Longstanding Gold Coast and Canberra developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a> is continuing to roll on with its Glitter Strip apartment pipeline, seeking to return to Mermaid Beach with a new 68-apartment development.

Morris, founded by Barry Morris in 1978 and one of the Gold Coast’s most prolific apartment developers over the past two decades, has filed plans for a 12-storey mixed-use building at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/36-seabeach-avenue-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">34-36 Seabeach Avenue</a>, on the prized eastern side of the Gold Coast Highway.

The 1,227 sqm site occupies a prominent corner position at Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway, opposite the Mermaid Plaza retail and office precinct and around 140 metres walking distance from the future Mermaid Beach South light rail station.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser &amp; Partners</a> has designed the project, which will comprise 68 apartments across a mix of 48 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom residences.

The building will rise 12 storeys, reaching a maximum height of 36 metres, with the apartments accounting for a total of 156 bedrooms. The development application also seeks approval for short-term accommodation across the 68 apartments, while two office tenancies are proposed at ground level.

The plans show 108 car spaces across the development, with parking accommodated at ground level and within a three-level basement accessed from Seabeach Avenue.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2175c99-12fd-4a3c-9be1-89bbf258a90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.41%E2%80%AFPM_0.png?VersionId=iNLzWcE6gaAE76rafhEXfHve.4g4Se0p" />

Resident amenity will be concentrated on level two, where Fraser &amp; Partners has designed a recreation deck with a swimming pool, 90 sqm pool terrace, outdoor barbecue area and gym.

The broader communal offering will also incorporate landscaped spaces, with the planning documents noting the amenity has been designed to provide areas for recreation, social interaction and outdoor living.

The proposal would continue the transformation of the Gold Coast Highway corridor through Mermaid Beach ahead of the arrival of the light rail.

The site is zoned Neighbourhood Centre and sits within the Mermaid Beach/Broadbeach Light Rail Corridor neighbourhood plan. While the prescribed building height is 24 metres, the site is identified within an Urban Neighbourhood context providing for a 50 per cent height uplift to 36 metres.

Planning documents describe the stretch of the Gold Coast Highway between Broadbeach and Nobby Beach as increasingly characterised by medium and high-rise development, with the proposed Morris tower joining projects including Ventura, The Alfred, Oceans and Otto.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="911f193f-e381-4a55-be08-58be87fcf978" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.48%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=oxVvLJaY.SOXEdXrIcogfyEXDfvCmmpM" />

The development would mark Morris Property Group's latest investment in Mermaid Beach, where it has already delivered two apartment projects.

Otto, at 1 Bondi Avenue on the western side of the Gold Coast Highway, comprises 70 apartments across nine storeys. The project was completed in 2019 and includes a residents' gym, recreation deck and swimming pool.

Morris also developed Oceans at 46 Ocean Street, a nine-storey, 70-apartment build-to-rent development completed in 2019. Oceans was the group's first build-to-rent project and incorporates commercial space at ground level.

The two existing Morris projects sit further north along the same Gold Coast Highway corridor as the proposed Seabeach Avenue development. Fraser &amp; Partners' planning analysis specifically identifies both Otto and Oceans among the established built-form precedents surrounding the site.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14925119-7b71-4812-8149-340317512c7c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%203.00.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=aEJqYuw_nTCjcin17BSD0piB1EFotTlj" />

Mermaid Beach represents only part of Morris' considerable Gold Coast footprint.

The family-owned developer has been particularly active in neighbouring Broadbeach, delivering projects including Sierra Grand, Eclipse, Synergy, Qube, Koko, Opus and Malo, while its current pipeline includes Maison and the two-tower Crest development.

Further south, Morris has also developed a string of projects in Burleigh Heads, including Element, Boardwalk and Sandbar, while Essentia expanded its footprint north into Surfers Paradise.

The Seabeach Avenue application has been lodged by PMM Broadbeach Pty Ltd and seeks a development permit for a Material Change of Use for multiple dwellings, short-term accommodation and office uses. Zone Planning Group prepared the planning application, with Fraser &amp; Partners commissioned as architect.

The project comes as the developer continues to expand its Gold Coast pipeline while retaining a significant presence in Canberra. Morris now has more than $2.5 billion of development in its national pipeline and has delivered more than 7,000 homes during its near five-decade history

Joel Robinson

First look: Morris Property Group returns to Mermaid Beach with new Seabeach Avenue apartment development

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3hvFB2uWTRfEyEcpTSnnK9" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis" target="_blank">Fortis</a>&nbsp;is continuing its stronghold on Sydn​ey’s eastern suburbs apartment market, launching&nbsp;in September&nbsp;its latest boutique&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0GI5S9-wNeiLUnM-d1uYkw" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">Double Bay</a>&nbsp;development,&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YNouJQcFjiTTgVHbgDLA-" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">55 William</a>.

55 William presents&nbsp;just eight north-facing&nbsp;two-bedroom, three-bedroom and full-floor&nbsp;residences to the market, priced from $4.5 million.

The upcoming launch comes just weeks after Fortis secured approval for the $80 million development, its third eastern suburbs approval in two months. Construction is already underway, with completion targeted for 2028.

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55 William adds to a growing concentration of Fortis projects in and around Double Bay, a market the developer has become increasingly active in over recent years.

Fortis previously completed the nine-residence Marmont on New South Head Road, while it is currently developing a mixed-use residential and retail project at 12 Cross Street. Its wider Double Bay footprint also extends into commercial and retail development.

The developer's broader Sydney residential pipeline is particularly concentrated across the eastern suburbs, with projects spanning Doub​le Bay, Ro​se Bay, Wo​ollahra, Dar​ling Point, Poi​nt Piper and Eli​zabeth Bay.

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At 55 William, Fortis has again turned to MHN Design Union, the architecture practice behind several of its eastern suburbs projects, while London-based 1508 London has been appointed to handle the interiors and Wyer &amp; Co the landscaping.

The six-level building will comprise a combination of two and three-bedroom apartments, including a garden residence, full-floor apartments, a sub-penthouse and penthouse. Each residence will have secure basement parking and private outdoor space.

A rooftop terrace for all residents, along with select apartments, enjoys views across Double Bay Harbour and toward the Sydney skyline.

Ceiling heights will reach up to three metres&nbsp;in select residences, while the kitchens will feature natural stone and integrated Gaggenau appliances.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The boutique nature of the project reflects the type of stock Fortis has increasingly targeted across Sydney's eastern suburbs, where larger apartments and smaller buildings are being pitched primarily toward local owner-occupiers and downsizers.

Fortis Group General Manager Ed Eve said the developer continues to see demand from buyers wanting to remain in the eastern suburbs but move into newer, lower-maintenance housing.

“We're seeing continued demand from local owner-occupiers and downsizers looking for high-quality homes that allow them to remain in the eastern suburbs, close to the lifestyle and community they know,” Eve said.

55 William is also one of the early projects to respond directly to the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms. Fortis had previously secured approval for just two townhouses on the 599 sqm site before revising the scheme to eight apartments following the planning changes.

Situated one street back from Double Bay's water's edge, the project enjoys an enviable harbourside setting within walking distance of Double Bay Village and the ferry wharf.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376252]

Fortis has increasingly made the eastern suburbs a major focus of its Sydney pipeline. Beyond Double Bay, it recently completed the 14-residence Piper in Point Piper and has projects underway or planned across Rose Bay, Woollahra and Darling Point.

The developer recently secured approval for Verano in Rose Bay, a six-level development comprising 21 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, also designed by MHNDU.

55 William&nbsp;is soon to be release to the market with VIP appointments commencing early September,&nbsp;with residences priced from $4.5 million.

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Fortis continues eastern suburbs push with 55 William launch

UAE-based developer Arada has unveiled plans for a $2 billion twin-tower apartment development in Broadbeach, marking its first move into Queensland as it continues its rapid expansion across Australia.

Arada will develop 952 apartments across two towers on a prominent site opposite the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the project targeted for completion ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The project represents Arada's largest commitment to the Australian market since arriving in the country in 2024 and significantly expands a local pipeline that has now grown to eight projects and more than 5,000 homes.

It will also be the first major Queensland project delivered by Roberts Co since the tier-one contractor was acquired by Arada Group in 2025.

Plus Studio has designed the Broadbeach development, which will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two towers connected by a landscaped podium.

A significant resident amenity offering will include lagoon and lap pools, a gym, sauna and steam room, alongside a mist room, infrared room and salt scrub facilities. Communal terraces, private dining areas, a library, residents' lounge and work-from-home spaces are also planned. Around 1,200 sqm of retail and hospitality space will occupy the ground floor.

The site puts Arada in one of the Gold Coast's most active apartment markets, directly opposite the convention centre and within walking distance of Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and Broadbeach's dining and retail precinct.

It also has immediate access to the Gold Coast light rail network and sits just a few blocks from the beach.

Arada Group Chief Executive Ahmed Alkhoshaibi said Broadbeach represented an opportunity for the developer to expand beyond its initial NSW pipeline.

“Broadbeach is a world-class address that gives us the canvas to create a community of exceptional design and lifestyle quality that genuinely enriches the daily lives of the people who call it home,” Alkhoshaibi said.

“This is our first development outside New South Wales, and it reflects our growing ambition to grow in key urban markets around the country.”

Alkhoshaibi said bringing Roberts Co into the project would give Arada greater control over the development and construction process.

“Delivering this project through Roberts Co, our own tier-one construction business, means we can bring the quality, pace and accountability that our buyers expect.”

The move into Broadbeach comes as Arada accelerates its Australian expansion following its entry into the market two years ago. The developer has assembled a pipeline of eight projects comprising more than 5,000 homes, while the acquisition of Roberts Co last year gave the group its own Australian construction capability.

Globally, Arada has a development portfolio valued at $50 billion comprising more than 55,000 homes across the UAE, United Kingdom and Australia.

The Gold Coast is emerging as the next major market for the developer, with strong population growth and infrastructure spending ahead of the 2032 Games continuing to underpin significant apartment development across the coastal strip.

Arada plots $2 billion Broadbeach towers in major Queensland move

Sydney’s downsizer market is changing, with a growing cohort of buyers prioritising the right home over simply finding a smaller one.

Coronation Property Head of Sales Cam Porter says the traditional idea of downsizing does not necessarily reflect what many buyers are now looking for, particularly those moving from established family homes across Sydney.

Instead, he says they are increasingly becoming “right-sizers”, seeking lower-maintenance homes without sacrificing the space, amenity or quality they have become accustomed to.

“We are increasingly seeing buyers who are not motivated by the idea of simply moving into a smaller property,” Porter says.

“They are right-sizers. They want a home that is easier to manage and better connected, but they still expect generosity, quality and a floorplan that supports the way they live.”

It is a subtle but important distinction in a market where apartment developers are increasingly targeting established owner-occupiers.

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For many of these buyers, moving from a house to an apartment is not driven by a desire to dramatically reduce their living space. Instead, the appeal is in removing some of the maintenance associated with a larger home while retaining generous living areas, storage and enough flexibility to accommodate family and friends.

Coronation’s sales team is seeing buyers place particular importance on natural light, practical storage and additional rooms that can be used as guest bedrooms, home offices or secondary living spaces.

Kitchens and dining areas are also playing an increasingly important role, particularly for buyers who regularly entertain or have children and grandchildren visit.

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“These buyers still want their home to feel generous,” Porter says.

“They may want less maintenance, but they are not looking for less life.”

The challenge for the broader housing market is providing enough of the right stock to encourage that move.

While much of the discussion around Sydney’s housing shortage has centred on the number of homes being delivered, Porter says the diversity of those homes is equally important.

Older homeowners can remain in large family houses for longer when they cannot find an appropriate alternative in the neighbourhoods where they have built their lives.

“The decision is rarely as simple as wanting fewer bedrooms,” Porter says.

“People are weighing up their connection to a neighbourhood, the space they need for family, the quality of the home and whether it will continue to work for them over the long term.”

It also has implications beyond the downsizer market. Providing suitable apartments for smaller households can free up established houses for families who need the additional bedrooms and land, creating greater movement through the housing market.

<h2>Lillian targets the next stage of apartment buyer</h2>

It is a buyer Coronation is targeting at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, its new collection of apartments, terraces and penthouses at Erskineville Village.

Designed by Silvester Fuller, Lillian has been shaped around larger living spaces, natural light and flexible floorplans, alongside landscaped areas, wellness amenity and communal spaces for residents.

The development will form part of Coronation’s broader Erskineville Village precinct, which will combine new homes with green space, retail, hospitality and new pedestrian connections.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377688]

McPherson Park will sit at the centre of the precinct, creating a significant new green space alongside the project’s retail and hospitality offering.

For Porter, the opportunity is to give buyers another housing option without forcing them to leave the part of Sydney they already know.

“People should be able to change the type of home they live in without having to change their entire life,” he says.

“For many buyers, Lillian offers the opportunity to remain connected to the Inner West and the city, while gaining access to a more convenient, walkable and considered way of living.”

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Coronation will explore the changing <a href="https://lillianresidences.com.au/news/lillian-x-space-x-downsizers-event-27-august/">right-sizer market at an event on August 27</a>, bringing together experts across property, design and lifestyle.

Held in partnership with SPACE, Poliform and Downsizer.com.au, the event will include a property market outlook from economist Michael Blythe alongside discussion around the considerations facing buyers planning their next move.

Attendees will also be able to learn more about the residences and amenity planned at Lillian Erskineville.

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From downsizing to right-sizing: What Sydney buyers want from their next home

Family-owned builder and developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/omaya">Omaya</a> is bringing its 27-storey The Maybelle development to market, with the 229-apartment tower rising alongside Ismay Reserve near North Strathfield.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-maybelle-21-parramatta-road-homebush-nsw-2140">The Maybelle</a> will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with its height providing elevated outlooks towards the Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge, while other residences will look across neighbouring Ismay Reserve.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/squillace-architects">Squillace Architects</a>, the tower combines its parkside setting with proximity to the established retail, dining and transport amenity around North Strathfield.

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Residences will feature open-plan living spaces and a choice of two interior schemes, while communal amenity is spread across two elevated levels of the building.

Level 8 will be home to the Garden Pavilion, a full-floor resident space incorporating communal entertaining and breakout areas, seating and recreation spaces. Further up the tower, a landscaped Sky Terrace on Level 14 will provide another communal area with panoramic views towards the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline.

At ground level, the development sits directly alongside Ismay Reserve, where lawns, walking paths, children's play areas, picnic spaces and recreational facilities extend the green space available immediately around the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376194]

The Maybelle is also within walking distance of North Strathfield and the Bakehouse Quarter, which provides a mix of cafés, restaurants, shops and everyday services.

Existing rail and bus services provide connections across Sydney, while the future North Strathfield Metro and access to the M4 will add to the transport options available around the precinct. Walking and cycling routes also extend via Powells Creek towards Sydney Olympic Park and its sporting, entertainment and parkland precincts.

Families are also well positioned for access to a broad selection of established schools and education options across Strathfield and the surrounding Inner West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376181]

Omaya has operated in Sydney for more than 35 years, managing projects from acquisition and design through to construction and delivery. The family-owned company is both developer and builder of The Maybelle.

Apartments start from $560,000, with the development protected by 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.

Construction is well underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026 and move-in anticipated from Q1 2027.

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The Maybelle brings 27-storey parkside tower to market near North Strathfield

Bates Smart

The sustainably conscious apartment developer, ARIA Property Group, is set for further development in the exclusive South Brisbane pocket they&#39;ve been developing in over recent years.

They&#39;ve lodged plans on a triple block at 164-190 Melbourne Street, on the corner of Manning and Melbourne Street. The Melbourne Street sites are currently home to&nbsp;the former Malouf&#39;s Fruit Shop and the former Bond&#39;s Sweet Factory.

ARIA, led by Tim Forrester, has had Bates Smart team up with Richards &amp; Spence in what is expected to be the first of three towers across the amalgamated site.

The first tower will have 84 apartments across 14 levels, and extensive rooftop amenity, which, alongside their sustainability efforts, is fast becoming ARIA&#39;s signature.

<a href="/new-apartments/164-190-melbourne-street-south-brisbane"><img alt="" height="432" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-03-25_at_1.31.08_pm.png" width="679" /></a>

&quot;33 Manning Street offers a variety of spacious dwellings in the central urban location of South Brisbane providing opportunity for a diverse population including families and students,&quot; the design statement submitted to the Brisbane City Council noted.

&quot;33 Manning Street is a simple and elegant tower which takes best advantage of the opportunities afforded by its location, climate and scale to provide a distinctive lifestyle opportunity for Brisbane.&quot;

<a href="/new-apartments/164-190-melbourne-street-south-brisbane"><img alt="" height="425" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-03-25_at_1.31.39_pm.png" width="676" /></a>

&quot;Each apartment has been designed to maximise natural light and cross ventilation, taking advantage of the local climate,&quot; the design statement noted.

&quot;All practical considerations of living are considered including private bedrooms, generous kitchens and flexible living spaces.&quot;

The design statement also suggested that residential wellness is a key design consideration.

There will be a commercial gym tenancy located on the first level. At the heart of the rooftop amenity is the 20 metre pool. On the north-east edge of the roof is a plunge pool, positioned to take in the city views.

<a href="/new-apartments/164-190-melbourne-street-south-brisbane"><img alt="" height="477" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-03-25_at_1.32.53_pm.png" width="762" /></a>

There&#39;s an amphitheater which offers seating and lounging for an evening cinema, as well as a residents dining room.

The new tower, next to South Brisbane&#39;s famous Skyneedle, is around the corner from&nbsp;Trellis, one of ARIA&#39;s most sustainable projects to date. Some 60 per cent of the tower is covered in greenery. There&#39;s Tesla charging, solar technology, and extensive rainwater tanks.

It&#39;s also up the road from The Standard, ARIA&#39;s flagship development in the heart of the popular Fish Lane precinct.

ARIA, led by Tim Forrester, has had Bates Smart team up with Richards & Spence in what is expected to be the first of three towers across the amalgamated site.

ARIA lodge plans for South Brisbane apartment tower

Buyers interested in Richmond&rsquo;s latest project, Gramercy Terraces, have been advised they may &ldquo;miss out&rdquo; as only two townhouses remain in the successful Lendlease development.

Gramercy Terraces is a new boutique offering composed of freehold three and four-bedroom terrace homes, in the desirable eastern pocket of Richmond.

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&ldquo;Enjoy the perfect harmony of inner-city living and leafy tree-lined streets, in a home with refined contemporary finishes inspired by its industrial heritage&rdquo;, the developers said.

The elegant development boasts Miele appliances, artisan tapware, Italian stone, tiles, pavers, and a designer light pendant artistically suspended over an expansive stone kitchen island bench.

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Designed by one of Melbourne&rsquo;s most renowned architects, Bates Smart, each terrace has been meticulously designed.

Through spacious floorplans and playful shapes, an abundance of natural light beckons from one space to the next thanks to extensive skylights.

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The floating timber central staircase brings warmth into the centre of the home and offers the feeling of unrivalled space.

Families will appreciate the choice of quality education within close range, including Melbourne Girls College, Melbourne High School, St Catherine&rsquo;s School and Hawthorn West Primary School.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95458 project_image_fid=169944]

Significant stamp duty savings are currently available for eligible buyers.

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Significant stamp duty savings are currently available for eligible buyers. 

max.kwok_55688

Only two townhouses remain at Lendlease’s new Gramercy Terraces in Richmond

Richmond is renowned for its many lifestyle offerings and Lendlease&rsquo;s new townhouse development, Gramercy Terraces, is within a short walk from all of them.

Located just four kilometres from the heart of Melbourne, Richmond is known for its Swan Street dining scene, walking trails along the Yarra and the shopping of nearby Hawthorn.

Gramercy, which is situated at 38 Bendigo Street, builds upon the multi-generational precinct&rsquo;s rich cultural history.

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Constructed in 1908, the original building was home to the Wertheim Piano Factory, the brand of choice for several famous performers of the time, including Australian operatic soprano, Dame Nellie Melba.

Around 18,000 pianos were manufactured at the site before the onset of the Great Depression in 1935.

With a history spanning the industries of music, food and entertainment, the site was reinvented by another icon, Channel Nine Studios, at the advent of television.

<img alt="" height="722" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-08-12_at_6.38.26_pm.png" width="1054" />

GTV 9 was Melbourne&rsquo;s second commercial station, dubbed &lsquo;Television City&rsquo;, an homage to CBS&rsquo; famous studio in the US which went by the same name.

Some of Australia&rsquo;s most iconic television shows there up until 2010, including The Don Lane Show, Hey Hey It&rsquo;s Saturday and Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. 

Gramercy Terraces&rsquo; namesake is a nod to music legends and the rich musical history of the site.

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&ldquo;[Grammercy is] not just a name, but a word synonymous with music greats and a grand Manhattan hotel with an inspiring rooftop terrace vibe&rdquo;, Lendlease said.

Grammercy is an independent record label, while New York&rsquo;s Gramercy Park Hotel has played host to music legends from Bob Dylan to Bob Marley and features a notable rooftop terrace perfect for inspiring alfresco entertaining.

Meticulously designed by award-winning architects Bates Smart, Richmond&rsquo;s Gramercy Terrace also boasts an alfresco lifestyle with outdoor terraces and balconies.

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The two and three-bedroom freehold townhomes deliver a grand sense of space, complimented by bespoke details and sensible design.

Ideal for growing families, homes include spacious floorplans and study nooks and reside on quiet, leafy tree-lined streets.

Families will appreciate the choice of quality education within close range, including Hawthorn West Primary School and Melbourne Girls College.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95458 project_image_fid=169944]

Richmond&rsquo;s gems are hidden around every corner, with up-and-coming restaurants, art at Charles Nordrum gallery and walking trails along the riverbank.

Burnley Station, tram services and free-ways are all easily accessible adding to life&rsquo;s conveniences.

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Gramercy, which is situated at 38 Bendigo Street, builds upon the multi-generational precinct’s rich cultural history. 

The rhythm of Richmond: Discover the development positioned to make the most of Richmond life

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Roxy Pacific property group is set to open a Park Hotel branch on 360 Little Bourke Street in central Melbourne by 2021. The agreement to proceed with the project was signed last month, with construction anticipated to commence soon.

The Bates Smart-lead design of the 23-storey hotel tower will be constructed on the former horse stable and livestock auction yard known as Kirks Bazaar. Acknowledging the site’s equine past, historical references will be featured throughout the hotel including soft leather details, horse saddlery, rich tobacco coloured textures and metal accents.

<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/b9f6a0476b5ac20ccecd07e9a68bfb4a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kirks Horse Bazaar at Bourke St West in Hardware Lane,Melbourne in Victoria in 1870"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="443" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/b9f6a0476b5ac20ccecd07e9a68bfb4a.jpg?itok=4KPeteDd" title="Kirks Horse Bazaar at Bourke St West in Hardware Lane,Melbourne in Victoria in 1870" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kirks Horse Bazaar at Bourke St West in Hardware Lane, Melbourne in Victoria in 1870</figcaption></figure><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/park_hotel_-_360_little_bourke_street_melbourne.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Exterior render. Credit: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/park_hotel_-_360_little_bourke_street_melbourne.jpeg?itok=FEiUKVOf" title="Exterior render. Credit: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Exterior render. Credit: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>At ground level, retail stores will occupy prime street front real estate, while 319 guest rooms and suites rise up the tower. A gourmet concept restaurant will be located on level 8. On the upper levels, guests can enjoy a luxury lounge, alfresco terraced dining and rooftop bar with lush green landscaping. The hotel will also provide the capacity to host 20-200 guests in any of its versatile function rooms.

<h2>FIRST LOOK AT INTERIOR RENDERS</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/m12177_n15_print.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Park Hotel's luxurious bathrooms. Credit: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/m12177_n15_print.jpg?itok=pJHCI4YR" title="Park Hotel's luxurious bathrooms. Credit: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Park Hotel's luxurious bathrooms. Credit: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><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/m12177_n19_print.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Guest suite. Credit: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/m12177_n19_print.jpg?itok=zL1RqX6T" title="Guest suite. Credit: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Guest suite. Credit: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><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/m12177_n3_print.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Park Hotel's lobby. Credit: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/m12177_n3_print.jpg?itok=g3sESb9g" title="Park Hotel's lobby. Credit: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Park Hotel's lobby. Credit: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><h2>WHAT THEY SAY</h2>

<blockquote>
“We have respected the urban context and character of the location that is surrounded by warehouse frontages. The site will be transformed to offer a respectful sense of verticality, with the façade reinterpreting the old beautiful red brickwork of the streetscape. Intimate internal spaces have been created on the ground floor plane to encourage social interactions and engagement with the other local restaurants and retailers.”

- Clan Davis, Bates Smart Director
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
“The hotel takes cues from Melbourne’s vibrant laneway culture, recognising the ‘urban grit’ of this former industrial neighbourhood and its surrounds. The interiors complement the architectural approach, creating create a sensory

experience for guests. 

The traditional food and beverage model has been challenged to create a space for an independent operator that will offer guests an authentic, local neighbourhood experience. We responded to the laneway context of the site and brought this element of Melbourne’s café and street culture within the building. 

We also remodelled the conventional arrival experience to offer an inquisitive guest arrival journey. The ground floor plane is opened to encourage guests to walk through the relaxed food and beverage component before reaching reception for check-in.” 

- Brenton Smith, Bates Smart Director
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
“Conveniently located in the heart of Melbourne, the new Park Hotel Melbourne is a continuation of the Group’s strategic efforts to strengthen our hospitality and is in line with our plans to grow our stable of

recurring income streams.

Going forward, Australia’s tourism and hotel sector is expected to record strong growth in the coming years, likely to exceed the country’s broader economic growth, and should augur well for the new hotel.

Bates Smart have been the perfect partner to grow our vision for the property, which we aspire to be the market leader in 4-star hotels in Melbourne CBD.”

- Ben Hopkins, Managing Director of Roxy-Pacific Australia and New Zealand
</blockquote>
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Olivia Round

Bates Smart reveals Australia’s first Park Hotel design 

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Award-winning architecture firm Bates Smart is set to embark on a second collaboration with M&amp;L Hospitality in the restoration of the heritage Equity Chambers Building including the venue’s iconic grand hall. The two-part design featuring the 6-floor pre-existing building and a brand new 16-floor tower will serve as Melbourne’s next Hilton Hotel.

Located on the corner of Little Queen and Bourke Streets, the building will retain its original structure and intricate architectural detailing, highlighting the opulence of travel and hospitality during the 1930s.

A new modern tower will be constructed right behind the original building, with an open-air courtyard connecting the two structures. Working closely with the Heritage Council of Victoria, the team have redesigned the building thoughtfully, to ensure the new design remains true to the style of its original architects Oakley &amp; Parkes.

<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/m12118_marketing_render_lobby_final_med.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hilton's golden lobby. Credit: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/m12118_marketing_render_lobby_final_med.jpg?itok=M1Qe227N" title="Hilton's golden lobby. Credit: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hilton's golden lobby. Credit: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
“We were mindful of the heritage character of the site. The new building provides a respectful backdrop and is designed with a calm and ordered façade system that responds to the uses within. As the building rises the façade’s glazing increases to make the most of the surrounding city views.”
</blockquote>

- Julian Anderson, Bates Smart Director

The Hilton Melbourne will also include an elegant bar, executive club lounge, guest gym, meeting rooms as well as a pre-function space. Construction will be undertaken by Multiplex with an expected completion of late 2019.

<blockquote>
“This project brings a new chapter to a beloved heritage building and makes a notable contribution to the urban renewal and evolving character of this part of Melbourne’s CBD and this has been carefully respected in the interior of the Hotel.” 
</blockquote>

- Jeff Copolov, Bates Smart Interior Design Director

<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/gli1554_472_bourke_st_ext_s010_hero_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hilton from street view. Credit: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="853" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gli1554_472_bourke_st_ext_s010_hero_final.jpg?itok=TFayfC-E" title="Hilton from street view. Credit: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hilton from street view. Credit: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>The first collaboration of Bates Smart and M&amp;L Hospitality was the construction of the Hyatt Regency, Sydney in 2016.
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Heritage Hilton: The 1930’s inspired hotel to open late 2019

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As Melbourne's population continues to skyrocket, Australia’s top architects are coming up with environmentally conscious solutions to meet demand, while maintaining the city’s famously high standard of living.

<blockquote>
“Sustainability is the basis of all Future Melbourne goals. It requires current generations to choose how they meet their needs without compromising the ability of future generations to also meet their needs,” 
</blockquote>

- City of Melbourne 

From 2017 to date, here are 5 new-build highlights which have been designed with a green initiative for a more sustainable future.

#1 COLLINS ARCH

<figure><a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/collinsarch_0.jpg?itok=alE1N5rJ" title="Collins Arch, Melbourne CBD. Credit: Cbus Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Collins Arch, Melbourne CBD. Credit: Cbus Property</figcaption></figure>With construction well underway, Cbus Property have worked closely with Woods Bagot &amp; SHoP Architects to produce a world-class sustainable skyscraper due for completion this year. The dual 41-floor buildings will comprise of 202 residences, 294 resort-style hotel rooms, 50,000 square metres of premium grade office space and state-of-the-art communal spaces, including a tiered amphitheatre.

<a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne">Collins Arch</a> is the third development to receive a platinum level WELL Precertification, where nutrition, fitness, mood, sleep patterns and cognitive performance of occupants are highlighted as key considerations in the overall design. This has been accomplished through indoor air quality monitoring, superior natural lighting and ventilation, an emphasis on bicycle access, and more. To round off Collins Arch’s sustainability endorsement, the building has also been submitted for 6-star Greenstar accreditation and 5.5 star NABERS energy rating.

#2 SOUTHBANK BOULEVARD

<figure><a href="/news/stage-1-of-transforming-southbank-boulevard-and-dodds-street-commencing-this-month" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbankbvld.jpg?itok=lIXFJhv7" title="Southbank Boulevard and Dobbs Street. Credit: City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southbank Boulevard and Dobbs Street. Credit: City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>The transformation of <a href="/news/stage-1-of-transforming-southbank-boulevard-and-dodds-street-commencing-this-month">Southbank Boulevard and Dodds Street</a> is taking shape, and due for completion late 2019. As the gateway to Melbourne’s Arts Precinct, the plan is to create a Melbourne Experience for Southbank by constructing 2.5 hectares of new public space, including a new civic square for the precinct, more neighbourhood parks and the aim of prioritising pedestrians, cyclists and public transport. The project will also see 300 new trees planted (predominantly the Platanus X acerifolia), which will meet the City of Melbourne’s biodiversity and urban forest targets. 

#3 435 BOURKE STREET

<figure><a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/435bourke.jpg?itok=FFWzySUA" title="435 Bourke Street, Melbourne CBD. Credit: Cbus Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>435 Bourke Street, Melbourne CBD. Credit: Cbus Property</figcaption></figure>The 55-level commercial tower designed by Bates Smart in association with Cbus Property will add a striking new icon to Melbourne’s urban skyline by 2023. Located on the corner of Queen and Bourke Streets, <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">435 Bourke Street</a> boasts environmentally friendly features and is targeting a 5.5 Star NABERS Energy rating, a minimum 5 Star ‘Green Star’ Office Design and WELL Platinum Certification.

Cbus Property aims to invest in new technologies and materials to maintain its notable eco-conscious reputation for both new and existing buildings. With a sustainable focus in mind, the sculptural design will fit seamlessly into the city landscape, with six different landscaped terraces throughout for occupants to enjoy.

<blockquote>
“The building’s design references the neighbouring streetscape and is crafted to be more organic in form, aspiring to enliven the precinct and create a more people-friendly environment that stimulates the senses and imagination.”
</blockquote>

- Cian Davis, Director of Bates Smart

#4 LITTLE MILLER 

<figure><a href="/buildings/neighbourhood-10-16-little-miller-street-brunswick-east"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/littlemiller.jpg?itok=MosoOmoR" title="55-63 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East. Credit: Castran" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>55-63 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East. Credit: Castran</figcaption></figure>Developer Lucent teamed up with design trio ClarkeHopkinsClarke Architects, Breathe Architecture and Openwork Landscaping to put Brunswick East’s ‘<a href="/buildings/neighbourhood-10-16-little-miller-street-brunswick-east">Little Miller</a>’ on the map as one of Melbourne’s most sustainable residential developments to date. The sold-out apartment building has been awarded a 7.5 star average NatHERS thermal performance rating, and has been designed as a 100% fossil fuel free building. From induction cooktops and energy-saving LED light fittings, to rainwater tanks for irrigation and solar power, the environmentally conscious design makes use of natural resources without compromising luxurious living. Venture up to the rooftop and you’ll find a multi-functional garden featuring all kinds of plants and greenery, communal al fresco dining and even a ‘gin and tonic’ room surrounded by edible plants to make your own cocktails. 

<blockquote>
“What is labelled sustainable, is often just common sense. While we do design responsibly, we also design robust homes that just feel right.”
</blockquote>

- Toby Lauchlan, ClarkeHopkinsClarke

#5 THE GENERAL

<figure><a href="/buildings/the-general-421-high-street-northcote" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/thegeneral.jpg?itok=y6QNTC9S" title="421 High Street, Northcote. Credit: C.Kairouz &amp; Associates" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>421 High Street, Northcote. Credit: C.Kairouz &amp; Associates</figcaption></figure>What was once a small family butcher on Northcote’s High Street, has now become the site for '<a href="/buildings/the-general-421-high-street-northcote">The General</a>',  arguably one of Melbourne’s most exciting technological advancements in structural design to date. Architect Chahid Kairouz had a goal to transform the site of his family’s business into not only a sophisticated mid-rise apartment, but use the opportunity as a means to pioneer new technology with a sustainable focus in his late father’s honour.

<blockquote>
“It was extremely important to reflect my father’s values in the design of the general; not only for sentimental value but to stand the test of time in its design and its use of cutting-edge sustainable technology on the facade; a combination makes the building and the apartments be relevant for longer." 
</blockquote>

the general is Australia’s first ever residential building to use Onyx Solar photovoltaic glazing which works as both a balustrade and power source. The sustainable design also contains a 25,000 litre rainwater tank for flushing toilets, 137 bicycle parks and a green rooftop terrace.

THE  FUTURE

With temperatures on the rise and an endeavour to achieve a more sustainable society, the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects have called for increased investment in green infrastructure. <a href="/news/victorian-election-2018-aila-victoria-calls-for-increased-investment-in-green-infrastructure">Read the full article</a>. 

<blockquote>
“There is the need to prioritise landscapes and green infrastructure in the planning scheme to build a healthy, liveable city as Melbourne’s population grows steadily.”
</blockquote>

- Adrian Gray, Victorian Chapter president

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="312" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tallest-timber-tower-tokyo-japan-dezeen-col4.jpg?itok=SEiw0U5-" title="Timber high rise proposed for Tokyo. Credit: Dezeen" width="580"><figcaption>Timber high rise proposed for Tokyo. Credit: Dezeen</figcaption></figure>Could timber high-rises be a way forward? Following Japan’s proposal to build the world’s tallest wooden skyscraper, there has been discussion of the environmental benefits and low carbon footprint of building with wood. <a href="/news/the-cost-efficiency-of-mid-rise-timber-structures">Have your say here</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/verticalgardens.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="Futuristic vertical gardens. Credit: MAD Architects" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/verticalgardens.jpg?itok=OvEWziKr" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Futuristic vertical gardens. Credit: MAD Architects</figcaption></figure>What happens when you plant 150 trees and plants haphazardly across the face of an apartment complex? You get 150,000 litres of oxygen each hour, and 200,000 litres of carbon dioxide is absorbed per hour by night. Are we likely to see more vertical gardens on the rise in Melbourne? <a href="/news/exploring-the-merits-of-a-vertical-forest-has-it-a-lasting-place-in-melbourne">Learn more</a>.

<h2>Some sustainable Melbourne properties on the market right now:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29358]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22699]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22803]
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5 of Melbourne’s environmentally conscious new-development highlights

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This week I sit down to chat (and laugh) with Chris Eggleston and Johan Hermijanto from Bates Smart about the office's upcoming exhibition, Time + Space as part of Melbourne Design Week 2019.

The exhibition explores the design process, with a focus on the amount of time required to create space. Using the recently completed Club Stand designed by Bates Smart for Victoria Racing Club as a case study, the installation showcases a layered exploration of process and outcome.

Time + Space includes a sectional sculpture of The Club Stand paired with a timeline that provides an insider’s perspective into the meticulous approach to architectural and interior design process. The exhibition dissects both the spatial outcomes of the building itself and the project timeline, revealing the translation of vision into reality.

<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/bates_smart_time_space_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A mock up of the Time + Space exhibition. Image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bates_smart_time_space_01.jpg?itok=R_SS9vOR" title="A mock up of the Time + Space exhibition. Image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A mock up of the Time + Space exhibition. Image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>The exhibition will be open Thursday 14 to Saturday 16 March, and Thursday 21 to Saturday 23 March 2019 from 11am and 5pm at the Bates Smart Gallery located at Ground floor, 1 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne (entry off Albert Street). 
A special evening viewing will also take place on Thursday 21 March from 6pm to 9pm that invites the public to experience the gallery after hours.

Listen to the interview to get an insight into the background behind the TIme + Space exhibition.

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/586148007&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=true&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Laurence Dragomir

Podcast - Episode 47: Bates Smart's Chris Eggleston and Johan Hermijanto talk Melbourne Design Week

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This morning, City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp joined PDG Corporation’s Managing Director, Vince Giuliano at the former Munro site located adjacent to the Queen Victoria Market, to announce that demolition works onsite have commenced in earnest.

With builder Hamilton Marino at the helm, the City of Melbourne is starting construction on significant new community facilities, interconnecting laneways and a hotel and residential development adjacent to the iconic Queen Victoria Market market. The historic Mercat Cross Hotel facade on the corner of Queen and Therry streets will be retained, restored and integrated into the new development.

<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/munro_site_demo.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Demolition progress onsite at the Munro site. Image: Urban forum member redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/munro_site_demo.jpg?itok=9845an6g" title="Demolition progress onsite at the Munro site. Image: Urban forum member redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Demolition progress onsite at the Munro site. Image: Urban forum member redden</figcaption></figure>The City of Melbourne entered into an agreement with developer PDG Corporation after Council acquired the site in 2014, to develop a 120-place childcare centre, 56 affordable housing units, a community centre and kitchen and 500 basement car parks for market customers with an end value of $70 million. This will assist in making the market more accessible for shoppers and freeing up the current surface car parking site for a new ‘Market Square’.

The community component of the project has been designed by Six Degrees Architects who say it has been designed as an exemplar council development, with high ESD values and an exceptional emphasis on consultation with users and stakeholders. 
PDG will develop the balance of the site with a 40-storey residential tower accommodating 360 units and an 80-room hotel. According to architects Bates Smart, the tower has been designed to "maximise direct solar access and to provide natural ventilation to all apartments, thereby creating a model for high quality inner-city living within Melbourne."

Bates Smart took inspiration for the building’s façade from the fine grain texture of the market’s historic sheds and stalls providing the development with an appropriately contextual response.

<blockquote>
QVM Residences has been designed to be one of Australia’s most sustainable mixed-use developments. It will include a boutique hotel, fine grain retail and a limited number of apartments for sale.

The development draws on values of sustainability, health and modern design with the market’s legacy and Melbourne’s laneway culture serving as major points of inspiration. The result is a singular lifestyle offered to future residents, who will enjoy an incredible selection of vegetables, produce, delicacies and bespoke offerings at their door.

- PDG Corporation
</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/project-detail-gallery-qvm04.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the Munro development. Image: PDG Corporation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="412" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/project-detail-gallery-qvm04.jpg?itok=xKprE1zf" title="Artist's impression of the Munro development. Image: PDG Corporation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the Munro development. Image: PDG Corporation</figcaption></figure>The City of Melbourne will decide on the course of action to take with regard to the $250 million redevelopment of the Queen Victoria Market, following a series of recommendations put forward in a report prepared by the 'People's Panel.' The 40-person People's Panel comprises market traders, customers and local residents selected during an independent selection process. 

The City of Melbourne's Future Committee at its 10 December 2018 meeting resolved to request that management progresses seven recommendations, analyses three recommendations and refers a further three to QVM Pty Ltd for consideration.

<blockquote>
A report will now be prepared for a Council meeting in the first quarter of 2019 including analysis of the provision of market infrastructure at G Shed, car parking for vans, buses and large vehicles as well as further investigation of the minority report. 

In addition to the 500 car parks in Munro, management will investigate an additional 500 car parks in the precinct with the current at grade car park to become an open space once transitional parking there is no longer required.  The report will also consider implications to the Implementation Framework and Business Case.

- City of Melbourne
</blockquote>

The People's Panel Report can be viewed <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/SiteCollectionDocuments/qvm-peoples-panel-report.pdf">here</a>.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
We’re expecting 24,000 new residents in this area by 2040 so it’s essential we provide more community facilities and pedestrian friendly spaces to meet the needs of the growing population as well as encouraging more people to come to the market precinct.

We’re delivering a new network of interconnecting laneways featuring retail stores, cafes and restaurants. The popular street art precinct in Blender Lane will remain and the new community facilities will better connect the market precinct to the city.

We purchased this site from the Munro family five years ago to protect the market from inappropriate development and prevent a supermarket or large chain stores being built in direct competition to fresh food offerings of the Queen Vic Market.

We’ve made sure the Mercat Cross Hotel is incorporated as a central feature within the community facilities and the iconic sign and balcony will be a tribute to the site’s history

- Lord Mayor Sally Capp, City of Melbourne
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
PDG is delighted to achieve a significant milestone on this highly anticipated and vital project. The end result will be an exemplary mixed-use development that provides tremendous benefits to the community.

In collaboration with the City of Melbourne, we are now able to continue advancing Melbourne’s premier mixed-use project – a development that will be leading-edge for sustainability and liveability next door to Victoria’s most beloved and visited icon, Queen Victoria Market.

- Vince Giuliano, PDG Corporation Managing Director
</blockquote>

 Lead image: Original image courtesy of PDG Corporation
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Demolition in full swing at City of Melbourne's 'Munro site'

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<a href="/developers/cbus-property">Cbus Property</a> submitted a planning application on Thursday 20 December to the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) for its newest proposed iconic commercial precinct located at <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">435 Bourke Street, Melbourne</a>, which will amalgamate the existing 140 and <a href="/new-apartments/150-queen-street-melbourne">150 Queen Street</a>, 423 Bourke Street and 27 McKillop Street sites. Situated in the heart of <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne’s CBD</a> on the corner of Queen and Bourke Streets, Cbus Property has proposed a 55 level highly sustainable commercial project that will serve as a vertical village for more than 5,500 city workers.

Designed by <a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a>, the new $1Billion commercial project will introduce approximately 64,500 square metres of premium grade office space and create a new icon for Melbourne’s skyline on the corner of Queen and Bourke Streets. 435 Bourke Street will be a significant and pioneering project for the city that responds to a future Melbourne workforce, with sustainability, wellness, connection to nature and productivity emphasised in the building’s design and performance which includes multi vertical villages, outdoor terraces and dedicated wellness hub.

<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/435_bourke_st_cbus_property_external_hero_render_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="483" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/435_bourke_st_cbus_property_external_hero_render_1.jpg?itok=Y0Mf_54g" width="580"></a></figure><blockquote>
“The Property Council of Australia has predicted that Melbourne’s CBD will need an additional 4.4 million square metres of office space in the next two decades to cater for the projected workforce. Our vision for 435 Bourke Street will help meet this demand by providing a premium and performance based commercial solution focused on connectivity, wellbeing and environmentally sustainable design that will reinvigorate this precinct within the CBD.

Significant future urban renewal projects in the surrounding area mean this site will form part of a new centre point in the Hoddle Grid and will create a new and exciting standard for commercial office projects in Melbourne. The significance of the project’s location and the needs of a future city were integral to the project’s design, as well as ensuring planning controls were met and the development potential of the site optimised.”

- Adrian Pozzo, CEO of Cbus Property
</blockquote>

The project, which provides a holistic approach to citymaking, will include a 4-level flexible wellness hub on McKillop Street that will service 435 Bourke Street occupants and will also be accessible to the city community. This diverse space will include a retail offering, double height multi-function space for active wellness, flexible studio spaces and consulting rooms for passive wellness as well as a rooftop garden retail offering.

The tower’s sculptural form is broken down into four differentiated bundles at varying heights with curved floorplate edges providing a contemporary, soft geometric design, which also improves the building’s performance. The tower design twists and morphs above McKillop Street to allow for sunlight into communal spaces, including McKillop Street, and while functional in design it also gives the form uniqueness.

Drawing inspiration from the neighbouring ACA building and nature, the podium façade celebrates vertical proportions with masonry elements and an organic rib-like structure stretching the entire height of the podium.

<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/435_bourke_st_cbus_property_queen_st_podium_facade_render_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="580" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/435_bourke_st_cbus_property_queen_st_podium_facade_render_3.jpg?itok=aZz5EGyL" width="580"></a></figure><blockquote>
“435 Bourke Street provides a holistic approach to citymaking through its architectural and urban strategy. The tower’s sculptural design, combined with its emphasis on wellbeing in the workplace, will create a new paradigm for commercial projects in Melbourne. Due to its prominent corner site location, we were focussed on ensuring the typology of the building contributes to the overall experience of the city. An elegant and engaging landmark, the tower will create a world-class and innovative commercial environment, promoting both creativity and interaction for one of the world’s most liveable cities.

The building’s design references the neighbouring streetscape and is crafted to be more organic in form, aspiring to enliven the precinct and create a more people-friendly environment that stimulates the senses and imagination."

- Cian Davis, Director of Bates Smart
</blockquote>

The proposed tower will feature six different landscaped terraces throughout, providing places for occupants to gather and socialise. The significant 200 square metre sky terrace on level 53 will provide a unique vantage point with an outlook over the Yarra River and CBD landmarks such as the MCG and Port Phillip Bay. The tower will also include premium end-of-trip facilities that are akin to a hospitality experience.

An ideally located commercial village, 435 Bourke Street is located within close proximity to iconic Melbourne landmarks such as Block Arcade, the Royal Arcade and Bourke Street Mall, as well as amenity such as Melbourne’s retail laneways and the ‘W’ Hotel at Collins Arch, all of which are within walking distance.

Subject to planning approval, Cbus Property is intending to launch 435 Bourke Street to market in early 2019 and construction is expected to commence in 2019.

<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/435_bourke_st_cbus_property_mckillop_st_wellness_hub_render_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="514" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/435_bourke_st_cbus_property_mckillop_st_wellness_hub_render_4.jpg?itok=g8DTVXpT" width="580"></a></figure>
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Cbus Property

Cbus Property Submits Planning Application for its Landmark 435 Bourke Street Site

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Stage 1 of Greenland Australia's nbh at Lachlan’s Line in the north-west Sydney suburb of <a href="/new-apartments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> has officially topped out, with the developer hosting a ‘topping out’ ceremony to mark the occasion.

Signifying the structural completion of the highest floor within the development, the ceremony was hosted on top of the 17-storey Nexus building with key representatives from <a href="/developers/greenland-australia">Greenland Australia</a>, project builders Ganellen, and other project consultants in attendance.

The first stage of the $220m master-planned project, designed by <a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a>, comprises 592 apartments spanning four towers of 17, 14, 14 and 11 storeys and supported by 5,000 sqm of retail space.

The development’s residential towers – known as Habitat, Hideaway, Hearth and Nexus – will wrap around the future Lachlan’s Square, which is set to become the community’s key retail destination, lined with supermarkets, food emporiums and essential services, as well as day care and playground facilities for young families. 

<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/nbh_construction_progress.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="nbh at Lachlan's Line progress. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nbh_construction_progress.jpg?itok=Pe1v7YNg" title="nbh at Lachlan's Line progress. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>nbh at Lachlan's Line progress. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Macquarie Park’s strong business community and central location means it is fast becoming one of Sydney’s most sought-after residential suburbs.

The area is well serviced by major transport connections such as the nearby North Ryde Metro Station, which is only 200 metres from site, with nbh residents to have direct access to the CBD via the Metro when it reopens for business in mid-2019, courtesy of a new footbridge which is being built by Landcom.

Frequent bus services also run along the Epping Road corridor, and ultimately, these transport links will used by over 12,500 residents in the new Macquarie Park, which is set to become a highly connected urban village with a bright and promising future. Ganellen have been exceptional to work with and their team has ensured this project has remained on or ahead of schedule throughout.

The standard of their build is first-rate and will be integral in ensuring ‘nbh at Lachlan’s Line’ is a highly desirable community for the people of north-west Sydney when it completes in the second half of 2019.

- Sherwood Luo, Greenland Australia’s Managing Director
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
For a global Fortune 500 company such as Greenland to adapt and grow into the Australian market in such a short time is impressive.The relationship we have developed with Greenland Australia ensures our teams remain on track for an early completion, just as we did on Greenland’s Primus Hotel project in the Sydney CBD.

This success is a credit to Greenland and their ability to work dynamically with us at a local level, despite their global scale and footprint.

- Peter Maneas, Ganellen CEO
</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/nbh_topping_out_nexus_building_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Representatives from the project team at the topping out ceremony. Image"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nbh_topping_out_nexus_building_1.jpg?itok=lZIh3XFc" title="Representatives from the project team at the topping out ceremony. Image" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Representatives from the project team at the topping out ceremony. Image</figcaption></figure>
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