Just a few months after acquiring a prime Broadbeach site on the corner of First Avenue and Surf Parade, family-run developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/raptis">Raptis</a> has filed fresh plans for a new apartment development.

Raptis is seeking to deliver a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-19-first-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4217">29-storey tower with 73 apartments</a> on the 818 sqm site. It will be the developer's seventh project in the suburb, as they are approaching completion of The Sterling on George Avenue.

There will be a pool, barbecue and outdoor dining area, residents lounge and dining, sauna and steam room, gym, and a Yoga and Pilates studio.

<img alt="Raptis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b554da3f-7344-49aa-b1c9-44cf459af0d7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%2010.41.45%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zzjWu1iO1wnuYv4EV4fyOyf5nSXjGYut" />

Raptis Joint Managing Director, Evan Raptis, says they remain&nbsp;committed to developing quality infill sites across the Gold Coast in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

"This project continues our long track record of delivery in Broadbeach, and we look forward to bringing another premium development to this thriving precinct."

The announcement follows strong delivery momentum for Raptis, with The Sterling Broadbeach nearing completion and construction well underway on the final stage of the Waterpoint community adjacent to Harbour Town. The developer's continued investment in the Gold Coast reflects confidence in the region's apartment market fundamentals, underpinned by sustained Southeast Queensland population growth.&nbsp;

The outlook for the region is further bolstered by infrastructure investment tied to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, which is expected to drive continued economic and population growth across the SEQ corridor.&nbsp;

Subject to a favourable response from Gold Coast City Council, construction on the new First Avenue tower is targeted to commence before the end of 2026.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/it-s-all-in-the-family-four-decades-later-raptis-continues-to-shape-the-gold-coast-skyline">It’s all in the family: Four decades later, Raptis continues to shape the Gold Coast skyline</a>

Read more: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/raptis-secures-prime-surf-parade-site-for-next-broadbeach-apartment-development">Raptis secures prime Surf Parade site for next Broadbeach apartment development</a> 
&nbsp;

Gold Coast developer brings seventh Broadbeach project to market, targeting construction commencement before year end

Joel Robinson

First look: Raptis lodges plans for new 29-storey Broadbeach tower 

Brisbane development veteran Kevin Seymour's Seymour Group is set to deepen its presence on one of Brisbane's most tightly held riverfront addresses, lodging revised plans for a luxury apartment development on Oxlade, just a few doors down from The Oxlade, which it completed in 2024.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/70-72-oxlade-drive-new-farm-qld-4005">new project at 70-72 Oxlade Drive</a>, directly north of The Oxlade, will have 27 apartments across a seven-storey building&nbsp;overlooking the Brisbane River and Merthyr Park. It's a revision from a 2021-approved design.

Designed by bureau^proberts, the project has evolved from the previously approved 26-apartment scheme, introducing an additional penthouse level while maintaining a low-density, boutique character. The development will comprise 26 three-bedroom apartments and a single four-bedroom penthouse, supported by two basement levels with 86 car spaces and 34 bicycle spaces.

The architectural response is centred around two distinct building forms separated by a landscaped open-air atrium.&nbsp;"This dual composition captures and embraces Brisbane’s subtropical environment whilst breaking down built form and scale," the submission to the Brisbane City Council noted.

<img alt="First look: Seymour Group returns to Oxlade Drive with revised riverfront apartment plans in New Farm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c12d84d0-bc11-4067-b46f-5bd2d786a34d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/new%20farm%20landscape.png?VersionId=YEPc2k5CAdh6aAPlu4uVpgZadh4MEfRd" />

A defining feature of the design is a deep landscaped void running through the centre of the building, creating what bureau^proberts describes as a "natural ravine" that enhances airflow, daylight penetration and resident amenity. The design report notes that the separation of the two building volumes is intended to maximise natural light, cross-ventilation and outlook while strengthening connections to the surrounding riverfront setting.

Curved balcony edges, integrated planting and extensive landscaping throughout the façade reinforce the subtropical design approach. The building's façade is softened by elevated gardens and planter beds, creating a green edge that complements the established landscape character of Oxlade Drive and neighbouring Merthyr Park.

New Farm has become one of Brisbane's most sought-after suburbs for developers delivering premium downsizer-focused apartments.

GRAYA has been particularly active in the precinct, completing both Chalk and York in recent years, while construction of Moray House, being delivered for Spyre, is now nearing completion. Architect-turned-developer Joe Adsett recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/arcilla-new-farm-by-joe-adsett-28-maxwell-street-new-farm-qld-4005">Arcilla on Maxwell Street</a>, an exclusive collection of just nine apartments.

First look: Seymour Group returns to New Farm's Oxlade Drive with riverfront apartment plans

A new residential tower will be the first piece of a broader mixed-use precinct set to reshape a prominent Newcastle West site, with local developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> bringing its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cambridge-quarter-newcastle-west-12-denison-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Cambridge Quarter</a> vision to market.

The first release, Tempo, will introduce 87 apartments across a 24-storey tower, marking Stage 1 of the residential component of a larger urban regeneration project planned for the western end of Newcastle's city centre, encompassing the former Cambridge Hotel site.

Positioned on Denison Street, Tempo has been designed as the inaugural building within Cambridge Quarter, a precinct that will ultimately combine apartments, retail activation and revitalised public spaces including the revamping of the Cambridge Hotel.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368856]

The tower will comprise a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including layouts with multipurpose rooms, catering to a broad cross-section of owner-occupiers. Apartment sizes range from around 60 sqm to 192 sqm, with a number of residences oriented to capture views across Newcastle Harbour, the city skyline and coastline.

GWH has emphasised liveability in the design, with open-plan layouts extending to generous balconies and terraces. Residents will have a choice of two interior palettes, while specifications include engineered stone benchtops, SMEG appliances, full-height bathroom tiling and secure building access. Premium upgrade packages will also be available

Multiple rooftop resident retreats will provide communal outdoor space overlooking the harbour and city, offering an elevated amenity layer above the activity of the precinct below.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368851]

The broader Cambridge Quarter vision extends beyond the residential tower itself. Ground-level retail activation and landscaped public areas are planned throughout the precinct, creating a walkable neighbourhood environment connected to the surrounding renewal of Newcastle West. The Cambridge Hotel is also earmarked for future redevelopment into a family-friendly hospitality venue integrated with the new precinct.

The project is strategically positioned within walking distance of Newcastle Interchange, providing access to light rail, regional rail services and direct connections to Sydney. Residents will also be close to Honeysuckle, Newcastle Harbour and the city's beaches and coastal walkways.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368852]

For GWH, Cambridge Quarter represents one of its most significant Newcastle developments to date. The locally based developer, which has operated in the Hunter region since 1995, describes the project as a new chapter in the ongoing transformation of Newcastle West.

GWH Executive Director Jonathan Craig said the project had been shaped by a focus on creating lasting community connections.

"We take pride in creating places that last. Spaces where people feel connected, comfortable and a genuine sense of belonging," Craig said.

"Cambridge Quarter is something we are truly proud of, a place shaped by local knowledge, built with care and designed to be part of Newcastle's next chapter."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135876]

GWH unveils first release at landmark Cambridge Quarter precinct in Newcastle West

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Projects</a>,&nbsp;Rainbow Bay's busiest developer,&nbsp;has officially lodged plans for the largest development in its booming local portfolio, seeking approval for a further 88 apartments on Boundary Street.

The proposal&nbsp;at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">209–213 Boundary Street, Coolangatta</a>,&nbsp;marks the next chapter in the developer's transformation of the southern Gold Coast beachside precinct. It will be its fifth in the area, having already delivered Flow, Awaken and Esprit, while construction continues on the 38-apartment Radia. The new project would rise 57 metres above a consolidated 1,518 sqm site, on the same street as Radia and Esprit.

&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, the proposed development comprises 88 two and three-bedroom apartments across a contemporary podium-and-tower form that integrates extensive landscaping from street level through to the rooftop.

The tower would be delivered above a basement and multi-level podium accommodating resident and visitor parking, with the residential component commencing from level three. The design incorporates cascading planting throughout the façade, landscaped podium edges, and deep planting zones along the Boundary Street frontage.

<img alt="First look: S&amp;S Projects lodges plans for 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="677e6615-b5c0-4b6c-b4f9-efb14fcde1a6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ss%20da%20pers.png?VersionId=YOnPKQm7IFXv0M5H326djEpxk80500Hi" />

A key feature of the development is its expansive rooftop wellness and recreation precinct. Plans reveal a resort-style pool deck, gymnasium, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, rooftop terraces, barbecue areas and landscaped relaxation spaces positioned to capture views across the southern Gold Coast coastline.

The rooftop wellness focus builds on the vision S&amp;S Projects first outlined when it acquired the site for $20.25 million last year.

"We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden," S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun said at the time.

The proposal seeks a 57-metre building height, representing a 50 per cent uplift on the site's mapped 38-metre height limit. Planning documents argue the additional height is consistent with recently approved and emerging towers in the immediate Boundary Street and Rainbow Bay precinct.

Urbis, acting as planning consultant, said the development would provide "88 dwellings, comprising a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments, contributing to housing choice and supply within an established medium to high-rise coastal urban neighbourhood."

The scheme has undergone extensive pre-lodgement consultation with the City of Gold Coast, with the design refined following feedback relating to architectural expression, landscaping, traffic access and podium treatment.

<img alt="S&amp;S" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a2d70fd-62ac-4b83-97c6-b798fc1243dd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%209.16.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=yHmghUwKM3IVGpBktQU1mE.0Lpf3WimG" />

The architectural team is led by Brisbane-based Cottee Parker, one of Australia's most active residential design studios, with landscape architecture by Dunn + Moran. The consultant team also includes ADG Engineers, Windtech and Acoustic Works.

S&amp;S Projects has become one of the most influential private developers operating on the southern Gold Coast. Since entering Rainbow Bay in 2022, the company has assembled a portfolio exceeding $1 billion in end value, establishing itself as a key player in the area's evolution into a premium apartment destination. Pezet Matheson will again handle the sales for S&amp;S.

Coolangatta is entering another wave of apartment development, following the delivery of several prominent residential projects in recent years.

John Kearney's Immerse Projects will launch&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kaiya-kirra-beach-5-haig-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Kaiya on Haig Street</a>&nbsp;soon, meanwhile, Palm Beach-based Sherpa Property Group is preparing to bring its debut Coolangatta development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, to market later this year, subject to approvals.

First look: S&S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street

A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Blockhead

<html><body>
Apartments.com.au celebrated its second birthday this month. This is an opportune time to reflect on the past two years and look to the future.

With that in mind, let's take a trip down memory lane with some of my concept designs for various sites around Melbourne.

Following this, I will open the floor to our readers to suggest ideas or concepts they'd like to see for a site or building; for example, Central Pier or development over the railyards at Southern Cross.

<h2>Station Pier concept</h2>

<blockquote>
The idea is the development would act as a gateway for visitors arriving via sea (standing out from a distance) while also activating what is an otherwise series of 'dead' spaces. The concept won't appeal to all but hopefully it serves its purpose in provoking thought for a complex that could be so much more.
</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/montage_01_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Station pier concept © Urban.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="353" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/montage_01_11.jpg?itok=AtchEiUw" title="Station pier concept © Urban.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Station pier concept © Apartments.com.au</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li><a href="/news/blockhead-concept-pier-ing-into-the-future">Blockhead concept: Pier-ing into the future</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>447 Collins Street concept</h2>

<blockquote>
The concept for Market Square, located at 447 Collins Street investigates the possibility of redeveloping the former National Mutual Plaza into a bustling urban oasis in the middle of the Melbourne CBD, that in part pays homage to the site's previous life as the Western Market.
</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/03_2_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="447 Collins Street concept © Urban.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="231" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/03_2_0.jpg?itok=odQlkJc1" title="447 Collins Street concept © Urban.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>447 Collins Street concept © Apartments.com.au</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li><a href="/news/blockhead-concept-447-collins-street-market-square">Blockhead concept: 447 Collins Street / Market Square</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>QVM Precinct concept</h2>

<blockquote>
Like most sequels, no-one really asked for it, but I went ahead and decided to produce one anyway. Without further ado here's the highly anticipated "This little piggy went to a different market", focusing on everyone's favourite, the Queen Victoria Market.
</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/qvm_04_0.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Queen Victoria Market concept © Urban.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="297" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/qvm_04_0.png?itok=nBzCN7ta" title="Queen Victoria Market concept © Urban.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queen Victoria Market concept © Apartments.com.au</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li><a href="/news/this-little-piggy-went-to-a-different-market-probably-on-foot">This little piggy went to a different market (probably on foot)</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>What to do with Waterfront City</h2>

<blockquote>
From the moment of its conception, Waterfront City has struggled with an identity crisis of sorts; it's part entertainment precinct and part shopping precinct with no real unifying theme. Bearing that in mind today's piece constitutes the first part of a series of articles looking at ways of improving the look and usability of the precinct.
</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/waterfront_city_park.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Waterfront City concept © Urban.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="299" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/waterfront_city_park.jpg?itok=HDitirbc" title="Waterfront City concept © Urban.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Waterfront City concept © Apartments.com.au</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li><a href="/expert-insights/buying/what-to-do-with-waterfront-city-part-one">What to do with Waterfront City? (part one)</a></li>
	<li><a href="/expert-insights/buying/what-to-do-with-waterfront-city-part-two">What to do with Waterfront City? (part two)</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>Brunswick Market concept</h2>

<blockquote>
The strategy behind the plan is simple: live local, grow local, buy local - a self sustained village of sorts. The market traders could live within any one of the 5 apartment buildings or shop top homes, the fruit and vegetables would be grown on-site and sold on site, with the Brunswick Market housed in a new building fronting Sydney Road, integrated with an urban farm to the rear that spills out onto Florence Lane (nee Street).
</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/03_laneway_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Brunswick Market concept © Urban.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="247" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/03_laneway_01.jpg?itok=k7PJkkjw" title="Brunswick Market concept © Urban.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Brunswick Market concept © Apartments.com.au</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li><a href="/news/blockhead-concept-this-little-piggy-went-to-market-on-his-fixie">Blockhead concept: this little piggy went to market (on his fixie)</a></li>
</ul>
​So which site should we devise a concept for next?
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

Have your say: which site should Urban.com.au devise a concept for next?

<html><body>
This time last year I wrote an article called "<a href="/news/blockhead-concept-this-little-piggy-went-to-market-on-his-fixie">This little piggy went to market (on his fixie)</a>" which investigated (on a purely conceptual level) redeveloping the Brunswick Market site @ 661 Sydney Road into a mixed-use village.

Like most sequels, no-one really asked for it, but I went ahead and decided to produce one anyway. Without further ado here's the highly anticipated "This little piggy went to a different market", focusing on everyone's favourite, the Queen Victoria Market.

As most readers would know, the City of Melbourne have made their intentions clear in the past year regarding the market's renewal: creating one of the world's great market experiences. City of Melbourne are currently pushing ahead with phase two of their community consultation process, covered in <a href="/news/unesco-world-heritage-listing-for-the-vic">an earlier article</a>.

Based on some of the guiding principles illustrated below, I've put together a concept for the site with a focus on the new public space and southern development site.

<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/Image2vmarket_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queen Victoria Market Planning Strategy. © City of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="695" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2vmarket_0.jpg?itok=jvk9iWQI" title="Queen Victoria Market Planning Strategy. © City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

I've kept it rather broad and conceptual, to nut out the finer details and design it correctly would take more time than I can presently afford.

Put simply it's an idea around a series of new glazed and timber sheds which house various programs (such as nurseries, a community veggie patch, microbrewery and TAFE) bordering a large public space, featuring a mix of soft and hard landscaping.

For the new development to the south, I've kept the buildings which interface with the Queen, Franklin and William Streets to maximum height of eight levels. Predominantly residential in use they are clad in a mix of timber, masonry and off-form concrete with retail at ground level. A new laneway off Franklin Street snakes its way through the site and out on to Queen Street.

To the south of the laneway sits 18-storey and 80-storey buildings of mixed uses; the taller of which is loosely based on a shard-like reinterpretation of DCM's unbuilt Building 4 at the former Carlton Brewery site.

And with that I shall let you all (hopefully) enjoy these conceptual images:

<dl>
<dt><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/QVM_01_1.png" rel="gallery-all" title="New development to Peel &amp; Franklin Streets. © Laurence Dragomir"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="241" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/QVM_01_1.png?itok=vijLeMYL" title="New development to Peel &amp; Franklin Streets. © Laurence Dragomir" width="580"></a></dt>
	<dd>New development to Peel &amp; Franklin Streets. © Laurence Dragomir</dd>
	<dt><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/QVM_02.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Plaza view looking west along new Franklin St. © Laurence Dragomir"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="239" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/QVM_02.png?itok=ByAJeeNw" title="Plaza view looking west along new Franklin St. © Laurence Dragomir" width="580"></a></dt>
	<dd>Plaza view looking west along new Franklin St. © Laurence Dragomir</dd>
	<dt><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/QVM_04_0.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial view of north end and market precinct. © Laurence Dragomir"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="297" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/QVM_04_0.png?itok=DUmF24LZ" title="Aerial view of north end and market precinct. © Laurence Dragomir" width="580"></a></dt>
	<dd>Aerial view of north end and market precinct. © Laurence Dragomir</dd>
	<dt><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/tower_0.png" rel="gallery-all" title="300m tower - drawing cues from DCM's unbuilt Brewery tower. © Laurence Dragomir"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="286" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tower_0.png?itok=6P6MpAmb" title="300m tower - drawing cues from DCM's unbuilt Brewery tower. © Laurence Dragomir" width="580"></a></dt>
	<dd>300m tower - drawing cues from DCM's unbuilt Brewery tower. © Laurence Dragomir</dd>
	<dt><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/QVM_03a.png" rel="gallery-all" title="View of new development from Queen Street. © Laurence Dragomir"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="167" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/QVM_03a.png?itok=FyLk9orc" title="View of new development from Queen Street. © Laurence Dragomir" width="580"></a></dt>
	<dd>View of new development from Queen Street. © Laurence Dragomir</dd>
	<dt><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/QVM_03.png" rel="gallery-all" title="View looking east along Franklin Street with skyline in the distance. © Laurence Dragomir"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="237" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/QVM_03.png?itok=5V7tSACP" title="View looking east along Franklin Street with skyline in the distance. © Laurence Dragomir" width="580"></a></dt>
	<dd>View looking east along Franklin Street with skyline in the distance. © Laurence Dragomir</dd>
</dl>
</body></html>

This little piggy went to a different market (probably on foot)

<html><body>
Following on from <a href="/news/the-pencil-skyscraper-464-collins-street-in-depth#content" target="_blank">Mark's comprehensive article on the development at 464 Collins Street yesterday</a>, I have the privilege of providing you all with a follow up article aptly named "How do you solve a problem like 464?" More specifically I am referring to the sheer concrete wall abutting the western boundary of the site, broken up only by two slivers of glazing; a pet hate of the Apartments.com.au crew.

464 Collins Street is not alone in this regard and this article should in no way be construed as an attack on the building or project architect Bates Smart for that matter, whose work I generally admire. Rather the intent is to highlight what we consider to be a problem that is becoming more prevalent with new buildings along shared boundaries - the dreaded blank wall.

This commonly occurs on smaller city sites housing residential towers designed to achieve the maximum yield or commercial towers with a side core arrangement hoping to maximise floor plate efficiency. As a result of this insatiable need for more and more apartments/office space in the city coupled with Floor Space Ratios unofficially going out the window (pun definitely intended) some time ago, means setbacks from boundaries are becoming somewhat of an endangered species. This basically limits the possibility of any windows to habitable rooms along the site's boundary and you guessed it we're left with a blank wall.

<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/eEYx88.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Star &amp; Sky as seen from Elizabeth Street. Image credit Ryan Seychell."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/eEYx88.jpg?itok=zlWF4NEh" title="Melbourne Star &amp; Sky as seen from Elizabeth Street. Image credit Ryan Seychell." typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Star &amp; Sky as seen from Elizabeth Street. Image credit Ryan Seychell.</figcaption></figure>The most recent crop of buildings to be adorned with this must have architectural accessory are Melbourne's answer to Mary-Kate &amp; Ashley Olsen (better known as Melbourne Star and Melbourne Sky above), developed by Brady Group and designed by Peddle Thorp Architects. Both buildings' service cores are located to the east and west boundaries of the greater site, the towers only being separated (just) by Sutherland Lane.

Consequently a pedestrian walking along Elizabeth Street is presented with a great big blank wall making up about 50% of the eastern elevation, a sliver of glass, and a facade nominal setback consisting of a series of windows and balconies which will lose any amenity that they may currently have once the adjoining site is redeveloped.

Melbourne Star &amp; Sky highlight the problem developers and architects on tight sites have to contend with perfectly; you either build all the way to the boundary and have no windows or you setback a minimal distance (usually 1.5m) and risk the loss of what natural light and means of ventilation those apartments possess to any future 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/08jj.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="464 Collins with a kinetic energy facade applied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/08jj.jpg?itok=LZIS6Wlj" title="464 Collins with a kinetic energy facade applied" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>464 Collins with a kinetic energy facade applied</figcaption></figure>So just what can be done with a blank concrete wall along a shared boundary considering there's the possibility that at some point in the not-too-distant future another building will cover cover the precast facade. Using 464 Collins Street as my subject I had a crack at some potential treatments for the blank concrete wall to the west. While the urban art and embossed precast make grand visual statements that may fall foul of planning authorities, the kinetic energy facade strikes a balance between subtle visual interest and intense facade activation.

Consisting of small aluminum tiles bound by lengths of wire, the facade treatment seems fluid, reacting to wind movement in a constantly changing manner providing an interface between built form and the natural environment. Current examples include <a href="http://www.uap.com.au/art/infrastructure/brisbane-domestic-terminal-car-park/" target="_blank">Brisbane Airport's car park</a> and Marina Bay Sands Singapore. The beauty of such a facade application is that when required it could be easily removed utilising 464 Collins Street's building mechanical unit with minimal fuss.

Ultimately though once again it's a matter of heightened planning policy and enforcement; I wouldn't be holding my breathe...

Click for a larger view and enjoy the renders including some context shots!
</body></html>

How do you solve a problem like 464?

<html><body>
A lot has happened since my last concept article (<a href="/news/blockhead-concept-this-little-piggy-went-to-market-on-his-fixie">This Little Piggy went to Market (on his fixie)</a>): Kevin Rudd is now Prime Minister, Australia has lost The Ashes but is fighting for respect, The Maroons are State of Origin champions and Hawthorn lost to Geelong while Essendon has run out of steam yet again.

All the while I've been lying in bed at night thinking about Station Pier, Port Melbourne. This article forms part of a series of articles focusing on Port Melbourne's past, present and future. As the name suggests I'll be focusing on a possible future for at least part of the site.

I may revisit the pier itself for another article at some stage, however I have decided to focus on the area highlighted in red below, closest to Waterfront Place.

<figure><img alt="" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/pictures/article-images/Existing%20site%20plan.jpg"></figure>My concept for the site consists of seven parts as seen on the map below:

<figure><img alt="" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/pictures/article-images/site%20plan_edit-01_1.jpg"></figure><ol>
<li>A museum and visitor centre focusing on the history of the pier</li>
	<li>A raised sloping park with public parking underneath, replacing the current open air car park and nature strip</li>
	<li>New paved square</li>
	<li>Overpass and raised public concourse allowing for courier/truck access through and underneath the development</li>
	<li>8-storey apartment building with retail at ground and concourse levels + 2 rooftop gardens and pergola structure</li>
	<li>55-storey Hotel and apartments with retail and commercial space at ground and concourse levels + garden on rooftop</li>
	<li>65-storey apartment tower atop a 3-storey shared podium, retail at ground and concourse levels</li>
</ol>
While the height of the towers may be significantly beyond any other development in the area, they sit to the south of the existing residential area and west of the beach; overshadowing of the beach only really occurring late in the afternoon, which particularly in summer, might not be such a bad thing. As per previous concepts dreamt up for Apartments.com.au, I have tried to provide a reasonable balance between private and public spaces.

The idea is the development would act as a gateway for visitors arriving via sea (standing out from a distance) while also activating what is an otherwise series of 'dead' spaces. The concept won't appeal to all, but hopefully it serves its purpose in provoking thought for a complex that could be so much more.

Hope you enjoy the images below, click for them for a full screen view.
</body></html>

Blockhead Concept - Pier-ing into the future

<html><body>
Following <a href="/news/anstey-in-colour">Anstey in Colour</a> and <a href="/news/anstey-in-development">Anstey in Development</a>, the final instalment is… "This little piggy went to market (on his fixie)". Today we look at Brunswick Market (661 Sydney Road), its immediate derelict neighbours on Florence Street and the potential development opportunities that exist within the precinct.

The strategy covers a number sites, which are but a short stroll or fixie ride from Anstey Station and Sydney Road. See Google Maps image below, with site highlighted in a rich shade of Brunswick Green.

<figure><img alt="" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/pictures/article-images/Site.jpg"></figure>As John Batman once declared on the banks of the Yarra, to whomever was listening "This is the place for a village!" So too do we at Apartments.com.au decree that this is "the place for a village!"

The strategy behind the plan is simple: live local, grow local, buy local - a self sustained village of sorts. The market traders could live within any one of the 5 apartment buildings or shop top homes, the fruit and vegetables would be grown on-site and sold on site, with the Brunswick Market housed in a new building fronting Sydney Road, integrated with an urban farm to the rear that spills out onto Florence Lane (nee Street).

<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/05_overall%20aerial_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Anstey Village overview"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="263" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/05_overall%20aerial_0.jpg?itok=hWLqsZqT" title="Anstey Village overview" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Anstey Village overview</figcaption></figure><h2>Key features</h2>

<ul>
<li>A rebuillt Brunswick Market.</li>
	<li>A Multi-storey urban market housed within a glass house.</li>
	<li>5 apartment buildings ranging in height starting from 3 storeys fronting Sydney Road and rising to 13-storeys facing Breese St, employing a variety of materials to break down the visual mass and create an identity for each tower element.</li>
	<li>The pedestrianising of Florence Street with a strong interface between it and the new market / multi-storey urban farm.</li>
	<li>Shoptop housing along Florence Lane with a mix of retail spilling onto the laneway with plenty of bicycle parking.</li>
	<li>An expansive rooftop park.</li>
	<li>North facing sky gardens interspered between apartments.</li>
</ul>
Whereas my last renders for <a href="/news/the-future-of-vertical-farms-in-melbourne">integrated vertical farming</a> were more about exploring a notion, Brunswick Village is certainly a more viable commercial concept. Regardless of whether the site is owned by state, private of institutional interests the concept could proceed given the acquisition of a minimal number of adjoining sites.

Without burdening readers with a thorough business case, development would roll out as follows. The current vacant carpark would be developed initially, with profits from residential unit and retail space sales to fund the still running market redevelopment. Stage two involves redeveloping the market space fronting Sydney Road to the north of Florence Street. The new market would move into this area and stage three would see the remainder developed, delivering additional multi-stotey urban market space along with a signature circular residential building.

There you have it, the potential to deliver a redeveloped market with improved urban outcomes whilst having the market run continually in some way, shape or form throughout the construction process.

Next up is a <a href="/news/blockhead-concept-pier-ing-into-the-future">revamped Station Pier</a>. Feel free to leave your suggestions as to what you'ld like to see next. Enjoy the images below.
</body></html>

Blockhead concept - This little piggy went to market (on his fixie)

<html><body>
Earlier this year I travelled to the United States for work purposes, a great experience even though I swapped my shorts for snow and icy footpaths. Through my travels I managed to visit the Museum of Science and Industry (www.msichicago.org) in Chicago. In and amongst some impressive displays I stumbled across the Fast Forward - Inventing the Future exhibition which displayed some of the "usual suspects" when it came to western humanity's view of the future like bendy phones and robots that can make you breakfast. 
The one display that particularly resonated with me described the benefits of using vertical farming through inner city areas to help tackle the world's food production problems. <a href="http://www.mailman.columbia.edu/our-faculty/profile?uni=ddd1" target="_blank">Dr. Dickson Despommier</a> has been a vocal advocate of this method of farming and given his background as an ecologist, microbiologist and Professor of Public Health and Environmental Health Sciences at Columbia University - I'd say his opinion carries substantial oomph.
The issues involved are complex and significant. Through Despommier's website <a href="http://www.verticalfarm.com" target="_blank">www.verticalfarm.com</a>, it's estimated that by 2050 nearly 80% of the world's population will be living in urban areas.
Consequently to feed the additional 3 billion people, current practices would require an additional agricultural land equivelant to 20% the size of Brazil. Assuming current trends continue there may well be a shortfall in required resources yet through the use of vertical farming a partial, yet highly sustainable solution is in the offing.
Advantages with vertical farming include:
<ul>
<li>
		Year round crop production; 1 indoor acre is equivalent to 4-6 outdoor acres, depending on the crop. For example, 1 indoor acre of strawberries is equivalent to 30 outdoor acres;</li>
	<li>
		Crop issues relating to weather and pests become redundant;</li>
	<li>
		All food grown in vertical farms are organic;</li>
	<li>
		Vertical farming eliminates agricultural runoff by recycling black water;</li>
	<li>
		Vertical farming eliminates the use of agricultural land for growing crops;</li>
	<li>
		Greatly reduced incidence of many infectious diseases associated with the agricultural interface;</li>
	<li>
		Vertical farming converts black and grey water into potable water by collectiong the water of evapotranspiration;</li>
	<li>
		Vertical farming adds energy back to the grid via methane generation from composting non-edible parts of plants and animals;</li>
	<li>
		Dramatic reduction in fossil fuel use (no tractors, plows, shipping);</li>
	<li>
		Conversion of abandoned urban properties into food production centres;</li>
	<li>
		Creation of sustainable environments for urban centres;</li>
	<li>
		Creation of new economic and employment opportunities;</li>
</ul>
So how could this be applied to Melbourne? Resident renderer Laurence Dragomir of Blockhead has used the former Savoy Tavern site on the corner of Bourke and Spencer Streets as our test site to demonstate how a mixed-use vertical farm and residential tower in Melbourne may look like (if we had lots of money and could defy gravity...).  
The concept shown below proposes a tower comprising a 15 storey high public market hall at the corner of Bourke and Spencer Streets, north facing terraced community gardens and a communal urban farm. An atrium runs the height of the building.
While whimsical in its nature, the scheme demonstrates the sustainable direction that buildings should pursue. There is no doubt that in the future governments must consider the use of vertical farming and other efficient practices as a legitimate way of sustaining the planet's growing population.
If greater Melbourne continues to gobble up potential farming land for detached houses and increased urban sprawl, then we will reach a point where the financial and environmental cost of sustaining our population could spiral.
On a smaller scale, a number of restaurants around Melbourne are growing a lot of their own plant based produce in house which is great, but we need to think about facilitating this in a far larger scale.
We pride ourselves as a great food city, let's pride ourselves on being a great sustainable food city. Utilising vertical farm technology would go a long way in achieving that goal.
 
Sources and Further reading 
http://www.verticalfarm.com/
http://www.economist.com/node/17647627
http://www.msichicago.org/whats-here/exhibits/fastforward/
</body></html>

flame

The future of vertical farms in Melbourne

<html><body>
Market Square is the first in a series of articles I will be writing for Apartments.com.au that will be looking at the adaptation, regeneration and development of buildings, structures and sites through conceptual interventions in the form of pretty pictures.

The concept for Market Square, located at 447 Collins Street investigates the possibility of redeveloping the former National Mutual Plaza into a bustling urban oasis in the middle of the Melbourne CBD, that in part pays homage to the site's previous life as the Western Market.

The idea came about after a panel on the Godfrey and Spowers designed building came <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/concrete-slab-falls-10-storeys-20120130-1qp08" target="_blank">crashing down</a> in January 2012. Following which, owner's ISPT engaged consultants Aurecon to complete an assessment of the structural integrity of the tower and its facade.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/03_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A bustling urban oasis in the middle of the Melbourne CBD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/03_2.jpg?itok=-MVxD5Pt" title="A bustling urban oasis in the middle of the Melbourne CBD" typeof="Image"></a>

<figcaption>A bustling urban oasis in the middle of the Melbourne CBD</figcaption></figure><h2>The Site</h2>

Before I go any further, here is a brief rundown of the site:

<ul>
<li>The current 1960's international style marble facade building replaced the former Western Market following its demolition in 1961.</li>
	<li>The Western Market, established in 1841 and operating for 90 years before its closure, was Melbourne's first official fresh fruit and vegetable market. Market Street is named after it.</li>
	<li>The site is zoned as CCZ1 (Capital City Zone 1) meaning a permit is required to:</li>
</ul>
<ol style="font-style: italic;">
<li>To construct a building or construct or carry out works which will cast a shadow across the north bank of the Yarra River between 11.00 am and 2.00 pm on 22 June. A permit may only be granted if the responsible authority considers the overshadowing will not prejudice the amenity of the Yarra River corridor.</li>
	<li>To construct a building or construct or carry out works which would cast a shadow between 11.00 am and 2.00 pm on 22 March and 22 September over public space, public parks and gardens, public squares, major pedestrian routes including streets and lanes, and privately owned plazas open to the public. A permit may only be granted if the responsible authority considers the overshadowing will not prejudice the amenity of those areas.</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>See <a href="http://planningschemes.dpcd.vic.gov.au/melbourne/ordinance/37_04s01_melb.pdf">Schedule 1 to the Capital City Zone</a> for more info.</li>
	<li>Additonally the usual <a href="http://planningschemes.dpcd.vic.gov.au/melbourne/ordinance/43_02s01_melb.pdf">Design Development Overlay</a> applies to the site.</li>
	<li>Basic Planning Property report for the site can be found <a href="http://services.land.vic.gov.au/landchannel/content/propertyReport?reportNo=3">here</a>
</li>
	<li>Currently no Heritage Overlays apply to the site</li>
</ul>
While ISPT consider the current building's future following the exit of the final tenants mid-year (there has been talk of retaining it and carrying out remedial works to the facade) I have decided in this instance to knock it down and go tabula rasa on its derriere.

You're probably asking "but why Laurence? what's wrong with the current building?" "have you no architectural conscience?" "Tabula, Rasa? Derriere? Good god man what are you on about?"

All very good questions. Here I see an opportunity to inject some much needed sheltered, green space into the heart of the CBD.

<h2>Project Summary</h2>

The key elements of the scheme are as follows:

<ul>
<li>A 4,000sqm, sunken (relative to Collins Street), north facing public park, accessed via stairs and bleachers along Collins and featuring a community garden</li>
	<li>A large timber 'Urbarn' Market (Urban + Barn, gee aren't I clever) paying homage to the site's former life as the Western Market</li>
	<li>A 45-storey office tower raised above a 12-storey public 'podium' housing your stock standard bars, cafe, restaurants etc. plus a publically accesible, tiered, urban farm stepping up from Collins Street. The tower is topped off with a roof top garden and 80m light shard.</li>
	<li>A 12-storey high, concrete verandah over the park on a monumental scale akin to the Grande Arche in Paris providing shelter from the weather and framing the view of the significant beaux-arts former Port Authority Building to the south.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Method behind the madness?</h2>

I tried to be strategic in orienting the tower to run north-south versus the current building which is sited to run east-west. This was done as a means of reducing the visual bulk from the river and the amount of overshadowing for a tower of its height even is it's not ideal from an ESD point of view.

I have attempted to control the amount solar gain through the faceted triple skinned glazed facade which is also intended to act as a wind mitigator, by reducing the amount of 'flat' surface area.

The provision of an urban park was partly done to offset any loss of amenity to the Northbank as a result of the tower's height, which is taller than the current building due to the amount of site area given over to public programme.

I also liked the idea of inserting a park into Melbourne's main street amongst the corporate towers.

I think I've rambled on enough for now, so until next time when I will be tackling Station Pier in Port Melbourne. Please enjoy the site chronology and images below - let me know what you think. Peace out.
</body></html>

Blockhead

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Blockhead

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News