Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<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/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Architecture

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There are $1.8 million hopes for Rush House, a mid-century design by Harold R. McCauley at East Killara.
The modernist house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-east+killara-129595642" target="_blank">145 Springdale Road</a> comes with floating staircases.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/11/9/5c8dffa7b9c24ab485992ad116891800.jpg" alt="">
It has raked ceilings.
The house features timber, glass and stone.
There’s also a self-contained studio attached to a private bathroom.
It goes to auction on November 17 through LJ Hooker agent Vanessa Coles.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Harold R. McCauley-designed East Killara modernist trophy home listed

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Both men and women having access to baby changing facilities is one of many issues that gender equality mapping can help tackle.
Inequity in cities has a long history. The importance of social and community planning to meet the challenge of creating people-centred cities looms large. While planners, government and designers have long understood the problem, uncovering the many important marginalised stories is an enormous task.
Technology – so often bemoaned – has provided an unexpected and powerful primary tool for designers and makers of cities. Crowd-mapping asks the community to anonymously engage and map their experiences using their smartphones and via a web app. The focus of the new <a href="https://www.genderequalitymap.vic.gov.au" target="_blank">Gender Equality Map</a> launched today in two pilot locations in Melbourne is on equality or inequality in their neighbourhood.
How does it work?
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/242390/original/file-20181025-71029-y7dglt.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/242390/original/file-20181025-71029-y7dglt.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a> 
Participants can map their experience of equality or inequality in their neighbourhood using locator pins. 
Crowd-mapping generates geolocative data. This is made up of points “dropped” to a precise geographical location. The data can then be analysed and synthesised for insights, tendencies and “hotspots”.
The diversity of its applications shows the adaptability of the method. The digital, community-based method of crowd-mapping has been used across the globe. Under-represented citizens have embraced the opportunity to tell their stories as a way to engage with and change their experience of cities.
<a href="http://crowdspot.com.au/" target="_blank">CrowdSpot</a> and <a href="https://www.monash.edu/mada/research/labs/xyx-lab-monash-space-gender-communication-lab" target="_blank">Monash University</a> have developed the <a href="https://www.genderequalitymap.vic.gov.au" target="_blank">Gender Equality Map</a> with support from the Victorian government. It will enable local government to tackle the issues of socio-cultural exclusion that have proven so elusive. The map will help uncover real experiences of gender inequality in public places, from local sports facilities to public transport, community services and infrastructure, to simply walking down the street.
How will the data be used?
Melton and Darebin city councils will pilot the project. These councils are committed to engaging with the data in future decision-making with direct impacts on their communities and neighbourhoods.
The map is open to all genders with residence of Darebin and Melton encouraged to use the web app to tell their story. While we expect to see stories from women and men of a range of ages, the <a href="https://www.genderequalitymap.vic.gov.au" target="_blank">Gender Equality Map</a> is also an opportunity to hear about the nuanced experiences of LGBTIQ+ people.
More than a new narrative of city life, the Gender Equality Map and crowd-mapping projects more broadly reflect a shift in how we understand cities, architecture and urban planning. To understand patterns of inclusion and exclusion, to consider individual perceptions of cities – ones that may not align with our own – is one of the greatest challenges place-makers face.
Trained as an architect and landscape architect and as the director of a <a href="https://www.monash.edu/mada/research/labs/xyx-lab-monash-space-gender-communication-lab" target="_blank">university research lab</a>, my research is committed to understanding the nexus of urban place and gender inequity. My <a href="https://www.routledgehandbooks.com/doi/10.4324/9781315163956-13" target="_blank">recent research</a> focuses on the possibilities and power of crowd-mapping as a method for shaping urban space. Recognising that cities need to be gender-sensitive, I seek to understand the stories of gender, equity and identity in cities – not fictional ones but real-life stories of individual people.
Leading to more inclusive urban design
As a democratic process, crowd-mapping can lead to action that helps solve real-world issues. To design “inclusively” is more than a matter of providing community buildings, public transport and amenity. It’s about the determination to seek out the tricky stories of social justice – those of access, equity and diversity – and to actively shape our cities with these goals as our priority.
Considering how communities can advance agendas and unlock many of the complex and diverse needs of cities requires a tactical approach. Feminist architect and activist Lori Brown <a href="https://architectureau.com/articles/lori-brown-feminist-activist-architect/" target="_blank">states</a>:
Design is not a passive act. It is a critical engagement with community and you have to be cognisant of the power that you have and how you use it.
Crowd-mapping engages with community but also brings with it a particularly powerful form of activism – especially when it comes to gender inequity. Projects such as <a href="https://www.google.com.au/search?q=evefryday+sexism&amp;rlz=1C5CHFA_enAU803AU804&amp;oq=evefryday+sexism&amp;aqs=chrome..69i57j0l5.2907j0j7&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" target="_blank">Everyday Sexism</a> in the UK; <a href="http://safetipin.com/projects" target="_blank">Safetipin</a> in New Delhi, Jakarta, Bogota and Nairobi; Harassmap in India; and <a href="http://planfreetobe.org/" target="_blank">Free to Be</a> in Australia and internationally, have publicly charted the ways women, in particular, experience inequity in cities.
One obvious advantage is that web-based crowd-sourcing can challenge the historically disproportionate contribution of usually male voices in urban policy and design. One of the reasons crowd-mapping has been successful at engaging with women and girls is that it allows them to report when and where it suits them. What more will we learn about inclusion when we open up the tool to all genders?
The ubiquity of smartphone technology over the past decade has driven exponential growth in the volume of data about cities and their citizens. We have less data, however, about gender and inequity. More data and deeper insights will make these issues central to the design and strategy of local, urban decision-making.
Nicole Kalms, Director of XYX Lab + Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture at Monash University, Monash University
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. 
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Crowd-mapping gender equality tool launches in Melbourne: Nicole Kalms

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One of Canberra's iconic mid-century modern homes has hit the market after a recent renovation.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-act-deakin-129218218" target="_blank">Deakin home was designed</a> by the late architect Miles Jakl, who was best known for the carousel restaurant Onred atop Red Hill, in the 1960s.
The three bedroom home was featured in 100 Canberra Houses: A Century of Capital Architecture, published in 2013 to time with the Canberra's centenary. 
It has been updated since it last traded for $1.44 million in 2016, the first time it had been offered for sale when bought by the Muller family.
It has been listed for auction this weekend through Belle agents Leanne Palmer and Louise Harget.
Set on an 850 square metre Beauchamp Street block, the property features a landscaped courtyard, established gardens and a solar heated swimming pool.
It still has a feel of a 1960s entertainers' offering.
This article was first published in Weekend Australian. 
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Iconic mid-century Canberra trophy home set to go under the hammer

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I recently caught up with Founding Directors of <a href="http://www.odo.co/">One Design Office</a>, Samson Tiew and Jon Liow to discuss the cross-disciplinary approach of their office and their work, in addition to the ability to offer a comprehensive suite of services from architecture to marketing and branding.

We also chat about the office's involvement in the Southbank by Beulah competition and how that whole process came together, culminating in the Future Cities Symposium.

The topic of prototyping and the important role it can play in the design is also raised. Please note, the podcast was recorded on the 13th of September. And remember to subscribe to our <a href="/guides">weekly podcast</a> through your favourite podcast app.

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Laurence Dragomir

Weekly Podcast: Episode 34 - One Design Office

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On this week's episode I catch up with an old friend in <a href="https://www.figr.com.au/">Figr Architecture</a>'s Michael Artemenko and discuss his experiences during the course of his architectural career and how these ultimately helped him in founding Figr along with co-director Adi Atic. 

Michael and I briefly reminisce about our time working together at Kerstin Thompson Architects, which is where we met and the influence this had on both our careers.

We also discuss the challenges of establishing your own firm and the massive learning curve of such a decision and ensuring a good office culture is fostered in which staff look forward to coming into the office and aren't required to do unnecessary overtime.

The value architects add to projects and how the industry could do more to promote this also rates a mention, with Michael citing Open House as a great initiative, and one which Figr have found to be extremely beneficial in communicating their work to the public.

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Weekly Podcast: Episode 29 - Figr Architecture's Michael Artemenko

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Research shows humans don’t like being caged in, preferring to be in larger, more open spaces. And different factors – such as the shape of rooms, the colour of surfaces and the positioning and brightness of lighting – all influence how we perceive space.
These are the elements designers and architects consider when creating spaces. And there are several tips you can use yourself to make your apartment, or any living space, seem roomier.
Extending space
If your apartment has outside views, you should use these. By facing living areas and furniture towards the window or balcony, the outside landscape becomes an extension of the inside space, increasing the perception of the room’s size.
Architects (including Frank Lloyd Wright in his famous work Fallingwater, pictured above) have long used this tactic to draw the eye outside, as a contrast to smaller spaces with low ceilings. A window doesn’t need to be large to create this effect, but some research has shown it needs to take up about 20% of the wall to improve satisfaction with the interior space.
You can also place a mirror opposite that view, which will reflect the outside and contrive another illusory kind of “outside”. A mirror’s view into another room would have a similar effect.
Ceilings with light fittings tend to shrink a space. Lights are best located on walls, about 300mm below ceiling height and directed to shine up across the ceiling and down the walls. This spreads light over the surfaces, rather than concentrating it in a single direction, creating an illusion of size.
Standing and desktop lamps provide the same diversity of spread and reflection.
Using colour
Interior designers do follow guidelines based on studies of colour and light theory to create the appearance of more space, though these may be seen as subjective and relying on intuition.
Lighter colours, for instance, best reflect light and so create the appearance of space. Darker colours, decorative wallpapers and patterned fabrics shrink space and absorb light. Studies have shown lighter ceilings are perceived to be higher than darker ceilings.
Dark colours for floors can constrict a space. Deeply ornate textures and fabrics also shrink volume, as do exaggerated patterned carpets and rugs. Open and continuous flooring surfaces, like timber boards, engineered flooring, broadloom carpet and tiles, create an appearance of space.
Flexible space
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/227731/original/file-20180716-44082-obq7hq.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
A wall at door height doubles as a cupboard that faces the bedroom side of the divide. Jason Busch/Stanhill Studio renovation by Normam Day&amp;Associates, Architects., Author provided
You could reorganise the apartment to change the functions of the rooms. Think, for instance, are the bedrooms well placed, or should the living areas be relocated?
Generally, external views are best adopted for the daylight hours and so for the living and working areas. And bedrooms rely less on broad outside views.
Melbourne’s heritage Romberg’s Stanhill Building was designed in 1950 with flexible apartment spaces that could be used as residences, offices and medical suites.
Later renovations repurposed the dining and living spaces as smaller bedrooms. The original bedrooms were redesigned as open-plan living and dining spaces, with views to Albert Park Lake.
A studio renovation (see photo above) in the building adopted a storage unit (facing into the bedroom area) to door height, which acts as a screen to divide the nominal “rooms”.
Things that normally work for a single purpose can take on more functions, which aids in using a small space for many purposes. For instance, if you own the apartment, you could replace a normal brick or timber dividing wall with a built-in cupboard which can face, back-to-back, into both rooms.
For the apartment renovation in the same building, a storage unit was designed to be a bookshelf taking up most of a wall (below).
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/227733/original/file-20180716-44097-1ds5gox.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
A wall can become a storage unit to save space. Trevor Mein/Stanhill Aptartment 2013 Norman Day &amp; Associates., Author provided
Using furniture
While there is limited research on the perceived spatial dimensions of furniture and its effect, studies do show the more furniture you put into a space, the smaller it appears. And most of us know the less “stuff” we have in our apartments the bigger they seem.
Fitted living room furniture with built-in side tables that hug the wall is better than having large single units and isolated tables. TVs and sound systems incorporated into storage are more space-efficient than stand-alone units.
Big furniture, like settees and coffee tables, ornate bedheads and oversized loose chairs, also overcrowds space. It’s not comfortable to have to walk around large pieces of furniture rather than through space.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/229222/original/file-20180725-194149-1hlygxl.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/229222/original/file-20180725-194149-1hlygxl.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
The less stuff you have, the more spacious things appear. <a class="source" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BilnL1FHdIb/?taken-by=elisabeth_heier" target="_blank">@elisabeth_heier/Instagram (screenshot)</a>
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/98941/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">The best types of furniture to use in small spaces are simple open-framed chairs and tables, furniture with light frames, steel or timber, and open backs.
Kirsten Day, Course Director Interior Architecture, Swinburne University of Technology
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/live-in-a-small-place-an-interior-designers-tips-to-create-the-illusion-of-space-98941" target="_blank">original article</a>.
Main photo:  <a href="https://www.loc.gov/pictures/collection/highsm/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Carol M. Highsmith Archive</a> collection at the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Library_of_Congress" target="_blank" title="en:Library of Congress">Library of Congress</a>.
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An interior designer's tips to create the illusion of space: Kirsten Day

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As Open House Melbourne 2018 draws ever closer, a number of architectural practices will be throwing open the doors to their offices, allowing the public a glimpse at their working environments and providing them with a better understanding of the work architects do.

For the 2018 program the following architects are opening up their offices:

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.openhousemelbourne.org/melbourne/buildings/archier-studio-hardwick-building">Archier Studio</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://www.openhousemelbourne.org/melbourne/buildings/architects-warehouse">Idle Architecture Studio</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://www.openhousemelbourne.org/melbourne/buildings/building-no2">Wolveridge Architects</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://www.openhousemelbourne.org/melbourne/buildings/cox-architecture-studio">COX Architecture</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://www.openhousemelbourne.org/melbourne/buildings/fieldwork-studio">Fieldwork</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://www.openhousemelbourne.org/melbourne/buildings/phooey-architects-carpet-couch-and-office">PHOOEY Architects</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://www.openhousemelbourne.org/melbourne/buildings/orica-house">Bates Smart</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://www.openhousemelbourne.org/melbourne/buildings/techne-architecture-interior-design-office">Technē</a></li>
	<li>K2LD</li>
</ul>
But the focus for today's piece will be K2LD’s newly refurbished office space over three levels at <a href="https://maps.google.com/?q=49+Exhibition+Street,+Melbourne&amp;entry=gmail&amp;source=g">49 Exhibition Street, Melbourne</a>.

K2LD is an Architectural and Interior Design studio that has a wide range of expertise across a diverse portfolio of project types such as individual houses and community precincts, through to multi-unit developments, educational projects and large-scale commercial projects. K2LD believes that no built outcome is identical and their key focus is on the design journey and the establishment of ongoing client relationships.

In late 2017, K2LD moved from its humble office into a new larger studio space. The new studio not only caters for the practice’s growing team but is a showcase and exemplar of the work of K2LD Architects and Interiors.

The new studio also sees some of K2LD’s closest business partners and companies come together and share the space, bringing together a melting pot of creativity, skills, and ideas.

The design of the office focused on the theme of integration, collaboration, functionality and intimate creativity, coupled with an aesthetic vision around the use of strong dark lines against a neutral palette and splashes of greenery.

This has resulted in a large hub with central kitchen-and-dining space, where staff gather at lunch or after work for various events and celebrations.

Additionally, concepts of fluidity, seamlessness and personalisation are optimised in this new space inspired by the works of Mies van der Rohe and Le Corbusier.

Alongside the hub are a variety of different sized meeting rooms, designed to promote engaging design critiques and client meetings of varying sizes.

The expansive boardroom dismisses notions of sterility in such formal environments and is softened via its materiality in the form of boomerang lights, plush carpeting, sheer linen drapes and timber ceilings.

<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/k2ld2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="K2LD's newly refurbihsed space"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/k2ld2.jpg?itok=X0GmBQtI" title="K2LD's newly refurbihsed space" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>K2LD's newly refurbished space. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
As designers, we have the ability to greatly influence how a person experiences and moves through space, and as such we deliberately set the tone of the boardroom to debunk the traditional corporate ambience that would be expected,says

- Tisha Lee, K2LD Director
</blockquote>

The neutral background and supportive materiality, continues through the entirety of the office, allowing for different stories to be created while bespoke furnishing and objects complement the space. 

The transparent and inclusive environment of the office allows for activity-based working through formal and informal break-out areas, large open-plan zones and a central kitchen and dining hub which acts as the Studio’s focal point, much like a kitchen in the heart of the home.

A unique gallery space on level one also allows for gatherings and talks, and offers an opportunity for artists to exhibit their work, promoting multiple layers of creativity within the organisation.

<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/k2ld1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="K2LD's office will open its doors Saturday as part of OHM 2018. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="835" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/k2ld1.jpg?itok=DCJPYAIu" title="K2LD's office will open its doors Saturday as part of OHM 2018. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>K2LD's office will open its doors Saturday as part of OHM 2018. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure><h2>Open House Melbourne 2018 Program:</h2>

Photography Restricted: Yes

Open: Sat 10am - 4pm

What's Open: Level 2 hub, office space and board room. Level 1 meeting rooms and gallery space

Tour Details: Tours at 10am, 10:30am, 11am, 11:30am, 12pm, 12:30pm, 1pm, 1:30pm, 2pm, 2:30pm, 3pm, 3:30pm, running for 20minutes, in groups of 10

Special Programming: Hands on activity for kids including colouring and take home materials.

Building Type: Workplace

Access: Pram accessible, Fully accessible

Tour Type: Guided, queue
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Open House Melbourne 2018: K2LD's 49 Exhibition Street offices

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In keeping with Apartments.com.au's awards theme over the last two weeks, Woods Bagot last week announced that seven of its projects had been shortlisted finalists in this year's World Architecture Festival (WAF) Awards program and its sister program, the INSIDE World Festival of Interiors.

The WAF Awards are the world’s largest, live architectural award, combining keynote presentations from leading international figures alongside live judging presentations from over 400 award finalists.

Woods Bagot’s project shortlist comprises three future projects and four completed buildings. The six shortlisted WAF projects are:

<ul>
<li>Younghusband Woolstore Development, Melbourne</li>
	<li>Melbourne Innovation Precinct, Melbourne</li>
	<li>Elwood House, Melbourne </li>
	<li>Short Lane, Sydney </li>
	<li>St Mary’s Calne School Library, London; and</li>
	<li>Sunshine Insurance Plaza, Beijing</li>
</ul>
While West Hotel, Sydney in conjunction with Fitzpatrick + Partners is shortlisted in the INSIDE World of Interiors Awards.

Selected from a record number of entries, WAF's 536-strong shortlist includes projects from 81 countries across 39 prizes and categories.

<blockquote>
Being a multi-project finalist at WAF affirms Woods Bagot's place on the international stage. It’s immensely gratifying as a global studio to now present these projects to the exceptional talent of our national and international peers.

- Domenic Alvaro, Woods Bagot Global Design Leader
</blockquote>

Woods Bagot will present each shortlisted project to judges in a series of live events at the festival in Amsterdam, 28 to 30 November. The awards will be decided by over 130 judges from more than 35 countries.

More info on the shortlisted projects is available below:

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/younghusband&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNH68YWKIqqKOQV8BZ8K3qb-8r4SfQ" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/younghusband" target="_blank">Younghusband Woolstore Development</a>, Melbourne

Category: Commercial Mixed Use – Future Project

<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/130430_n5_screenhd_yh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Younghusband Woolstore. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="478" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130430_n5_screenhd_yh.jpg?itok=TeRCLwPs" title="Younghusband Woolstore. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Younghusband Woolstore. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>Younghusband transforms a former 100-year-old wool factory in Melbourne’s inner-west into a community-focused commercial site. Co-working, education, food, retail and wellness spaces have been woven into the buildings diverse spaces, allowed to co-exist thanks to modifications made in the floor plate to bring light into previously unlit spaces and to create connections through the spaces for the movement of air and people.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/news/plans-for-melbourne-s-new-innovation-precinct-approved-by-victorian-government&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNEfiKcyFaUWAyShWKhmUhVtKntKFg" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/news/plans-for-melbourne-s-new-innovation-precinct-approved-by-victorian-government" target="_blank">Melbourne Innovation Precinct</a>, Melbourne

Category: Commercial Mixed Use – Future Project

<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/130395_n19_screenhd_mip.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Innovation Precinct. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="437" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130395_n19_screenhd_mip.jpg?itok=IZlq-95E" title="Melbourne Innovation Precinct. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Innovation Precinct. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>The Melbourne Innovation Precinct seeks to establish Australia’s leading campus-centred, multi-disciplinary innovation precinct where university, industry, government, entrepreneurs and researchers co-locate and collaborate to enhance Australia’s innovation, productivity and sustainability agendas. Situated on the corner of Swanston and Grattan Streets in Carlton at the site of the former Royal Women’s Hospital, the precinct is the main ‘gateway’ vista into the Melbourne Innovation District, announcing its bold ambitions.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/sunshine-sanya&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGAo-Scx8V3MorSMD3GsBedGTEXPg" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/sunshine-sanya" target="_blank">Sunshine Insurance Plaza</a>, Beijing

Category: Mixed Use – Completed Buildings

<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/320028_n589_screenhd_sunshine.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sunshine Inusrance Plaza. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/320028_n589_screenhd_sunshine.jpg?itok=bibvhd5F" title="Sunshine Inusrance Plaza. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sunshine Insurance Plaza. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>Inspired by a string of pearls, Sunshine Insurance Finance Plaza provides a soaring new addition to Sanya Bay’s rising skyline. Located at the southern tip of China’s Hainan Island, the mixed-use development features a 35-storey tower above a tiered retail podium and lush gardens. The tower comprises A-grade offices, a 4-star Park Hyatt Hotel, a private clubhouse and a rooftop pool.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/elwood-house&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNEgwn_nTW4j82HdP1l4yjJr4pmzYw" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/elwood-house" target="_blank">Elwood House</a>, Melbourne

Category: Small Scale Housing – Completed Buildings

<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/130148_n21_screenhd_elwood_3_shannon_mcgrath.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elwood house. Image: Shannon McGrath"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130148_n21_screenhd_elwood_3_shannon_mcgrath.jpg?itok=XQy_3MNd" title="Elwood house. Image: Shannon McGrath" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elwood house. Image: Shannon McGrath</figcaption></figure>With 30 finely crafted residences, Elwood House challenges the genre of medium density residential against the values of community and gathering, neighbourhood texture and scale, memorial to its past, and owner experience. Reflecting the local grain and scale of its beachside village, the development evolves the location’s heritage into a more refined solution for the area that transforms the typically low-scale residential language of the area into a modern interpretation of multi-residential living.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/short-lane&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGWS0Tz0B5xyXcHfGv3pYXEJA-U9w" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/short-lane" target="_blank">Short Lane</a>, Sydney                                                             

Category: Small Scale Housing – Completed Buildings

Conceived as an urban garden, Short Lane is an undertaking in providing humans with a connection to nature in a dense, inner-urban setting that lacks greenery. The mixed-use development retains the diversity of its local neighbourhood and creates places for more of it to happen – with new botanical spaces, walkable laneways and venues for local participation.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://architectnews.co.uk/2018/03/13/woods-bagot-receives-planning-permission-pioneering-school-library-wiltshire/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGQR5JpDaHYJJ8BN0M9aZ-WG4RRgw" href="http://architectnews.co.uk/2018/03/13/woods-bagot-receives-planning-permission-pioneering-school-library-wiltshire/" target="_blank">St Mary’s Calne School Library</a>, London

Category: Education – Future Project

<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/15905_st_marys.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Mary's Calne School Library. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="319" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/15905_st_marys.jpg?itok=qTcJjZDv" title="St Mary's Calne School Library. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Mary's Calne School Library. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>With a vision to design an inspiring academic environment which fosters a love of learning, creativity, debate and scholarship in its pupils, the St Mary’s Calne School Library is a rich, academic haven. Designed as a stand-alone pavilion, the library is at the heart of the school. The building layers from solidity to lightness and from internal to external, creating a sense of arrival and then discovery, culminating in framed views of the orchard beyond.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/west-hotel&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHCvpO6TN_ghuDrdFWUCgEWPaONfg" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/west-hotel" target="_blank">West Hotel</a>, Sydney (Woods Bagot and Fitzpatrick + Partners)

Category: Hotels (Inside World Festival of Interiors Awards)

<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/120904_n42_screenhd_west_hotel_2_felix_forest.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Hotel. Image: Felix Forest"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/120904_n42_screenhd_west_hotel_2_felix_forest.jpg?itok=c_YPPR41" title="West Hotel. Image: Felix Forest" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Hotel. Image: Felix Forest</figcaption></figure>West Hotel, Curio by Hilton, is a botanical oasis nestled in the heart of Sydney on an iconic street that is going through a period of renewal due to its proximity to near the city’s newest precinct, Barangaroo.Wedged between an office building and an old Sydney heritage pub, the faceted glass box is an escape from the city. The restaurant, bar, rooms all surround a sunlit, jungle-like atrium within. Woods Bagot has used the crystal-like façade of the base building by Fitzpatrick and Partners as the reference point for the interior design.

Lead Image: Short Lane, Trevor Mein
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Woods Bagot's seven shortlisted for WAF and INSIDE Awards

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The second in Apartments.com.au's Road to the Victorian Architecture Awards series in the lead up to the awards dinner which take place on 29 June and recognises the achievements of architects' contributions to our built environment.

John Wardle Architects is one of the most recognised practices in this year’s 2018 Victorian Architecture Awards, shortlisted for 7 awards ranging from residential architecture, urban design, interior architecture and educational architecture.

Apartments.com.au took the opportunity to speak to Meaghan Dwyer, Principal at John Wardle Architects, about how to respond to the many changes faced by the built environment. Meaghan also discusses some of the projects the practice has been shortlisted for.

<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/jwa_caulfield_library.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="John Wardle Architects' Caulfield Library shortlisted in these year's awards. Image: Dianna Snape"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jwa_caulfield_library.jpg?itok=zn2tnkSy" title="John Wardle Architects' Caulfield Library shortlisted in these year's awards. Image: Dianna Snape" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>John Wardle Architects' Caulfield Library shortlisted in these year's awards. Image: Dianna Snape</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au: The way we work, live and play continues to constantly evolve. As an architect, how do you design buildings and spaces that will stand the test of time?

Meaghan Dwyer: Firstly, designing for change requires us to drop past assumptions and explore new potentials. We employ a number of strategies to create buildings and spaces that will stand the test of time.

We begin by firmly anchoring our design response in place. We do this through forming a deep understanding of the context within which we design and we respond to this in a nuanced way. We create flexible buildings that can respond to change. We apply the principles of good design – orientation, natural daylight, accessibility, and the like.

We select enduring materials and detail our buildings to last.

U: Tell us about some of the projects you’ve been working on that have been shortlisted in the 2018 Victorian Architecture Awards

MD: We have been fortunate to be the architects for two buildings for Monash University as part of their $750 million spend to upgrade their educational infrastructure. The Learning and Teaching Building and the refurbishment of the Caulfield Library are both shortlisted in the educational and interiors categories.

The transport interchange that formed part of our commission at the Clayton Campus is also shortlisted in the urban design category. These projects all follow the university’s aspiration to create vibrant settings for university life.

In addition, our Main Ridge House is shortlisted in the residential alterations and additions category. This is an existing house that has been completely reimagined as part of a larger plan for the rural site where it is located.

<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/jwa_tl_clayton.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Learning and Teaching Building at Monash Clayton also shortlisted. Image: Trevor Mein"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="575" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jwa_tl_clayton.jpg?itok=fpaKOLWd" title="The Learning and Teaching Building at Monash Clayton also shortlisted. Image: Trevor Mein" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Learning and Teaching Building at Monash Clayton also shortlisted. Image: Trevor Mein</figcaption></figure>U: With the student experience being at the centre of your approach to educational architecture, how do you design for millennials and cater to the university of tomorrow?

MD: One thing for certain is that the higher education sector continues to experience rapid change. Just this week we have seen the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia announce that they are considering the merits of a merger.

Consequently, there is much speculation as to what the future university will look like. We understand that while every university is unique, they are all tackling the challenges of increased student numbers and the introduction of online learning.

This requires an intimate understanding of the organisational strategy, pedagogical approach and the characteristics of the student body. We certainly appreciate that millennials engage with technology in a very intuitive way.

They appreciate the flexibility to work anywhere they like, and are used to accessing all kinds of information and services at any time they like. They also tend to be very connected with their peers.

For these reasons the university campus needs to be a vibrant and activated place that supports peer to peer learning in any location. This impacts both the classroom setting, and also the spaces and places around the campus that support university life.

U: When approaching public projects, how important is it to design spaces that mean many things to many people?

MD: We believe that the public realm is experienced by all and so should be responsive to a broad range of aspirations and requirements. In our view it is highly desirable that every project display civic generosity, or make a positive contribution to the public realm, rather than reflect the interests of one stakeholder, or another.

U: In your opinion, do you think the education sector is leading the way in dealing with the design challenges presented by our changing environment (e.g. population growth, technology etc)?

MD: Universities have been subject to rapid growth in student numbers for many years now. They have also been grappling with the impacts of technology on learning and teaching. As there are a relatively large number of universities in Australia, and while each of them has invested substantial funds, there has been a constant iteration of responses to these circumstances.

Other public institutions that build less often have been slower to respond to the challenges resented by rapid population growth and technology. Our recent work with the justice system suggests that the courts are beginning to tackle these challenges. Likewise, our recent work in the cultural sector suggests the same.

In some ways, these organisations have a lot to learn from the higher education system.

U: Do you think architects need to play an increasingly collaborative role with clients to ensure their vision aligns with creating spaces that are future-proofed?

MD: We certainly pride ourselves on our ability to work with a client to understand their strategic requirements. We also appreciate that many clients are navigating change in the way that their organisations are offering services.

We believe that there is a place for spatial problem solving and we feel very able to join with our clients to align their strategy with their built environment. We also believe that their objectives can be supported by good design.

U: How important is it to engender communities through the built environment and how can this be achieved?

MD: We are firm believers that a good public realm is essential for the public life of a city. A good public realm is achieved through creating civic generosity, that is a built environment that responds to a broad range of aspirations and requirements, rather than responding to the interests of one stakeholder, or another.

This approach underpins all our project work, be it in the education sector, commercial, or any other sector.

U: Why do John Wardle Architects work on such a diverse portfolio of projects?

MD: We often describe ourselves as fabulous generalists. Our ability to move across project types comes from our curiosity to explore unrealised potential, rather than rest on past assumptions. Our ability to problem solve and design at all scales stands us in good stead, and nothing delights us more than a fresh challenge.
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Road to the Victorian Architecture Awards 2018: Q&A with Meaghan Dwyer of John Wardle Architects 

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In the lead up to the Victorian Architecture Awards dinner, to be held on Friday 29th June, Apartments.com.au will be profiling a number of architects who have had projects shortlisted for the awards, in addition to commentary on current issues and challenges within our built environment.

Kerstin Thompson Architects (KTA) - where I worked for five years and continue to admire from afar - has been shortlisted for four awards this year ranging from residential, heritage, interior and educational architecture.

The practice is highly regarded amongst peers for its continued contribution to the built environment, which is not only reflected in the impressive body of work completed to date but also the office's success in consistently recognised for its achievements, particularly over the last 4 years for the following projects:

<ul>
<li>2017 AIA Commercial Architecture Award, Victorian Chapter for TarraWarra Cellar Door</li>
	<li>2017 AIA Residential Architecture Award – New, Victorian Chapter for Seaberg</li>
	<li>2016 Eat Drink Design Awards TarraWarra Estate – Highly Commended</li>
	<li>2016 IDEA Interior Design Excellence Awards TarraWarra Estate – Highly Commended</li>
	<li>2014 AIA National Architecture Awards, Robin Boyd Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (New) for House at Hanging Rock</li>
	<li>2014 AIA Harold Desbrowe Annear Award for House at Hanging Rock</li>
	<li>2014 AIA Heritage Award for Wertheim Factory Convrsion – Studio 9</li>
	<li>2014 AIA Public Alterations &amp; Additions for Birralee Primary School</li>
</ul>
Apartments.com.au caught up with KTA founder and Principal, Kerstin Thompson to discuss how the studio continues to design a diverse portfolio of projects, which draw on and make meaningful connections to their context.

Apartments.com.au: KTA has worked on a diverse range of projects and typologies over the years - how do you continue to develop original and creative work?

Kerstin Thompson: We approach every project from first principles which is easy when it’s a project type you haven’t worked on before because you don’t have rote thinking to fall back on, but even with repeat project types like our police stations, the combination of a generic brief with wild variations in context and community provides plenty of opportunity for original thinking on each project.

We certainly value the fact that KTA doesn’t specialise but rather maintains a curiosity for any kind of project assuming an alignment between the client’s aspirations and KTA’s core values.

U: The Victorian College of the Arts former Mounted Police Stables is a highly recognised project in the Victorian Architecture Awards shortlist this year. How do you achieve leading design across different realms such as outstanding heritage architecture and interior architecture?

KT: Every project starts with pre-conditions. Even a site without any built form will have strength of context whether this is its ecology, cultural history, patterns of use etc. Our work with heritage buildings is simply engaging with the richness of existing built form and for us this presents a fascinating launching pad for transformation to enable new uses and understandings around a site.

Also, we always approach every project through a clear conceptual intent that guides our thinking across landscape interior, architecture &amp; site infrastructure. For us boundaries between interior and exterior architecture are false.

<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/vca_stables.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victorian College of the Arts Former mounted Police Stables. Image: Trevor Mein"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/vca_stables.jpg?itok=6ANpN67s" title="Victorian College of the Arts Former mounted Police Stables. Image: Trevor Mein" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victorian College of the Arts Former mounted Police Stables. Image: Trevor Mein</figcaption></figure>U: How have you balanced maintaining what was existing in the space while entirely changing the purpose of the building?

KT: With VCA, as with much of our work on heritage or adaptive re-use projects, we strive for an ease of fit between old forms &amp; new uses. In this case the already cellular nature of the stables as collection of horse stalls, their remarkable light-filled double height voids was a superb fit with studios for 165 arts students; two art students for one horse.

Similarly, with the former riding school this beautifully proportioned and generous space is now a performing arts space which can accommodate a range of performance practices and formats.

U: What was it like working on an education project that is also expected to serve various other functions such as studio and performing arts spaces?

KT: The Stables and entry octagon needed to serve many purposes. Primarily the school’s studio-based philosophy required mixed-mode spaces that could easily switch from studio to exhibition areas. So the design incorporates a series of sliding panels that enable the school to reconfigure itself – for events, exhibitions, seminars and working studios for a range of art practices as required.

U: When working on a new residential project such as Park House, what influence does the existing streetscape and surrounding architecture have on the design?

KT: Of course, all projects need to be responsive to the people and the place for which they are designed. As a counter to the bland contemporary style of much new one-off housing, KTA uses the architecture of new residential projects to reinforce some valued aspect of the locale to achieve a distinctly local character.

In this instance, its location on the edge of a suburban park influenced its form. In its gradual shift of scale from street to rear, Park House wavers between a suburban modesty and grandeur. The house has an enigmatic neighbourly presence and its low-key street façade belies its size.

The draped roof over the length of the plan creates a gentle silhouette beside the park to the east. Holding the eastern façade together is a veil of woven mesh, which softens morning light and allows daytime views out to the park while maintaining privacy.

<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/kta_park_house.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Park House has been shortlisted in the Residential (New) category for the 2018 Vic Awards. Image: Trevor Mein"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/kta_park_house.jpg?itok=8HwOx3SY" title="The Park House has been shortlisted in the Residential (New) category for the 2018 Vic Awards. Image: Trevor Mein" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Park House has been shortlisted in the Residential (New) category for the 2018 Vic Awards. Image: Trevor Mein</figcaption></figure>U: Can you provide an insight into some of the other projects you are working on at the moment?

KT: In line with my earlier comment, our current range of projects are across many different sectors. We are making a foray into the commercial one with a major redevelopment on a prime Melbourne city block. We’ve also recently started work with Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne on imagining what a new herbarium as part of a nature &amp; science precinct might be like.

It’s fascinating to be working with RBGV again in such a different setting to our former work for the Cranbourne Visitor Centre. Our work on the Riversdale site, part of the Bundanon Trust, for a new gallery celebrating Arthur Boyd’s legacy is another project through which we can pursue our commitment to a more integrated vision for buildings and landscapes in sensitive cultural and environmental settings.

We are also working on a number of multi-residential projects in Melbourne’s inner-north which are exciting for their precinct-wide impact and opportunity. Parallel to that, our ongoing interest in civic projects includes Broadmeadows Town Hall, currently under construction, which will repair and revitalise the currently car park-dominated town centre.

We’ve just received planning support for the Jewish Holocaust Centre in Elsternwick, which aside from being a very interesting program, also sets a precedent for alternative ways in which heritage buildings can be embedded within new architecture.

U: Through your projects you’re known for breaking new ground. Do you think the intention to break new ground is becoming increasingly common across Australian architecture today?

KT: Depends what we mean by breaking new ground. Sometimes formal gymnastics and façade flamboyance can be mistakenly construed as this, especially in the housing sector, a dress-up of otherwise conventional apartments.

We like to think that it can be more about the invention of new typologies and the sometimes invisible but potent spatial connections that can be forged within our cities and suburbs to create a sense of place and opportunity for many.
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