An entity directed by HSN's Rafi Assouline and Rebel Property's Allen Linz has filed plans for an impressive new precinct in Woolloomooloo.

The major mixed-use development would transform a prominent William Street site into a new residential village anchored by affordable housing and a large public park.

The proposal, submitted as a State Significant Development Application, covers 164-172 and 174-194 William Street, a 6,398 sqm site between Forbes Street and Dowling Street on the southern edge of Woolloomooloo.

Designed by fjcstudio in collaboration with Bangawarra, Studio Bright and Tribe Studio Architects, the scheme would deliver 227 apartments across four residential buildings ranging in height up to 18 storeys, alongside retail space, public domain improvements and a new publicly accessible park.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb59b7c-914a-4a5c-b849-3a56749f5e93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.18.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=mxM6EEqeoLjrCiTlCzTKTvzpKuh6kSkH" />

It's another design scheme for Rebel, who took <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-rebel-property-group-takes-woolloomooloo-precinct-to-nsw-government">concept plans to the NSW Gov late last year</a>.

The latest plans will be a mix of 167 build-to-sell apartments and 60 affordable apartments, with the affordable housing component representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area. The apartment mix includes 12 one-bedroom, 53 two-bedroom, 89 three-bedroom apartments and 13 penthouses, while the affordable housing component would comprise 42 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b3d4553-8a8c-4af5-aa8c-519ffb1e28c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.12%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_Yb6ibN7eDnOtQjCNDK2eviORa4qzgv." />

Rebel Property is seeking to take advantage of the NSW Government's infill affordable housing bonus provisions under the Housing SEPP, which provide additional floor space and height in exchange for the delivery of affordable housing for a minimum of 15 years. The planning pathway allows a 30 per cent increase in floor space ratio and building height where 15 per cent of the development is dedicated to affordable housing.

&nbsp;

At the centre of the development is a 1,356 sqm sunlit public park designed to become a new community gathering space at the gateway to Woolloomooloo. The park would be complemented by a network of pedestrian laneways connecting William Street with the surrounding streets, improving permeability through what is currently a largely impermeable block.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="257af931-a393-4007-8c6d-7219796df58d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KAHy94GrhaReFsWTGDKfy39EDJ8gEEv4" />

The design team says the public domain has been heavily influenced by the site's topography and Aboriginal cultural heritage, drawing on the escarpments, gullies and landscape characteristics that historically defined the area before urbanisation. The landscape design has been developed in partnership with First Nations consultancy Bangawarra.

The project would be delivered across four separate buildings. The William Street East and William Street West buildings, designed by fjcstudio, would contain the majority of the apartments. Melbourne-based Studio Bright has designed the Forbes Street building, while Tribe Studio Architects is responsible for the Dowling Street building.

Rebel had secured approval for the concept plans late last year.

Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

A locally heritage-listed furniture showroom on Water Street is set to become the centrepiece of a new mixed-use residential development as local developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/keylin-group">Keylin</a> seeks approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lotus-on-water-street-290-water-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">Lotus on Water Street</a>, a 15-storey project on the Fortitude Valley side of Spring Hill.

The proposal spans 290 Water Street and 137-141 Warry Street, combining several properties into a 2,869 sqm site that sits between Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and the rapidly evolving Victoria Park precinct. Keylin's plans would deliver 132 apartments alongside new retail, hospitality and commercial space, while retaining and repurposing the historic Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom that fronts Water Street.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a>, Lotus on Water Street comprises a 12-storey residential tower rising above a three-storey podium and communal rooftop terrace. The development includes 76 apartments classified as multiple dwellings and a further 56 units proposed as short-term accommodation, designed to be flexibly used as either accommodation or permanent residences. The apartment mix comprises six one-bedroom, 54 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom homes.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9822bb79-6c49-49c9-95ba-319e8c8d81c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20front.png?VersionId=ioW8zbN4UVebbLetTFuv92t.HkdgfR5e" />

Residents would have access to an extensive rooftop recreation level spanning more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space. Plans include a pool, gym, sauna, infrared sauna, yoga area, library, private dining room, barbecue facilities and landscaped entertainment spaces, making the rooftop the project's largest shared amenity offering.

At street level, the proposal focuses on the adaptive reuse of the heritage buildings along Water Street, where 518 sqm of retail and commercial space is planned across shop, office and food and drink outlet uses. A permeable residential lobby would be positioned between the retained heritage buildings, creating a pedestrian connection between the historic streetscape and the new tower behind.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="269cf3e0-7d13-48bf-a318-05a00deb5c10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20podium.png?VersionId=DLXmTCLsp6GOcLpQ0h.0z7wKCw59EhN_" />

The heritage retention strategy is central to the scheme. The development application notes that the Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom and adjoining heritage buildings will remain, with only non-significant structures on the site earmarked for removal under a previously issued Heritage Exemption Certificate. Levels one and two of the new podium are recessed behind the heritage façades to maintain their prominence within the streetscape.

Jackson Teece has drawn inspiration from the site's manufacturing history when designing the podium. The planning documents state that the façade incorporates perforated metal screening that references the woven and rattan furniture historically produced on the site. Cascading and climbing plants are integrated throughout the podium to soften the building's presentation and screen parking levels behind. The landscape strategy also informs the project's name, Lotus on Water Street, drawing on the historic Spring Hollow waterholes that once ran through Spring Hill and the blue water lilies associated with Meeanjin, Brisbane's traditional name.

The proposal also incorporates the neighbouring property at 141 Warry Street, currently occupied by a healthcare service. The existing building would remain, with nine dedicated parking spaces allocated within the new development to support its ongoing operation. In total, Lotus on Water Street proposes 117 car spaces, including 110 resident spaces and seven visitor bays, alongside 100 bicycle spaces.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70cf07bc-4fd8-4e70-92dd-be8b21c4e4f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20site.png?VersionId=txlxrJImM0Sm_vTzHVKh5DDUkyL_CiiA" />

The site sits within the Spring Hill East Precinct of the Spring Hill Neighbourhood Plan and is positioned around 650 metres from both Fortitude Valley Station and Exhibition Station. It is also within walking distance of the King Street precinct, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Quarter and Victoria Park, which is earmarked to become a major venue precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Planning documents describe the location as a key gateway between Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley and highlight the area's increasing importance as new transport infrastructure and Olympic-related investment reshape Brisbane's inner north. The development team argues the project will contribute additional housing supply while activating a section of Water Street that has historically received less investment than other parts of the Valley.

Keylin has become increasingly active across Brisbane and southeast Queensland, assembling sites in strategic inner-city locations. They are currently selling and delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oria-spring-hill-447-gregory-terrace-spring-hill-qld-4000">Oria Spring Hill</a>, just over 140 apartments due for completion in 2027.

Keylin plans heritage-led Lotus on Water Street apartment development in Fortitude Valley

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

Arts Precinct

<html><body>
Developed by award winning developer, Evolve Development and designed by award winning architect, SJB Architects, BOTANIC is the 5th residential project collaboration for this team. BOTANIC is seen as a further contribution to the growing reputation of Melbourne as one of the world’s most liveable cities and Evolve Development, along with SJB Architects are proud to be associated with and contribute to this significant project.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/botanic-25-27-coventry-street-southbank-5aac16a2face4b073cb0275e3b7020ee.jpg?itok=ohJyvEeR" style="width: 580px; height: 290px;"></figure>Designer apartments comprising 1,2,3 and 4 bedrooms all with abundant natural light and supreme quality finishes including timber flooring to the kitchen and lounge areas, stone benchtops and Miele appliances. 
Choose from three beautifully conceived colour palettes, expertly designed by SJB.

Botanic Melbourne offers magnificent northern views towards the city skyline and eastern views over the Royal Botanic Gardens, providing an opportunity rarely available so close to the city centre. Upon arrival into the lobby, you are greeted by elegance and luxury. The inclusion of a dedicated business hub with a boardroom and private meeting room on a mezzanine level provides residents with an impressive work space.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/botanic-25-27-coventry-street-southbank-bf57a72abe439aa17eec926ce693eff1.jpg?itok=qV4Xg7Mu" style="width: 580px; height: 232px;"></figure>Amenities are plentiful with premium shared facilities on level 5 including a serene garden retreat with BBQ, fireplace and outdoor dining, luxurious swimming pool, residents kitchen and dining area, lounge area, well-equipped gym, and beautiful landscaped surroundings.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/botanic-25-27-coventry-street-southbank-1606e0979c13036c50f7ee37cb2ffd71.jpg?itok=0yQHpnh4" style="width: 580px; height: 290px;"></figure>Live close to the exciting CBD and feel the thrill of the Arts Precinct and the calm of the Royal Botanic Gardens. The historic and cultural significance of the immediate surrounds ensures the magnificent views from these luxurious apartments are protected and will remain interrupted.
</body></html>

urban.com.au

Southbank - Endearing off-the-plan opportunities for Melbourne's hottest new development

<html><body>
Known for their ultra-luxurious residences, <a href="/developers/gurner">GURNER™</a> will be making their debut into the hotel market, with plans for a New York-inspired 4.5 star hotel <a href="/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">development in Collingwood</a>.

The $120 million multi-use development will feature 95 luxury residential inspired hotel rooms, as well as 65 high-end residential apartments, and 700 square meters of ground floor retail.

<a href="/developers/gurner">GURNER™</a> aims to deliver year-round hotel services to residents to ensure all on-site amenities are offered across the board, meaning owner-occupiers can enjoy valet parking, right through to turn down and room service as they please.

This unique offering was born out of a synergistic partnership between <a href="/developers/gurner">GURNER™</a> and hospitality group Veriu, whose goals and visions aligned perfectly.

<blockquote>
“We will maintain close control over the concepts, design and experiences within the hotels which is why we have partnered with Veriu as the operator; their vision is closely aligned with ours to deliver high-end boutique hotels of a world-class standard.” 
</blockquote>

- Tim Gurner, founder and CEO of GURNER™

The design process is still underway with plans expected to be submitted late 2019, however, <a href="/developers/gurner">GURNER™</a> have eluded that the development will reference elements of Kit Kemp’s opulent Crosby Street Hotel in Manhattan, drawing inspiration from Kemp's bold, colourful luxe spaces. 

Located in central Collingwood at <a href="/buildings/atelier-22-33-johnston-street-collingwood">23-33 Johnson Street</a>, and across from the <a href="https://creative.vic.gov.au/showcase/co-working-and-collaboration/collingwood-arts-precinct">Cultural Arts Precinct</a> (designed by <a href="/architects/fieldwork">Fieldwork</a> + <a href="http://sbla.net.au/about-1">SBLA studio</a>), the goal is to attract travellers and visitors outside the CBD to embrace the wonderful arts and culture Collingwood has to offer.

Tim Gurner has personally delivered over 20 developments in the Collingwood area, with plans for even more residential buildings to be delivered in the near future.

<blockquote>
“[I] feel such an affinity for the area, but development sites here are becoming increasingly challenging to acquire so our strategic move into hotels will allow us to retain ownership in these assets into the future.” 
</blockquote>

- Tim Gurner, founder and CEO of GURNER™

<h2>OTHER COLLINGWOOD DEVELOPMENTS BY GURNER™</h2>

<a href="/buildings/107-cambridge-street-collingwood">107 Cambridge Street</a>

Architect: <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a>

Status: Complete

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="380" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/107_cambridge_street_collingwood.jpg?itok=bnRSoxBu" title="107 Cambridge Street" width="580">

<figcaption>107 Cambridge Street</figcaption></figure><a href="/buildings/28-stanley-street-collingwood">24-28 Stanley Street</a>

Architect:<a href="/architects/warren-and-mahoney"> Warren and Mahoney</a> 
Status: Completed

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/24-28_stanley_street_collingwood.jpg?itok=cOgLgqav" title="24-28 Stanley Street" width="580">

<figcaption>24-28 Stanley Street</figcaption></figure><a href="/buildings/victoria-vine-1-57-wellington-street-collingwood">1-35 Wellington Street</a>

Architect: <a href="/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada Architects</a> 
Status: Concept stage

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1-35_wellington_street_collingwood.jpg?itok=ZxrYDXfy" title="1-35 Wellington Street" width="580">

<figcaption>1-35 Wellington Street</figcaption></figure><a href="/buildings/e-s-smith-368-374-smith-street-collingwood">368-374 Smith Street</a>

Architect: <a href="/architects/warren-and-mahoney">Warren and Mahoney</a> 
Status: Approved

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/368-374_smith_street_collingwood.jpg?itok=WHOARnd6" title="368-374 Smith Street" width="580">

<figcaption>368-374 Smith Street</figcaption></figure><a href="/buildings/victoria-vine-1-57-wellington-street-collingwood">1-57 Wellington Street</a>

Architect: <a href="/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> 
Status: Approved

<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/1-57_wellington_street_collingwood_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1-57 Wellington Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1-57_wellington_street_collingwood_0.jpg?itok=3bIrmIWj" title="1-57 Wellington Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1-57 Wellington Street</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

Olivia Round

GURNER™ makes first foray into hotel industry with New York-inspired Collingwood development

<html><body>
It was conceived during 2011 and still meanders on today. Released last month was an interim update surrounding the Melbourne Arts Precinct Blueprint which principally concerns itself with:
<blockquote>
	A connected Arts Precinct that is a must-see part of Melbourne, known for its distinctive character and vibrant arts experiences.
	The Blueprint sets out a range of strategies to achieve this vision, grouped around four themes - bring life to the streets, create a ‘Melbourne’ experience, more to see and do, and make connections. These strategies propose a range of actions to bring the dynamism and creativity of the Arts Precinct’s artistic community out into the streets.
</blockquote>
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image3_28.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An aerial perspective of Southbank's Arts Precinct. Image courtesy MCC"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="371" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3_28.jpg?itok=NMOwB1bP" title="An aerial perspective of Southbank's Arts Precinct. Image courtesy MCC" width="580"></a>
In and amongst the 55 page document are some telling faults identified with the Arts Precinct. Inward-looking buildings (NGV being a prime example), a general lack of street life, poor shared identity for the precinct and urban barriers such as CityLink all combine to make the Arts Precinct a less than ideal area to traverse by foot. This in turn negates activity and interaction.
To mitigate these negatives highlighted within the Blueprint, four key topics have been identified as areas to address. Bringing life to the streets, creating a Melbourne experience, more to see and do plus making connections are the four headline aspirations. They all sound very rosy, yet how will these four aspirations if implemented correctly transform the area?
Below is a set of before and after images which depict a more user friendly Arts Precinct. The public realm looks to have been transformed from one large monotonous setting into a series of far smaller, finer grain experiences where choice of amenity is king. Drawing a parallel so some of the CBD's laneways there seems to be a mass of smaller, dynamic venues destined for the Arts Precinct.
This in turn promotes intimacy, interest and spontaneity in the area...and above all increased use.
<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_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Accumulated before and after concept images for the precinct. Image courtesy MCC"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1361" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image12_9.jpg?itok=nIQdHCkk" title="Accumulated before and after concept images for the precinct. Image courtesy MCC" width="580"></a>
Accumulated before and after concept images for the precinct. Image courtesy City of Melbourne
As promising as the above images are the Blueprint notes that an Arts Precinct Public Realm Plan is to be developed, with further discussions held during 2014-2015.
Committees, agendas, meetings and working parties - without putting too fine a point on the issue, the Arts Precinct and Southbank at large are in dire need of such a plan so hurry it up people!
See the full Blueprint <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/AboutCouncil/Meetings/Lists/CouncilMeetingAgendaItems/Attachments/11321/MAR14%20FMC2%20AGENDA%20ITEM%206.3%20DRAFT%20CITY%20F%20MELBOURNE%20ARTS%20STRATEGY%202014-17.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.
</body></html>

silvermb

Blueprint for a better Arts Precinct

<html><body>
Premier Denis Napthine may have turned the first sod at ABC's Southbank redevelopment mid February, but the first tangible signs of construction is due this month as site demolition commences. Incorporating the adjoining car park at 102 Sturt Street, the $176 million dollar expansion will see ABC's Ripponlea complex abandoned in favour of a larger Southbank premises which will also house the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

Premier Napthine during the ceremony remarked “This exciting project represents the ABC’s long-term commitment to Melbourne... The cost of construction will be $176 million and will generate about 300 full time jobs in Victoria over the life of the project, which is expected to produce indirect benefits of $491.5 million.”

<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/ABC1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="ABC Southbank's new face. Image © COX Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ABC1_0.jpg?itok=TZyzizYQ" style="height:252px; width:580px" title="ABC Southbank's new face. Image © COX Architecture"></a>

The first feature to catch the eye is <a href="http://www.coxarchitecture.com.au/" target="_blank">COX Architecture</a>'s luminous, open design. The current <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/tours/images/sites/big/southbank.jpg" target="_blank">ABC Southbank Centre</a> at 120 Southbank Boulevard looks very much 1990's with a strong street level bluestone edifice and dark recessed windows - not the most welcoming of buildings. Enter the new ABC Melbourne Accommodation Project (MAP) with its transparent facade that provides a highly visible internal environment when viewed externally.

When including a full-height void facing Southbank Boulevard, the design seeks to give something back to the public via interaction rather than isolation. If and when the <a href="/news/blueprint-for-a-better-arts-precinct" target="_blank">Arts Precinct Blueprint</a> is adopted, the new MAP building will fit within the blueprint nicely.

<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/Image1_52.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground floor layout. Image © COX Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_52.jpg?itok=s2aUJngC" style="height:380px; width:580px" title="Ground floor layout. Image © COX Architecture"></a>

The MAP building involves the design and construction of a new southern building over the aforementioned adjoining car park while the current ABC Centre will be essentially stripped back to the concrete structure and augmented. The eventual common building will house over 30,000 sqm of Gross Floor Area, a marked increase over the existing facility.

Included within the new extension are 77 below ground car parking spaces, 122 bicycle bays and four rain water tanks whilst car park ramps, services and loading bays are all accessed via Moore Street. This in turn allows office production facilities to front both Sturt Street and Southbank Boulevard whilst Studio 31 will hug the western boundary. A large rooftop terrace will sit atop the bluestone annex.

<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/Image2map.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2013 Target Program. Image courtesy Probuild"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2map.jpg?itok=7v6lU_QY" style="height:234px; width:580px" title="2013 Target Program. Image courtesy Probuild"></a>

Like many projects that suffer delays for a myriad of reasons, head contractor <a href="http://www.probuild.com.au/" target="_blank">Probuild</a>'s initial 2013 Target Program has slipped and has no doubt been superseded by an amended version. After suffering a roughly four month delay in demolition, the project looks set to achieve an early 2017 completion as works commence this month.

The final product will go a long way to enhancing its immediate surrounds.

For further reading and to see more architectural drawings, view the PDF on the Parliament of Australia <a href="https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=2&amp;cad=rja&amp;uact=8&amp;ved=0CDAQFjAB&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aph.gov.au%2Fparliamentary_business%2Fcommittees%2Fhouse_of_representatives_committees%3Furl%3Dpwc%2Fabcmelbourne%2Fsubs%2Fsub01.pdf&amp;ei=-dE9U9OtEbCfiAfWjoDwBg&amp;usg=AFQjCNG3NgS0UxmdTzfgqwbgRrObI0sV0w&amp;bvm=bv.64125504,d.aGc" target="_blank">website</a>.
</body></html>

Arts Precinct

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Arts Precinct

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News