Toorak's dress circle St Georges Road, home to some of the city's priciest homes, is set for a rare new apartment development.

Blood Diamond Group, an entity tied to Tina Brandi, wife of David Brandi who has been a prolific bidder on The Block over the years, has filed plans for an ultra-exclusive development across an amalgamated 3,662 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/104-106-st-georges-road-toorak-vic-3142">104 and 106 St Georges Road</a>.

The proposal would replace two existing homes on the riverfront site with a five-level apartment building cascading down the steeply sloping land toward the Yarra River. Designed by Charles Wright Architects, the development has been carefully shaped around the site’s topography and river environs, with the upper levels stepping back to reduce visual bulk from both St Georges Road and the Yarra corridor.

Planning documents describe the proposal as “a site layout and building typology that is consistent with the emerging character of the area and which provides exceptional amenity for future residents without compromising that of neighbouring properties.”&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Blood Diamond Group unveils riverfront apartment plans for Toorak Pavilion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ea19a17e-7528-4fa8-b727-05f2f7c025e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Toorak%20pavilion%20a_0.png?VersionId=rZ2IjdoUL_UrRl1sZ4wZHnQXbYUaEmUQ" />

The scheme comprises 12 apartments, including 10 three-bedroom residences, one one-bedroom apartment, and a substantial split-level five-bedroom penthouse. A 624 sqm communal rooftop terrace will crown the building, while three undercroft levels embedded into the hillside will accommodate apartments and basement parking.

The design leverages the site’s dramatic northern outlook across the Yarra River, with living areas and balconies oriented toward the water. A central atrium running the full height of the building is intended to draw natural light deep into the residences and improve internal amenity.

Landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo Design &amp; Landscape</a> will play a major role in softening the built form, particularly along the river edge where significant setbacks have been introduced. The proposal includes a minimum 30-metre setback from the Yarra River boundary, preserving a substantial landscaped buffer between the development and the waterway.

While a mature English Oak near the front of the site is proposed for removal, the plans retain a large English Elm closer to the riverfront, alongside other established vegetation in the lower section of the property.

<img alt="First look: Blood Diamond Group unveils riverfront apartment plans for Toorak Pavilion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ed3bf19b-5bc7-482f-bde7-41f709a13c3a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Toorak%20pavilion%20b.png?VersionId=SG_kBGu4rOaSPY8FtVcmPJfSCrstuOfg" />

Architecturally, the building adopts strong horizontal forms with expansive glazing and curved balcony edges facing the river. Planning documents note the upper levels “adopt a receding form” to ensure the building responds appropriately to the Yarra River environs overlay controls.&nbsp;

The surrounding streetscape is characterised by large contemporary homes embedded into the hillside, many presenting as modest one or two-storey forms to the street before expanding toward the river frontage below. The planning report notes this established pattern heavily influenced the massing strategy for Toorak Pavilion.&nbsp;

Until the recent sale of the landmark Clendon Road mansion Coonac for around $130 million, St Georges Road held the state's most expensive home, the $80,000,088 derelict "Ghost House" mansion that was bought by crypto king Ed Craven.&nbsp;

Blair House, also on St Georges Road, sold for $74.5 million in 2022.

Joel Robinson

First look: Toorak Pavilions slated for dress circle St Georges Road

Six months after a development site on Kangaroo Point’s Shafston Avenue sold for $6.55 million, plans have been lodged for a 23-storey apartment tower.

A company named JMT Mega Capital, understood to be interstate investors when the 1,222 sqm double block traded late last year through Patona Property, is proposing an 84-apartment development in place of the existing low-rise buildings.

The slender tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/212-220-shafston-avenue-east-brisbane-qld-4169">212–220 Shafston Avenue</a>, overlooking the Brisbane River, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/aplus-design-group">Aplus Design Group</a>. It will comprise a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments above six basement levels, topped by rooftop resident amenities.

<img alt="First look: 23-storey Kangaroo Point tower planned for Shafston Avenue riverfront precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e17ba9e-553e-42ef-92b6-22081671521a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium_3.png?VersionId=hlVUf99vrOjUs.vhQs0qV0DhOncUy9T8" />

The development has been designed as a vertically articulated tower with recessed balconies, curved façades and planted edges intended to soften its scale within the evolving Shafston Avenue skyline. In the submitted Urban Design Report, Aplus Design Group said the tower had been “shaped with a slender vertical expression, articulated façades, recessed balcony zones, integrated planting and a clearly defined podium relationship, helping to reduce perceived bulk and create a more elegant contribution to the Shafston Avenue streetscape and broader Kangaroo Point skyline.”

The scheme comprises 84 apartments, including 25 one-bedroom units, 34 two-bedroom apartments and 25 three-bedroom residences. A total of 104 car spaces are proposed across six basement levels, including resident, visitor and accessible parking.

Residents will have access to rooftop communal open space and shared amenities, while the development also incorporates deep planting zones and subtropical landscaping throughout the podium and tower levels. The project includes 35 per cent communal space coverage across the site and a 17.5 per cent deep soil zone allocation to support urban greening outcomes.

The application exceeds the mapped building height under the Kangaroo Point Peninsula Neighbourhood Plan and is being assessed under Brisbane City Council’s impact assessment pathway. The design team argues the additional height is supported by the site’s strategic inner-city location, existing high-density zoning, and proximity to transport and employment hubs.

“The design has been developed to make better use of a well-serviced urban site within an established high-density residential setting, while improving the street presentation and overall quality of the public realm interface,” the report states.

<img alt="First look: 23-storey Kangaroo Point tower planned for Shafston Avenue riverfront precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1ab44b1e-ff45-4bf3-8da8-8aa0cd79db33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_10.png?VersionId=tSxeGekZOqj1e9g3PEn_yFoC3taKDp3U" />

The proposal adds to a growing pipeline of apartment developments reshaping Kangaroo Point ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, with demand continuing to strengthen for new housing supply in well-connected inner-city precincts.

Mosaic has nearly sold out its under-construction <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford by Mosaic</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a>,&nbsp;while Pikos recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye Residences</a> nearby. Pikos is also delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gaia-kangaroo-point-108-lambert-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Gaia</a>, over 230 three- and four-bedroom apartments on Lambert Street.

First look: 23-storey Kangaroo Point apartment tower planned for Shafston Avenue riverfront precinct

A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

CEL Australia

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<a href="/news/cel-australia-to-launch-latest-fishermans-bend-development-this-weekend">Following the recent launch of the first stage of CEL Australia's FIFTEEN85</a> multi-tower project down in Fishermans Bend, Apartments.com.au spoke to Tim Pearce, General Manager of CEL Australia about the company's ambitions for the project and the challenges of developing in an urban renewal precinct.

<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/gabrielsaunders_cel_gladstonest_external-lookup.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first stage of FIFTEEN85 has been released. Image: Gabriel Saunders"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders_cel_gladstonest_external-lookup.jpg?itok=gZgmB1br" title="The first stage of FIFTEEN85 has been released. Image: Gabriel Saunders" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first stage of FIFTEEN85 has been released. Image: Gabriel Saunders</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au: What was the appeal of this development site to CEL and particularly within Fishermans Bend? 

Tim Pearce: This site is more South Melbourne than it is Fishermans bend, being located immediately adjacent to the South Melbourne primary school and a stone’s throw from South Melbourne Market, in an area already well serviced by public transport and government driven infrastructure. Even so, South Melbourne/Fishermans bend, this site has everything going for its location, with excellent connections to the bay and beaches, CBD, South Melbourne. It’s so close to the CBD without being in that hustle and bustle, you still get a sense of getting out of the city and the noise, even though you’ve only travelled a couple of minutes away.

When we purchased the site the school and park were still on the drawing board, but now they are a reality, and a strong sign of the upgrades occurring in this area. This site is a key site to be one of the first to take advantage of the activation and holistic improvements to the area that are already happening. By the time Tower 1 is complete the precinct will be even better.

U: How important is acquiring a site with a permit in hand, in light of some of the planning uncertainty regarding the Fishermans Bend Draft Framework? 

TP: Very important. The last couple of years has seen some large scale changes to planning controls not just in this area, but across Melbourne. To have the surety of planning approval in this climate is a big positive.

U: Did you change much of the design and/or reconfigure apartment layouts? 

TP: We’ve been fortunate to inherit a great design by Elenberg Fraser, whom we know well from our previous projects. We’ve made a few tweaks to include additional storage for residents, remove mechanical car parking and make the building a little more user friendly. We’ve also reviewed a few of the layouts and common facilities to ensure that there is great amenity for those that are fortunate enough to live at FIFTEE85 in the future.

U: The project is located opposite the under construction Montague Community Park, the recently completed South Melbourne Primary School, within a short walk of the new route 96 tram stop - how important was the early delivery of this community infrastructure in providing not only CEL but prospective buyers with a degree of certainty around the redevelopment of the area? 

TP: Even without those things the area has very good fundamentals, connection and existing local drawcards such as the South Melbourne Market, Albert Park and the beaches close by. But, we are also very happy to see the great government-led community infrastructure that provides that cream on top. Of course seeing this investment in the area, buyers should be confident in the redevelopment of the area.

The government is delivering on their initiatives for the area and understand that major infrastructure projects like this are required for any area that will be a core residential area, as this one will be. Having the certainty of open green space and schooling on their doorstep is definitely a positive and builds on the community nature of the area as it further develops.

<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/montagueparkartistsimpression_web.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The under construction Montague Community Park. Image: City of Port Phillip"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/montagueparkartistsimpression_web.jpg?itok=Y1yrJX2P" title="The under construction Montague Community Park. Image: City of Port Phillip" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The under construction Montague Community Park. Image: City of Port Phillip</figcaption></figure>U: And building on from that, was there more of a desire to provide for families than maybe you would traditionally see with a development? There has also been talk of an early learning centre potentially being developed on the neighbouring site at 6-78 Buckhurst Street? 

TP: We love families. They are great for any development and definitely build a sense of community. Yes, we do believe that younger families and first home buyers will be attracted to the area and into this development. This is why we developed some gift packages for these demographics as part of our grand launch.

South Melbourne is a comfortable area to bring up a family and with the school and park next door, FIFTEEN85 makes it very convenient as well. The demographic of South Melbourne includes a lot of young professionals with young families, or who will have young families in the future, and don’t want to live so far from work that they need to spend hours commuting, as this time is better spent at home. If the adjoining site in Buckhurst Street is to be developed into the early learning centre, that would be a fantastic outcome.

U: The site is also minutes from South Melbourne Market and Clarendon Street in one direction but also Port Melbourne and Bay Street in the other - do you consider this proximity to as one of the major selling points? 

TP: We do of course, these areas are very popular with locals and those in neighbouring suburbs. For FIFTEEN85 to be located so close to these popular spots, it allows our residents to be able to walk to some of these spots and enjoy their time in Clarendon St and the South Melbourne Markets without having to worry about parking if they don’t want to.

U: Has the lack of any real development activity in Fishermans Bend been a consideration/concern or do you see this as the perfect opportunity to be launching FIFTEEN85 and leading the way forward?  

TP: Each project brings its own considerations and concerns. Location here is more of a consideration than a concern. For all the points mentioned already there is so much going for this location. This location is closer to central South Melbourne than it is to downtown Fishermans Bend. Development in Fishermans Bend will be good for the area and will ultimately bring activity, infrastructure and great improvements to a very central part of Melbourne.

However, because we are more South Melbourne, being one of the first is not really a concern, as there is already so many positives for this site, and this will only improve over time. Besides that, we don’t mind being a leader, it provides our potential buyers with a great opportunity to invest while prices are still affordable. 

We also benefit from the lack of tall towers around the site, and limitations on future development as well – with 360 degree views to CBD, Albert Park, and the Bay. FIFTEEN85 will really be a beacon in this area.

U: What are some of the challenges with marketing a project in an area that is going to see a considerable transformation into an urban precinct? How do you sell both the short term and long term vision to prospective buyers? Or do you focus on the benefits of being located near South Melbourne and Port Melbourne as mentioned earlier? 

TP: The story is about both the short term and immediate benefits as well as the long term vision – both are a good story. In the short term we have all those things, location, school, markets, beaches. In the longer term the community will further develop around it. To a degree you do need to look past today’s streetscape to tomorrow’s streetscape, but the increasing population will bring activity and business and overall improvements.

We will have a readymade population to support others such as the neighbours who could build their early learning centre.  We do still have a 30 story building to build for Tower 1, and that’s going to take a couple of years before the first residents will be moving in. By that time there will be further changes taking place, including the next stages of FIFTEEN85.

U: The launch of each building is being staged - will construction be staged too or will construction occur all at once? And when do you anticipate this to occur? 

TP: We anticipate that works will commence by September this year. The design includes a laneway that will ultimately integrate with the surrounding properties. This also makes Tower 1 a standalone building.

Towers 2 &amp; 3 share a common podium and while there is some flexibility in how that can be constructed, we currently anticipate that they will be constructed together. Tower 1 will commence first, with the next phase of FIFTEEN85 commencing as soon as we can – and that will be driven by the sales success of Tower 1.
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Laurence Dragomir

CEL Australia's Tim Pearce discusses FIFTEEN85 and developing in Fishermans Bend

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<a href="/news/fifteen85-is-fishermans-bends-first-major-launch-of-2018">First mentioned on Urban.com.au last month</a>, the first stage of <a href="/developers/cel-australia">CEL Australia's</a> <a href="/new-apartments/15-85-gladstone-street-south-melbourne">FIFTEEN85</a> <a href="/new-apartments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a> development, within the Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area, is being launched this weekend. 

Located at 15 - 85 Gladstone Street, FIFTEEN85 is located just a few doors down from <a href="/buildings/gravity-tower-89-montague-street-south-melbourne">Gravity Tower</a>, the first residential tower to be built within the Montague precinct of Fishermans Bend, and will comprise three towers of up to 30-storeys.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="631" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders_cel_gladstonest_external-podium.jpg?itok=2LIffat1" title="FIFTEEN 85's three multi-coloured towers in-situ. Image: Gabriel Saunders" width="580">

<figcaption>FIFTEEN 85's three multi-coloured towers in-situ. Image: Gabriel Saunders</figcaption></figure>To kick off the official launch of FIFTEEN85, CEL Australia is throwing a dog and owner festival, called the "FIFTEEN85 South Melbourne Graze &amp; Growl" on Saturday June 23rd. 

The festival includes a “Park Your Pooch Zone”, which includes Grooming by Pettiquette and the “Hair of the Dog Bar” curated by the Caine Wellness Kitchen. On the menu are complimentary treat bags, Dog friendly beer, pinot, cider and specialised dog street food. Additionally, BOco dog collars will be offering discounted leather collars and giveaways. For the humans, free food will be given out by:

<ul>
<li>Loaded Hotdogs</li>
	<li>Wheelys Coffee Cart</li>
	<li>Crepes for Change</li>
	<li>Benny Burgers</li>
</ul>
CEL Australia will also be offering the first 70 purchasers the share in over $2 million worth of developer incentive packages. The incentives will be aimed at First Home Buyers, Local Owner Occupiers, Local Investors, FIRB Investors and FIRB Owner Occupiers. Local purchases will be offered furniture and AV packages worth upwards of $25,000, as well as 12 months contributions to the Owners Corporation.

According to CEL Australia, FIFTEEN85 has been designed with comfort and style as key considerations for residents seeking a modern lifestyle, and the best of apartment and city living.

<blockquote>
The design of FIFTEEN85 is set to make it one of the most attractive residential buildings in the area. Every Aspect has been carefully considered, whether your appreciating the glassed exterior or living a great lifestyle from within,”

It’s important that there are opportunities for the residents to meet and interact to create meaningful relationships. FIFTEEN85 has been designed with this in mind. It is a vertical community which offers shared spaces as an extension of the home

- Tim Pearce, General Manager, CEL Australia
</blockquote>

The development is located opposite the under construction <a href="/news/montague-community-park-on-track-for-spring-completion">Montague Community Park, due to open in September</a>, and less than a minute's walk from the recently completed South Melbourne Primary School.  Additionally, FIFTEEN85 aims to take advantage of its proximity to South Melbourne with the market and Clarendon Street only a short walk away.

Designed by <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a> and inspired by the works of renowned glass artist Josiah McElheny, the development is characterised by curved, tapering forms clad in multi coloured towers of emerald, cobalt and violet glazing. 

FIFTEEN85 South Melbourne comprises 702 apartments across the three towers - two towers of 30-storeys and one of 27-storeys. All three towers will include a variety of 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom plus study, 2 bedrooms plus 1 bathroom, 2 bedrooms plus 2 bathrooms and 3 bedrooms plus 2 bathroom apartments.

Shared facilities will be located on level 6 of Tower 1 and level 5 of towers 2 &amp; 3, and will include, a pool, gymnasium, sauna, spa, outdoor entertainment areas, resident’s lounges and resident’s dining rooms.

Look out for Apartments.com.au's Q&amp;A with CEL Australia's General Manager TIm Pearce in the coming weeks.

<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/gabrielsaunders_cel_reissue-gladstonestreet_pool_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The view towards Yarra's Edge from the podium rooftop pool. Image: Gabriel Saunders"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="400" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders_cel_reissue-gladstonestreet_pool_0.jpg?itok=O26yQun1" title="The view towards Yarra's Edge from the podium rooftop pool. Image: Gabriel Saunders" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The view towards Yarra's Edge from the resident's pool. Image: Gabriel Saunders</figcaption></figure><h2>FIFTEEN85 Launch Details</h2>

What: FIFTEEN85 South Melbourne Graze &amp; Growl

Who: CEL Australia 

When: Saturday June 23rd 11:00am to 3:00pm 

Where: 15 - 85 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne Victoria
</body></html>

CEL Australia to launch latest Fishermans Bend development this weekend

<html><body>
Not too long after the site was successfully sold, Delta Property Group have moved to launch their latest project dubbed The Point Doncaster Hill.

Formally 600 Doncaster Road, the relevant planning application encompassing 174 apartments was approved by Manningham City Council during May of this year. The permit and site were promptly offered for sale, with Colliers International and GormanKelly sealing the deal during August.

After a short turn around, Delta Property Group have opened registrations of interest for the project which adds to the Footscray-based developers expanding project catalogue.

The design is that of BKK Architects, with landscaping provided by Oculus. A key design feature of The Point Doncaster Hill will be the mature trees placed over the centre of the western facade, with these outdoor spaces set to double as common areas. The plantings will continue down to ground level, where an 'orchard' of sorts will frame the landscape.

<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/image34_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="On point. Image: BKK Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_8.jpg?itok=V4sgVVQf" title="On point. Image: BKK Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>On point. Image: BKK Architects</figcaption></figure>Following on from <a href="/buildings/the-riverside-1-moreland-street-footscray">Riverside</a> on the banks of the Maribyrnong River which is all but complete, The Point Doncaster Hill joins East Brunswick's <a href="/buildings/the-vic-50-victoria-street-brunswick-east">The Vic</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/422-426-riversdale-road-hawthorn-east">422 Riversdale Road</a> within Hawthorn as projects within Delta Property Group's current pipeline.

Approved with 84 one-bedroom, 83 two-bedroom and 7 three-bedroom apartments, The Point Doncaster Hill will be rejigged to include 4 bedroom abodes as well. 

As the project has a commanding position with views over the CBD which are likely to remain long-term, it seems that Delta Property Group has ramped up the project's appeal to what they hope will be a higher end buyer. 

<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/image33_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bunnings expected Doncaster outlet. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="263" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image33_8.jpg?itok=7XncpHas" title="Bunnings expected Doncaster outlet. Image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bunnings expected Doncaster outlet. Image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>In other news atop Doncaster Hill, test drilling has commenced on the long-vacant development site owned by Bunnings at 659-669 Doncaster Road. Soil survey is generally a good indicator that a given project is nearing a start.

According to Manningham City Council's planning register, the proposal holds a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit although the final outcome is still listed as in progress. Post its planning submission during 2013, the application has been revised in order to meet a number of concerns, with parking and traffic congestion fears at the forefront of thinking.

Development is likely to <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/east/doncaster-bunnings-to-be-built-next-to-westfield-doncaster/news-story/2a1804f835ce56da0dc9a4cd44c1d8d3">occur over three stages</a>, and it remains to be seen if Bunnings will go it alone in developing the apartments, buddy up with a recognised developer or sell off the development/air rights whilst maintaining a presence over the lower levels.

Not too far away and CEL Australia have recently seen a tower crane adorned with their logo hoisted into the Doncaster skyline. It's been a longer than expected stint between cranes for the developer post the completion of 33M in the CBD. 

CEL Australia's premier development, Tower Melbourne, has been bogged down in legal proceedings for some years, leaving Willow Doncaster as the Singapore-backed firm's sole Melbourne project at construction, with Canny Projects carrying out the construction works.

<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_9624.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Willow Doncaster on the rise"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9624.jpg?itok=8EIDQDNw" title="Willow Doncaster on the rise" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Willow Doncaster on the rise</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

silvermb

Delta gets to the point on Doncaster Hill

<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>

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

<html><body>
With the release of X-Men: Days of Future upon us we once again find ourselves delving deep into the Apartments.com.au archives, this time perusing the various incarnations of <a href="http://www.grocon.com/gallery/current/">Grocon's</a> <a href="http://www.swanstonsquare.com.au/">Swanston Square</a> project at the top end of Swanston Street. Like the film's impressive roll call of big name actors, the site is similarly playing host to an all-star cast of local architects.

<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/swanstonsquare_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Swanston Sqaure prior to the sale of Building 4. © Grocon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/swanstonsquare_0.jpg?itok=e26YEvtK" title="Swanston Sqaure prior to the sale of Building 4. © Grocon" width="580"></a>

It's difficult to comprehend that 8 years have passed since Grocon first acquired the site (save for the south-east corner now housing the Design Hub) from RMIT back in late 2006. In that time only RMIT's Design Hub &amp; the Pixel building have been completed with the 30-storey Portrait on the cusp of topping out.

<h2>A brief 'recent' history</h2>

<ul>
<li>Grocon purchases site from RMIT for approximately $40 million during 2006.</li>
	<li>NH Architecture are appointed to oversee the master plan and urban design aspects of the former brewery with a brief that called for 120,000sq m of commercial space and 600 apartments, plus 150 underground parking spaces. Heritage fragments such as the old Malthouse building and bluestone facades fronting Bouverie Street are to be retained and incorporated into the new development while the Swanston Street vista towards the Shrine of Remembrance is to be preserved and extended into the site.</li>
	<li>A design ideas competition is run for each of the five buildings, encouraging a diversity of architecture. Ten architects are invited to submit proposals for the site based on the master plan developed by NH.</li>
	<li>The successful architectural firms are announced in mid-2007 - ARM, DCM, MCR, MVS &amp; NH.</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/CUB_PLAN.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Carlton Brewery Development Plan."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/CUB_PLAN.jpg?itok=dnPnWXSD" title="Carlton Brewery Development Plan." width="580"></a>

Over a two part article we discuss the history of each land parcel of the former CUB Carlton site:

<h2>BUILDING #8 - Pixel - Studio 505 Pty Ltd</h2>

<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/PIXEL.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pixel Building. © Studio 505"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="242" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/PIXEL.jpg?itok=lh0kDxEU" title="Pixel Building. © Studio 505" width="580"></a>

Completed in July 2010, the 1,100 sq.m Pixel building was the first building constructed on-site and was to act as Grocon's site office for the duration of the construction phase at The Brewery. It is most notable for being the first carbon neutral office building in Australia, generating its own power and water on-site. Most striking is its colourful facade comprising a random assortment of recycled panels of various shapes, sizes and colours which help shade the interior spaces and reduce glare.

<blockquote>
Pixel has achieved a perfect score of 100 under the Greenstar rating system, with 75 points the benchmark for 6 Star Greenstar. It gained an extra five points for innovation, equating to world leadership. Included in Pixel's five innovation points were points for carbon neutrality, a vacuum toilet system, the anaerobic digestion system and reduced car parking.

Pixel has also achieved a perfect 105 points under the US LEED rating scheme making it the highest rating building of any yet certified for LEED anywhere in the world. It is aiming to exceed the highest score yet achieved under the UK BREEAM rating systems. To put that into context, there are approximately 40,000 buildings registered worldwide under those three rating schemes, and Pixel would be at the forefront of all of them.
</blockquote>

For more info visit:<a href="http://www.pixelbuilding.com.au/"> http://www.pixelbuilding.com.au/</a>

<h2>RMIT Design Hub - Sean Godsell + Peddle Thorp</h2>

<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/Design%20Hub.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="RMIT Design Hub © Sean Godsell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="263" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Design%20Hub.jpg?itok=WlwTjELu" title="RMIT Design Hub © Sean Godsell" width="580"></a>

The 10-storey design, research and education facility on the corner of Victoria and Swanston Streets opened in late 2012. Comprising a series of large flexible indoor 'warehouse' style spaces running the length of the building, the complex is designed to promote collaborative learning and research amongst various disciplines. The Design Hub houses the Design Archives, a Virtual Reality Centre, a workshop, Multipurpose Room, Lecture Theatre, and four rooftop Pavilions with a cafe at lower ground level.

More than 1700 sq.m is dedicated to exhibition spaces with an exhibition corridor running the length of the building along Swanston Street. A cascading public forecourt links the Design Hub and the RMIT Design Archives.

<blockquote>
The purpose of the Design Hub is to provide accommodation in one building for a diverse range of design research and post graduate education. RMIT is a world leader in design research however post graduates are currently dissipated across various campuses and facilities. The Hub will provide a collegial research base where post graduates in fields such as fabric and fashion design will work alongside those involved in architecture, aeronautical engineering, industrial design, landscape architecture, urban design and so on.

Research groups have the ability to locate and fine tune their accommodation within ‘warehouses’ - open plan spaces where research teams can set up and tailor their work environment to suit their particular needs. Teams may stay for anywhere from six months to three years depending on the nature of and funding limits to their research and education programs. Research may include the need for workshops to make physical models to be located alongside computer studios, three dimensional printing, virtual reality modelling and so on.

Given the time frames associated with research projects all the warehouses require a high level of adaptability and flexibility. In that sense these spaces are designed to accommodate the organic nature of research - ever evolving, adapting, changing and growing.
<cite>Sean Godsell, Architect</cite>
</blockquote>

The Design Hub won the Victorian Architecture Medal and the William Wardell Award at the 2013 Victorian Architecture Awards.

<a href="http://www.designhub.rmit.edu.au/about/the-building">http://www.designhub.rmit.edu.au/about/the-building</a>

<h2>BUILDING #5 - Portrait - ARM Architecture</h2>

<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/Portrait%20progression.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design Progression. © ARM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="230" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Portrait%20progression.jpg?itok=NJjZhbQ0" title="Design Progression. © ARM" width="580"></a>

The one constant throughout various design proposals over the years is ARM, who first developed a winning scheme for a $300m development on the site in the 1995, but which was never built.

<blockquote>
ARM won an invited competition for a $300 million redevelopment of the former CUB site in 1995. This project included student housing, two towers, multimedia centre, residential apartments, commercial offices, a hotel, cinemas, retail and carparking. This scheme at the termination of the Shrine of Remembrance axis made a provocative urban and formal response by deflecting to create a spectacular anti-monumental void. This development did not go ahead, but the concept for this proposal informs the new scheme for the ARM designed office building in the current CUB master plan.
</blockquote>

<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/ARM%20Brewery%201995_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="ARM proposal for $300m mixed-use development circa 1995. © ARM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ARM%20Brewery%201995_0.jpg?itok=DwcV3UG7" title="ARM proposal for $300m mixed-use development circa 1995. © ARM" width="580"></a>

The office finally see one of their designs come to fruition in the form of the building formerly known as Portrait. Originally conceived as a 20-storey office building the development forms the first stage of the rebranded Swanston Square:

<blockquote>
This 20-storey office tower faces down the Swanston Street axis towards the Shrine of Remembrance in St Kilda Road. Architect Howard Raggatt said the building would be a new gateway to Melbourne, akin to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The Shrine of Remembrance was a "profoundly symbolic element" of Melbourne's city centre, Mr Raggatt said, and it was crucial a significant building at the other end of the city faced the Shrine.
</blockquote>

The design has since evolved into a literal interpretation of the building facing the shrine, in the form of William Barak's face across it's 32-storeys. Currently under construction, the face will be partly obscured by the Design Hub with only views from close proximity affording pedestrians a glimpse of it in full.

<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/jPcKH.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="715" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jPcKH.jpg?itok=y_gRco9V" title="Image © Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<a href="/news/days-of-future-past-cub-site-carlton-continued">In part two tomorrow</a>, we highlight those land parcels not yet constructed, including CEL Australia's 156-172 Victoria Street proposal at 253 metres.
</body></html>

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