an unrivalled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">4,000 sqm beachfront holding along Garfield Terrace</a>.

The proposal comprises two residential towers of 55 and 48 storeys, linked by a dramatic skybridge which will home “exclusive VIP and wellness amenities.”

In total, the development would deliver 275 two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments across the two towers, rising above a shared landscaped podium that incorporates a central green space and a beachfront swimming pool stretching more than 90 metres.

<img alt="DBI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="097900f3-6bef-4919-b168-b08f2f762876" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.37.58%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=et0SpmcvaPPVrexI_zWi46BVFtZBxAzx" />

Architecture firm DBI, in documents submitted to Gold Coast City Council, said the project at 63–79 Garfield Terrace would “establish a new benchmark for beachfront residential living on the Gold Coast.”

"The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience. Together, the 48-storey North Tower and 55-storey South Tower form a distinctive twin-tower composition whose dynamic silhouette will make a significant contribution to the Surfers Paradise skyline."

DBI said the architectural language draws inspiration from the fluidity and movement of the coastal landscape.

"Each tower is defined by organic, curving forms and continuous balcony ribbons that wrap the buildings, providing deep shading, enhancing environmental performance, and reinforcing the rhythmic, sculptural expression of the façade. These balcony forms also reduce the apparent mass of the towers while maintaining strong visual continuity from podium to summit. Sculpted reflective downturns run along the western spine of both towers, shifting and lifting as they extend upwards to frame service zones and open eastward to maximise ocean views."

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2a00ce3-a0e9-45d6-b4b5-b7baed592ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.40%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=DnruWV1dhLrtXOeElwekyd7vPq2gw55t" />

The project’s most striking feature is the skybridge at level 45, which will house executive lounges, formal dining spaces, wellness facilities and panoramic ocean-facing views.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI added.

The podium will host an extensive suite of recreational amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a large open green lawn, and the signature 90-metre pool stretching along the beachfront. The pool is divided into lap, lounge and children’s zones.

The southern end of the podium will accommodate additional wellness facilities, including a gymnasium, plunge pools, treatment rooms and a dedicated yoga lawn.

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee1b4f25-231f-4804-83b1-a573a1481962" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.55.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zObzIA3D5w7EwqPsHjr2pKrA4vbB28zL" />

There will be 127 apartments in the North Tower and 148 in the South Tower, including multiple penthouses, while the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages will be activated by a series of food and beverage tenancies.

Camilleri emerged as the most active site acquirer on the Gold Coast in 2025. He spent just over $30 million acquiring Pacific Point, a 10-level Surfers Paradise apartment block and an adjoining three-level duplex, from fellow racing identity and Aquis billionaire Tony Fung. Plans are now underway for a 93-apartment, 40-storey tower on the 1,682 sqm site.

He also paid $53.65 million for the 1,500 sqm Garfield Terrace site previously marketed as AALTO by Weiya Holdings, before acquiring the adjoining parcel from hotel billionaire Sam Arnaout’s Iris Capital, the developer behind V&amp;A Broadbeach.

First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge

The Melbourne-based HLA Group is the latest developer to expand into South East Queensland, lodging plans for a unique mixed-use short-term accomodation and apartment building in Taringa, with the building design inspired by the Glasswing Butterfly.

The development application for 10 Morrow Street seeks approval for a total of 232 dwellings, comprising 116 residential apartments and 116 short-stay accommodation units. The build-to-sell residential component is made up of 31 one-bedroom apartments, 67 two-bedroom apartments, 17 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom apartment, offering a diverse mix aimed at singles, couples, families, and downsizers.

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33913cd4-9839-4456-b325-d35b3f8b4694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=sLvc7jUrYzDwqPDZBPrXTosKHDSp.qrt" />

Designed by Ellivo Architects, the tower takes strong inspiration from nature, with the architectural language driven by one of Queensland’s most delicate species. As described in the planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council, Ellivo Architects state the design is “inspired by the elegance of the Glasswing butterfly," and mirrors the graceful sweep of its wings, a form that feels light, fluid, and alive.

“Lush subtropical greenery is throughtfull woven throughout, transforming the building into a sanctuary in the heart of the city.”

The proposal positions the building as more than a conventional residential tower, with Ellivo Architects describing 10 Morrow Street as “an urban oasis that blends short term accomodation with residential living. A destination for rest, relaxation, and renewal.”

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84e9a0ff-464e-4973-bffe-5d5a8fe9f087" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.32%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dhX9eVgUaQE2TvCzJPhF8N8_hzYSKpyK" />

Formally, the building’s massing and floorplate are directly shaped by its butterfly inspiration. Ellivo explain that, “adopting the wings of the Glasswing Butterfly, the tower's plan is divided into four distinct quadrants, each shaped to mirror the wing's segmented geometry and taking the slender ‘veins’ up the facade of the tower.”

"This approach results in a sculpted tower form with articulated façades and a strong vertical expression."

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5947011d-ff6c-4a57-bdc1-9072a472a79c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.29%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=nnGqd4WCZM8AOJZY.c3u49BO4LurKRhb" />

The Assessment Report by Human Habitats said the 19-storey tower capitalises on its strategic connectivity and prominence at the entrance of Taringa Village and adjoining the Taringa Station.

"The proposal offers a significant revitalisation of the subject site that integrates architectural excellence, innovation, and sustainable design to directly address long-standing connectivity and safety challenges, housing supply , and diversity together with enhanced streetscape activation and convenient access to major transport corridors."

HLA Group Australia is registered to South Yarra and is currently delivering Adamson No.5, just 15 luxury apartments that start from around $2 million.&nbsp;

The Butterfly Effect: Glasswing butterfly inspires Taringa apartment development

Architecton

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In November 2017 City of Stonnington received amended plans for 671 Chapel Street wherein the architect for the project, Architecton, has reduced the overall height of the building which in turn has reduced the overall amount of dwellings planned for the project.

Originally lodged with Council during 2015 with 30 levels and 352 apartments, the amended plans would see 671 Chapel Street weigh in at 21 levels with a total dwelling count of 158. The 2015 proposal had an average of 12 apartments per floor, although the amended plans will see this figure average out at  9 apartments per floor.

The amended proposal maintains a rooftop garden, plus 2,940 square metres of commercial space.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/671_chapel_redesign2.png" rel="gallery-all" title="671 Chapel Street, South Yarra redesign - image: Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/671_chapel_redesign2.png?itok=sYggrfC9" title="671 Chapel Street, South Yarra redesign - image: Architecton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>671 Chapel Street, South Yarra redesign - image: Architecton</figcaption></figure>The Stonnington Leader reported that the scale of the proposal had changed after consultation with council staff, and that the latest amendment received 30 objections. The amendment was approved by Stonnington council early in February with a 5-2 vote, however that did not stop one councillor airing his disapproval through the local newspaper.

Councillor Matthew Koce, one of the two no votes, in reference to the project located adjacent to Melbourne High School and its overall prominence in the area, told the Stonnington Leader "Melbourne High is meant to be a castle on a hill, it’s turning more and more into a sand castle."

Nonetheless proponent Lantern River Pty Ltd has gained the right to deliver the tower.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/capitol_grand_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Capitol Grand's lift cores now well and truly above street level - image: UM user redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/capitol_grand_1.jpg?itok=LJNPIJXL" title="Capitol Grand's lift cores now well and truly above street level - image: UM user redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Capitol Grand's lift cores now well and truly above street level - image: UM user redden</figcaption></figure>South Yarra's Forrest Hill precinct has seen intensive development over more than a decade with one of its largest buildings, Capitol Grand located just down the street from 671 Chapel Street, attracting intense interest on the <a href="/news">Apartments.com.au Forum</a>.

Capitol Grand will be the first 'skyscraper' (a building with a roof height over 152.4 metres (that's 500 feet in the old money) outside Melbourne's CBD, Southbank, St Kilda Road or Docklands precincts.

Seen above is the latest construction image of Capitol Grand, posted by UM user redden, dated early March.
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Alastair Taylor

671 Chapel Street gets a redesign, approved by Stonnington council

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Near on a year after being submitted, Footscray's last major development within the Joseph Road Precinct is all but reality.

Last week it was recommended by internal planners that Maribyrnong Council's City Development Special Committee issue a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit for the multi-towered development which accounts for the last 'super site' within the 17 hectare renewal area. 2 Neilson Place is the final piece of the puzzle within the vast formerly light industrial land holding which constitutes the Joseph Road Precinct.

Over recent years six separate scheme within the precinct have gained approval, amounting to some 3,300 new apartments. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image77_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2 Neilson Street. Planning image: Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="542" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image77_2.jpg?itok=tP_P4IeT" title="2 Neilson Street. Planning image: Architecton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>2 Neilson Street. Planning image: Architecton</figcaption></figure>Carrying a cost of development of $180 million, 2 Neilson Place is positioned to add another 500 plus apartments to Joseph Road Precinct. Of these, 5% are to be allocated as affordable housing.

Set across 6,323 square metres, 2 Neilson Place also adds 620 square metres of retail floor space, 3,418 square metres of office space and capacity for a childcare centre. A variety of amenities are anchored by podium and tooftop open spaces.

Well beyond the preferred maximum building height of 12 storeys, "consideration has been given to reducing the heights, however any reduction in height would not make any significant difference to the urban environment of Joseph Road." This is in response to earlier approvals in some instances reaching 32 levels.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0054.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Riverina's first phase under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0054.jpg?itok=ylsRe4Gi" title="Riverina's first phase under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Riverina's first phase under construction</figcaption></figure>With the planning aspect of Joseph Road Precinct all but complete, the challenge for developers is to now deliver the thousands of approved apartments.

In total 23 separate residential towers are in play within the precinct, and of those only a trio of mid-sized towers which represent stage one of Riverina are at construction. Having ridden the wave of foreign-based interest in Melbourne's apartment market, Riverina had sold well initially, although the rate of sales for current and future releases may not be as rapid.

The sheer number of apartments involved coupled with the restrictive measures placed on foreign investors and the 'cooling' within certain pockets of Melbourne's apartment market may lead to a slower roll-out of construction within Joseph Road Precinct.

4 Neilson Place known as The Tannery has conducted a low-key sales campaign whilst Growland's Victoria Square opposite Riverina has begun its sales campaign in earnest.
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silvermb

Joseph Road precinct's final application sails toward reality; now for the task of delivery

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The latest and last of Footscray's Joseph Road Precinct super-sites has gone to advertising, outlining a quartet of residential towers planned for the site which is referred to as 2 Nielson Place.

No less that 577 apartments are requested as part of a permit that would square away Joseph Road Precinct's final major land allotment. FJP Pty Ltd is behind the development push, with Architecton in the primary design role; something they would be altogether used to given their existing design experience within the precinct.

Following on from an initial application, revised plans were submitted late last year which lessened the height of three towers and consequently the overall apartment yield.

<h2>2 Neilson Place 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/image35_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Architecton's latest project for the precinct."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="527" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image35_8.jpg?itok=ZpmurAUP" title="Architecton's latest project for the precinct." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Architecton's latest project for the precinct.</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Vacant land plot of 6,264sqm with two street frontages</li>
	<li>Proposed quartet of towers, with the tallest at 26 levels or 86 metres</li>
	<li>577 apartments: 230 x 1BR, 274 x 2BR, 73 x 3BR</li>
	<li>Average apartment sizes: 1BR: 46sqm, 2BR: 76sqm, 3BR: 115sqm</li>
	<li>290sqm of ground floor food/drink space</li>
	<li>465sqm of commercial office space</li>
	<li>3,113sqm of communal open space</li>
	<li>3,382sqm of internal communal facilities</li>
	<li>Podium parking for 572 cars</li>
	<li>Estimated development cost: $180 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Amenity plus</h2>

The staged development is noteworthy for the level of amenity that it intends to bring to the precinct.

As outlined above, a combined total of 6,495sqm of communal space is dedicated to the 577 apartments, which equates to an average of 11.26sqm of open space per apartment. This figure is very much symptomatic of the larger, staged developments within Joseph Road Precinct.

Project specific amenities include podium-top facilities such as a gym, pool, change rooms, internal and external lounge areas, shared kitchen, dining areas, yoga room and a large landscaped open space area. Each tower rooftop sees an external courtyard adjoining an internal multi-purpose area.

Aesthetically 2 Nielson Place's major tower has been designed to be clad in rose gold glass, with Luna St Kilda cited as a design example. Offsetting the 86m golden edifice would be a smaller tower with light grey tinted glass as its primary expression, while the smaller duo would feature dark glass framed by offwhite composite panels.

'Sandstone' finished tiles are envisaged for the projects ground level interface, providing the street level with a 'softer' more earthier appearance.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image34_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amenity to the fore"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="412" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_9.jpg?itok=1awYbeLP" title="Amenity to the fore" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amenity to the fore</figcaption></figure><h2>Joseph Road Precinct at large</h2>

2 Nielson Place is Joseph Road Precinct's seventh major development; of those seven, five can be considered multi-tower developments. At this stage and assuming 2 Nielson Place is approved along its current design path, 23 residential buildings are slated for the precinct, with none yet to reach completion.

2 Nielson Place's 577 apartments adds to the roughly 3,385 apartments already given the nod for the riverside precinct. These apartments will be delivered in towers of up to 31 levels.

How Joseph Road Precinct's planning outcomes compare to initial structure plan expectations will be the subject of another forthcoming article.

<h2>2 Neilson Place development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>FJP Pty Ltd ATF Palazzo Family Superannuation Fund</li>
	<li>Architecture and Urban Context: Architecton</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Landscape Plan: Urbis Landscape Architects</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering Assessment: Ratio</li>
	<li>Acoustic, Pedestrian Level Winds and Wind Tunnel Test: Vipac</li>
	<li>Sustainable Management Plan: Sustainability House</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Ratio</li>
	<li>Cultural Heritage Report: Terra Culture</li>
</ul>
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2 Neilson Place rounds out Footscray's Joseph Road Precinct

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Earlier in the month Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/development-sites-presently-advertised-for-sale-offer-a-reflection-of-the-current-market">highlighted the strong field of development sites</a> currently on the market, with a slant toward suburban sites holding sway over inner city offerings. Developers gazes may well be swing back to the inner city with two prime sites offered in the interceding time, will full approvals in tow.

<h2>54-56 Clarke Street, Southbank</h2>

Planning Minster of the day Matthew Guy labelled it "a revolutionary change for the way that we design buildings in Melbourne.” And now a Melbourne Cup field of developers will no doubt run the ruler over the approved 54-56 Clarke Street with an eye toward creating Melbourne's next landmark building and the bragging rights that go with such a tag.

The development site has been listed for sale with incumbent proponent Matrix and Cube choosing to move the Southbank site on rather than proceed with a dedicated apartment sales campaign. The project dubbed 'Elysium' has thus far maintained its own website which has allowed interested parties to register their interest in the project. 
Freshly listed with both CBRE City Sales and Knight Frank, 54-56 Clarke Street is a 74 level project with approval for 288 high-end apartments and an associated ground floor cafe.

<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/image30_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Initial plans for the project had it known as Elysium"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image30_5.jpg?itok=CPkS_6Kg" title="Initial plans for the project had it known as Elysium" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Initial marketing for the project referred to the tower as Elysium</figcaption></figure>Lauded as innovative and technologically advanced, the approved 240 plus metre design by BKK Architects is unique in that a design of a similar height onsite could not likely be replicated owing to interim planning controls implemented during 2015. Thus any potential buyer of the site could deliver the approved scheme which would be considerably taller than those buildings surrounding it, both in the present and the future.

The successful buyer will have a chance to secure the site via an Expressions of Interest campaign which closes Monday the 11th of April.

<h2>10 Moreland Street, Footscray</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/image35_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="10 Moreland Street is available. Image courtesy Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="764" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image35_1.jpg?itok=gV7wyFkL" title="10 Moreland Street is available. Image courtesy Architecton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>10 Moreland Street is available. Image courtesy Architecton</figcaption></figure>10 Moreland Street was the first high-rise to gain approval within Footscray's Joseph Road Precinct. At 26 levels and 86 metres the approved design is also one of the urban renewal precinct's tallest.

Designed by CBD-based Architecton and in the hands of agent Savills, the tower is capable of accommodating 210 dwellings over the 1,277sqm site, with three street frontages holding retails tenancies.

Other notable development sites offered for sale recently in the immediate area include <a href="/buildings/liberty-one-1-warde-street-footscray">1 Warde Street</a> with 380 approved apartments in tow along with 54-58 Hopkins Street. Better known as Franco Cozzo's Footscray home, 54-58 Hopkins Street has been billed as capable of handling a sizeable tower.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image33_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Architecton's take on 10 Moreland within the Joseph Road Precinct"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="329" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image33_5.jpg?itok=9IGlhJLL" title="Architecton's take on 10 Moreland within the Joseph Road Precinct" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Architecton's take on 10 Moreland within the Joseph Road Precinct</figcaption></figure>
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54-56 Clarke and 10 Moreland enter the already strong development site field

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Two new planning applications with Stonnington City Council are seeking to continue the trend of increasingly taller towers making their way into South Yarra's Forrest Hill Precinct. Lodged during late June, CBD-based entity Lantern River Pty Ltd is behind a proposal located at 671 Chapel Street which would see a 30 level residential tower replace a low-rise retail outlet, while Fridcorp have also sought approval for a mixed-use development at 627 Chapel Street.

Design firm Architecton has drawn inspiration form fine jewellery and faceted forms in order to conceive <a href="http://www.architecton.com.au/34556/7097762/select-projects/chapel-street-south-yarra">671 Chapel Street</a> with the predominantly black tower contrasted by bronze highlights. Abutting Melbourne High School and with a nominal value of $115 million, the proposal adds to the rapidly evolving streetscape within the Forrest Hill Precinct which has seen the northern stretch of Chapel Street subject to multiple tower proposals.

<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/da4b74f0b938098d9fcb9964b6af56bc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 671 Chapel Street. Image courtesy Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/da4b74f0b938098d9fcb9964b6af56bc.jpg?itok=Mi385Bal" title="Artist's impression of 671 Chapel Street. Image courtesy Architecton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 671 Chapel Street. Image courtesy Architecton</figcaption></figure><h2>671 Chapel Street overview</h2>

<blockquote>
The design seeks to deliver on one of the key objectives of the DDO control which is… 'to provide tall slender building forms rather than bulky, monolithic buildings in order to minimise visual bulk'.

The site context has been carefully analysed and considered, which has generated a sculptural building form that responds to key influences within its surrounding context.

The project leverages the incredible view amenity offered by the location of the site and its location within the Forest Hill North Precinct. The proposed development will create public interface that provides a vibrant, attractive and safe pedestrian connection through the Forrest Hill Precinct.

The proposal provides new residential apartments over 30 storeys and a 6 level basement carpark inclusive of residential amenity spaces such as shared lounges, rooftop bar, pool, library, gymnasium and yoga room. Activated public realm at Chapel Street with highly exposed retail and commercial spaces all integrated via a landscaped porte cochere.

The form and facades of the proposed tower have been influenced and moulded by the key heritage components of the immediate precinct, resulting in an architectural language which is responsive and deferential to the sites surrounding history, yet embracing the changing characteristics of Chapel Street, but also avoiding the unreasonable visual bulk of new development when viewed from surrounding areas by ensuring appropriate scales, form and articulation.
<cite>Architecton website</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/chapelh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of Chapel Street's Forrest Hill Precinct. Image courtesy Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="237" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/chapelh.jpg?itok=RNWB_8dP" title="Aerial perspective of Chapel Street's Forrest Hill Precinct. Image courtesy Architecton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of Chapel Street's Forrest Hill Precinct. Image courtesy Architecton</figcaption></figure>Fridcorp's proposal for 627 Chapel Street would see a tower with a nominal cost of $130 million delivered, consisting of retail, hospitality and residential uses. Both 627 Chapel Street and 671 Chapel Street are in and amongst a handful of current projects intent on redefining South Yarra's emerging skyline.

Next to 671 Chapel Street Malaysia's Gamuda Land has launched <a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra">661 Chapel Street</a> within Malaysia, with a local sales campaign expected to begin during September. Valued at $146 million, Gamuda Land's first foray into the Melbourne residential sector will see 169 apartments delivered with one, two and three bedroom layouts available.

Adjoining 661 Chapel Street is <a href="/new-apartments/royal-como-663-chapel-street-south-yarra">Royal Como</a> at 21 levels while <a href="/buildings/esque-649-chapel-street-south-yarra">649 Chapel Street</a> at 20 levels and with an estimated value of $50 million is still under planning assessment. Rounding out the spike in development along this pocket of Chapel Street is LK Property Group's <a href="/buildings/capitol-grand-241-toorak-road-south-yarra">Capitol Grand</a> which recently gained planning approval, and at 50 levels will stand as the suburb's tallest building.
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