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]

Joel Robinson

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

IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

Carlton

<html><body>
This evening City of Melbourne will officially voice their disapproval for another of Melbourne's 200+ metre residential proposals, this time 156-172 Victoria Street which forms part of the former CUB Brewery site abutting the CBD.

Singaporean-backed CEL Australia upon purchasing the prime site engaged Elenberg Fraser to create a tower capable of accommodating in excess of 1000 apartments. The initial application was lodged early during 2014 only to be usurped by a more recent revision which lowered the proposal's height and bulk.

Currently at 237 metres, 156-172 Victoria Street (set to sit behind the bluestone facade below) falls below the Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) permissible height of between AHD 246 and AHD 302 yet still overshadow the State Library during certain times of the year. In essence a tower of 280 metres could be approved without height being a concern.

Height being the principal reason for City of Melbourne's discontent, final approval for CEL's latest development ultimately lies with State Planning Minister, Matthew Guy.

<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_7534.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site in question with its contemporary to the rear"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="774" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7534.jpg?itok=OQOQVegE" title="The site in question with its contemporary to the rear" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site in question with a contemporary to the rear</figcaption></figure><h2>Remodelling 156-172 Victoria Street, Carlton</h2>

After concerns relating to design, wind, traffic, loading and access were raised by City of Melbourne and DTPLI, a revised scheme was submitted during May 2014. Whereas the initial version carried widened flanks, the revised tower still holds a general L shape but includes a solitary setback resulting in a streamlined form and hefty a loss of Gross Floor Area. The inverted podium of the initial design has also been adjusted heavily as has the facade treatment.

Vertical trim replaces horizontal lashings as the revised version takes on a steely silver complexion similar to that of another Elenberg Fraser project, <a href="/news/feel-the-love-248-250-sturt-street-southbank" target="_blank">248-250 Sturt Street, Southbank</a>. According to the revised planning report, "The tower is mainly proposed to be constructed of glazing in aluminium framing or steel structure. Other materials consist of metal louvres, colourback glass and composite metal cladding."

<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/image29cel.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images depicting the initial and revised schemes. Images © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="460" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image29cel.jpg?itok=cTzVZwjI" title="Images depicting the initial and revised schemes. Images © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images depicting the initial and revised schemes. Images © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th>Aspect</th>
			<th>February 2014 submission</th>
			<th>May 2014 submission</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dimensions</td>
			<td>77 levels @ 252.5</td>
			<td>72 levels @ 236.8 metres</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gross Floor Area</td>
			<td>104,262 sqm</td>
			<td>93,706sqm</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Apartments</td>
			<td>1041</td>
			<td>1037</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Retail</td>
			<td>1,805sqm</td>
			<td>2,254sqm</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Car parking</td>
			<td>232</td>
			<td>222</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bicycle</td>
			<td>470</td>
			<td>378</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>City of Melbourne's position</h2>

<blockquote>
Whilst the proposed development has a number of positive elements and is broadly consistent with the approved development plan for the site, there is significant concern regarding the proposed shadowing of the State Library forecourt between 11am and 2.00pm on 22 June. This is inconsistent with the policy in Clause 22.02 which states that developments not cast any additional shadows on the State Library forecourt between these hours.

To address this issue the built form will need to be modified which could possibly result in substantial design changes. Given the context and scale of the development, it is considered inappropriate to require these changes via conditions if a permit is to be issued.

On this basis, the proposal cannot be supported in its current form
<cite>Daniel Soussan, CoM Planning Coordinator</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Revolving door</h2>

A quirk in events sees City of Melbourne currently processing another application for the site in question. Last week saw the submission of an application seeking consent of "Building and works for a display suite/sales office and proposed permit for internally illuminated signage."

It seems that while City of Melbourne have objected to the proposal, developer CEL is eager to commence marketing the tower if and (more than likely) when final approval is granted by Planning Minister Matthew Guy.
</body></html>

silvermb

City of Melbourne grapples with CEL's 156-172 Victoria Street

<html><body>
The latest in a mounting number of apartment developments centred around <a href="/new-apartments/carlton-vic-3053">Carlton's</a> Queensberry Street was launched last night. <a href="/buildings/the-eminence-139-queensberry-street-carlton">The Eminence</a>, which was <a href="/news/planning-application-139-155-queensberry-street-carlton" target="_blank">first highlighted last year</a> by Apartments.com.au as a planning application, celebrated its launch event with all relevant project partners in attendance.

Speaking to project architect Ian Briggs of <a href="/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a>, he explains that the design reflects its location - a marriage of the CBD's vertical nature and the low-rise, finer grain substance of Carlton. Consequently the project is split into three vertical volumes, they being the lower Queensberry or northern volume, central and CBD volumes.

Each of these is in turn broken into blocks of two or three levels by way of white external privacy panels/load-bearing features to signify the street level height of traditional Carlton housing. In another nod to the past street level frontages are broken by the use of cottage reliefs, either consisting of perforated metal as seen below or shotcreted forms along other boundaries according to the architect.

<blockquote>
The design is a delicate balance of its environment, responding to the low line, staccato street fronts of Carlton and the high-rise scale of the city. The building form is separated into three towers to capitalise on light entry, natural ventilation and views to every 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartment and social space. Floor to ceiling glass to capture views, and expressed fins to frame them, wrap around the façade in a modern day interpretation of classic architecture that is carried from the lobby to the rooftop retreat.
<cite>Developer's description</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/image205.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Eminence plays on Carlton's low-rise character"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image205.jpg?itok=cpgoTQON" title="The Eminence plays on Carlton's low-rise character" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Eminence plays on Carlton's low-rise character</figcaption></figure>Near on 30% of the 193 apartments have been sold prior to launch with the owner-occupier market firmly in mind. Paraphrasing what was said last night, an investor may buy in to an owner-occupier focused development yet an owner-occupier will shun an investment driven apartment development, and that's the case with The Eminence as owner-occupiers buyers are represented heavily to date.

In the broader context a search of the Apartments.com.au database shows The Eminence is joined by <a href="/buildings/queens-carlton-106-queensberry-street-carlton" target="_blank">Queens Carlton</a> at the registration and sales stage. In addition <a href="/buildings/81-cardigan-street-carlton" target="_blank">81 Cardigan Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/upper-house-516-520-swanston-street-carlton">Upper House</a> are at varying stages of construction with the latter receiving its finishing touches.

<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_6587.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queensberry Street with 81 Cardigan, Eminence and Upper House in view"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6587.jpg?itok=_6HzeyvK" title="Queensberry Street with 81 Cardigan, Eminence and Upper House in view" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queensberry Street with 81 Cardigan, Eminence and Upper House in view</figcaption></figure>Directly opposite The Eminence, the distinctive facade of <a href="/developments/carlton-vic-3053">152 Queensberry Street</a> is waiting in the wings with planning approval. Together these projects will inject in the vicinity of 430 apartments with little more than 200 metres separating the quartet.

Into the future <a href="/developers/grocon">Grocon's</a> redevelopment of the former CUB site is expected to yield three buildings fronting Queensberry Street. <a href="/news/days-of-future-past-cub-site-carlton-continued" target="_blank">Outlined previously</a>, the three future towers have the potential to yield hundreds of new apartments, but for now The Eminence holds sway over this emerging development corridor.
</body></html>

The Eminence joins the queue on Queensberry

<html><body>
The eastern flank of Haymarket roundabout is set to bulk up further, with a planning application lodged with Melbourne City Council during April for 221 Pelham Street, Carlton.

Put forward by developer-builder Vaughans Constructions, below is an image of the proposed development which was sourced via the Vaughans website. If approved, 221 Pelham Street will join a growing number of mixed-use towers surrounding Haymarket roundabout, inline with City of Melbourne's <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/BuildingandPlanning/FutureGrowth/StructurePlans/CityNorth/Documents/City_North_Structure_Plan_2012.pdf" target="_blank">City North structure Plan</a> which seeks to densify the area.

<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/Pelham_1_650x469.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title=" Image © Vaughan constructions"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Pelham_1_650x469.jpg?itok=TS0Y-fJ9" style="height:418px; width:580px" title=" Image © Vaughan constructions"></a>

<h2>Project Summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>205-223 Pelham Street @ 708 sq.m, currently a Reece Plumbing outlet</li>
	<li>Proposed is a 15 level, 50.2 metre residential tower</li>
	<li>Ground floor incorporates 25 bicycle bays, 37 car parking spaces plus a 75 sq.m retail outlet</li>
	<li>82 apartments with 8 x 1BR + 74 x 2BR generally within the 50-70 sq.m bracket</li>
	<li>Podium to boundary with a street wall of 24m, upper levels recessed</li>
	<li>Urban Garden atop the podium included within the proposed development</li>
</ul>
<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/Image68.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Southern wall activation. Image © Jonh Davey Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image68.jpg?itok=ON197SeE" style="height:408px; width:580px" title="Southern wall activation. Image © Jonh Davey Architects"></a>

John Davey Architects design statement:

<blockquote>
Pelham Apartments aims to create a building that, through the use of definable sculptural elements, engages with its surroundings and occupants alike. A repetitive 'zig-zag' sculptural pattern creates a rhythm that envelopes the building along its four facades, transforms in material in response to height &amp; translates internally through fenestration &amp; form. The overall mass of the proposal ties in with the higher built forms fronting University Square, and the uniquely shaped site affords the opportunity for flexible internal layouts with uncompromised access to views &amp; natural light.
</blockquote>

Having said that the planning report also states not all bedrooms are provided with direct source of natural light. To counter this the architect has devised a flexible floor plan layout (via partitions) where second bedrooms can be adapted to other uses; living room, a study etc.

<blockquote>
These 'flexi' apartments can be modified for different functions via full height, extra wide sliding timber panels and flexible joinery, in a similar manner to the development at 103 Pelham Street for the 'Bravo' apartments. While there are a number of bedrooms which rely on borrowed light, they have been appropriately positioned to ensure that they are able to receive adequate daylight from the main living areas.
</blockquote>

Externally the tower is dominated by precast concrete panels carrying a feature pattern. Silver and grey perforated metal screens act as balustrades over lower levels while glass, aluminium window frames and aluminium cladding dominate elsewhere. The southern blank wall has been earmarked for an urban art piece, but will be subject to further design works separate to this application.

<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/Image64_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" style="font-size: 12px;" title="Envisaged ground level. Image © Jonh Davey Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image64_0.jpg?itok=5Gsfiy0W" style="height:286px; width:580px" title="Envisaged ground level. Image © Jonh Davey Architects"></a>

Owing to its current use, the existing warehouse makes little effort to engage with its surrounds and is subject to a Building Order issued by City of Melbourne which requires remediation works. With demolition the likely outcome, Pelham Apartments would enliven the streetscape by way of a glass fronted corner retail outlet, whilst the opposite corner would contain the tower entrance/lobby which promotes foot traffic to all three street frontages.

221 Pelham Street represents Vaughans Constructions latest foray into the buoyant Melbourne apartment market. The predominantly industrial builder turned apartment developer is set to finish vanguard development <a href="/buildings/bravo-103-pelham-street-carlton" target="_blank">Bravo Apartments</a> located at 103 Pelham Street shortly. Joining 221 Pelham Street in waiting will be <a href="http://www.vaughans.com.au/_uploads/Photo_Gallery/Residential_Gallery/650x469/Argyle_1_650x469.jpg" target="_blank">Argyle Apartments</a> which fronts Cardigan Street, marking Carlton as a honey pot of sorts for the developer.

<h2>Project team</h2>

<dl>
<dt>Developer</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://www.vaughans.com.au/default.aspx" target="_blank">Vaughans Constructions</a></dd>
	<dt>Architect</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://www.johndaveyarchitects.com.au/" target="_blank">John Davey Architects</a></dd>
	<dt>Town Planning</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://fulcrumup.com/" target="_blank">Fulcrum Urban Planning</a></dd>
	<dt>Traffic &amp; Transport</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://www.cardno.com/en-us/Pages/Home.aspx" target="_blank">Cardno Victoria Pty Ltd</a></dd>
	<dt>Waste Management Plan</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://www.leighdesign.com.au/" target="_blank">Leigh Design</a></dd>
	<dt>Accessibility &amp; DDA Report</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://www.onegroupid.com.au/" target="_blank">One Group</a></dd>
	<dt>Sustainability Management Plan</dt>
	<dd><a href="http://sdconsultants.com.au/" target="_blank">Sustainable Development Consultants</a></dd>
</dl>
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Planning Application > 221 Pelham Street, Carlton

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Today we look at a progressive design within Carlton that not only rejuvenates an underused tract of land, but also helps to break down a stigma associated with Melbourne's established social housing stock.

I'd like to think I'd be right in assuming the average Melburnian generally frowns upon social housing estate's such as those found in Richmond, Carlton or Prahran. Whether it be a perception of safety, crime, drug use or an altogether inhospitable public realm social housing estates in the eyes of many are no-go zones.

Enter the <a href="http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/about-the-department/plans,-programs-and-projects/projects-and-initiatives/housing-and-accommodation/carlton-housing-redevelopment" target="_blank">Carlton Housing Redevelopment</a> project which "is an urban renewal and community development project that provides housing and community facilities for the entire Carlton community."

<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/Carlton_redevelopment_sites-550.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An overview of the Carlton housing redevelopment. Image courtesy DHS"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="248" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Carlton_redevelopment_sites-550.jpg?itok=2UTwiuTi" title="An overview of the Carlton housing redevelopment. Image courtesy DHS" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>An overview of the Carlton housing redevelopment. Image courtesy DHS</figcaption></figure>Jointly developed by Citta Property Group and Australand, Living Carlton stage 3, better known as <a href="http://apartmentscarlton.com.au/location" target="_blank">Local Carlton</a> is a collection of 116 newly built six star green-rated private dwellings which share communal facilities with the long established Nicholson Street social housing complex. Designed by ARM Architecture and Fender Katsalidis, the centrepiece of the project is a new public park and linear urban park which connects Elgin Street and Palmerston Street.

Three new apartment buildings are designed in a horse-shoe format with the aforementioned park centrally located. At the core of the development is the notion that the large, open area with new recreational facilities will improve social interaction, safety and usability within the estate.

<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_3676.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Where there was none prior"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_3676.jpg?itok=mumuhC4Y" title="Where there was none prior" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>Where there was none prior</figcaption></figure>The green area and urban park (a children's playground) essentially invite inhabitants of the social housing towers and the public alike into the 'backyard' of the private apartments. Whilst it's a commendable design feature, ultimately the effectiveness of the layout will be borne out over time.

Will the park attract apartment dwellers, social housing dwellers of the general public? Will the park be used at all? Could this style of public-private living be easily adapted to other estate's such as Footscray or Richmond?

I can't answer those questions but I can provide a set of images taken within and around Local Carlton recently, highlighting both building and public spheres alike. Enjoy.
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New apartment meets old commission in Carlton

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An interesting planning application is currently before Melbourne City Council with an apartment development intended for 152-154 Queensberry Street, Carlton. Championed by Queensberry St Pty Ltd, the complex lends its name from the genus of tree species native to northern hemisphere climbs, a species that you and I would commonly call plane trees, which are evident throughout Melbourne.

<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/Image11_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Platanus as designed by Metaxas. Images © Metaxas Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_7.jpg?itok=LLUHFlpj" title="Platanus as designed by Metaxas. Images © Metaxas Architects" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Platanus as designed by Metaxas. Images © Metaxas Architects</figcaption></figure>Central to the towers design is an angular mesh and glass finish applied to the southern facade, which mimics plane trees found nearby. Full credit to Metaxas Architects for applying this unique exterior to the towers most prominent aspect. Gone are the typical horizontal bands and/or precast panels that define so many nearby buildings, in their place is a facade that according to the planning application is "Perforated at varying levels to provide a rich composition as an outlook. In addition the colours of the screen vary in a reference to the colours of the leaves in both bloom and in decomposed states."

In isolation the design is clever and unique, yet when inserted among existing built form Platanus is a breath of fresh air. This stretch of Swanston Street is heavy with student accomodation which traditionally has been devoid of any architectural merit and there is no greater example than<a href="http://raywhitemelbournecbd.com.au/vic/carlton/692689/" target="_blank"> 528 Swanston Street</a>, which immediately abuts the western boundary of this development proposal. 528 Swanston Street is multi-coloured affront to the senses and is visually pathetic, yet with the insertion of Platanus, <a href="/buildings/upper-house-516-520-swanston-street-carlton">Upper House</a> and <a href="/buildings/the-eminence-139-queensberry-street-carlton" target="_blank">139-155 Queensberry Street</a> the dearth of quality architecture is slowly being addressed.

The northern aspect of Platanus employs an inverted podium to maintain appropriate separation to an existing five level apartment development. The initial five levels are set back from the site boundary and progressively move outwards to the boundary thereafter which in essence delivers an overhung tower form above. This in turn provides separation of between 5.4 metres and 10.7 metres to the adjoining apartment complex.

<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/Image4_22.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A unique design response in action. Images © Metaxas Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_22.jpg?itok=SRoPdnkS" title="A unique design response in action. Images © Metaxas Architects" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>A unique design response in action. Images © Metaxas Architects</figcaption></figure>Within the 14 level building are 79 apartments, a 194 sqm basement office space, 208 sqm ground floor retail space, parking for 8 vehicles and 32 bicycles. Apartment offerings include one bedroom, one + study and two bedrooms where total dwelling square metreage (including terraces) varies between 44 sqm and 79 sqm. Atop the building is the 'cubby house', a communal facility which offers an enclosed dining and lounge area, rooftop terrace and barbecue facilities.

The developments eastern facade is predominantly precast panels which points toward and allows for equitable development of the adjoining property. With a number of other developments along the Swanston-Queensberry axis at construction or early stages of planning, the quality and variety of built form through the area will increase markedly... and Platinus should hold its own amongst them comfortably.
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Platanus > 152-154 Queensberry Street, Carlton

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As demolition progresses for the Upper House residential development on Swanston Street, another apartment building on an adjoining site awaits approval with a planning application lodged for 139-155 Queensberry Street, Carlton. Currently under assesment by Melbourne City Council, the site is also bound by Queensberry Way and Cornell Place. The building if constructed will rise 15 levels and sit between the 17 level <a href="/buildings/upper-house-516-520-swanston-street-carlton">Upper House</a> project and the 9 level, at sales <a href="/buildings/81-cardigan-street-carlton#content" target="_blank">81 Cardigan Street</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/139QueensburyStreet5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="As envisaged from Queensberry Street, with Upper House to the right. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/139QueensburyStreet5.jpg?itok=udmReqi7" title="As envisaged from Queensberry Street, with Upper House to the right." typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>As envisaged from Queensberry Street, with Upper House to the right.</figcaption></figure>A product of <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au/" target="_blank">Plus Architecture</a>, the building will hold a highly articulated light weight façade, which will include horizontal and vertical framing in a bid to break up the mass of the structure. It will comprise 193 residential dwellings and include 72 bicycle spaces.

138 on site car parking spaces will also be included in the development over 3 basement levels, with vehicular access to the building planned for both Queensberry Way and Cornell Place laneways, allowing for the activation of Queensberry Street which will be improved through the addition of 2 new retail outlets. Plus Architecture have also incorporated faux cottages through the ground floor facade, cleverly bringing an element of interest to an otherwise unused and seldom walked laneway.

<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/139QueensburyStreet3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level articulation. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/139QueensburyStreet3.jpg?itok=-lo1YJXy" title="Ground level articulation. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level articulation. Image © Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Adding to the amenity of the building will be a communal rooftop terrace which will be accessible to all residents of the building. The architects have designed the building in a way that allows for a transitional built form for the area, between the higher density Swanston Street precinct and the low rise Carlton precinct. Through this initiative, the Queensberry Street frontage will rise 10 levels to a total height of 32m with an additional 5 levels constructed above this which will be set back between 11.2 and 12.6 metres. The setback also allows for a clear differentiation between the podium levels and the upper levels in the building.

While an effort has been made to provide this transition in built form between the two precincts, Carlton residents have already voiced their opposition to the proposal, with the Carlton Residents Association claiming that 15 stories is of “excessive height” and that it does not aid the transition from taller buildings on Swanston Street to low-rise in the east of Swanston Street. Another point of concern is the domolition of the Australian Communication Workers Union building onsite.

<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_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The current building as per Google Maps"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2_13.jpg?itok=ebm2aFV_" title="The current building as per Google Maps" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>The current building as per Google Maps</figcaption></figure>If given the go ahead, one would assume apartments in the building would be highly sought after following the recent selling out of all apartments in the Upper House building. A decision has not yet been made on the permit.

Renders © Plus Architecture.
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