Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

Joel Robinson

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
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Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

Carlton

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Prioritising unique experiences over the standard amenities, <a href="/new-apartments/66-lygon-street-carlton">Zagame’s House</a> redefines what a boutique hotel looks like. With exciting cultural events, local art installations, an in-house wine sommelier and iridescent selfie lighting in each suite, the new 97-room boutique hotel masterfully breaks the cookie-cutter approach to regular amenity offerings and creates a truly Melbourne experience.

<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/img_0126_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="On-site wine bar Lord Lygon"><img alt="On-site wine bar Lord Lygon" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0126_2.jpg?itok=3K059x5D" style="width: 580px; height: 773px;" title="On-site wine bar Lord Lygon"></a>

<figcaption>On-site wine bar Lord Lygon</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0127.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Zagame's House lobby"><img alt="Zagame's House lobby" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0127.jpg?itok=yVcNtFuZ" style="width: 580px; height: 773px;" title="Zagame's House lobby"></a>

<figcaption>Zagame's House lobby</figcaption></figure>Zagame’s House is the newly renovated development which occupies a prominent Lygon Street site. The property has been owned by the Zagame family for 16 years and is set within the lively cultural hub of <a href="/new-apartments/carlton-vic-3053">Carlton</a>.

<a href="/">Apartments.com.au</a> was recently invited to take a tour of Zagame’s House within a few days of the hotel opening, and we were impressed by the way the team have created an entirely new experience within the hospitality sector.

<hr>
SUSTAINABILITY 

With sustainability taking a central focus in the fit-out of Zagame’s House, it was great to discover the effort taken by the company to adopt sustainable practices in all areas of operation - from cleaning systems right through to food preparation.

Zagame’s House uses Nanotechnology coatings on all bathroom surfaces within the hotel, to provide an antibacterial layer of protection, which reduces the need for cleaning chemical use. In addition to this cutting-edge technology, Zagame’s House has also adopted an eWater sterilisation system which works by combining water, salt and an electrical charge to split positive and negative ions into two highly effective methods of cleaning: alkaline for all-purpose cleaning and acidic for sanitising. Other sustainability systems in place include low flow faucets in bathrooms, recycling and waste reduction programmes and low food waste strategy through the use of fresh seasonal produce. The hotel management also welcomes guest feedback with regard to new environmentally friendly initiatives to help reach the company's sustainability goals.

<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/zagame_house_cr221_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One of the bathrooms which features a Nanotechnology coating"><img alt="One of the bathrooms which features a Nanotechnology coating" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/zagame_house_cr221_01.jpg?itok=P5kYJ3YE" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;" title="One of the bathrooms which features a Nanotechnology coating"></a>

<figcaption>One of the bathrooms which features a Nanotechnology coating</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/zagame_house_neon234_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="One of the bathrooms which features a Nanotechnology coating" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/zagame_house_neon234_11.jpg?itok=p0_8dRuE" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></a></figure><hr>
ART

Another feature the hotel embraces is art and culture. Commissioned work featured around the hotel includes works by the likes of Ryan Foote, Rosie Wood, Lulu Zagame and Karl Gordon. Majority of the designer furnishing were sourced by the Zagame brothers, and a range of books and trinkets fill shelves throughout the hotel, providing elements of curiosity and encouraging guest to feel at home.

<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/img_0123.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Work by Rosie Wood"><img alt="Work by Rosie Wood" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0123.jpg?itok=r9uW82DS" style="width: 580px; height: 773px;" title="Work by Rosie Wood"></a>

<figcaption>Work by Rosie Wood</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0124.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Work by Lulu Zagame"><img alt="Work by Lulu Zagame" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0124.jpg?itok=ybXXQMxz" style="width: 580px; height: 773px;" title="Work by Lulu Zagame"></a>

<figcaption>Work by Lulu Zagame</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0125.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Work by Karl Gordon"><img alt="Work by Karl Gordon" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0125.jpg?itok=DzuTFycs" style="width: 580px; height: 773px;" title="Work by Karl Gordon"></a>

<figcaption>Work by Karl Gordon</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-06-07_at_11.52.32_am.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Work by Ryan Foote"><img alt="Work by Ryan Foote" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-06-07_at_11.52.32_am.png?itok=gQlByV6h" style="width: 580px; height: 582px;" title="Work by Ryan Foote"></a>

<figcaption>Work by Ryan Foote</figcaption></figure><hr>
AMENITY

Rather than following the customary approach to hotel amenity choices, Zagame’s House priorities experiences over equipment. Lord Lygon is the luxury in-house wine bar which houses a comprehensive wine catalogue as well as a resident wine sommelier. Guests and locals will be invited to share evenings sampling the finest vino, enjoy local cuisine prepared by world-class chefs, and host meetings in style.

<blockquote>
"My favourite part about the Lord Lygon wine bar is the relaxed atmosphere, all day dining, cosy feeling and a really ergonomically designed bar and dining area."
</blockquote>

- Marcus Radny, Manager and Sommelier (ex-Royal Mail Hotel)

The hotel’s lobby could easily be mistaken for a luxury lounge, with roaring fires, plush lounge suites and an elegant bar serving top quality coffee and desserts. Guests will also be invited to attend a range of events from art exhibitions to masterclasses, as well as the opportunity to host business conferences or even weddings. Each room also contains a glowing selfie/makeup mirror, Marshall Bluetooth sound system, a cocktail making kit, Cowshed beauty products and plenty more to be discovered.

<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/img_0119_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="Marshall bluetooth speakers in each room" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0119_2.jpg?itok=KUNILZeE" style="width: 580px; height: 773px;"></a>

<figcaption>Marshall Bluetooth speakers in each room</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0121_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Glowing mirrors"><img alt="Glowing mirrors" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0121_2.jpg?itok=rhqpclJc" style="width: 580px; height: 773px;" title="Glowing mirrors"></a>

<figcaption>Glowing mirrors</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0122_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="In-room cocktail bars"><img alt="In-room cocktail bars" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0122_2.jpg?itok=j5gh6JZt" style="width: 580px; height: 435px;" title="In-room cocktail bars"></a>

<figcaption>In-room cocktail bars</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0120.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cowshed products"><img alt="Cowshed products" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0120.jpg?itok=lUzuKURH" style="width: 580px; height: 773px;" title="Cowshed products"></a>

<figcaption>Cowshed products</figcaption></figure>Lead image credit: Zagame's House
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Olivia Round

Zagame’s House challenges the norm of hotel amenity offerings

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Woods Bagot has circulated fresh images of the newly approved Carlton Connect Initiative. 

Outlined by Apartments.com.au at the time of approval, Woods Bagot as the masterplan and lead design architect has also provided commentary on the development which will account for the former Royal Women's Hospital on the corner of Grattan and Swanston Streets in Carlton.

In its place will rise five new connecting buildings around the perimeter of the site, all surrounding a publicly-accessible 'Oculus' open space.

The string of buildings will upon completion lay claim to being the nation's most advanced, and a globally recognised innovation precinct. University of Melbourne staff and students, researchers, local and international businesses and start-up companies will be present in the same location, with the intent of efficiently formulating new ideas and taking them to market.

<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/image45_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Vivid interplay on Swanston &amp; Grattan. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_9.jpg?itok=8eNYxlEa" title="Vivid interplay on Swanston &amp; Grattan. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Vivid interplay on Swanston &amp; Grattan. Image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Upon completion of the site's demolition, Lendlease will begin construction of the $425 million project mid this year. Shops, cafes, public spaces and a new home for Science Gallery Melbourne will be the public drawcards, whilst accommodation for more than 500 students along with co-working and commercial office spaces will form the backbone of the development.

Owing to the scope, size and complexity of the design, Woods Bagot considers the new precinct as unprecedented in Australia. 

<blockquote>
For this extraordinary site to support people working together in the creative and entrepreneurial ways envisioned by the University of Melbourne's  ambitious plan for innovation, we needed to completely re-think what the project could offer back to both the university and to Melbourne's urban innovation. 

What we've generated are new forms and, importantly, opportunities for exceptional circulation through the site and a great diversity of spaces at ground level, as well as maximising sunlight for wellbeing and sustainability.
<cite>Woods Bagot principal and project design leader, Hazel Porter</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image47_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="433" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47_9.jpg?itok=CToHb3yN" title="Aerial perspective. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective. Image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Externally the Carlton Connect Initiative maintains strong design semblance to National Australia Bank's campus at <a href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/national-australia-bank-docklands">700 Bourke Street</a>. Both Woods Bagot designs maintain a similar shape, triangular facade detailing and fissures running the height of the buildings.

Along with the complexities of effectively designing for the melding of multiple entities within a purpose-built precinct, Woods Bagot also factored in sustainability aspects.

From winning University of Melbourne's design competition for the project in December 2016, Woods Bagot intended for the design to be bold and iconic, and a symbol of the university's unyielding pursuit of excellence. The focus on the person and their experience within is also a major design aspect thought through by Woods Bagot.

<blockquote>
Innovation comes from people, the way they interact, the way they  collaborate on a common purpose. Therefore, it's essential that every part of this scheme lives and breathes human-centred design

Providing an exceptional educational and professional experience to attract the best and brightest demands the setting of a new global benchmark to stay competitive on the world stage of higher education.  
This education and innovation precinct will complement the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct in Parkville and the Arts Precinct in Southbank. It's also part of the emerging Melbourne Innovation Districts – a City of Melbourne initiative to drive investment in the knowledge economy and help shape Melbourne's future.
<cite>Woods Bagot principal and global education sector leader, Sarah Ball</cite>
</blockquote>

Targeted completion for the development which consists of 74,000 square metres of Gross Floor Area is late 2020.

<h2>Woods Bagot CCI project contributors</h2>

Hazel Porter, Sarah Ball, Alastair Flynn, Harry Charalambous, Wes Baigent, Sophie Blain, Ali Tehami, Femi Akande, Nirvan Basnet, Krisi Patras, Susannah Xu, Pete McKew, Derek Huynh, Roberto Spadaccino, Mluk Nehme, Peter Miglis, Sara Sidari, Kevin Mitchem, Robert Rosamilia, Lara Viguet. 

<div>
<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/image49_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Contrasting built forms. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="572" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_8.jpg?itok=JxASvHE9" title="Contrasting built forms. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Contrasting built forms. Image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>
</div>
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silvermb

Woods Bagot elaborates on the Carlton Connect Initiative

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Student accommodation provider Urbanest will have another inner-city footprint ready for the 2019 academic year as 122-136 Berkeley Street goes to construction.

The site in question is adjacent to, and opposite GSA Australia's <a href="/new-apartments/205-223-pelham-street-carlton">221 Pelham Street</a> and <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">684-688 Elizabeth Street</a> projects, bolstering the immediate area's already heavy student accommodation construction activity. Awarded to Icon Construction, 122-136 Berkeley Street is the third current student accommodation project that the builder has on its books.

Spanning roughly 15 months, the build programme will see 139 student rooms built over the 12 level building which has a construction value of $21 million.

<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/image7_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Berkeley Street will receive a new addition. Image: Icon Construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="459" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_15.jpg?itok=GUgZ0pIT" title="Berkeley Street will receive a new addition. Image: Icon Construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Berkeley Street will receive a new addition. Image: Icon Construction</figcaption></figure>Also included across the site which has a 31 metre frontage to Berekely Street is limited office space, back of house facilities, a gym and common areas on level 12. A rooftop terrace is also included.

Urbanest's advancement of the project follows on promptly from an amendment that went through City of Melbourne's planning channels for the site over recent months. The 575 square metre site was previously <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/capital-gain-caydon-beavers-away-on-271-units-for-plastics-site-20150611-ghlgjf">reported</a> as purchased by a China-based consortium during 2015, although the latest planning amendment for Urbanest gained approval during September 2017.

Icon Construction is now charged with both of Urbanest's current projects, with the other located at <a href="/buildings/599-605-swanston-street-carlton">599 Swanston Street</a>. Holding a construction value of $55 million, that Hayball-inspired project is also due to be completed late next year and includes a new 21 storey tower rising behind a partially retained heritage facade, 583 student beds, common areas and retail space fronting Swanston 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/image9_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="18-32 Leicester Street and 599 Swanston Street. Images: Icon Construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="231" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_17.jpg?itok=FwPCK0S_" title="18-32 Leicester Street and 599 Swanston Street. Images: Icon Construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>18-32 Leicester Street and 599 Swanston Street. Images: Icon Construction</figcaption></figure>The trifecta in Icon Construction's current student accommodation builds is <a href="/new-apartments/journal-16-32-leicester-street-carlton">18-32 Leicester Street</a>.

A build value of $85 million will see the contractor deliver 805 beds. The turn of 2019 will see all three of Icon Construction's builds completed, with the Leicester Street project differing in that it is for internationally-backed accommodation provider GSA Australia.

The increasing number of student accommodation projects calling Carlton home now sees 10 separate developments in the pipeline.

Denton Corker Marshall's <a href="/developments/carlton-vic-3053">557-591 Swanston Street</a> is the largest at 870 beds whilst the most recent addition to the Apartments.com.au Project Database was <a href="/developments/carlton-vic-3053">625-631 Swanston Street</a>. Combining the 10 projects, Carlton could eventually host another approximately 4,300 student beds.
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Urbanest's latest project revealed as Icon Construction scores another major build

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A heritage listed building on an otherwise vacant Bouverie Street site is set to host one of Melbourne's larger student accommodation projects, falling under the UniLodge Bouverie St banner.

Across 123-135 Bouverie Street, dual towers are proposed that would add a further 596 rooms to the Melbourne market. Nettleton Tribe are the design force behind the proposal, with institutional investor Cedar Pacific backing the development.

The Art Deco style building onsite carries a distinct clinker brickwork pattern and is considered significant for both its historic and aesthetic attributes. Formerly the Modern Printing Company Factory, it will find new life as a retail/cafe space under the new plans.

<h2>123-135 Bouverie Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image93_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Eliminating a vacant Bouverie Street site. Planning image: Nettleton Tribe"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="401" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image93_4.jpg?itok=tukEm3V8" title="Eliminating a vacant Bouverie Street site. Planning image: Nettleton Tribe" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Eliminating a vacant Bouverie Street site. Planning image: Nettleton Tribe</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Vacant 1,616sqm site save for the heritage Modern Printing Company Factory</li>
	<li>Proposed: 14 storey residential building over two wings and 45.2m high</li>
	<li>596 rooms</li>
	<li>All rooms within UniLodge Bouverie St available on either a 6 or 12 month contract</li>
	<li>Total GFA: 7,806sqm</li>
	<li>Facilities include rain garden, recreation area, theatre, gym, lounge areas, common study areas</li>
</ul>
UniLodge Bouverie St will cater for the University of Melbourne's Parkville students. Working under a 'self-catered hostel model', prospective students will find themselves in "a collegiate community with economic room sizes matched with a significant investment in common spaces and recreational areas."

Every level includes a communal space of some sort, with the rooftop including an outdoor garden and BBQ, herb/vegetable gardens and sky lounge.

After multiple similar projects for Deakin University and the recent completion of UniLodge @ VU in Footscray, 123-135 Bouverie Street is the latest project for Nettleton Tribe. Their Bouverie Street design consists primarily of a metallic two-tone aluminium cladding, highlighted by black steel fins and white aluminium trim.

<h2>A week for announcements</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/image95_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="97 Franklin Street's defunct design and the new 599-605 Swanston Street. Images: Hassell &amp; Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image95_2.jpg?itok=WeoXpi6X" title="97 Franklin Street's defunct design and the new 599-605 Swanston Street. Images: Hassell &amp; Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>97 Franklin Street's dated design and the new 599-605 Swanston Street. Images: Hassell &amp; Hayball</figcaption></figure>123-135 Bouverie Street's unveiling goes hand in hand with other significant news regarding Melbourne's student accommodation sector that has filtered through this week.

Scape Student Living has applied to build the world's tallest student-occupied tower on Franklin Street. Replacing approved plans for a 62 storey, 218m largely residential tower, Scape's intentions are for 740 student beds, 146 city living units and 11,500sqm of commercial space within the mixed use project.

Also this week, a fresh design has been added to the Apartments.com.au Project Database for Urbanest's approved tower at 599-605 Swanston Street. The creation of Hayball, Urbanest's latest Melbourne tower now presents as a golden tower with strong vertical elements across its facade.

The project is still expected to carry in excess of 600 student beds.
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Inter-war and student to the core: another whopping student accommodation project unveiled

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The period between local Council elections and year's end looks likely to throw up further key planning approvals, in light of four significant towers that are all but approved.

A Notice of Decision (NOD) has been issued for each of the projects during November, all but assuring they will gain final approval within weeks. Each planning application has been covered by Apartments.com.au over the course of the last year, with the quartet split between traditional residential apartment towers and student accommodation digs.

All in all, roughly 320 apartments and 1,000 student beds can be expected across the four projects.

<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/image35_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Box Hill can expect two new entrants. Images: Savills and Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="283" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image35_7.jpg?itok=D3A9CLQt" title="Box Hill can expect two new entrants. Images: Savills and Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Box Hill can expect two new entrants. Images: Savills and Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Box Hill's apartment market will benefit from dual residential towers that have received a Notice of Decision.

9-11 Prospect Street is the tallest of the quartet, with Artisan Architects designing the 26 level apartment tower that will hold just shy of 200 apartments. Owner Box Hill Investments (Vic) Pty Ltd has recently listed the 1,475sqm development site with Savills, with the expectation that the plot, which is surrounded by some of the suburb's largest towers, will be snapped up quickly by an established developer.

Over Whitehorse Road, and Melstone Wellington Pty Ltd is also in luck with the entity's 16-22 Wellington Road site also receiving the tick from City of Whitehorse.

Designed by Elenberg Fraser, 16-22 Wellington Road entered planning as a 14 level apartment tower containing 133 dwellings.

Covering a 1,700sqm site, 16-22 Wellington Road continues to add to the area's appeal with developers. Wedged between Whitehorse Road and Box Hill Hospital, Wellington Road has been subject to increased construction activity of late, and will in time see the arrival of taller residential towers, including 16-22 Wellington Road, <a href="/new-apartments/5-9-wellington-road-box-hill">5-9 Wellington Road</a> and <a href="/buildings/whitehorse-trio-845-851-whitehorse-road-box-hill">845-851 Whitehorse Road</a> which shares a Wellington Road frontage.

<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/image28_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The inner city student accommodation additions. Images: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="371" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28_6.jpg?itok=hjn-Ci3L" title="The inner city student accommodation additions. Images: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The inner city student accommodation additions. Images: Hayball</figcaption></figure>Carlton and North Melbourne will also receive a boost, with separate Hayball-designed student accommodation projects receiving a Notice of Decision in recent days.

Haymarket roundabout is the setting for 1 Flemington Road which at planning weighed in at 22 levels. The tower's distinctive wave facade will mask near on 400 student beds for Brisbane-based outfit Blue Sky Funds.

It along with <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">42-50 La Trobe Street</a> represents Blue Sky Funds' dual-pronged push into the Melbourne student accommodation sector. Incidentally 42-50 La Trobe Street bares a striking resemblance to the other student accommodation tower to has been given the nod, namely 599-605 Swanston Street, Carlton.

It at planning included 628 beds over 20 levels, for provider Urbanest. 599-605 Swanston Street joins a fellow Carlton and CBD outlet in representing Urbanest's Melbourne locations.

Both student accommodation applications were subject to changes post their initial submission, with final design renders yet to be made public.
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Four significant projects receive the NOD

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Sydney-based developer Besgate has lined up their third sizeable Melbourne apartment project with a planning application for a substantial Carlton building lodged during late 2015. Backed by private mainland Chinese interests, Besgate's intended 558-566 Swanston Street joins two CBD projects in bolstering the developers burgeoning presence in Melbourne.

179 apartments are slated for the Jackson Clements Burrows-designed project, which when combined with the nearby Upper House and ongoing CUB site transformation, will further add to the gradual uplift of Swanston Street's built form which has heavily been influenced by awkwardly designed student housing buildings over past years.

KM Develop will act as Development Manager and will oversee 558-566 Swanston Street from its infancy through to delivery, controlling most aspects of the development such as feasibility and financial analysis, project branding, coordinating the sales and marketing campaign, tendering and general project administration.

<h2>558-566 Swanston Street development summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image2_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Swanston Street perspective. Image courtesy Jackson Clements Burrows Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_5.jpg?itok=KZX75tR1" title="Swanston Street perspective. Image courtesy Jackson Clements Burrows Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Swanston Street perspective. Image courtesy Jackson Clements Burrows</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>1,600 sqm site between Queensberry Street and Pelham Street.</li>
	<li>Currently used as a car dealership and workshop.</li>
	<li>Proposed 17 level tower at 55.25 metres in height.</li>
	<li>179 apartments: 85 x 1BR, 88 x 2BR, 6 x 3BR.</li>
	<li>One retail shop space: 106.3 sqm.</li>
	<li>103 car spaces and 130 bicycle spaces included.</li>
	<li>Level 11 and 15 amenities areas including lounge, gym and outdoor terrace.</li>
	<li>Expected project cost: $40 million.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Architect's statement</h2>

<blockquote>
The unique composition of the building was conceived through a series of urban design gestures. Initially, the building's mass is broken down by a series of vertical ravines expressing separate tower forms of differing heights.

The ravines provide light, air and natural ventilation to the corridors. The idea of the stepped building is then introduced to provide varied building heights that articulate a series of visually distinct neighbourhoods that make up a larger whole. At higher levels the distinct forms are further activated through cantilevers to create a series of "periscope" like forms.

This compositional gesture moves away from the 'wedding cake' envelope of conventional multi-residential projects by proposing a sculptural building envelope which will enhance the textural richness of the built fabric of Swanston Street.
<cite>Planning application: Urban Context Report and Design Response</cite>
</blockquote>

Externally 558-566 Swanston Street will generally consist of precast concrete, glazing, alucobond fascias and metal cladding, with vertical screening a highlight.

<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/image5_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="As envisaged from Queensberry. Image courtesy Jackson Clements Burrows Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="320" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5_3.jpg?itok=fYbKoK4w" title="As envisaged from Queensberry. Image courtesy Jackson Clements Burrows Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>As envisaged from Queensberry Street. Image courtesy Jackson Clements Burrows</figcaption></figure><h2>A trio to be reckoned with</h2>

The magic number for Besgate's Melbourne intentions as it stands is 1,268. This is the total number of apartments the outfit has in planning locally, spread over its three premier sites.

Joining 558-566 Swanston Street is 140 King Street at 59 levels along with the more imposing 640 Bourke Street, both of which are the work of Rothelowman. The latter at 66 levels and 818 apartments also has scope for an increased floor count subject to various aviation-based approvals.

While Besgate is positioning itself as a player within the Melbourne apartment market, it has been active in both Sydney and Shanghai for some time.

KM Develop will act as development manager across all three of Besgate's Melbourne projects.

<h2>558-566 Swanston Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Besgate (Bestgate Swanston Street Pty Ltd)</li>
	<li>Architect: Jackson Clements Burrows</li>
	<li>Town planning and Urban Context Report: Contour Consultants Australia</li>
	<li>Traffic and Parking: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>ESD: Ark Resources</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Environmental Assessment: Compass</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer: Vipac </li>
</ul>
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Besgate notch their third current Melbourne project at planning

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It looks increasingly likely that one of a pack of underwhelming buildings which front Swanston Street in Carlton will undergo an exterior rejuvenation shortly. Completed during 2004, Arrow on Swanston at 470-496 Swanston Street is defined by its precast exterior, but not necessarily for long.

Client Livingsprings Pty Ltd has enlisted Melbourne architecture and urban planning firm <a href="http://www.particular.ch/">Particular</a> to devise a refurbishment &amp; addition works program that will see new life given to the drab structure. City of Melbourne have given notice to approve the project in recent weeks, advancing the multi-million dollar project closer to reality​.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/setwidth980-ar01-lvl-10-web2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected rooftop loft suites extension. Image courtesy Particular"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/setwidth980-ar01-lvl-10-web2.jpg?itok=9gHk6FPJ" title="Expected rooftop loft suites extension. Image courtesy Particular" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Expected rooftop loft suites extension. Image courtesy Particular</figcaption></figure>Particular list the project on their website as commencing shortly, with the existing 3.5 star serviced apartment and student accommodation building expected to receive a decidedly golden upgrade. Masses of vertical fins will be applied over the facade along with new finishes to balconies and windows which will bring a higher degree of articulation to the existing building's exterior.

Up high a rooftop loft suite extension will see six additional gold-clad dwellings added, while the current mid-building car park entry point off Swanston Street will be relocated to the southern boundary via a laneway.

While the homogenous blob that is the current structure has come in for attention, it's at street level where Particular's revised 470-496 Swanston Street design gains another facet.

<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/setwidth980-ar01-grand-entrance-web.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new steet level interface. Image courtesy Particular"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/setwidth980-ar01-grand-entrance-web.jpg?itok=31F9rnPE" title="A new steet level interface. Image courtesy Particular" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new street level interface. Image courtesy Particular</figcaption></figure>Renders sourced via Particular show a much softer presentation to Swanston Street with timber, greenery and gold highlights set to replace precast and reflective glass which offers little by way of interaction from Swanston Street. An alfresco area and stone sidewalk are included within the project renders, as is a lobby set back from Swanston Street, which aids in decluttering the building's street level interface.

Particular also mention a new niche retail and food precinct located along the base of 470-496 Swanston Street, with two separate applications presented to City of Melbourne for assessment. Combined they seek to provide a mixture or licensed restaurants and retail tenancies, plus a ground/basement function centre.

<h2>Comment</h2>

Book-ended by RMIT and Melbourne University, Carlton's stretch of Swanston Street could have easily become a showcase for amazing contemporary, design as the majority of buildings developed along the strip were done so in the last decade. Rather, it has become a horrible homage to precast concrete and cheap student digs with a distinct lack of built form/street level character.

Fender Katsalidis' <a href="http://www.fkaustralia.com/project/s/name/astorial/">Astorial</a> aside, the list of substandard residential buildings is long. The initial Arrow on Swanston is joined by Apartments Uropa, Brookes Gillespie House, Eastern Precinct, Micasa 8, Swanston Student Complex and the more recently Tune Hotel.

<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/image38_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Overt your eyes"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="546" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image38_0.jpg?itok=AieCRA_k" title="Avert your eyes" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Avert your eyes</figcaption></figure>The new Arrow on Swanston looks to be a step in the right direction toward a more dynamic, engaging streetscape and built form outcome. Unfortunately much of the rest of Swanston Street in this area has been permanently scarred by the ill-though-out design and planning decisions of the past.

Still one resurrection is better than none.
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Righting a Swanston Street wrong

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The focal point of Carlton's former CUB Brewery site has been placed on the market after CEL Australia elected to move on the approved development scheme rather than develop the asset. Situated over 2,927sqm, yet part of the larger brewery site spanning an entire block, 8 Bouverie Street is the marquee portion of the urban renewal project.

Representing the largest permitted apartment development site offered for sale since 2013, 8 Bouverie Street was <a href="/news/city-of-melbourne-grapples-with-cels-156-172-victoria-street">most recently covered</a> by Apartments.com.au during August 2014. Initially known as 156-172 Victoria Street, the newly christened 8 Bouverie Street is offered with a massive 1,035 apartments, retail space plus 222 car and 378 bicycle spaces.

Conceived and subsequently refined by Elenberg Fraser, selling agent Colliers believes 8 Bouverie Street will be attractive to developers the world over due to its sheer size and landmark location. And it is this location behind the retained bluestone facade of the brewery which was earmarked for a landmark tower as early as 2007 when site purchaser Grocon instigated an overall site masterplan.

At 78 levels it will be the tallest tower within the northern reaches of Melbourne's skyline and highly recognisable given its position straddling the border between Melbourne and Carlton.

<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/8_bouverie_hero_custom.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="8 Bouverie Street. Image courtesy Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1377" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/8_bouverie_hero_custom.jpg?itok=Kww2CLgv" title="8 Bouverie Street. Image courtesy Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>8 Bouverie Street. Image courtesy Colliers</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
This property is a genuine opportunity for developers on a world wide scale. We anticipate demand from local institutions and large scale developers from Australia and across the globe. It’s rare to be able to buy a site of this magnitude that is ready to be developed.

The location is prime, the timing is right with almost no competition with other large scale projects in the Melbourne CBD, and the residential market is strong. The site is situated right in the middle of Melbourne’s world renowned Melbourne University and RMIT campus precincts and, being on the doorstep of the Melbourne CBD, it remains distinctly residential.
<cite>Trent Hobart, Director of Development Sites, Colliers International</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
With the recent change of State Government, we expect to see the flow of approved planning permits become more moderated while the new government settles in. This will only serve to increase the value of approved permits to developers in the short to medium term, making opportunities such as this one at 8 Bouverie Street quite rare.
<cite>Bryson Cameron, Manager of Development Sites, Colliers International</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

The above statement is telling in that a certain level of ambiguity currently surrounds Victorian state planning, with new minister Richard Wynn on hiatus and changes flagged to the planning approvals process which point toward fewer larger towers gaining approval. Could it be that 8 Bouverie Street holds an ace in that it carries planning approval, while many other proposals (of which there are indeed many) may never be nothing more than paper developments?

Only one residential skyscraper of any note has been submitted for approval since the November 2014 state election; evidence that holiday period aside, developers look to be taking a more circumspect position toward seeking planning approval given the uncertainty in recent months.

If stature is determined by height and apartment numbers, 8 Bouverie Street heads the pack in terms of marquee Melbourne development sites; in due course the sales campaign result will be interesting on many levels.
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8 Bouverie Street a giant amongst Melbourne development sites

<html><body>
Today we look at an application which seeks to address some of the recent concerns surrounding housing diversity in apartment living and resident amenity. Z66, to be located at 66 Lygon St in Carlton would see the current building occupied by the <a href="http://www.downtowner.com.au/">DownTowner</a> demolished to make way for a 14-storey, <a href="http://www.fkaustralia.com/">Fender</a> <a href="http://www.fkaustralia.com/">Katsalidis</a>-designed apartment building.

<blockquote>
The proposal aims to create a new character for the precinct through a dramatic interpretation of the traditional stepped approach of the tower and podium massing. Instead there is an integrated tower and podium, where the "U" shaped form of the podium clasps the tower from below.

As an overarching design philosophy, the proposal aims to stack the mass that would have been available by developing the whole site, into a smaller building footprint to provide all apartments with views out and eliminate south facing or internally overlooking apartments.

This results in a higher form, however we feel this is appropriate given the significant nature of the corner site on main roads; the height has no additional detriment to neighbours through overshadowing or overlooking; and we feel this height is an appropriate transition from the tall city towers to the finer grain of Lygon Street to the north.
<cite>Fender Katsalidis, design philosophy extract</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Building layout</h2>

Z66 has been designed to maximise solar access with all apartments benefiting from a 'great outlook' that has resulted from no apartments overlooking one another, and no south facing orientation.

The impacts of any future neighbouring developments have also been considered with a considerable setback employed from the western boundary above the ground floor area, and to the east above level four. This doesn't just safeguard the amenity of residents in Z66 but also any future neighbours.

The ground floor consists of a wrap of retail to Lygon and Queensberry Streets with all ancillary programme relegated to the shared accessway to the south. The retail to the north is setback from the boundary to form a sheltered colonnade to Queensberry Street and a landscaped outdoor area is located to the south-east and north-east corners of the site. Apartments facing the landscaped area feature a 'balcony buffer' which in turn acts a buffer between the development and the adjoining Romanian Orthodox Church.

<blockquote>
Habitable rooms, such as bedrooms and living rooms in each apartments have access to direct light and air. Living rooms and bedrooms are oriented to face balconies or the external edge of the building, and provided with operable windows for access to natural ventilation. 'Borrowing' of light is avoided.

The setback from the East boundary results in a relatively small building footprint, which enables internally overlooking apartments to be eliminated in the development. The open landscaped area to the East also improves the amenity to the Romanian Orthodox Church garden next door. The development receives abundant daylighting to the East and West and south facing apartments are avoided.

On podium levels of the development (levels 1 to 6) larger balconies are incorporated to the apartments on the West side. These balconies also function as a buffer to the busy Lygon Street
<cite>Z66 town planning report</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/z66_ground_floor.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground floor plan. © FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="376" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/z66_ground_floor.jpg?itok=JOoITcZA" title="Ground floor plan. © FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground floor plan. © FKA</figcaption></figure><h2>Z66 facade</h2>

The building's facade is articulated via a series of concrete panels and glazed fenestrations. To the north and south the building presents as quite a solid, ordered structure whereby the concrete panels are double height and arranged with a strong emphasis on horizontal movement; the positioning of the panels in a staggered formation give the impression of a shifting in form.

The other visual effect is one of ambiguity of scale: though a 16-storey building the impression is one of only eight or so, at least to the north and south. The eastern and western elevations on the other hand appear far more permeable with glazing taking precedent over concrete, with an almost adhoc approach as to how the facades are presented; the emphasis shifting to a much more vertical movement visually.

<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/z66_elevations.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East and South Elevations. © FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="371" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/z66_elevations.jpg?itok=OYiCojzj" title="East and South Elevations. © FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East and South Elevations. © FKA</figcaption></figure><h2>Dwelling diversity</h2>

In their response to "Objective 5.1 - Dwelling Diversity" as gazetted in the Design Guidelines for Higher Density Residential Development, FKA have sought to provide a diverse and balanced mix of apartment types which cater for the needs of a wider target market. Extracted from the planning application, the break up of apartments is illustrated below:

<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/z66_apartment_types.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dwelling diversity. © FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="344" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/z66_apartment_types.jpg?itok=wNLdD9Ij" title="Dwelling diversity. © FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Dwelling diversity. © FKA</figcaption></figure><h3>Apartment mix and amenities</h3>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 50%;">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">Apartments</th>
			<th scope="col">Quantity</th>
			<th scope="col">Area</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>One Bedroom</td>
			<td>100 apts</td>
			<td>42-59m²</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Two Bedroom</td>
			<td>118 apts</td>
			<td>59-75m²</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The development is also comprised of a residential amenity space at ground level that can be used by residents for dining, lounging, meetings as well as appreciating the landscaped area fronting Queensberry Street.

<h3>Apartment types</h3>

Within each apartment category (one bedroom or two bedrooms), there are different layouts to suit different living arrangements. Within the one bed apartment units, there are two types, which are the one bed plus study and the one bed. The one bed plus study layout could suit a couple where 1 person works from home or requires a separate study space. The one bed will be a more affordable option for single person or couple where the study space can be part of the bedroom.

Within the two bed apartment units, there are also two types. One type is an option for two people sharing the same unit, and another type is suited for a couple who require an extra room for guests / older children or even study space.

<h2>Z66 in a nutshell</h2>

<ul>
<li>Projected project cost of $47 million.</li>
	<li>218 apartments over 16-storeys.</li>
	<li>428sqm landscaped area addressing Queensberry Street and the Romanian Orthodox Church.</li>
	<li>103 + 2 tandem car spaces and 99 bike spaces across two basement floors./li&gt;</li>
	<li>Allocation of 30 visitor bike spaces.</li>
	<li>213sqm of resident amenities.</li>
	<li>Height: 57.10m.</li>
	<li>Mixture of one and two bedroom apartments.</li>
	<li>361sqm of retail on ground floor.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Comment</h2>

The proposal while not ground breaking in terms of its architecture sets itself apart from other similar developments; while it employs a built form almost twice that which is called for in the Design Development Overlay it does not seek to occupy the entirety of the site. In doing so it achieves a quality outcome for the residents who would call it home and provides saperation between itself and the Romanian Orthodox Church rather than suffocating it by developing to its site boundaries but a lower height.

The design team have conceived what can be best described as a thoughful proposal, one that assesses any potential impacts in the short-term but also long term future. Similar to Piccolo Developments' Upper House nearby, Z66 would command a corner site and as such greater height is appropriate to address its position.

This particular stretch of Queensberry Street will continue to see significant development and growth with medium to higher density slowly creeping from the confines of the traditional CBD.

<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Architecture: Fender Katsalidis.</li>
	<li>Proponent: Zagames Corporation.</li>
	<li>Planning: Tixxis Consulting.</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design.</li>
	<li>ESD: Cundall.</li>
	<li>Traffic: Cardno.</li>
	<li>Heritage: Bryce Raworth.</li>
</ul>
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Laurence Dragomir

A rather unorthodox approach: 66 Lygon Street, Carlton

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University of Melbourne's new Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning complex has recently been completed. Under the guise of the Melbourne School of Design, the new <a href="http://www.johnwardlearchitects.com/">John Wardle</a> and <a href="http://www.nadaaa.com/">NADAAA</a> designed building is located within the heart of the university's Carlton campus fronting Masson Road.

Subject to an international design competition, 133 submissions from 15 countries were initially received for the landmark structure. Six competing firms were subsequently invited to best deliver a design befitting of both the location and brief.

Included within the Melbourne School of Design are research spaces, lecture theatres, a library, exhibition and workshop spaces.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
The architecture, inherent planning, spatial arrangements and configurations, particular programmatic adjacencies and relationships foster a rich, dynamic environment that becomes a point of stimulus, a catalyst for creativity and inventive design research.

With its many inventive structural and environmental ideas, the building becomes a live learning tool for students and staff alike. Connecting back into the network of buildings and courtyards, our design operates as an urban gesture reinforcing the workings and systems of the campus.

The transparent facades and open permeable ground plane reveals the creative and collaborative activities to the rest of the university community.
<cite>John Wardle Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The competition jury noted the quality of the partnership between Melbourne based John Wardle Architects and Boston based practice Office dA. The Dean of the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, Professor Tom Kvan, says their scheme showed a strong understanding of educational, environmental, and social issues in a design that would generate excitement for all staff and students.

The winning design showed a detailed understanding of the teaching and research activities of the Faculty and the potential for contribution to research across the campus.
<cite>University of Melbourne</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_8943.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The northern cantilevered volume"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="747" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_8943.jpg?itok=tYBGVJ89" title="The northern cantilevered volume" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The northern cantilevered volume</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
On August 8, 2014 the new Melbourne School of Design building was handed over to our Faculty by Brookfield Multiplex. This represented a key milestone in the life of a project which commenced back in 2008 when the University of Melbourne first approved funding for the construction of a new building for the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning.

The intent was to create a landmark building for the University of Melbourne with world-class facilities for staff and students, and to establish a new standard for design education, research and delivery.
<cite>Melbourne School of Design</cite>
</blockquote>

The new building has also received a 6 Star Green Star Education Design – V1 rating via the Green Building Council of Australia. With a tally of 83 points the Melbourne School of Design is the largest building to strike this rating. According to the University of Melbourne it's their first 6 Star rated building and the only building to ever be awarded all 10 innovation points under the Green Building Council of Australia metric.

<h2>Comment</h2>

This is a building of great contrasts for mine; that it can speak volumes from certain angles and be mute from others is a little puzzling. In a general sense the building looks great when softened by the associated landscaping, yet altogether inhospitable over the eastern facade where the building spills on to an inactive forecourt.

Again the mesh screens look impressive from the northern aspect, but when applied over precast panels it looks more car park than design force. The southern facade evokes little emotion/response - which is a problem in itself - while the overall design I can appreciate but have no great admiration for.

Of course the building is not judged solely on wow factor, as was evidenced by the project winning a citation at this year's Annual Progressive Architecture Awards. Held in New York, Melbourne School of Design was one of only ten buildings to receive the award from 150 entrants. While the internal configuration will be subject to another article, the Melbourne School of Design will be open to the public come the first of December; well worth a visit if you are in a position to do so.

Enjoy the extensive image set of the Melbourne School of Design below, bearing in mind the incorporated historic western facade has yet to be revealed owing to continuing remediation works.
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