A rare new development in Surry Hills is aiming to replace a cluster of underutilised commercial buildings with a contemporary eight mixed-use building just 300 metres from Central Station.&nbsp;

The $27.5 million project is being led by ISL Property Investments Management and will include 35 apartments, some earmarked for affordable housing, alongside street-level retail and basement parking.

The development spans multiple lots between <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/98-106-kippax-street-surry-hills-nsw-2010">Kippax, Sophia, and Waterloo Streets</a> and will involve substantial demolition of the existing structures on the 780 sqm site.

According to the Urban Design Report prepared by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO</a>, the design has been shaped to reflect the area’s gritty industrial past while contributing to its evolving identity as a high-density urban hub.

“The proposed development is designed to integrate sensitively and intelligently with its immediate surroundings and evolving urban context,” DKO stated. “It mediates between the existing built environment and the area’s future trajectory, ensuring a thoughtful transition”.

<img alt="First look: I.S.L. Property Investments plans eight-storey mixed-use apartments in Surry Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="db880273-57af-4167-9601-f05fd7b39124" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Surry%20Hills%20isl.png?VersionId=f3Ix9jP4eJ44H69zUcgot_zxBr4rW6gJ" />

The project includes 35 one, two, three-bedroom apartments across the upper levels, with 15 per cent of the total floor area allocated to affordable housing.&nbsp;The dwelling mix is designed to cater to a range of household types, with layouts strategically oriented to maximise solar access and cross ventilation, DKO notes.

Architecturally, the building is anchored by a podium that reinforces the streetscape while referencing the area’s industrial brick fabric. Above this, a lighter tower form is chamfered to reduce visual bulk and improve solar access to the public domain.&nbsp;

“The tower mass is elevated above the podium, visibly distinct yet firmly anchored at the bookend corner of Kippax and Waterloo Streets,” DKO wrote.

The development is also aiming high on sustainability. Features include rooftop photovoltaics, water-efficient landscaping with local species, and a commitment to all-electric infrastructure.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: I.S.L. Property Investments plans eight-storey mixed-use apartments in Surry Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8e1b99eb-6945-48b6-8222-647efe549803" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Site_0.png?VersionId=fUWGEn1sGpIMuzQ6KJ5zGQxQTjUoe9gz" />

The project is lodged under the Housing SEPP and seeks approval from the City of Sydney. There have been very few new apartment developments in Surry Hills in recent years. Some of the most notable has been redevelopments of former commercial buildings, as opposed to demolishing buildings.

That's the plan for national developer Time &amp; Place, which has recently submitted their State Significant Development Application for Marlborough House, the redevelopment of the original&nbsp;David Jones department store warehouse and factory building&nbsp;on Marlborough Street. The development will have around 150 warehouse-style apartments.

Joel Robinson

First look: Rare new apartment project pitched for Sydney's Surry Hills

Award-winning Canberra developer Art Group is approaching the final stages of construction on its newest residential development, Calypso, located on the city-fringe boulevard of Northbourne Avenue in Dickson.

Now 90 per cent complete and tracking toward a 2025 move-in date, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/calypso-dickson-330-northbourne-avenue-dickson-act-2602">Calypso</a> will deliver 207 one-, two-, three-bedroom apartments designed for the owner-occupier.

The project has been described as a “vibrant oasis” within the growing Northbourne precinct, with design and amenity focused on enhancing both liveability and connectivity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134842 project_image_fid=1205]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/art-group">Art Group</a> has positioned Calypso to meet the growing preference for flexible, lifestyle-oriented urban living. All apartments feature floor-to-ceiling windows, generous internal layouts, and purpose-designed spaces such as study nooks or dedicated home offices in larger configurations.

One-bedroom layouts are designed with oversized bedrooms and dual-access bathrooms for added convenience, while two-bedroom apartments include additional study rooms and expansive kitchens.&nbsp;

The three-bedroom residences further elevate functionality with walk-in pantries, freestanding laundries, and panoramic mountain views from corner apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134842 project_image_fid=1203]

Beyond private residences, Calypso incorporates a range of shared amenities tailored to modern hybrid work and wellness lifestyles. These include dedicated coworking spaces, a gym with cardio and strength equipment, rooftop gardens, communal EV charging, and landscaped outdoor entertaining areas.

Technology integration is a key feature, with fibre-to-the-unit internet offering speeds up to 1,000 Mbps, instant-access Wi-Fi in shared zones, and an embedded network providing streamlined utilities.&nbsp;

The development also includes energy-efficient inclusions and central staircases designed to promote active living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134842 project_image_fid=912]

Situated on Northbourne Avenue, Calypso benefits from immediate access to light rail, placing residents within easy reach of the Canberra CBD.&nbsp;

The development is also walking distance to the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/dickson-act-2602">Dickson</a> retail precinct and close to several key education institutions, including the Australian National University, University of Canberra, and Dickson College, as well as&nbsp;North Ainslie Primary School, Lyneham High, and Blue Gum Early Learning Centre.

With demand for inner-north apartments continuing to outpace supply, Calypso’s nearing completion places it among a select few large-scale projects delivering new stock to the area within the next 12 months.

With an exclusive final developer release, and $0 stamp duty available in the ACT, there has never been a better time to look at this unique development.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134842]

Art Group’s Calypso in Dickson approaches completion

Headland Parade is one of the most premium and tightly held streets in Barrack Point in the Shellharbour region south of Sydney.

Local developer&nbsp;Allowrie snapped up an opportunity to develop four custom-designed townhomes on the exclusive strip, which they recently completed the luxury homes to the design by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ingenuity-home-designs">Ingenuity Home Designs</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150639 project_image_fid=3556]

From the street, the development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/12-headland-parade-barrack-point-12-headland-parade-barrack-point-nsw-2528">12 Headland Parade</a>&nbsp;features gabled rooflines, muted coastal palette and landscaped frontages that reflect the enduring character of the area.

Inside, the attention to detail continues across open-plan layouts that flow into private alfresco spaces, with select residences enjoying their own inground concrete swimming pool.

The interiors are defined by their use of thoughtful materials and functional sophistication. 40mm 0% silica stone quartz benchtops, brushed brass tapware, and curved v-groove bathroom cabinetry are paired with Polytec kitchen joinery and Lappato-finished terrazzo tiles to create spaces that feel both premium and relaxed.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150639 project_image_fid=3550]

Comfort underfoot is achieved through hybrid European oak flooring and extra heavy-duty loop pile carpets in the bedrooms, while ducted reverse-cycle air-conditioning ensures seasonal adaptability.

Each residence includes a garage with epoxy flake flooring, landscaped outdoor areas, and integrated energy-efficient inclusions like 5kW solar photovoltaic systems. These elements reinforce the project’s focus on longevity and liveability, making the homes equally suited to growing families and downsizers alike.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150639 project_image_fid=3558]

Located 160 metres from Little Lake and 400 metres from Warilla Beach, the address sits within walking distance of the Shellharbour Village café strip, Shellharbour North Beach, and the coastal cycleway.&nbsp;

The Shell Cove Marina precinct is a five-minute drive, and Stockland Shellharbour provides broader retail and medical services nearby. Recreational spaces include Dawes Park, Killalea State Park, and Bass Point.

The four townhomes are move-in ready, and start from $1.25 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150639]

Staff Reporter

12 Headland Parade delivers rare new-build coastal homes to Barrack Point

Sunset Boulevard was a small, relatively unknown riverfront street on the Nerang River in Surfers Paradise around 18 months ago. However, the street is now set to become a thriving residential hub after the Gold Coast City Council approved several new developments that are poised to transform the character of the area.

The latest development approval on the river is for a 29-level tower by the Sydney-based P&amp;N Sleiman Group. The development, at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/52-sunset-boulevard-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">52 Sunset Boulevard</a>, will be its first in the Gold Coast.

The developer, which only filed the plans in April, is approved for 62&nbsp;two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments, as well as two double-level penthouses with their own&nbsp;private rooftop terraces and plunge pools.

Residents will also have access to communal amenity on level three, including a gym, lounge, barbecue facilities, and an infinity-edge pool.

<img alt="First look exclusive: P&amp;N Sleiman plots debut Gold Coast apartment project" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/52%20Sunset%20Boulevarde%20DA.png?VersionId=731rf3Vpi3nKCP69_eNV8kpn4GM0olqO" />

&nbsp;

Also now approved is YHY Group's tower which is crowned by what would be the largest penthouse ever produced on the Gold Coast.

YHY Group, also Sydney-based, is approved for a 33-level building with 74 apartments, across a triple site incorporating&nbsp;56, 58 and 60 Sunset Boulevard.&nbsp;The ninth level will feature a kids play area with an adjoining creche, a lap pool that runs along the edge of the building, a recovery space with a sauna and steam room, a yoga room, a gym, golf simulator, and a wellness spa with a treatment room and a massage room.

Above is another swimming pool, this one with&nbsp;an integrated pool bar and spa which has been oriented to offer gun-barrel views to the Surfers skyline. On the same level is a lounge, a bookable lounge with a kitchen, and a business centre.&nbsp;The ground level is set to feature&nbsp;a grand entry lobby, a cigar room, a cellar, library, study, bar and multiple entertaining areas.

The "Ultra Penthouse" is one of the largest ever pitched on the Gold Coast at 1,449 sqm of internal living space.

&nbsp;

There are five bedrooms spread across the five levels, as well as two staff quarters. The top level is dedicated just to a master suite, with a sauna, a gym, and a spa on the balcony. Including external space, the penthouse totals 2,239 sqm.

<img alt="YHY" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43381819-fe90-41b5-aa99-90ef3b50fa6b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-25%20at%2010.09.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=2nISoYh.pFvOEWBIz2X6ytvR.ok4D8V0" />YHY Group's riverfront tower. Image credit: Mode&nbsp;Design Corp

The first developer to identify Sunset Boulevard was Roy Skaf's Macquarie York. He has approval for a more boutique, 17-level tower on the river, facing Chevron Island's famous Home of The Arts (HOTA) building. There will be a mix of 43 two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments.

The resident amenity is located on level two and will feature a swimming pool, fire pit area, barbecue space, day beds, gym with a sauna and steam room, work from home space with desks and a boardroom.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-architecture" target="">Plus Architecture</a>, led locally by Danny Juric, says the project has been "meticulously designed to seamlessly blend with its urban and natural surroundings, achieving a harmonious balance between the human-scale streetscape, riverscape, and the emerging skyline."

Speedy approvals set to change the face of Surfers Paradise riverfront street

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/retreat-palm-beach-1177-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Retreat Palm Beach</a>, the newest apartment development in Palm Beach, is proving highly attractive for those seeking both a holiday escape and the opportunity to generate passive income in the booming Gold Coast apartment market.

Positioned on coveted Jefferson Lane, just one row back from the beach, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/retreat-palm-beach-188-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Retreat</a> comprises 56 apartments across an architecturally-striking nine-level building. It is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite Projects</a>, the team behind the hugely successful Cabana Palm Beach and The Monaco at Main Beach.

With its premium address and versatile apartment offering, Retreat delivers the best of both worlds: personal use just steps from the sand, plus the potential for strong returns through short-stay holiday letting. Add to this the prospect of continued capital growth in a rising market, and it’s clear why demand for Retreat is already strong.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1853]

Rental estimates from Hometime suggests the two-bedroom apartments at Retreat, which start from $1.35 million, could net anywhere between $75,000 per annum, based on 80 per cent occupancy, to $89,000, which is based on 85 per cent occupancy. Short-term and long-term letting will see gross rental yields between five to seven per cent.

All signs point to a strong return for both investors and owner-occupiers. Palm Beach's rental vacancy remains below two per cent, while median apartment prices have more than doubled in five years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1849]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a>, the nine-level building draws inspiration from its coastal setting, with soft, curving forms that reflect the movement of sea and sand.&nbsp;

The architecture is complemented by a natural material palette, with bronze tapware, engineered oak flooring, Miele appliances, and natural stone benchtops integrated into thoughtfully zoned open-plan layouts - creating a refined, calming environment that maximises natural light and privacy.

The three-bedroom apartments at Retreat feature king-sized master suites, walk-in butler’s pantries, and secondary living areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=4299]

A key feature of the project is its wellness-focused amenity floor. Residents have exclusive access to a heated lagoon pool, mineral spa, cold plunge, infrared sauna, and gym.

Additional conveniences include floating day loungers, e-bikes, secure surfboard storage, and digital concierge booking for shared spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1845]

Located just 500 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>’s vibrant village hub and 10 minutes from Gold Coast Airport, Retreat combines easy access to the beach with day-to-day convenience in one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held coastal pockets.

Construction is expected to commence in October 2025, with completion scheduled for late 2027.

Prospective buyers only have a few weeks to walk through the onsite display suite, which is soon to be demolished as part of the commencement of construction.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134965]

Retreat Palm Beach offers dual-purpose beachside living with strong rental upside

Breathe Architecture

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Nightingale Housing has been given the go-ahead to proceed with its seven-structure complex ‘Nightingale Village’. <a href="/news/nightingales-magnificent-seven-on-show-for-the-first-time">First covered on Urban.com.au in August 2018</a>, the Duckett Street ensemble has been designed by an award-winning collective of Melbourne architecture firms: Architecture Architecture, Austin Maynard Architects, Breathe Architecture, Clare Cousins Architects, Hayball, Kennedy Nolan and WOWOWA. 

In the spirit of Nightingale Housing’s mission, all designs have a strong focus on community, sustainability and quality of build. To meet demand fuelled by population growth, Nightingale Village has opted for minimal parking spaces to allow for more living areas, and instead incorporated a Car Share facility and ample bike storage. Like other Nightingale projects, the village will be carbon neutral and 100% fossil fuel free.

<blockquote>
We have an opportunity to deliver multi-residential housing in cities that is environmentally sustainable, financially affordable and socially inclusive. What we do can positively impact the urban environment, and promote better health and well-being outcomes.
</blockquote>

- Nightingale Housing

Balloting for interested residents is already underway, with the Hayball-designed CRT+YRD the first of the Nightingale Village seven taking registrations. Balloting closes at 6pm on the 13th March with the ballot drawn two days later and successful participants notified thereafter.

<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/wow.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="563" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/wow.jpg?itok=H3x-xvjj" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale WOW. Credit: Nightingale Housing</figcaption></figure>#1 NIGHTINGALE WOW

Architect: WOWOWA X BREATHE ARCHITECTURE

Located on the corner at 11 West Street (adjacent to the Upfield cycleway), Nightingale WOW brings a sense of vibrancy and colour to its Brunswick site. With an aim to promote communal living, the design offers shared laundry facilities, gardens and social spaces all of which can be found on the rooftop for optimum privacy. The design consists of four vertical towers with space in between to promote natural light and airflow throughout the complex. Unique features include chain-link mesh, sunrooms and metal balustrades which emulate the traditional picket fences found throughout Brunswick. <a href="/news/nightingale-village-episode-i-nightingale-wow">Read more</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/hayball.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hayball.jpg?itok=_MQHzdbg" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>CRT+YRD by Hayball Architects. Credit: Nightingale Housing</figcaption></figure>#2 CRT+YRD

Architect: Hayball

CRT+YRD is a sturdy design to be constructed of concrete, breeze bocks and brickwork which will give the building an organic feel, fitting into the urban neighbourhood effortlessly. A central courtyard will act as a free-flowing light source for the surrounding apartments, and will feature lush planting, seating areas and communal walkways. Rather than designing with a prospective buyer in mind, Hayball has produced a concept that can be modified to suit a differing lifestyles and living requirements. <a href="/news/nightingale-village-episode-ii-crt-yrd">Read more</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/cca.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cca.jpg?itok=gq8u_S8O" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale CCA by Clare Cousins Architects. Credit: Nightingale Housing</figcaption></figure>#3 Nightingale CCA

Architect: Clare Cousins Architects

At 12 Duckett Street you’ll find Clare Cousins’ eco-conscious design which contains 25 apartments across seven floors. Each dwelling offers generous storage space, x2 bike parks, access to Nightingale Villages Car Share facility and targeting a 7.5 star NatHERS rating. Nightingale CCA embraces community and contains many shared spaces including a 206 sqm landscaped garden. <a href="/news/nightingale-village-episode-iii-nightingale-cca">Read more</a>.

<blockquote>
Nightingale CCA incorporates the social, environmental and financial sustainability principles of the Nightingale model. These projects look to facilitate connected communities both within the building and the wider community. 
</blockquote>

- Clare Cousins Architects' Design Statement

<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/kennedy_nolan.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="536" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/kennedy_nolan.jpg?itok=sHGbCNhx" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kennedy Nolan. Credit: Nightingale Housing</figcaption></figure>#4 Kennedy Nolan

Architect: Kennedy Nolan

Kennedy Nolan’s Nightingale Building is situated at 9 Duckett Street, and has been designed to appear as two separate buildings to reduce the visual bulk. Tones of pink and red give the design a point of difference, and the use of red steel framing and oxide colouring make the build practical and low maintenance. On the rooftop you’ll discover two outdoor zones - the ‘Sky Garden’ which is designed for leisure and relaxation, and the ‘Working Yard’ which features a communal laundry, outdoor dining and more. <a href="/news/nightingale-village-episode-iv-kennedy-nolan">Read more</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/skye.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/skye.jpg?itok=CUjBJRw9" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Skye House by Breathe Architecture. Credit: Nightingale Housing</figcaption></figure>#5 Skye House

Architect: Breathe Architecture

The striking arch motif of Skye House reflects the Mediterranean style housing of the area and was inspired by the iconic Ricardo Bofill’s ‘The Factory’. The apartments are constructed using up-cycled materials with a design focus of celebrating the beauty of unique imperfections. Residents are invited to enjoy sensory gardens, a yoga deck, induction BBQ, garden beds, as well as a lawn for pets and even a beehive. <a href="/developments/brunswick-vic-3056">Read more</a>.

<blockquote>
“ Our design strategy is to build more, with less. To give texture, space, height, light and air. Apartment planning is kept simple. Materiality takes precedence over form. ”
</blockquote>

- Breathe Architecture

<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/coup.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/coup.jpg?itok=gDqAbHTt" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale Coup by Architecture Architecture + Breathe Architecture. Credit: Nightingale Housing</figcaption></figure>#6 Nightingale Coup

Architect: Architecture Architecture + Breathe Architecture

Nightingale Coup will be located on the Southern side of Nightingale Village at 24-26 Hope Street. The goal for the design was to incorporate familiar design features of the area including tradition roof shingles and chimney line forms, with a modern twist. On the ground floor, the design team have created seating areas in the semi-public laneway to encourage community involvement, keeping with Nightingale Housing's communal focused mission. <a href="/news/nightingale-village-episode-vi-nightingale-coup">Read more</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/ama.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="721" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ama.jpg?itok=nlVbMdLy" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>AMA by Austin Maynards Architects. Credit: Nightingale Housing</figcaption></figure>#7 AMA

Architect: Austin Maynards Architects

Brunswick’s iconic warehouses were the inspiration behind the design of Austin Maynard's AMA development. The goal was to increase quality by using modern industrial materials to achieve the look in an innovative, yet economical way. Shared balconies screened with durable chainlink have been used to encourage air to circulate the complex, while providing privacy from the street below. Entry breezeways also deliver a multifunctional purpose, acting as bicycle/resident storage as well as a BBQ area. <a href="/news/nightingale-village-episode-vii-austin-maynard-architects">Read more.</a>
</body></html>

Olivia Round

Approval granted for Nightingale Village in Brunswick

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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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In today's Nightingale Village instalment, we take a look at Skye House by Breathe Architecture, the architects that started it all with the Commons and Nightingale 1.

Located at 1-3 Duckett Street on a site known as Site F, adjacent to Hayball's CRT + YRD, Skye House (or Nightingale 11) will comprise 40 apartments spread across eight floors and topped by a rooftop terrace. The rooftop consists of a communal laundry facility, outdoor clothes line and veggie patch, with plant services and solar PV panels, making up the balance of roof area.

The building also has a single basement level with provision for resident storage facilities, in addition to the precinct's car parking garage with capacity for 12 car share spaces.  A 184 sqm retail tenancy is located on the ground floor with direct access and frontage to Duckett Street.

<blockquote>
Being more than familiar with the Duckett Street area (it’s one block south of our office), we are strongly committed to the success of the Nightingale Village, and dedicated to delivering the best result for our local community and future neighbours.

The architectural expression of Nightingale 11 has been carefully considered to celebrate Brunswick’s eclectic migrant heritage while also acknowledging the site’s industrial history.

We have designed an apartment building, but it’s kind. Unlike the existing pattern of recent development in the area, which leaves much to be desired in terms of public generosities and street activation, the architecture of this building ensures it is a provider both inwardly and externally.

We have looked to iconic, international precedents to inform the arrangement and appearance of 1-3 Duckett Street, particularly the shape and scale of the arched motif along the main, north facade.

- Breathe Architecture
</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/breathe_nv.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Breathe Architecture's Skye House on Duckett Street. Image"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/breathe_nv.jpg?itok=ICNYRnqy" title="Breathe Architecture's Skye House on Duckett Street. Image" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Breathe Architecture's Skye House on Duckett Street. Image: Breathe Architecture</figcaption></figure>The design adopts the approach of its Nightingale siblings in its adoption of honest materials which reflect the industrial character of the area and are tactile, untreated and durable but are curated to form an elegant composition.

Skye House's Duckett Street frontage is characterised by a streetwall response comprising a series of repeated arches which provide a framework for the balconies to sit within while creating a sense of rhythm to the street. This 12m streetwall is visually permeable yet also allows for privacy and retreat, while providing a point of distinction from some of the other Nightingales which have adopted much more solid, crafted bases.

From a sustainable design approach, the arches serve a secondary purpose in shading the interior spaces from the northerly summer sun.

Apartments are provided with primary aspects to either the north or south, with secondary aspects to the eastor via light shafts of 30 sqm (in plan) to ensure a high degree of internal amenity to apartments. These lightwells also accommodate the vertical circulation nodes via stairs and lift core.

Above the streetwall, the upper massing is setback 5m from the street and adopts a heavier visual expression comprising staggered concrete forms with projecting balconies. This austere exterior will be softened with greenery but will largely appear visually recessive from the 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/1_duckett_street_brunswick_-_mps_2018_362_-_adv25_-_site_f_1-3_duckett_street_-_plans.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Skye House as seen from the proposed community park. Image: Breathe Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="414" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1_duckett_street_brunswick_-_mps_2018_362_-_adv25_-_site_f_1-3_duckett_street_-_plans.jpg?itok=uVlA1q9k" title="Skye House as seen from the proposed community park. Image: Breathe Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Skye House as seen from the proposed community park. Image: Breathe Architecture</figcaption></figure>Skye House will also provide residents with direct access to a future proposed park to the east of the building, currently the site of the Moreland car park. While minimal apertures have been provided to this frontage, Skye House still offers a number of residents views to this proposed park along with opportunities for passive surveillance.

The penultimate entry in Apartments.com.au's Nightingale Village series will be  Architecture Architecture's 24-26 Hope Street.
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Laurence Dragomir

Nightingale Village - Episode V - Skye House

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Developer Aust Global Investment (AGI) is set to deliver a new hotel within Bennetts Lane, with the boutique project designed via a collaborative partnership between Breathe Architecture and Plus Architecture.

The 14-storey hotel will feature 44 compact but cleverly-designed rooms, inspired by the Art Deco glamour of the former Bennetts Lane Jazz Club, which closed this year to make way for an apartment development. 

Plus Architecture's design for the hotel's exterior will activate Bennetts Lane with a reception and café area on the ground floor spilling out onto the laneway.

Its brick façade will rise five levels with a nine-level glazed structure rising above. A break between the two blocks provides the design with a legible podium and tower identity in addition to areas of greenery.

Two larger penthouse suites on the upper levels which provide guests with long stay accommodation options, have been set back to minimise the hotel’s perceived height while providing additional outdoor spaces.

In line with Breathe’s philosophy to use locally-sourced furnishings, Bennetts Lane will prioritise the use of local fittings and finishes.

<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/bennetts_lane_hotel.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The design draws on the qualities of the former Jazz Club. Image: Aust Global Investments "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1160" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bennetts_lane_hotel.jpg?itok=ZlfzPqP_" title="The design draws on the qualities of the former Jazz Club. Image: Aust Global Investments " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The design draws on the qualities of the former Jazz Club. Image: Aust Global Investments</figcaption></figure>AGI is currently seeking a Melbourne hospitality guru to operate the Bennetts Lane hotel which will also feature a basement speakeasy via an expressions of interest campaign which closes in mid-September.

Breathe and Plus will work closely with the successful operator to ensure their collective vision for the hotel is realised. Early design work suggests a reimagined hotel experience, in contrast to the five-star chains popping up around the city.

According to AGI, its vision to bring a truly unique Melbourne experience to guests was the key driver behind the appointment of local design firms, as well as its pursuit of a local hotel operator.

Construction on the Bennetts Lane hotel is expected to commence in early 2019, and open in mid-2020.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Boutique hotel operation is the natural next step for a lot of hospitality providers wanting to take their service and ethos to the next level – and the Bennetts Lane property offers an exceptional opportunity for a local operator to create a true Melbourne experience. 
Its initial design draws references from the jazz era, using moody and hard-wearing materials designed to age gracefully and curved forms that reference instruments. A stay at the hotel will feel like going backstage to experience a hidden part of Melbourne. - Jeremy McLeod, Director Breathe Architecture 
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The Bennetts Lane hotel will give guests a feel for the real Melbourne, not a generic hotel stay between over-starched bedsheets.

Appointing local designers and finding a local operator who not only understands Melbourne’s laneway culture but can also help curate the hotel’s jazz-inspired theme, are critical elements in delivering the hotel vision.

- Lionel Shi, Founder Aust Global Investment
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We really wanted to maintain the integrity of Melbourne’s laneway culture, so have ensured the hotel has a boutique sense of scale while activating Bennetts Lane on the ground planethrough the architectural design.

Bennetts Lane Jazz Club was a key reference and its influence is expressed in the brass, hand-folded features on the ground level façade, which are later referenced within the hotel.

- Ian Briggs, Director Plus Architecture
</blockquote>
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Aust Global Investment seeks to breathe new life into Bennetts Lane

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Covered briefly by <a href="/news/nightingales-magnificent-seven-on-show-for-the-first-time">Urban.com.au earlier this month</a>, Nightingale Village's ensemble of buildings have been created by architecture's equivalent of Marvel's The Avengers.

In the first of a series highlighting each of the seven buildings which comprise Brunswick's Nightingale Village, we take a look at Nightingale WOW designed by WOWOWA in tandem with Breathe Architecture.

Founded in 2011 by Monique Woodward, Andre Bonnice &amp; Scott Woodward, WOWOWA's team of nine is based out of a shopfront in Carlton North. 

<ul></ul>
<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/nightingale_wow.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale WOW is based on a kit-of-parts approach. Image: WOWOWA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="666" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nightingale_wow.jpg?itok=rS6wI2G2" title="Nightingale WOW is based on a kit-of-parts approach. Image: WOWOWA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale WOW is based on a kit-of-parts approach. Image: WOWOWA</figcaption></figure>Occupying a corner site at 11 West Street adjacent to the Upfield bike corridor, Nightingale WOW's playfully colourful design is the result of an eight step process;

<ul>
<li>Step 1: Acknowledge the context is colourful &amp; of varied typologies ie Edwardian, Victorian, Warehouses, Art Deco, Federation, Ware Service etc.</li>
	<li>Step 2: Dream of creating a vertical neighbourhood</li>
	<li>Step 3: Research space frames - these provide the framework for individuality to sit within</li>
	<li>Step 4: Create a space frame for Nightingale WOW</li>
	<li>Step 5: Celebrate our interest in different housing typologies</li>
	<li>Step 6: Space frame + context</li>
	<li>Step 7: Create a Kit-of-Parts facade so that residents can identify their homes</li>
	<li>Step 8: Space frame and  Kit-of-Parts response to Design Development Overlay 18 (DDO18)</li>
</ul>
Further to this, the design team has sought to reduce the visual bulk of the development by imagining the massing as four vertical volumes separated by voids which expose vertical circulation and create a light courtyard, while also allowing for privacy and natural light.

The upper three levels are setback to reduce their visual impact to the street, while also creating a legible four-storey street-wall along West Street and the communal Mews - shared with Clare Cousins Architects' 12 Duckett Street.

Along the Upfield cycling corridor the ground floor is set-back an average of 2 metres to allow for pedestrian movement without impeding traffic along the bike path. This also creates 'protected pockets' for vegetation and dwell spaces.

<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/nightingale_wow_upfield_corridor.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale WOW as view along the Upfield bike corridor. Image: WOWOWA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nightingale_wow_upfield_corridor.jpg?itok=sD1GnvX2" title="Nightingale WOW as view along the Upfield bike corridor. Image: WOWOWA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale WOW as view along the Upfield bike corridor. Image: WOWOWA</figcaption></figure>Common amenities for the building's future residents are located on the rooftop and include shared laundry facilities, a productive garden and social spaces.

The Kit-Of-Parts approach to the space frame facade allows for each apartment to have its own unique expression and identity, drawing on the vibrant and eclectic local context.

Next up in the Nightingale Village series will be Hayball's CRT + YRD.
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Nightingale Village - Episode I: Nightingale WOW

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The string of apartment-based planning applications with 'design excellence' at their core continues within Moreland City Council's boundaries.

Already the heartland for the Nightingale series of apartment projects, other developers too have joined the push to realise sustainable, community-driven apartment developments in the municipality. Apartments.com.au has in recent weeks covered <a href="/news/emphasis-on-sustainable-design-for-milieus-latest-in-brunswick">Milieu's Brunswick development</a> in waiting, in addition to <a href="/news/brunswicks-progressive-apartment-design-dynamic-gains-another-devotee">Excelon's recent Sydney Road</a> application.

Further to the above projects, entity Antipodean Land Developments Pty Ltd is seeking approval for a substantial apartment development in Brunswick East. Breathe Architecture and Kerstin Thompson Architects have collaborated on the design for the project which is sited 10-16 Little Miller 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/image22_16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Little Miller Street outlook. Planning image: Breathe Architecture / KTA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_16.jpg?itok=E9-VJk-a" title="A new Little Miller Street outlook. Planning image: Breathe Architecture / KTA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Little Miller Street outlook. Planning image: BA / KTA</figcaption></figure>For Antipodean, the Little Miller Street site is the second tilt at gaining approval for an apartment project after the entity was given the green light for 77-83 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East during February. That retail and apartment project was also the work of Kerstin Thompson Architects.

10-16 Little Miller Street is located directly behind 77-83 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East, and provided the former gains approval, Antipodean stands to hold the right to deliver just under 200 apartments across both sites.

The Little Miller Street proposal is currently at advertising and features 115 apartments and townhouses across four buildings, arranged around a central green space. A cafe, 235 bicycle bays and 135 car parking spaces across two basement levels constitute the balance of the development.

<h2>Seeking design excellence</h2>

Excerpts from the application's joint Design Statement point toward the architecture firms intent in creating a high-end design across the four separate residential buildings.

<blockquote>
This (the design) has drawn upon the thought leadership in architecture for which each practice is independently renown and our shared values especially around the potential for social and environmental sustainability that stems from the formation of high quality living environments.

Together BA + KTA have collaborated on the site masterplanning and over-arching design principles. Each practice has then undertaken the more detailed design for two of the four buildings that make up an exciting ensemble for the Little Miller street development.

Little Miller Street development aims to be a housing exemplar. In addition to prioritising high quality internal amenity, dwelling diversity and a strong sense of community for its occupants it will also benefit beyond the site to enhance the broader neighbourhood (public realm).

Underpinned by a strong commitment to passive design the project has targeted a 7.5 NatHERS average across the development. HIP V. HYPE Sustainability has worked closely with KTA and BA to identify and adopt measures to improve the project’s environmental, social and economic sustainability.
</blockquote>

<h2>Nicholson Street evolves</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/image25_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale Brunswick East and 77-83 Nicholson Street. Images: CHC / KTA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="224" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image25_12.jpg?itok=hEKRiCOP" title="Nightingale Brunswick East and 77-83 Nicholson Street. Images: CHC / KTA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale Brunswick East and 77-83 Nicholson Street. Images: CHC / KTA</figcaption></figure>Within the grander context of thousands of new apartments in development over the northern reaches of Nicholson Street, a subcontext of developments pushing for heightened design principles is appearing in the area.

10-16 Little Miller Street is adjacent to the freshly at construction Nightingale Brunswick East apartment development. The duo along with 77-83 Nicholson Street are forming a pocket of apartment developments which are focused on passive yet socially progressive design.

These developments are in contrast to more 'typical' apartment developments that lack many of the design nuances that are boasted by projects such as Nightingale Brunswick East and 10-16 Little Miller Street.
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silvermb

Antipodean style: Another design sensitive apartment project for Brunswick East

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With residents moving into the recently completed <a href="/news/approval-granted-for-nightingale-village-in-brunswick">Nightingale</a> designed by <a href="/architects/breathe-architecture">Breathe Architecture</a> - who first championed the concept of ethical community-driven projects via the award-winning The Commons - and with Nightingale's 2, 3 &amp; Nightingale Brunswick East all hot on its heels, the attention now turns to Nightingale Village. 

Nightingale is based on the principles of the German baugruppen model which provides an alternative approach to how apartments are built and delivered in cities.  

Baugruppen which is German for “building group”, removes developers from the equation with a group of like-minded purchasers, instead coming together to collectively fund their own apartment projects, supported by architects.  

Without profit as the main driver, the focus instead shifts to delivering quality, sustainable, liveable and shared community facilities.

<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/breathe_nightingale_23232kr.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Residents have now moved into Nightingale. Image: Peter Clarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/breathe_nightingale_23232kr.jpg?itok=IoHeLC2e" title="Residents have now moved into Nightingale. Image: Peter Clarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Residents have now moved into Nightingale. Image: Peter Clarke</figcaption></figure>Nightingale Village will comprise seven buildings located on Duckett Street, <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a> after a collective of architects bought up the entire street in Melbourne’s inner north, not far from The Commons and Nightingale 1.

The first images of three of the buildings have begun to emerge with the Avengers-like ensemble of architects revealing the designs via their Instagram accounts as they are lodged for town planning. 

This followed on from two information sessions held in February and March at the University of Melbourne, where the project was presented to potential purchasers. The recording can be viewed <a href="https://echo360.org.au/media/7371b031-cacb-4bf6-9b9d-1cae5b3d5f60/public">here</a>.

The following architects are designing the ensemble of buildings which comprise the village;

<ul>
<li><a href="/architects/architectus">Architectus Architecture</a></li>
	<li><a href="/architects/austin-maynard-architects">Austin Maynard Architects</a></li>
	<li><a href="/architects/breathe-architecture">Breathe Architecture</a></li>
	<li><a href="/architects/clare-cousins-architects">Clare Cousins Architects</a></li>
	<li><a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball</a></li>
	<li><a href="/architects/kennedy-nolan-architects">Kennedy Nolan</a></li>
	<li>
<a href="/architects/wowowa-architecture">WOWOWA Architecture  </a>     </li>
</ul>
<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/nightingale_village.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale_WOW, Nightingale CCA and Nightingale Breathe. Images: Nightingale Village"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="218" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nightingale_village.jpg?itok=NEXgGxu9" title="Nightingale_WOW, Nightingale CCA and Nightingale Breathe. Images: Nightingale Village" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale_WOW, Nightingale CCA and Nightingale Breathe. Images: Nightingale Village</figcaption></figure>The first Nightingale's to be revealed are designed by WOWOWA, Clare Cousins Architects and Breathe Architecture, with the former two now at town planning.

As always Apartments.com.au will endeavour to keep up to date with each of the buildings as they are submitted.

Meanwhile, construction is progressing at Nightingale 2.0 in <a href="/new-apartments/fairfield-vic-3078">Fairfield</a> with builder <a href="/builders/atelier-projects">Atelier Projects</a> at the helm. Already the lift and stair core has been erected and ground floor slab poured.

Located at <a href="/buildings/nightingale-2-0-30-railway-place-fairfield">72A Station Street</a> adjacent to Fairfield Railway Station, Six Degrees' design for Nightingale 2.0 takes advantage of its island site, maximising light and cross-ventilation through the building. 

<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/nightingale_2_progress.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Progress at Nightingale 2.0. Images L-R: Six Degrees; HIP V. HYPE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="210" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nightingale_2_progress.jpg?itok=CpInY1ow" title="Progress at Nightingale 2.0. Images L-R: Six Degrees; HIP V. HYPE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Progress at Nightingale 2.0. Images L-R: Six Degrees; HIP V. HYPE</figcaption></figure>Lead image: Nightingalehousing.org
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An early glimpse of Nightingale Village's first buildings

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Milieu Property's latest Brunswick residential project is looking to bolster the suburb's growing design-driven credentials in higher density living.

The area in and around Anstey Station, in particular, is establishing a reputation for high-end sustainable and community-driven design, with Milieu's Breese Street the latest project intent on becoming reality. DKO Architecture and Breathe Architecture have collaboratively designed the seven level project which Milieu notes as being their most community-centric to date.

So much so, design presentations took place last week with prospective residents, with the intent of refining the design further. 

This week's round of consultation follows on from a ‘Liveability Survey’ conducted for the project earlier in the year, facilitating the free exchange of ideas on all aspects of the building’s design. One outcome of the design symposium will see Breese Street limited to a maximum of five apartments per floor.

<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/180410_albion_preview.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Breese Street rendered in situ. Image: Milieu Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="814" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/180410_albion_preview.jpeg?itok=0Dm8t-8N" title="Breese Street rendered in situ. Image: Milieu Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Breese Street rendered in situ. Image: Milieu Property</figcaption></figure>With sustainability high on Milieu's agenda, the design team has shadowed other developments in the Anstey precinct by incorporating a highly active rooftop area. Described as a “backyard in the sky”, the building’s rooftop will see a communal vegetable plot plus native plants selected by landscape design practice MALA.

The intent is to create a bionetwork capable of attracting and sustaining butterflies, birds and introduced animals such as frogs.

Rooftop aside, Breese Street is targeting a 7.5 Star Energy Rating, positioning it as one of Melbourne's most environmentally sustainable developments. No energy will be required to heat or cool the building due to the characteristics of the project's design, although a 30-kilowatt PV solar panel system will be incorporated across Breese Street's sloping roof.

<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/180409_b_rooftop_preview.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Intended rooftop terrace. Image: Milieu Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/180409_b_rooftop_preview.jpeg?itok=BGpwQFLa" title="Intended rooftop terrace. Image: Milieu Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Intended rooftop terrace. Image: Milieu Property</figcaption></figure>Additional energy requirements for the development will come from 100% GreenPower purchased by the future owners’ corporation, which "utilises renewable energy sources, off-sets carbon and allows residents to access wholesale energy prices" according to Milieu. 
Further to this, the development is proposed to create or consume no fossil fuels.

Breese Street will join a trio of additional high density residential projects in the Anstey precinct that boast progressive design and sustainability credentials. Apartments.com.au has over recent years reported on <a href="/news/is-this-melbournes-best-new-residential-development">The Commons</a> which was a watershed development in the area. 
Directly opposite The Commons and a stone's thrown from Breese Street is <a href="/news/nightingales-initial-project-reaches-completion-as-more-in-the-series-begin-construction">Nightingale</a>, also the work of Breathe Architecture.

<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/180410_interior_living_00_preview.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Interior space. Image: Milieu Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/180410_interior_living_00_preview.jpeg?itok=9punk4Xd" title="Interior space. Image: Milieu Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Interior space. Image: Milieu Property</figcaption></figure>The trio of developments along with the forthcoming Nightingale Village development further south on Breese Street has prompted Milieu to describe the Anstey precinct as "on the precipice of a housing revolution of international significance." 

Nightingale Village has previously been <a href="/news/nightingale-housing-plans-seven-buildings-across-brunswicks-duckett-street">covered</a> by Apartments.com.au, and will see the collaboration of seven architecture firms in designing multiple buildings that will adhere to the social, environmental and financial sustainability principles of the Nightingale model. 

<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/nightingalevillagemap.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale Village. Image: http://nightingalehousing.org"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="321" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nightingalevillagemap.jpg?itok=PjClHjF5" title="Nightingale Village. Image: http://nightingalehousing.org" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale Village. Image: nightingalehousing.org</figcaption></figure>
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Emphasis on sustainable design for Milieu's latest in Brunswick

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Last year Apartments.com.au reported that the City of Melbourne had voted in favour of revised draft plans for the Q2 area of the Queen Victoria Market Renewal Project. The endorsed scheme reduced the size of the footprint of works in exchange for a deeper excavation for the below-ground facilities at the western end of Sheds A, B, C &amp; D. 

As a result, the eastern sections of the sheds, adjacent to Queens Street, no longer require removal meaning that fewer fruit and veg traders will be disrupted.

This, in turn, has resulted in Breathe Architecture's design for the Market Garden Pavilion - to be located along Queens Street - being reduced down to 111m, from the initial length of 254m originally proposed. The $7.4 million structure will be built on the northern end of Queen Street, providing space for displaced traders once the redevelopment of Q2 commences.

According to documentation prepared by town planners Contour acting on behalf of the City of Melbourne, other key changes to the original design are summarised below:

<ul>
<li>Slight reduction in the width of the pavilion from east to west from 19 metres to 17.7 metres.</li>
	<li>Removal of seven plane trees in the location of the proposed pavilion in accordance with recommendations of both the project arborist (Tree Logic) and Council’s arborist.</li>
	<li>Reduction in the extent of ‘netting’ associated with the greenhouse.</li>
	<li>Relocation of the amphitheatre bleacher seating from north to south and reversal from the west to the east side.</li>
	<li>Reversal of northern stair from the west to the east side.</li>
	<li>Conversion of the double height bay where the plane trees were located to additional greenhouse area.</li>
	<li>Retention of the amenities block.</li>
	<li>Removal of cool rooms from the market carpark.</li>
	<li>The three-bay Greenhouse structure is modified to include five bays over the width and length of a steel platform.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Market Garden serves as a temporary trading pavilion that initiates a layered programmatic and experiential outcome for the trader, shopper and visitor.

Through contextual ground floor markings and super graphics that reference and describe the narrative of the current site, traders will have a defined place of business beneath a productive and seasonal greenhouse.

Market Garden is not about redefining the way traders interact with their customers, it’s about respecting and maintaining the iconic market experience, movement and feel, ensuring that stallholders are able to continue trading as they know and enjoy in a temporary environment.

- Breathe Architecture Design Response
</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/market_garden_pavilion.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Market Garden Pavilion adopts a prefabricated and standardised construction system enabling speedy and efficient construction. Image : Breathe Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/market_garden_pavilion.jpg?itok=WpK6l8Z3" title="The Market Garden Pavilion adopts a prefabricated and standardised construction system enabling speedy and efficient construction. Image : Breathe Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The intended Market Garden Pavilion. Image: Breathe Architecture</figcaption></figure>Breathe Architecture's design for the Market Garden pavilion comprises two key parts; the 1,560 sqm Trading Hall and the upper-level Greenhouse.

<h2>Trading Hall</h2>

Fruit and vegetable stalls affected by market renewal works (sheds A – D) will be relocated in a flexible and adaptable open trading floor - sheltered, shaded and cooled beneath a high canopy. Visual and pedestrian permeability will be maintained to the upper market while also providing functional solutions for events, and trading logistics of loading and unloading.  

Upper-level access and amphitheatre seating will be included at the south end of the pavilion providing a gathering and event space.

<h2>Greenhouse</h2>

The intended Greenhouse is based on other urban farm models around the world.

Located above the trading floor is an enclosed, functioning greenhouse with a portion of hospitality trading. It's expected the greenhouse will become both a productive and educational tool laden with crops that can be seen, touched and smelled.

Market Garden will promote conversation around food security and how we obtain it plus how we consume and dispose of excess food. It will be reflective of the market life cycle, growing and functioning both day and night while also providing welcome relief from heat island effect. 
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QVM's Market Garden Pavilion reduced to half its original size

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The well documented surge in apartments within the CBD over recent years looks to be dissuading developers from the inner city residential apartment sector. Whilst the masses of apartments roaring toward completion have taken the steam out of the apartment market, hotel and student accommodation projects have, in the interim, attracted a proportionately larger slice of the planning pie.

City of Melbourne are handling three prime examples, all of which were submitted late last year, which point toward this trend.

Generally rolled into larger, mixed-use developments over recent years, the smaller stand-alone hotel is making a comeback. Two such examples are in the pipeline, with one potentially accounting for a historic Melbourne 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/image39_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Elizabeth Street perspective. Image: Kyriacou Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image39_5.jpg?itok=wO8Cwi4L" title="A new Elizabeth Street perspective. Image: Kyriacou Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Elizabeth Street perspective. Image: Kyriacou Architects</figcaption></figure>601-603 Elizabeth Street is an eye-catching proposal for a thin 15 level hotel tower encompassing 72 suites.

On little more than a 202sqm site, the design by Kyriacou Architects sees a 49m tower finished in intricate China white concrete panelling which splays above the entrance, forming a unique canopy. Local firm Nicson Property Group is behind the project and hopes to gain approval for the design which involves solely single bedroom suites ranging in size between 17sqm and 23sqm.

Approval of the project would further extend the mixed-use nature of City North, a designated development precinct which includes the Elizabeth Street stretch north of the CBD. Research, medical, commercial, student accommodation, apartment and affordable housing builds have all been delivered in recent years throughout the precinct.

601-603 Elizabeth Street potentially may add another use to City North.

<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/image51_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="244-248 Flinders and design references. Image: Armsby Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image51_6.jpg?itok=Fxp-SA-C" title="244-248 Flinders and design references. Image: Armsby Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>244-248 Flinders and design references. Image: Armsby Architects</figcaption></figure>Yooralla's former headquarters at 244-248 Flinders Street is also subject to a hotel-based planning application.

Moremas Land Pty Ltd is seeking to replace the historic building with a 13 storey complex which includes 215 hotel rooms, consisting of deluxe and standard room options. Also present across ground level is a walkway linking Flinders Street and Degraves Place; this will be the spine for a new retail arcade featuring 6 new leasable spaces and a restaurant fronting Flinders Street.

244-248 Flinders Street is hoping to drop into an area flush with hotel suites. Westin Melbourne, DoubleTree by Hilton, Rendezvous Hotel and Adelphi Hotel are all a short distance away, whilst Apartments.com.au last week noted <a href="/news/peppers-and-vibe-land-new-melbourne-addresses">Vibe Hotel as taking on branding rights for 1 Queen Street</a> nearby.

Originally, the Flinders Street site was home to a single storey shop built in the late 1800's. According to planning documents, "At the start of the 20th century a two storey building "Snows" menswear was built and was then significantly modified by Tattersalls in the late 1950's. The building has continued to undergo alterations internally and externally throughout the years, including major internal and facade works in the late 1990's."

How Melbourne City Council reacts to the proposed demolition of 244-248 Flinders Street in a sensitive strip of heritage buildings remains to be seen.

<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/image53_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The existing building. Image: Armsby Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="219" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image53_2.jpg?itok=k0KkYdii" title="The existing building. Image: Armsby Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The existing building. Image: Armsby Architects</figcaption></figure>Having no such heritage qualms is Zebra House at 303-305 Royal Parade, which will be University of Melbourne's (UoM) latest student accommodation project.

The well known Royal Parade commercial building will in time become another domicile for students, adding to the thousands of current student accommodation beds in development around the inner city. Breathe Architecture and Architectus will oversee the existing building's transformation into 332 student beds.

This will be achieved by repurposing the existing building, and adding a smaller 6 storey wing at the rear of the site.

UoM picked up the ageing building during 2014, reportedly for $25 million. Shortly thereafter UoM declared 303-305 Royal Parade to be an integral part of the institution's strategy of providing at least <a href="http://newsroom.melbourne.edu/news/student-accommodation-boosted-university-melbourne">2,000 new student beds by 2020</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/image40_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Zebra House. Planning image: Breathe ARchitecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="460" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image40_6.jpg?itok=rTs-vN05" title="Zebra House. Planning image: Breathe ARchitecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Zebra House. Planning image: Breathe Architecture</figcaption></figure>
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