Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
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</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

Architectus

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The sustained urban renewal of the combined St Leonards and Crows Nest corridor continues with TWT Property Group looking to rezone a substantial site.

At 55-89 Chandos Street and 58-64 Atchison Street, a trio of towers are envisaged under plans conceived by Architectus. The fresh bid for rezoning is TWT's second tilt for the St Leonards land parcel after Allen Jack + Cottier spearheaded an initial rezoning scheme during August 2014.

At that time approval for building envelopes as tall as 172 metres were sought.

In the interim development expectations for the St Lenoards and Crows Nest corridor have heightened primarily due to the Crows Nest New Metro Station. Acting as a catalyst for urban renewal, a number of rezoning applications are in progress seeking substantial skyscrapers.

<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/image15_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="In the heart of what will become an even higher density precinct. Image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15_15.jpg?itok=tfTtYGx1" title="In the heart of what will become an even higher density precinct. Image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>In the heart of what will become an even higher density precinct. Image: Architectus</figcaption></figure>During April Eastern Property Alliance Pty Ltd <a href="/news/crows-nest-earmarked-for-sydneys-next-major-skyscrapers">sought to transform what is known as the five ways intersection site</a> into skyscrapers spanning 193 and 162 metres. The 3,010 square metre plot addressed 395-419 Pacific Highway is considered a southern gateway location for both Crown Nest and St Leonards.

Conceived by Sydney Design Studio, the development sees a mixed-use programme inclusive residential, commercial and hotel aspects above a predominantly retail podium.

More recently <a href="/news/stockland-plans-to-supersize-its-st-leonards-renewal-opportunity">Stockland revealed intentions for a similar sized twin-towered scheme</a> reaching 63 levels and 45 levels at 601 Pacific Highway. 500 plus apartments monopolise Stockland's intentions across both towers, with a highly activated mixed-use 7 level common podium below.

TWT Property Group's latest rezoning bid is comparatively more modest. The site now contains thirteen commercial buildings, with three towers slated to take their place.

Architectus note "The architectural design scheme presents a mixed-use precinct which provides for a series of building heights that visually define the St Leonards Centre/CBD. The sites B4 zoning allows for a range of land use options. The site lends itself to being located in an existing Creative Arts Precinct in which the site currently accommodates a range of art studios, creative retail, gallery and community uses."

<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/image12_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective. Image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="270" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image12_15.jpg?itok=iAKi-lNY" title="Street level perspective. Image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective. Image: Architectus</figcaption></figure>Consequently a creative arts space is located in the podium levels of the mixed use buildings. It along with a publicly accessible 700 square metre plaza and a new through site link form the backbone of the proposal's public uses.

Additionally 438 apartments, 1,650 square metres of retail and 3,258 square metres of commercial space is included. 

Whilst North Sydney Council considers the merits of TWT's St Leonards proposal, the developer has a number of additional residential projects in motion. <a href="/buildings/newlife-bondi-junction-59-oxford-street-bondi-junction">New Life Bondi Junction</a> and <a href="/buildings/newlife-darling-harbour-495-harris-street-ultimo">New Life Darling Harbour</a> are both at construction with a combined yield of some 260 apartments, whilst a Candalepas Associates-designed is earmarked for Sydney's CBD.

The developer also holds approval for a maiden Melbourne apartment project at <a href="/new-apartments/180-albert-road-south-melbourne">180 Albert road, south Melbourne</a>.
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silvermb

TWT sees a new purpose for a rezoned St Leonards site

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Architectus recently launched its new offering, Architectus Urban Design and Planning Melbourne at an event within the Melbourne Studio.

The launch also coincided with the the recent appointment of Urban Design Principal, Dean Thornton, who brings with him over 23 years of knowledge and experience and having most recently worked with Jacobs and Development Victoria.

Dean's expertise ranges from city shaping urban design projects - from initial visioning and master planning - through to detailed resolution and implementation.

For the launch event, the Urban Design and Planning team collaborated with Melbourne street photographer Jesse Marlow for an exhibition titled UNCOVER, which included photography that "explores the paradoxes and joys of urban living in Melbourne, discovering the city through a different lens."

<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/architectus_009-web.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The UNCOVER exhibition which featured as part of the Architectus Urban Design and Planning Melbourne launch."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/architectus_009-web.jpg?itok=_gb9Hyjf" title="The UNCOVER exhibition which featured as part of the Architectus Urban Design and Planning Melbourne launch." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The UNCOVER exhibition which featured as part of the Architectus Urban Design and Planning Melbourne launch.</figcaption></figure>The establishment of Architectus Urban Design and Planning is in response to the exceptional growth within the Urban Design and Planning (UDP) sector.  
Dean’s appointment and the launch of UDP Melbourne follows a period of continued growth for Architectus with recent major project wins particularly in the areas of urban design and planning, education, rail infrastructure, commercial and multi-residential projects in both Sydney and Melbourne.

Most recently <a href="/news/architectus-and-ingehoven-on-sydneys-latest-super-skyscraper">Architectus have teamed up with Ingenhoven</a> for Mirvac's 79-storey 505 George Street tower in Sydney, while in Melbourne the office is keeping busy with office projects in <a href="/news/melbourne-planning-and-development-news-in-brief">Richmond</a> and <a href="/developments/abbotsford-vic-3067">Abbotsford</a>, a <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Hyatt Centric</a> for Little Projects in the Melbourne CBD,  as well as a <a href="/news/approval-granted-for-a-major-150-million-geelong-development">$150m mixed-use project in Geelong</a>.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/505_george_architectus.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Work is expected to commence on 505 George Street in 2020, with completion expected in 2025."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="286" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/505_george_architectus.jpg?itok=vmBQv-F8" title="Work is expected to commence on 505 George Street in 2020, with completion expected in 2025." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Work is expected to commence on 505 George Street in 2020, with completion expected in 2025.</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
We are delighted to have Dean join us to lead the team in Melbourne. The role of urban design in creating great places and communities continue to grow in importance as our cities become more dense and complex.

Architectus has been providing urban design and planning services for some 30 years and it is great to now offer these services to our clients in Melbourne.

- Ray Brown, Architectus Managing Director
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
It’s very exciting to have joined such a growing team and at a time where Architectus generally and UDP specifically, are achieving such great success.

I am looking forward to leading the Melbourne team and contributing to its ongoing growth and profile.

- Dean Thornton, Urban Design Principal, Architectus
</blockquote>
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Laurence Dragomir

Architectus Melbourne launches Urban Design and Planning with appointment of new Principal 

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<a href="/developers/stockland">Stockland</a> is making good on a plan to realise a major mixed-use development in suburban <a href="/new-apartments/epping-nsw-2121">Sydney's Epping</a>, lodging plans last week that will pave the way for a substantial tower.

At the heart of the $181.5 million build is a new 29 storey building that would be dedicated to a residential aged care and independent seniors living units. The size and sophistication of aged care developments across the nation has advanced markedly in recent years, although Stockland's bid for <a href="/developments/epping-nsw-2121">29-33 Oxford Street</a> and 6-14 Cambridge Street is by far and away the nation's tallest.

Already a leading retirement living provider, Stockland in league with the Catholic Diocese of Broken Bay intend to deliver the project which would stand on the grounds of Our Lady Help of Christians Church.

As such the project is multi-faceted in that offices, retail, a primary school and ancillary church uses are also included.

<h2>29-33 Oxford Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image41_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective. Image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="255" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_13.jpg?itok=l4eHlKNK" title="Street level perspective. Image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective. Image: <a href="/architects/architectus">Architectus</a></figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Tower to stand 95.9 metres</li>
	<li>Included is a 132 bed residential care facility and 205 independent seniors living units</li>
	<li>2-3 storey primary school for 210 students with a second stream school planned, boosts student numbers to 420</li>
	<li>200 seat parish hall</li>
	<li>Landscaped public areas</li>
	<li>Basement provisions for 372 vehicles</li>
</ul>
<a href="/architects/architectus">Architectus</a> conceived the precinct design, and in their Urban Design report outlined the opportunity the sizeable site provides:

<blockquote>
This is an extraordinary proposal for an extraordinary site. Unlike adjacent developments, the proposal will provide great public benefit to the locality, including parish, education, cultural, residential and retail facilities.

The proposal has been designed for the long term and intends to consolidate the Parish’s contribution to the community for the next 100 years. The proposed housing in the vicinity of the Town Centre and Epping Station, will keep elderly residents engaged and connected to the community for a longer period of time.

Similarly, the proximity of the elderly to young children creates the potential for mutual benefit, while prolonging the health and happiness of our oldest citizens.
</blockquote>

Stockland first flagged its intentions for the site during May after announcing the tie up with the Catholic Church. At the time Stockland’s CEO of Retirement Living Stephen Bull noted:

<blockquote>
The site for the proposed new community is within walking distance to rail, which will soon be upgraded to Metro, and the Epping town centre.

We know seniors want to be part of a vibrant, thriving community close to public transport, shops, clubs, cafés and restaurants, and we want to provide options for people to remain living in the communities they know and love as they age, close to families, friends and services.
</blockquote>

The existing heritage-listed church will be preserved enhanced externally.

<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/image37_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aged care among many purely residential towers. Image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image37_10.jpg?itok=CLVIUjkW" title="Aged care among many purely residential towers. Image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aged care among many purely residential towers. Image: Architectus</figcaption></figure>Stockland is already heavily vested in the national aged care sector with over 12,000 residents calling a Stockland retirement village their home.

Whilst the Epping application is noteworthy for its sheer height, it is not the only substantial development Stockland has on its agenda. The developer continues to push for a <a href="/news/stockland-pushes-for-the-pines-to-include-retirement-apartments">mass redevelopment of its Stockland the Pines shopping centre</a> in <a href="/new-apartments/doncaster-east-vic-3109">Melbourne's Doncaster East</a>; included there were 283 retirement living apartments although Manningham City Council stymied the application mid year.

Birtinya Vertical Village also counts itself in the Stockland stable. South of Sunshine Coast, the project is all but complete and features a string of multi-level retirement villages with supporting services.

<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/image91_4_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Stockland's Doncaster East bid. Image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image91_4_0.jpg?itok=82tZnH32" title="Stockland's Doncaster East bid. Image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Stockland's Doncaster East bid. Image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>
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Stockland moves on the nation's tallest integrated aged care development

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Geelong stands to gain the nation's first Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites outlet as part of a freshly approved mixed-use development.

44 Ryrie Street is backed by Franzé Developments and consists of a commercial tower alongside the Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites outlet. Owing to its overall size, the $150 million project was granted approval via the Planning Minisiter's office.

The Ryrie Street development shapes as the region's largest pending development and further adds to Geelong's growing impetus as a urban renewal hot spot. The 2,700 square metre corner site is located within the Geelong Activity Centre Zone.

Architectus handled design duties for the project, which sees an integrated and permeable street level link a multitude of uses. Approximately 1,000 square metres of ground floor retail space will tie the ground plane together, with the corner tower dedicated toward hotel needs.

The commercial tower is approved to include 7,400 square metres office space.

InterContinental Group will operate the Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites outlet on a 20-year agreement; the agreement between developer and hotel operator was reached during late 2017. Valued at $75 million, the hotel component represents the largest new hotel project in the region for near on 20 years. 

<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/image114_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective. Image: Franze Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="513" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114_6.jpg?itok=ynEVLYbm" title="Street level perspective. Image: Franze Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective. Image: Franze Developments</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Our vision for the Ryrie Street site is to deliver a truly mixed-use project that responds to the Central Geelong Action Plan which will see Geelong evolve from its manufacturing roots to a city of culture and innovation. Geelong is now one of Australia’s fastest growing regional cities, with population expected to grow by more than 150,000 people in the next 20 years, and the urban environment and amenity needs to respond accordingly.

Geelong has a diverse and strong economy with over 17,000 businesses and a highly skilled labour force. It continues to attract new residents and investment due to its livability and proximity to Melbourne, combined with increasing employment opportunities and affordability.
<cite>Paul Franzé, Founder and Managing Director of Franzé Developments</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The design of 44 Ryrie Street draws upon the history of both the city and the site. The materiality, rhythm and scaling of the buildings reference the iconic wool stores of Geelong, and the grain of the city’s rich heritage fabric.

Creating an active mixed use development that incorporates hotel, residences, office and a vibrant retail ground plane, the project stitches seamlessly into the adjacent cultural precinct and builds on the investment in the area to become a gateway to Geelong's city centre.
<cite>Matthew Smith, Managing Principal at Architectus</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/image112_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Envisaged terrace views over Geelong. Image: Franze Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image112_2.jpg?itok=1fiMmBTF" title="Envisaged terrace views over Geelong. Image: Franze Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Envisaged terrace views over Geelong. Image: Franze Developments</figcaption></figure>Franze Developments made its move on the site during 2017, purchasing the site for $7 million. Shortly after the purchase<a href="/news/geelong-poised-to-score-a-new-hotel-as-franze-developments-heads-down-the-highway"> intentions were flagged for the delivery of a mixed-use project</a> which was expected to include the city's first new hotel in a generation.

Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites amenities will include an all-day dining restaurant and bar, swimming pool, gym, meeting facilities and a function room for 250 people.

The site's 90 metre frontage to Ryrie Street includes a new public thoroughfare linking Ryrie Street and Cuzens Place. The offices and apartments are linked to communal outdoor space under approved plans, with a vertical green wall facing Ryrie Street set to frame a new plaza.

Demolition across the site has begun with construction to start later this year. Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites has a nominated opening date during 2020.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/44_ryrie_street_-_public_spaces_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Public space tied in with the development. Image: Franze Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="544" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/44_ryrie_street_-_public_spaces_1.jpg?itok=j8lyARIl" title="Public space tied in with the development. Image: Franze Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Public space tied in with the development. Image: Franze Developments</figcaption></figure>
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Approval granted for a major $150 million Geelong development

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Urban.com.au today takes a closer look at the penultimate entry in the <a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-designs-revealed-at-future-cities-symposium">"Southbank by Beulah"</a> design competition - Beulah Propeller City - by Coop Himmelb(l)au and Architectus.

According to the architects, The Propeller City has been designed as a recognisable architectural landmark which attempts to redefine the residential, commercial, retail and public open-space environments of Melbourne via a new high-rise typology.

As part of this strategy, the design boasts a dramatic silhouette and formal composition unlike the typical extruded podium-tower typology prevalent throughout Melbourne's Southbank.

The public space is shared between an outdoor cinema and a huge public space which is called the "Red Carpet Area", which functions programatically as the reception area for the building.

The Red Carpet Area has been designed in the round with an access ramp which leading visitors along a double cone to reach the reception hall. Each of the two areas are capped with monumental roofs - the largest measuring 60 x 120m and cantilevering 85m.

<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/cooparchitectus_hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Beulah Propeller City proposal as viewed from City Road. Image: Coop Himmel(b)lau + Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cooparchitectus_hero.jpg?itok=Ykwbeftw" title="The Beulah Propeller City proposal as viewed from City Road. Image: Coop Himmel(b)lau + Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Beulah Propeller City proposal as viewed from City Road. Image: Coop Himmelb(l)au + Architectus</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Our vision for BEULAH PROPELLER CITY is the creation of a vertical city composed of multiple functions intertwined in a fluid gesture of vertically linked public spaces. The “Gestalt” of the structural, material and functional components of the design will create a memorable and unmistakable icon in the city-scape.

The concept of “public benefits”, which in the traditional sense generates the creation of a multifunctional building, is further developed and expanded: we create real public spaces within a multifunctional structure.

More than a tower. Its time to design a new typology for a highrise. 

- Coop Himmelb(l)au
</blockquote>

The design team approached the building form in the same manner an artist would a sculpture;  Beginning with the maximum possible building envelope, the client’s brief, planning regulations, the existing urban form, climate and views to and from site were all considered and informed the specific 'carvings' and manipulations which collectively resulted in the dynamic urban form.

The Propeller City is characterised by different districts which reflect their respective programmatic functions, with interfaces created  between these areas to promote and facilitate connections and shared spaces, which provides legibility and an identifiable trait.

Atria, terraces, community facilities and amenity spaces such as recreational and public areas for leisure, pleasure and circulation are all accommodated with the building envelope.

These spaces provide points of orientation or landmarks for visitors and residents within the building, encouraging interactions to assist in promoting the concept of community. 

The result of this approach is a unified composition of identifiable building elements comprising low, mid an high-rise volumes created by dividing the program of the building into its four main functional parts; public podium, office, hotel and apartment tower.

Through the design of the external primary structure, the internal construction elements are optimised and reduced to enable maximum flexibility for current uses as well as allowing for potential adaptability in the future.

This structure for future adaptability is a primary expression of the architectural design and one of the identifiable features of the building.

At its summit the tower is crowned with a propeller like structure accommodating the building's communal facilities, providing a unique visual element on Melbourne's skyline and representing a departure from the traditionally flat roof forms found throughout the city.

<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/coop_architectus_street_level.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Propeller City at street level. Image: Coop Himmel(b)lau + Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/coop_architectus_street_level.jpg?itok=Px20jcdH" title="The Propeller City at street level. Image: Coop Himmel(b)lau + Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Propeller City at street level. Image: Coop Himmelb(l)au + Architectus</figcaption></figure><h2>PROJECT DETAILS:</h2>

<ul>
<li>Value: AUD 2 billion</li>
	<li>GFA/ Area: 248,410 sqm</li>
	<li>Height: 92-storeys / 335m</li>
</ul>
<h2>CONSULTANT TEAM:</h2>

<ul>
<li>Structural Engineering: B+G Ingenieure, Bollinger und Grohmann GmbH​​</li>
	<li>Urban Planning: Ethos Urban</li>
	<li>Engineering/Structural Design/MEP: ARUP</li>
	<li>Energy Design: Brian Cody</li>
	<li>Placemaking: Village Well</li>
	<li>Landscape: TCL</li>
	<li>Retail: Benoy</li>
	<li>Cultural Consultant: Timmah Ball</li>
	<li>Urban Art: UAP</li>
	<li>Wayfinding: Büro North</li>
	<li>Cost Management: Rider Levett Bucknall</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: du Chateau Chun</li>
</ul>
The winning design for the “Southbank by Beulah” competition will be announced on August 8th, 2018.

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ttLOdA04WK0" width="560"></iframe>
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Southbank by Beulah: Coop Himmelb(l)au & Architectus - The Beulah Propeller City

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With its Southbank by Beulah ‘Future Cities’ Symposium sold out to a 1,000 strong crowd, <a href="/developers/beulah">Beulah International</a> handed over the stage to the 6 competing architectural teams to reveal their design responses for the <a href="/news">118 City Road</a> site.

Working to a maximum height of 360m above street level and accommodating a GFA of in excess of 250,000 sqm, each of the teams took a unique approach to site reflecting on its position adjacent to the soon to be greened Southbank Boulevard which links the Royal Botanical Gardens to <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank's</a> promenade and the river beyond.

The teams initially pitched their respective designs for the site to Beulah International across two days at the recently installed Beulah Pavilion situated at Queensbridge Square, Southbank.

Designed by Samson Tiew from <a href="/architects/one-design-office">One Design Office</a>, the pavilion will act as an exhibition space for all of the design entries now that they have been publicly revealed.

<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/southbank_pop_up_pavilion.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Samson Tiew's pop-up pavilion for Beulah International. Image: Beulah"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="228" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbank_pop_up_pavilion.jpg?itok=LKHAchxh" title="Samson Tiew's pop-up pavilion for Beulah International. Image: Beulah" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Samson Tiew's pop-up pavilion for Beulah International. Image: Beulah</figcaption></figure>Below is a summary of each of the designs;

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-big-fk-the-lanescraper">BIG + FK - 'The Lanescraper'</a></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/54b6eb4e85df98fa8a5cf9a915846f0e.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Lanescraper by BIG + FKA. Images: BIG "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="580" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/54b6eb4e85df98fa8a5cf9a915846f0e.jpg?itok=PFnb8dRX" title="The Lanescraper by BIG + FKA. Images: BIG " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Lanescraper by BIG + FKA. Images: BIG</figcaption></figure>Celebrating <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's laneways</a>, 'The Lanescraper' introduces a series of laneways rising up the height of the tower providing spaces for various programmatic uses and assisting in reducing the visual mass while also providing areas of respite.

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-coop-himmelblau-architectus-the-beulah-propeller-city">COOP HIMMELB(L)AU + architectus - 'The Propeller City'</a></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/57cd5cc9f84cc869dfa9edc0747109ac.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="COOP Himmelb(l)au + Architectus' The Propeller City. Images: COOP Himmelb(l)au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/57cd5cc9f84cc869dfa9edc0747109ac.jpg?itok=peJzkIqL" title="COOP Himmelb(l)au + Architectus' The Propeller City. Images: COOP Himmelb(l)au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>COOP Himmelb(l)au + Architectus' The Propeller City. Images: COOP Himmelb(l)au</figcaption></figure>The Propeller City concept is named so because of its propeller-like element which crowns the building and can be programmed as penthouses, or potentially a restaurant or function space.

At ground level on the corner of Southbank Boulevard and City Road's the BMW Experience centre draws on COOP Himmelb(l)au's BMW Welt in Munich as an invitation for the public to enter and explore the building.

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-mad-architects-elenberg-fraser-the-urban-tree">MAD Architects + elenberg fraser - 'The Urban Tree'</a></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/03_mad_southbank-by-beulah-768x500.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Urban Tree by MAD Architects + Elenberg Fraser. Image: MAD Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/03_mad_southbank-by-beulah-768x500.jpg?itok=CHg1nBaW" title="The Urban Tree by MAD Architects + Elenberg Fraser. Image: MAD Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Urban Tree by MAD Architects + Elenberg Fraser. Image: MAD Architects</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Defying the typical glass, box-like buildings of Melbourne that appear detached from the city’s historic parks and natural local terrain, MAD’s organic design introduces a silhouette of natural forms – mountain, tree, cloud – into the dense city center, offering a distinct and iconic scheme for the skyline, that reconnects citizens with nature.

The pinnacle of the design is ‘the cloud’ – a cantilevered structure that houses the public amenities for the hotel (lobby, restaurant, bar, and observation deck), and offers 360° views of Melbourne. 

- MAD Architects
</blockquote>

 

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-mvrdv-woods-bagot-the-stack">MVRDV + Woods Bagot - 'The Stack'</a></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/mvrdv_wb_sbb_media_image_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Stack by MVRDV + Woods Bagot. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mvrdv_wb_sbb_media_image_01.jpg?itok=5QAuHCCs" title="The Stack by MVRDV + Woods Bagot. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Stack by MVRDV + Woods Bagot. Image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
MVRDV and Woods Bagot have proposed a “new kind of skyscraper” for a landmark mixed-use site in Melbourne’s Southbank. The Stack is one of six invited entries in an architectural competition organised by the site’s owners Beulah International, a Melbourne-based developer known for its commitment to excellence in local design.

Eschewing Southbank’s typical model of podium and tower – a typology that has always promised but seldom delivered – the Stack is a confident prism with public interface on all sides.

- Woods Bagot
</blockquote>

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-oma-conrad-gargett-the-base">OMA + Conrad Gargett - The Base</a></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/oma_conrad_gargett.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Base by OMA + Conrad Gargett. Image: Mr.P"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="549" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/oma_conrad_gargett.jpg?itok=60TfboMU" title="The Base by OMA + Conrad Gargett. Image: Mr.P" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Base by OMA + Conrad Gargett. Image: Mr.P</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
At a height of 345m and total GFA of 255,000 m2, the project would be the largest building that OMA designed after CCTV.  

OMA’s design proposes a tower stemming from a base that acts as a 24/7 mixed-use vertical city with cultural, commercial, educational and social program elements bound together with the more generic programs of retail, food and beverage.

In this vertical city, there are highways of movement through large express escalators, shortcuts by elevators, and laneways to wander on through normal escalators, stairs, and voids.

The Base follows the outline of the site and then tapers back to a slab 100m above the city

- OMA
</blockquote>

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-un-studio-cox-architecture-the-green-spine">UN Studio + COX - 'The Green Spine'</a></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/unstudio_cox.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The Green Spine by UN Studio + COX. Image: COX "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="517" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/unstudio_cox.png?itok=jUDyOmQC" title="The Green Spine by UN Studio + COX. Image: COX " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Green Spine by UN Studio + COX. Image: COX</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Cox Architecture and UN Studio have imagined ‘The Green Spine’ for International design competition ‘Southbank by Beulah’.

The distinct design is the product of the two firms’ collaborative, conceptual thinking of future living. Characterised by twisting cascades of greenery that appear to be cut out from the tower forms, Cox Architecture and UN Studio’s submission considers nature, culture and well-being within the urban framework.

- COX Architecture
</blockquote>

The Southbank by Beulah designs will be exhibited at the Beulah Pavilion until August 1, located in front of the Red Stair Amphitheatre in Southbank.

The winning design for the “Southbank by Beulah” competition will be announced on August 8th, 2018.

Editor's note 06/08/2018: Links have been added to each individual entry as they are published on the site. Click on the heading of each to open the corresponding article.
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Southbank by Beulah designs revealed at Future Cities Symposium

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The sway toward commercial development within City of Yarra shows no signs of slowing, with Apartments.com.au tracking near on 300,000 square metres in development.

The intensifying trend continues to attract developers which have historically leaned on residential development. Latest to the fray is H&amp;F Property who is the applicant behind an 11 storey building at Abbotsford's 218-228 Hoddle Street, with a secondary frontage to Stafford Street.

Designed by Architectus, the $25 million application contains 7,389 square metres of space above three basement levels, and was submitted during April.

<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/image41_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lower level Hoddle Street expression. Planning image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_11.jpg?itok=IPDT6ejE" title="Lower level Hoddle Street expression. Planning image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lower level Hoddle Street expression. Planning image: Architectus</figcaption></figure>H&amp;F Property's bid is in addition to a bevvy of traditionally residential developers such as Caydon Property Group, Alpha14 Property Group, Pace Development Group, Beams Projects, GURNER, LK Property Group, Domain Hill Property Group and Peregrine Projects who are in the process of realising their respective first commercial developments, which all happen to fall within City of Yarra.

Add fellow development firms such as Lazzcorp, Alfasi Group, Salta Properties, Riverlee and Grocon who have a hand in active commercial developments within the municipality.

The result is an impressive 34 commercial projects on the go within City of Yarra according to Apartments.com.au's Project Database.

Planning agency Human Habitats provides a decisive overview as to why City of Yarra, in particular, is running hot with commercial development:

<blockquote>
At a local level, ongoing change in the structure of employment has begun across the City of Yarra in recent years with strong growth in property, business services, retail, and the finance and insurance sectors. This demand for employment has been welcomed considering the decline in wholesale and manufacturing sectors across the City of Yarra.

As traditional office locations such as the CBD and Docklands reach capacity, employment precincts such as Richmond/Cremorne have become increasingly attractive locations for office based employment. This location appears to cater for the continuing growth in small to medium sized business services and the ‘new economy’ employment of an increasingly skilled workforce.

The demand for additional office space is reflected in the effective rental growth in the City Fringe Areas (which include Richmond / Cremorne) which has experienced growth in the order of 20% over the year to March 2018, and which has featured a vacancy rate of below 3.5% for in excess of 18 months.

Real Estate Advisory firm Colliers are predicting that the underlying fundamentals of demand within this area are sustainable, and that demand will remain strong given Melbourne’s promising economic outlook and extraordinary population growth.
<cite>Human Habitats</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/image44_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="PACE Development Group's Langridge Street commercial foray"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="569" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image44_7.jpg?itok=VRSJUG5n" title="PACE Development Group's Langridge Street commercial foray" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace Development Group's Langridge Street commercial foray</figcaption></figure>PACE Development Group's expansion into the commercial market is via <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://maps.google.com/?q%3D51%2BLangridge%2BSt%26entry%3Dgmail%26source%3Dg&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1532663610265000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFOy_B4o69T_VVVRtKPmZb_AgP0VQ" href="https://maps.google.com/?q=51+Langridge+St&amp;entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank">51 Langridge St</a> in Collingwood, with the project's end value expected to surpass $25 million. 

Planning and Design Manager at Pace Development Group, Michael Holah. touches upon what makes City of Yarra an attractive proposition. 

<blockquote>
We see this striking a real chord with businesses wanting a contemporary upgrade, those priced out of suburbs such as Richmond and Cremorne, as well as those currently located in a co-working environment that have grown enough to warrant their own office space.

Unlike its CBD counterparts, this project is designed to capture the Collingwood feel and the ethos that the suburb stands for – SJB Architects has conceptualised something truly reflective of both the site’s surrounds and the cultures of the businesses that will grow here.

The smaller floor plates are exactly what the market is looking for.
</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/image47_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Hayball-designed 17-21 Harcourt Parade is due for a construction start"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47_12.jpg?itok=UfKVmlU-" title="The Hayball-designed 17-21 Harcourt Parade is due for a construction start" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Hayball-designed 17-21 Harcourt Parade is due for a construction start</figcaption></figure>With yet more projects to be added, the Apartments.com.au Project Database tally sees 32 purely commercial projects and 2 mixed use developments listed within City of Yarra. These projects amount to some 292,100 square metres of commercial office space in development.

Only 7 developments are currently at construction and stand to add approximately 41,700 square metres of combined commercial stock, indicating that City of Yarra's commercial boom has some years yet to run.
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Traditional residential developers cash in on Yarra's 300,000sqm commercial boom

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The design team behind what looms as one of Sydney's tallest buildings has provided comment on their joint effort for 505-523 George Street.

Last week the development's proponents, Mirvac and Coombes Property Group, announced that Architectus and ingenhoven architects were successful in topping other participants in a design excellence competition. Now in progress is a 79 storey predominantly residential tower spanning 270 metres.

It has been billed as the highest residential building in Sydney, and also as a "profoundly visible landmark standing for an economical, environmental and socially sustainable, future-oriented development."

Efforts to deliver a signature project onsite reach back to August 2015 when Council and the Central Sydney Planning Committee considered a request to change the height control for the site which is currently home to an Event Cinemas complex.

Top flight architecture firms/partnerships Skidmore, Owings and Merrill + Crone, Wilkinson Eyre, Foster + Partners and fjmt + Bates Smart were beaten out by Architectus and ingenhoven architects during the initial design process. The $1 billion development will now progress to a Stage 2 development application with an eye to final approval.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image142_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Panoramic views of the George Street tower. Image: Doug and Wolf"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="301" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image142_0.jpg?itok=1T8zwVlW" title="Panoramic views of the George Street tower. Image: Doug and Wolf" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Panoramic views of the George Street tower. Image: Doug and Wolf</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
This is a very exciting project for Sydney. It will rejuvenate George Street’s entertainment precinct with new retail, community facilities, potential hotel and high-quality apartments.

The tower will present as a singular elegant form on the skyline of Sydney with the vertical structure emphasizing height and slenderness while the subtle curving façade addresses views in all directions.

We are looking forward to working with the team at Ingenhoven again on another significant Sydney project. Our collaboration on 1 Bligh Street was very successful and we aim to emulate the same quality and success with 505 George Street.
<cite>Ray Brown, Managing Director at Architectus</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Now we have combined our expertise once again by designing a tower which will be highly integrated in the existing surroundings and offer a great public domain.

This urban approach is based on the philosophy of a well-connected public and conceives of the tower as being a 'friendly neighbour'. The combination of different uses and the timeless design of the building are integral parts of an environmentally sustainable approach but also expression of a deep understanding of the project goals
<cite>Christoph Ingenhoven, owner and founder of ingenhoven architects</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/image140_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level perspective. Image: Doug and Wolf"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="418" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image140_1.jpg?itok=mtUJFfvD" title="Ground level perspective. Image: Doug and Wolf" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level perspective. Image: Doug and Wolf</figcaption></figure>Other aspects of the 65,000 square metre development include multiple retail levels, childcare facilities, a community meeting space and the potential to rehouse Event Cinemas in the podium structure.

ingenhoven architects' supergreen sustainability platform will be rolled out across the design. This includes "awareness of energy and resources, both in the design, construction and operation and in the realization of the building and its use. It includes the primary and secondary energy levels of the materials used, the equipment and building process and the use of resources over the whole lifetime of a building."

505-523 George Street will be a traditional post-tensioned concrete structure with exposed perimeter columns allowing for maximum residential floor space.

The development team has indicated that post a 2019 submission for approval, a construction start is pencilled in for 2020. With a five year build in mind, Mirvac and Coombes Property Group are eyeing residents moving in during 2025.

<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/image143_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Above all others. Image: Doug and Wolf"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="286" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image143_2.jpg?itok=LpCdo-br" title="Above all others. Image: Doug and Wolf" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Above all others. Image: Doug and Wolf</figcaption></figure>
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Architectus and Ingehoven on Sydney's latest super skyscraper

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Two months after planning manoeuvres came to light facilitating the <a href="/news/crows-nest-earmarked-for-sydneys-next-major-skyscrapers">delivery of two major skyscrapers</a> in Crows Nest, adjacent St Leonards is potentially up for a similar scaled development.

Stockland has identified 601 Pacific Highway as ripe for renewal, enlisting Architectus to create a planning proposal for two hulking towers. Spanning 63 levels and 45 levels, the taller of the duo would stand in excess of 200 metres above ground, whilst the shorter tower reaches approximately 145 metres.

The real estate company's push to realise the site's rezoning and subsequent redevelopment in light of the NSW Department of Planning and Environment's strategic review of the St Leonards and Crows Nest Station Precinct which effectively encourages intensified development in the area.

Standing as a 13 storey A-grade office tower approximately 200 metres east of St Leonards railway station, the asset was acquired by Stockland during 2003 with an eye toward a future renewal opportunity.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image19_21.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium space envisaged for 601 Pacific Highway. Planning image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_21.jpg?itok=oI3RgCZe" title="Podium space envisaged for 601 Pacific Highway. Planning image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Podium space envisaged for 601 Pacific Highway. Planning image: Architectus</figcaption></figure>That opportunity will under preliminary plans see Stockland chase a predominantly residential outcome across the site, with 500 plus apartments expected. 5 basement levels for 255 vehicles are included, as is a mixed-use 7 level podium.

Office space is slated for the podium above ground floor retail uses, with community uses such as a childcare facility spanning almost 2,000 square metres.

In Architectus' words "601 Pacific Highway will be a place where people shop, live, work and gather to enjoy the public domain. The indicative concept design results in a design outcome which will strengthen the town centre with active and engaging ground floors and provide an iconic tower appropriate to its strategic location."

Stockland's bid is comfortably the largest proposal for the suburb north of Sydney's CBD. St Leonard's rapidly evolving skyline sees existing towers reaching 35 levels, whilst 617-621 Pacific Highway has approval in place for a 180 metre residential tower.

617-621 Pacific Highway abuts the Stockland site.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image20_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="601 Pacific Highway and within an emerging built form context. Planning image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="231" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_14.jpg?itok=yJ6Vu9wG" title="601 Pacific Highway and within an emerging built form context. Planning image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>601 Pacific Highway and within an emerging built form context. Planning image: Architectus</figcaption></figure>Urbis compiled the Economic Impact Assessment for the rezoning of 601 Pacific Highway, making note that "North Sydney, Macquarie Park and Chatswood are now deemed more attractive for traditional office occupiers. The following market evidence indicates that this trend will continue for the foreseeable future:"

Although 7,500 square metres of office space is included within the planning proposal, it falls short of the existing building's 12,600 square metres.

Architectus' design for 601 Pacific Highway would potentially accommodate as many as 1,187 new residents, whilst an additional full-time, part-time and casual retail job rate of 109 is envisaged.

For Stockland, the bid to rezone the Pacific highway site reaffirms its re-emergence as an apartment developer in Sydney. The St Leonards site aside, Stockland has in its keep a 6237 square metre Rosebery development site and a <a href="https://www.propertycouncil.com.au/Web/Content/News/National/2018/McDonald_s_moves_into_apartments_with_Stockland.aspx">Parramatta opportunity</a> on the corner of Church Street and Victoria Road with plans approximately 350 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/image22_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A childcare centre with a view. Planning image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="317" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_17.jpg?itok=HaJtuM15" title="A childcare centre with a view. Planning image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A childcare centre with a view. Planning image: Architectus</figcaption></figure>
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Stockland plans to supersize its St Leonards renewal opportunity

A year has passed since JW Land went on a media blitz promoting their intended development of 699-701 Park Street in Brunswick at the top of Princes Park.

Plans for what is currently the Best Western Princes Park Motor Inn were lodged with Council during 2016, although Architectus has veered away from the previous design path with&nbsp;a revised development application which was submitted late last year. Gone is the undulating and bulky glass-clad tower of the initial proposal, with Architectus instead favouring a more subdued approach to the prospective development.

The revised application would result in lowered development expectations for JW Land; an initially sought&nbsp;333 apartments within the project has been cut to 255 apartments and&nbsp;12 townhouses, as per the application which is fresh to advertising.

For locals concerned with the height of the development, there will be little relief as the revised application has increased in height from 13 to 14 levels, effectively compensating for lower built form height to the street and greater setbacks.

<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/image102_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A comparative view of old and new. Images: JW Land and Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="300" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image102_3.jpg?itok=Us83SZRC" title="A comparative view of old and new. Images: JW Land and Architectus" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>A comparative view of old and new. Images: JW Land and Architectus</figcaption>
</figure>

Development plans for the 6,463 square metre site sparked the&nbsp;creation of an action group dubbed&nbsp;Protect Park St Precinct, which was set up specifically to tackle JW Land's development.

Among the action group's concerns was the&nbsp;proposed scale and impact of the&nbsp;13-storey development, lessening the&nbsp;qualities of our neighbourhood, the inclusion of borrowed light apartments and the lack of any additional open recreational space for the new residents. Based upon feedback from Council and the development team's need to&nbsp;the comply with the Better Apartment Design Standards&nbsp;requirements, the Park Street application was completely overhauled.

Expected now is an eight-level mixed use building fronting Brunswick Road, a 14 level main tower set well back from the respective street frontages and a seven level building on the corner of Park Street and Sydney Road/Royal Parade corner.

The large land area allows for a single level basement of 401 parking spaces to service the development; it along with the built form above ground equates to a development Plot Ratio of 6.43. A roof terrace, retail tenancy, 1,300 square metre childcare centre and community hub which is expected to be leased to Moreland City Council round out the development.

126 single&nbsp;bedroom apartments are included, as are 88 two bedroom apartments, 29 three bedroom apartments and 12 townhouses account for the development's living options.

<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/image103_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Royal Parade perspective. Planning image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="404" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image103_1.jpg?itok=997ajUjN" title="Royal Parade perspective. Planning image: Architectus" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Royal Parade perspective. Planning image: Architectus</figcaption>
</figure>

The site has&nbsp;three separate preferred height controls from 10.5 metres through to 25 metres, or 8 levels. At 14 levels&nbsp;699-701 Park Street would reach&nbsp;a maximum height of 45.25 metres.

According to planning report author Urbis, the additional height is considered appropriate due to the majority of the site being well below the preferred height control, improved setbacks and the introduction of high-quality external finishes as part of the redesign introducing&nbsp;the notion that "the building seeks to blend in with its surrounds and be a discrete element within the skyline of Brunswick."

Whether Moreland City Council perceives the project in the same fashion remains to be seen.

<h2>699-701 Park Street development team</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Developer: JW Land</li>
	<li>Architect &amp; Urban Context Report: Architectus</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Heritage Report: Bryce Raworth Heritage Conservation</li>
	<li>Traffic Report: Traffix</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Landscape: MALA</li>
	<li>Sustainable Management Plan, Acoustic &amp; Stormwater: Wood and Grieve Engineers</li>
</ul>

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