What began as a leap of faith in the 1970s has evolved into one of the Gold Co​ast's most enduring development success stories. Raptis, now led by second-generation developer Evan Raptis, continues to shape the region's skyline four decades after patriarch Jim Raptis first ventured north from Sy​dney.

Jim Raptis began developing in Sy​dney in his 20s under the guidance of a seasoned mentor. After several successful joint ventures, he sensed untapped potential on the Gold Coast and made the bold decision to relocate. That instinct proved prescient, the Raptis family has contributed thousands of apartments to what was once purely a tourist destination and is now recognised as Australia's lifestyle capital.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361818]

With decades of experience navigating the complex Gold Coast development landscape, Raptis maintains fully vertical integration, from site acquisition and construction through to marketing and sales strategies. This comprehensive approach has allowed the company to weather multiple market cycles and emerge well-positioned for the region's continued growth.

"We've seen the region change drastically over the last two decades, with that change accelerating in the last five years," says Evan Raptis. "The Gold Coast is becoming unrecognisable. There are some exciting projects happening up and down the coast. The Spit is being talked about as Australia's version of Monaco, with billions in development underway."

Unlike the volatile pre-GFC years that rocked the Gold Coast market, Raptis believes the region has matured considerably. "Demand remains strong, but the market is now settled and stable."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361823]

While the company recently completed Pearl Main Beach, an 84-apartment development just 53 steps from the sand, Broadbeach has truly been home for the Raptis family.

"There's nothing Broadbeach doesn't have," Raptis says. "There's always a new café or restaurant coming into the neighbourhood, and the redevelopment of the Niecon Plaza, bringing nearly 5,500 square metres of retail, dining and office space, will only elevate Broadbeach even further."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=357483]

The suburb has reached what Raptis describes as a "settled phase" of its evolution, with owner-occupiers and repeat visitors increasingly shaping demand rather than traditional investors.

The company's latest Broadbeach project, Sterling, is now constructed to level 22 and scheduled for handover in June 2026. With approximately 70 per cent of apartments already sold ahead of completion, the development has attracted a distinct buyer profile.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361821]

"We're seeing significant interest from lock-up-and-leave buyers and downsizers," Raptis explains. "Some use the apartments over Easter or Christmas, while others come down from Brisbane on weekends. They aren't your typical 'investors' who will put the apartments up for permanent rental."

Sterling offers prospective buyers a rare advantage: fully completed display apartments showcasing several two- and three-bedroom configurations, something few off-the-plan developments can provide.

With another Broadbeach project in the pipeline, Raptis emphasises that the next chapter is about maintaining standards rather than pursuing growth at any cost.

"We've been building for over four decades, and our track record matters. Our focus remains the same: deliver what we build, stay close to the details, and delivering a finished product that hopefully exceeds our clients' expectations."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=101620]

Joel Robinson

It’s all in the family: Four decades later, Raptis continues to shape the Gold Coast skyline

JWLand has completed the final residential stage of its Lyneham precinct, Northbourne Village, with De Burgh now welcoming residents who have begun settling into their new homes.

A selection of the 350 studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments remains available within the two-building <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/de-burgh-at-northbourne-village-40-de-burgh-street-lyneham-act-2602">De Burgh</a>, which occupies a prominent position along Northbourne Avenue.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=359152]

The apartments at De Burgh have been configured to prioritise natural light, privacy, and usable outdoor space, with ground-floor homes featuring private courtyards and upper-level apartments opening to generous balconies. Double-glazed windows are standard across the development, supporting acoustic comfort and improved energy performance.

Kitchens are fitted with Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, while all residences include ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning integrated with app-based controls, allowing residents to manage lighting and climate remotely. These inclusions reflect a broader focus on durability, efficiency, and everyday functionality rather than short-term finishes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=356280]

Shared amenity is delivered through a resident gym, rooftop garden, lounge spaces, parcel lockers, and landscaped communal areas that connect De Burgh to the wider Northbourne Village environment.

Nick Babic, Marketing Project Manager at JWLand, said the completion of De Burgh gives buyers a level of certainty that off-the-plan purchases cannot always provide.

“There’s no need to wait or play guessing games. You can come and see the spaces firsthand, and genuinely picture yourself living there today. That includes not only the apartments, but the amenities as well. It’s easy to imagine enjoying a coffee in the central courtyard or spending time with other residents in the lounge.”

The completed status of the project aligns with strong buyer demand for finished stock, particularly among first home buyers, young professionals, and downsizers seeking certainty around timing and cost.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=356282]

With pricing ranging from $463,000 to $1.588 million, much of the offering sits within reach of buyers looking to enter the Inner North apartment market.

De Burgh’s location underpins its buyer appeal, positioned approximately 600 metres from the light rail and three kilometres from Canberra’s CBD, with direct access to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/lyneham-act-2602">Lyneham</a> wetlands, Sullivan’s Creek parkland, and the established hospitality and retail precincts of Lyneham and Dickson.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139989]

Canberra's newest apartment building: JWLand completes De Burgh at Northbourne Village

One of Victoria’s largest private developers, Central Equity, has commenced construction on Palmera, its $1 billion luxury residential development at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast, appointing Tier 1 builder Multiplex to deliver the project.

The fast-track to construction is being undertaken ahead of Central Equity officially launching the project to market.

The company says the move reflects its confidence in both the calibre of its offering and the Gold Coast’s long-term fundamentals, underpinned by one of Australia’s strongest growing economies, continued population growth and sustained infrastructure investment.

A diversifying employment base across health, education, professional services and tourism has helped insulate the local economy from volatility, while limited new supply in established coastal locations continues to support demand from owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking long-term lifestyle value.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera</a> is being constructed in the prestigious Northcliffe residential neighbourhood on an expansive 3,239 sqm site. It is located at 18 Garfield Terrace near the Northcliffe Surf Life Saving Club and the patrolled Northcliffe surf beach, situated between Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361249]

Offering a mix of spacious three-bedroom apartments over 52 levels, Palmera is designed to deliver a full suite of premium residences to buyers looking for the ultimate coastal lifestyle that the Gold Coast has to offer.

The project’s premium apartments will deliver northern views across the Surfers Paradise beachfront and extending all the way around to Burleigh Heads and beyond.

Palmera will be crowned by its top four levels, being a limited collection of penthouses and skyhomes that further elevate the residential offering through generous proportions and uninterrupted panoramic views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361246]

The appointment of Multiplex as the builder represents a major milestone for Palmera and cements Central Equity’s commitment to the Gold Coast after delivering more than 85 residential projects over the past four decades. It will be the 20th project collaboration between Central Equity and Multiplex.

“The commencement of construction at Palmera marks a major milestone for the project, with Tier 1 builder Multiplex appointed to deliver the development in the highly sought-after Northcliffe residential precinct on the Gold Coast,” said Central Equity Executive Director Karl Kutner.

“Our commitment to commence immediate construction is in line with our resounding confidence in the Gold Coast over the long term. The city has evolved and proven to be one of Australia’s most dynamic and resilient property markets in recent years.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361250]

Multiplex, one of Australia’s largest builders, has been shaping skylines and delivering iconic projects around the world since 1962. In that time, the Tier 1 global contractor has delivered projects with a combined value of more than US$130 billion.

“Having worked with Multiplex on many previous developments, we are pleased to be extending our relationship further with Palmera,” Kutner added.

“Multiplex brings an unparalleled depth of experience to ensure that Palmera fulfils the vision we have laid out for this strategic location and is delivered to the highest standards,” he said.

Multiplex Regional Managing Director Michael Sinclair said Multiplex was delighted to be aligning with Central Equity yet again.

“Central Equity is creating a stunning new addition to the Gold Coast skyline, and we look forward to bringing their vision to life with a world-class construction team and program. We are proud to be working alongside Central Equity on our 20th project together.”

Palmera has been designed by Marchese Partners, with interiors by DBI.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361247]

Residents will have private access to extensive, state-of-the-art amenities, featuring two large pools including a generously scaled, family-friendly pool with safe shallow zones, and a 25-metre lap pool facing the western side, ensuring maximum sunlight all day.

Also available exclusively to residents is a sauna, magnesium pool, yoga studio, expansive gym, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ and dining areas. Residents will also be welcomed by concierge and luxurious entry foyer.

Located on Garfield Terrace in Northcliffe, Palmera enjoys a prime coastal position just moments from the patrolled Northcliffe beach and the G:link light rail, providing effortless connectivity along the Gold Coast’s beachfront suburbs, linking the Gold Coast University Hospital in the north with Nobby beach and Burleigh Heads to the south once the extension completes later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Central Equity unveils Palmera on Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise

The idea of a low-maintenance forever home located close to the city were the two driving factors behind a recent purchaser’s journey at Murcia, the under-construction East Brisbane apartment development by Sarazin.

Last year, Lois and her husband purchased a two-bedroom plus multi-purpose room (MPR) apartment in the new building, which is being constructed by Hutchinson Builders and is on track for completion in late-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=341638]

The couple’s number one priority was to remain within easy commuting distance of the city for work. Murcia is positioned alongside the new Cross River Rail, with Woolloongabba Station just 300 metres from the front door.

They are currently living in their Annerley unit, which they have owned for several years, after recently moving out of their inner-city apartment, located on the very same street as Murcia.

“We had watched the development for a long time, and when construction activity began, that’s when we felt confident to buy,” Lois said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=356540]

The timing also made sense. By moving back into their Annerley unit, they are able to save money ahead of settlement, while looking forward to returning closer to the city once Murcia is complete.

“We see Murcia as a forever home, as opposed to an investment, or something we need to appreciate massively in value and move on from in a few years,” Lois said.

“We secured an apartment large enough to grow a family, so we’re expecting to call Murcia home for a very long time.”

The couple plan to grow their family, but without the added maintenance demands of owning a standalone house further from the city. Working with Sarazin and architect HAL, they were able to slightly tweak the floorplan, converting the two-bedroom plus MPR layout into a functional three-bedroom apartment.

An added bonus was the recently revised communal space plans, which now incorporate a dedicated working-from-home area, complete with work pods, and shared desks.

“It means the third bedroom doesn’t have to become a part-time office and part-time bedroom,” Lois said, adding that residents have the benefit of working from home without actually being inside their apartment.

The rooftop wellness amenity was another standout compared to living in an established complex or a house. A signature feature of Sarazin developments, the rooftop will include a full gym, hot and cold plunge pools, a steam room and sauna, and a hotel-style pool with cabanas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=214682]

Buyer journeys can vary significantly, from purchasing in the established market to buying new, or choosing between houses and apartments. Lois said they knew immediately that buying off the plan was right for them.

“We wanted something new, with less maintenance, and we weren’t quite ready to make the full financial leap straight away. The timing and deposit structure gave us the flexibility we needed.”

Designed by HAL Architects and inspired by the Spanish city of Murcia, the development takes a Mediterranean-influenced approach to architecture and landscaping, with a strong emphasis on shared spaces.

“The design feels considered, the amenities support how we actually live, and the location keeps us connected to the city without feeling right in the middle of it.”

Murcia is Sarazin’s second development in the area, following the completion of Silk One just up the road in 2022. They have several more projects coming to market in Woolloongabba ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135094]

Close to the city, built for the future: Inside a growing family’s move to Murcia in East Brisbane

While most developers are aiming high across the Gold Coast, John Kearney’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/immerse-projects">Immerse Projects</a>&nbsp;has scaled back its plans for its Kirra Beach project.

As first reported by Apartments.com.au in April 2025, Immerse <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-immerse-projects-plan-new-apartments-at-kirra-beach">lodged plans for 105 apartments</a> on its 2,026 sqm Haig Street site.

The developer has now revised the proposal, reducing the 14-storey building to nine storeys and cutting the total number of apartments from 105 to 65.

The new scheme will also feature a broader mix of apartments. It will comprise 23 two-bedroom units, 17 three-bedroom units, and 25 four-bedroom apartments, the latter a configuration that was not included in the original proposal.

<img alt="Lot 11 C2859, 7 Haig Street, COOLANGATTA QLD 4225" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="972e3bbf-c3e6-4308-b098-5821e571f829" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Haig%20Street%20perspective%201.png?VersionId=3jkyNU0n7TW08DpkoEsY62bXWTb3UHxY" />

The building will rise to a compliant height of 29 metres, aligning with the Building Height Overlay.&nbsp;

The built form incorporates three basement levels accommodating 197 resident car parks and 13 visitor spaces, alongside storage and servicing areas. Level two is dedicated in part to communal amenity, including a lap pool along the western boundary, pool deck, spa and cold plunge pools, gym, work-from-home and meeting spaces, and landscaped areas designed to enhance privacy and outlook.

The typical floorplate will have eight apartments per level.

<img alt="Lot 11 C2859, 7 Haig Street, COOLANGATTA QLD 4225" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="002d2594-9cf4-4ee4-bb2a-9a0546ac1cc5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Haig%20Street%20site.png?VersionId=Qk.Cm0K9RziXrWu0Q4u2eOjEM3CwNhhC" />

The subject site is currently occupied by two 1970s-era walk-up buildings, Giraween and Caribbean, comprising 14 apartments.

Immerse Projects, led by building veteran John Kearney, who also heads construction firm Greyburn, has become increasingly active in the Kirra and broader southern Gold Coast market. The group recently completed Rhyhthm Kirra Hill on Garrick Street. They have another site locally, on McLean Street, which has approved plans for 58 apartments.

First Look: Immerse favours four-bed apartments in Kirra Beach switch

CHT Architects

<html><body>
Bensons Property Group is hosting a grand opening event this Saturday to launch its latest apartment project, <a href="/buildings/liberty-one-1-warde-street-footscray">Liberty One</a> in Footscray. The event will be held at the project display suite situated at 10 Moreland Street, Footscray from 12pm onwards. 

Visitors to the event will have the chance to win an exclusive helicopter experience at Levantine Hill, including return helicopter flights for 4, 8-course degustation lunch with award winning wines to match, private wine tasting, and gift bag valued at $5000

Located in the heart of Footscray's rapidly-evolving Joseph Road Precinct at 1 Warde Street, the CHT-designed building will rise 24-storeys and comprise 350 apartments with a mix of 1,2 and 3-bedroom configurations on offer, with interiors designed by SORA.

<blockquote>
"Natural light and linear design nous was part of the inspiration for this design. The design is predominantly glass paired with a white façade creating a light airy feel to the building. The subtle use of black in the window detailing creates contrast and brings uniformity to the overall aesthetic.

Communal spaces have been incorporated into this design including a rooftop garden with a fire pit and entertaining area. There is also a cinema for residents to enjoy."

- CHT Architects
</blockquote>

The project will also feature car parking across four basement levels, ensuring Liberty One presents an active street interface, supported by 10 retail tenancies at ground level. At its summit, Liberty One will be crowned with an outdoor rooftop terrace.

<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/twcr10093_liberty_one_e01_exterior_hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bensons Property Group is launching Liberty One this weekend. Image: Bensons Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/twcr10093_liberty_one_e01_exterior_hero.jpg?itok=6fV9qz0s" title="Bensons Property Group is launching Liberty One this weekend. Image: Bensons Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bensons Property Group is launching Liberty One this weekend. Image: Bensons Property Group</figcaption></figure>Liberty One will be joining an estimated 7,000 new dwellings in the Joseph Road Precinct, which is rapidly being transformed from an industrial and manufacturing hub into a thriving inner-city village. The Joseph Road Precinct represents 15 hectares of developable land, bounded by Hopkins Street, the Maribyrnong River and the railway line, which has been identified as a Priority Development Zone in the City of Maribyrnong's Structure Plan for Footscray.

According to Bensons Property Group, residents within Liberty One will benefit from a vibrant village of residential, office, retail and riverside recreation. With  Footscray Station just a short walk away, residents can travel direct  to the CBD in under 8 minutes, while the Maribyrnong River offers respite via it's walking and cycling trails and open space.

<blockquote>
"At its core, it’s all about atmosphere; this is a community of like-minded residents, within an active and connected precinct—with all the benefits that you expect from urban living. At the western gateway to Melbourne, Liberty One creates opportunities for a growing coterie within a secluded village precinct just 5km from Melbourne CBD.

Residents can meet with friends for a drink, draw inspiration from the area’s entrepreneurial business culture, or just absorb the metropolitan lifestyle of Footscray in a café or by the river. These brand-new apartments deliver all the everyday conveniences you could need, right at your front door."

- Bensons Property
</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/twcr10093_liberty_one_ia02_rooftop_common_area_lounge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Liberty One's rooftop communal lounge. Image: Bensons Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="375" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/twcr10093_liberty_one_ia02_rooftop_common_area_lounge.jpg?itok=Oib04Igx" title="Liberty One's rooftop communal lounge. Image: Bensons Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Liberty One's rooftop communal lounge. Image: Bensons Property Group</figcaption></figure><h2>Liberty One Launch Event Details:</h2>

Location: 10 Moreland Street, Footscray

Date: Saturday 30 March

Time: 12-4pm

Activities/entertainment include:

<ul>
<li>Display Suite tours</li>
	<li>Complimentary catering by locals "Up In Smoke"</li>
	<li>Complimentary barista coffee, tea, etc</li>
	<li>DJ</li>
	<li>Children’s activities such as face painting and balloon artist</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/011_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The interior of Liberty One's display suite. Image: Bensons Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/011_1.jpg?itok=JJ-XzcC3" title="The interior of Liberty One's display suite. Image: Bensons Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The interior of Liberty One's display suite. Image: Bensons Property Group</figcaption></figure><h2>Project Details:</h2>

<ul>
<li>
Address: 1 Warde Street, Footscray 3011</li>
	<li>
Developer: Bensons Property Group</li>
	<li>
Architect: CHT Architects</li>
	<li>
Interior Design: SORA Interiors</li>
	<li>
Landscape Architect: Tract</li>
</ul>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7kUGYIw5T7Y" width="100%"></iframe>
</body></html>

urban.com.au

Bensons Property Group to launch Liberty One project in Footscray this weekend

<html><body>
Trenerry Property Group confirmed today that construction of the ‘<a href="/buildings/west-end-185-rosslyn-street-west-melbourne">West End</a>’ lifestyle development has now commenced. Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/go-west-trenerry-to-deliver-west-end">first announced the $345m project back in 2017</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/westend1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="392" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westend1.jpg?itok=hSquBj4L" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West End central courtyard and residents garden. Credit: Trenerry Property Group</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/westend8.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westend8.jpg?itok=ERKE6JN1" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction commencement ceremony Michael Lacobucci (SI Capital), Vin Sammartino (Hacer), Robert Dicintio (Trenerry), Peter Kanat (Kanat Family), William Du (Trenerry). Credit: Trenerry Property Group</figcaption></figure>West End is said to be one of Melbourne’s largest inner-city residential developments to-date and occupies a 75,000m2 site at 185 Rosslyn Street, West Melbourne. Its sought-after central location neighbours Flagstaff Gardens and is only a stone's throw from Queen Victoria Market, making what was once an industrial area, a more desirable place to live.

<blockquote>
“Imagine everything you could ever need is right at your door in a vibrant plaza, from shopping to dining to entertainment. It's the place to live the life you desire.

West End’s success can provide confidence to the market that good quality projects that deliver tangible social and retail benefits are still selling well and attracting interest from major funding providers.

This is a landmark project that will offer unparalleled levels of amenity and design excellence so close to Melbourne’s CBD.” 
</blockquote>

- Robert Dicintio, Trenerry Property Group’s director

The Smorgon family, Kanat family and Trenerry Property Group will back the project, and real estate investment manager Qualitas has agreed to provide the senior debt facility of $250m for the construction.

<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/westend7_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="305" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westend7_0.jpg?itok=xhdDGcQS" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>' Adderley'. Credit: Trenerry Property Group</figcaption></figure>The development will feature five striking buildings totalling the approximate size of the MCG oval. Trenerry Property Group has employed a collection of award-winning architects including Hecker Guthrie, Carr Design, Mim Design and Six Degrees, with CHT Architects leading the way as principal architect across all developments.

Overall, West End will comprise 377 apartments, 99 Adina-operated hotel rooms, as well as 6,000m2 of retail and commercial space. Residents amenities will feature multiple landscaped gardens, three pools, gym, spa, wine cellar and boutique cinema. The Adina-branded hotel facilities will also be available to West End residents to use at their leisure. 

<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/westend3_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westend3_0.jpg?itok=9xMiElS6" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>'The Spencer'. Credit: Trenerry Property Group</figcaption></figure>In addition to the amenities on offer, residential and commercial spaces will include: 

<ul>
<li>Medical facilities including GP clinic, physiotherapy, pathology and radiology</li>
	<li>IGA supermarket</li>
	<li>500m2 park (to be owned by the City of Melbourne</li>
	<li>Shopping complex</li>
	<li>Childcare centre</li>
	<li>Bars, restaurants and cafes</li>
	<li>Day spa</li>
</ul>
Anticipated completion of the project is late 2020 with apartments prices ranging from $425,000 to $6m.
</body></html>

Olivia Round

Melbourne’s largest inner-city apartment ‘West End’ commences construction

<html><body>
This week on our weekly podcast I sit down with <a href="/architects/cht-architects">CHT Architects</a> Director David Carabott and Associate Directors Mark Spraggon and Felipe Strahovsky to discuss the changing landscape of the Melbourne apartment market, and their collective experience and observations working on multi-residential projects.

As part of a wide ranging discussion we cover topics such as;

<ul>
<li>the impact of Better Apartment Standards (BADS) on apartment design and affordability the need to develop more diverse housing typologies to cater to a wider cross-section of society including families;</li>
	<li>the perception of apartment living and how it has gradually evolved over the last few years;</li>
	<li>the need to unlock the inner and middle ring suburbs for development, rather than relying on the Melbourne CBD, Southbank and Docklands to do all the heavy work and;</li>
	<li>we also briefly touch on Fishermans Bend and the work CHT have undertaken within the urban renewal area, and how critical </li>
</ul>
Listen below to find out more and remember to subscribe via Soundcloud or iTunes. Also in case you missed it here's <a href="https://soundcloud.com/urbancomau/weekly-podcast-episode-26">Episode 26 with Alastair Taylor.</a>

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/486204447&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=false&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

Weekly Podcast: Episode 27 - CHT Architects discuss Melbourne's changing apartment landscape

<html><body>
Another Box Hill super site is up for approval with plans unveiled for 837 Whitehorse Road.

Towers of 16, 19 and 29 storeys are on developer Buzy B Pty Ltd's agenda. A secondary approximately 100 metres frontage encompasses 3-5 Poplar Street; the roughly 3,000 square metre corner site has been slated to hold substantial residential, retail, commercial and hotel components.

CHT Architects have designed the tri-towered development, which initially went to planning mid last year and is now available for public viewing.

<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/image101_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="837 Whitehorse Road's location. Image: CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image101_1.jpg?itok=vH2ipyOn" title="837 Whitehorse Road's location. Image: CBRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>837 Whitehorse Road's location. Image: CBRE</figcaption></figure>The existing low-rise building will make way for the towers, with the tallest spanning 104 metres. Included are 273 dwellings consisting of 118 one-bedroom, 140 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom apartments located within the taller towers.

49 hotel suites are located in the common podium which spans both residential towers, as is 578 square metres of retail space.

Box Hill's sluggish addition of commercial space over recent years stands to gain with Buzy B Pty Ltd backing plans for an office building taking the prime corner position. The tower's slender profile allows for only 5,979 square metres across 16 storeys.

444 car parking spaces and 176 bicycle parking spaces are included over 6 basement levels.

The application's varied uses will see an array of amenities earmarked for the development, including a spa and pool, yoga room, common areas, function room, kitchen area and business lounge. Dedicated residential communal space totals 820 square metres across levels 4, 16, 21.

<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/image105_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An early planning image depicting a taller 837 Whitehorse Road. Planning image: Fender Katdsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="369" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image105_1.jpg?itok=zSU3wagT" title="An early planning image depicting a taller 837 Whitehorse Road. Planning image: Fender Katdsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An early planning image depicting a taller 837 Whitehorse Road. Planning image: Fender Katdsalidis</figcaption></figure>837 Whitehorse Road's location will see it abut LongRiver Group's 843 Whitehorse Road which is expected to rise 37 levels. Earlier planning images indicated that 837 Whitehorse Road was to have been Box Hill's tallest, although the development has regressed to the current 104 metre height.

Regardless of 837 Whitehorse Road's final height, it still ranks as amongst <a href="/developments/box-hill-vic-3128">Box Hill's tallest buildings</a>.

With its addition to the Apartments.com.au Project Database, the number of towers in Box Hill above 20 levels and yet to be realised to 10 with another planned for Box Hill Institute's 1000 Whitehorse Road.
</body></html>

silvermb

Box Hill stays busy with another major development unveiled

<html><body>
Urban.com.au whilst onsite during August last year reported <a href="/news/west-melbournes-destination-development-begins-construction">on the progress</a> of one of West Melbourne's largest developments.

At that time, the former Australia Post facility was well into demolition, with display suite staff stating Trenerry Property's West End mixed-use project would begin construction in the last quarter of 2017 under the guidance of head contractor Hamilton Marino. Despite piling equipment appearing onsite twice in the interim, West End has yet to formally start construction.

In the past week, the expansive project has been put back to tender, with submissions set to close during early May. This indicates that an announcement on a builder for West End which sits on a 9,200 square metre site will be revealed around mid this year.

<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/image41_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Mailing is now accepting sales. Image: Trenerry Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="790" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_7.jpg?itok=lkibjPik" title="The Mailing is now accepting sales. Image: Trenerry Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Mailing is now accepting sales. Image: Trenerry Property </figcaption></figure>Despite the pause in construction commencement, uptake across the project has been strong. Buyer interest as seen West End’s newest residential launch, The Mailhouse with its 98 New York-style loft apartments over 11 levels, released for sale.

Addressed 185 Rosslyn Street, The Mailhouse is reflective of the entire development in that it is a collaborative design effort. CHT Architects have teamed with interior design practice Mim Design to create the building which reflects the area's industrial character, utilising raw and natural materials as readily as possible.

<blockquote>
The design of The Mailhouse is completely holistic – the building’s interiors, outdoor spaces and architecture are all in harmony, which creates a harmonious lifestyle.

The interiors take cues from the industrial-style exterior, while also incorporating the sophistication and refined look that we are known for and pride ourselves on.
<cite>Mim Design Director, Mim Fanning</cite>
</blockquote>

The Mailhouse will share amenities with other residents and Adina Hotel guests, which adds to the mixed-use nature of the development. Those amenities for future residents include room service, cleaning on demand, near on 2,000 square metres of gardens designed by Eckersley Garden Architecture, pool and spa, a gym, plus a wine cellar and medical centre.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image40_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kitchen space within The Mailhouse. Image: Trenerry Property "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image40_9.jpg?itok=XrEkkRc8" title="Kitchen space within The Mailhouse. Image: Trenerry Property " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kitchen space within The Mailhouse. Image: Trenerry Property</figcaption></figure>The Mailhouse's release follows on from that of The Adderley's, which utilised Carr Design Group for its interior finishes.

Apartments aside, West End will also see a 4.5 star hotel operated under the Adina Hotel brand and a full line supermarket. 14 restaurants/bars and cafes, the aforementioned medical/wellness centre, a public arcade and a public open space which will be ceded to Melbourne City Council upon completion.

West End's adjoining display suite dubbed the Lifestyle Gallery is reflective of the different design styles offered across West End.

Six Degrees, Mim Design, Carr Design Group and Hecker Guthrie are all responsible for one West End residential building each, with the varying design styles mimicked across the quartet of display suites over differing levels within the Lifestyle Gallery.
</body></html>

The Mailhouse is launched; West End to construction tender

<html><body>
More than 8,000 square metres of land in Wheelers Hill has been given the development green light by Monash City Council.

At the turn of December Council chose to endorse an application to develop vacant land at 161-169 Jells Road for a multi-level aged care facility. As part of the CHT Architects-designed development, an existing aged care facility located at 171 Jells Road will also be refurbished.

The site had previously been marketed as an apartment complex backed by Ammache Architects. With that project failing to break ground, the prominent corner site was handed to CBRE City Sales during 2016 and was subsequently sold to Lifeview Residential Care.

<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/image50_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Freshly approved. Planning image: CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="221" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image50_1.jpg?itok=vureNtEO" title="Freshly approved. Planning image: CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Freshly approved. Planning image: CHT Architects</figcaption></figure>The care provider can now add a further 206 bedsit rooms with ensuites to their existing adjoining facility. The new complex is split into three wings with four and five storeys the built outcome.

108 car parks are expected across the lower ground and ground floors with the main entrance to the new building fronting Ferntree Gully Road.  Amenities such as a café/bar, corner store, hair salon and function space are included, with bedsits within the building broken into clusters of 12 which are supported by a kitchen, dining and living area, laundry and study area.

The $40 million development now holds a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning Permit, with final approval subject to conditions but a formality. 

<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/image48_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site's failed apartment development. Image: Ammache Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_7.jpg?itok=fSW597BT" title="The site's failed apartment development. Image: Ammache Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site's failed apartment development. Image: Ammache Architects</figcaption></figure>Lifeview Residential Care's 161-169 Jells Road success reinforces the wave of aged care projects appearing across Melbourne's outer eastern suburbs.

Builder Cockram recently delivered Baptcare's The Orchards Community Retirement Living at 107 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East. It consists of 224 beds, whilst the builder has just begun works on the considerably larger <a href="/developments/blackburn-south-vic-3130">Regis Inala</a> aged care complex at 220 Middleborough Road, Blackburn South.

Buxton Construction is working on BlueCross Box Hill which will see a further  221 beds created, whilst Ringwood's Olivet Aged Care Development is approaching a construction start. Further to the above, 62-94 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave is also being considered for 179 independent living apartments, 108 aged care beds and 72 assisted living apartments.

<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/image54_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="CHT Architects' Orchards Doncaster East &amp; Buxton Construction's BlueCross Box Hill"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="219" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image54_5.jpg?itok=O88vlwbv" title="CHT Architects' Orchards Doncaster East &amp; Buxton Construction's BlueCross Box Hill" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>CHT Architects' Orchards Doncaster East &amp; Buxton Construction's BlueCross Box Hill</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

Wheelers Hill's premier development site gets the green light

<html><body>
South Yarra's latest residential addition is rapidly approaching completion, and to mark the occasion Apartments.com.au was guided through Noir by developer Dahua Group.

Under the guidance of head contractor Hacer Group, Noir's construction has moved at breakneck speed, so much so Dahua Group asserts it has risen in record-breaking time. The project, on Garden Street, has advanced from its ground level slab to completion in only eight months.

Noir's final slab was poured during April, followed in August by a traditional topping out ceremony. 

The rapid acceleration through the concrete structure can be attributed to the tower's simple square floorplate, combined with the brisk work of concrete structure specialists I&amp;D Group.

<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_1887.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Noir South Yarra is approaching completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="781" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1887.jpg?itok=aCVGsnHr" title="Noir South Yarra is approaching completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Noir South Yarra is approaching completion</figcaption></figure>Fast forward to Apartments.com.au's visit earlier this month and Noir's exterior is all but complete. The building carries a trademark CHT Architects finish which consists of predominantly black and white interlocking geometric shapes; this finish is prevalent across numerous CHT Architects projects such as <a href="http://chtarchitects.com.au/projects-3/multiresidential/ebony-apartments-camberwell/">Ebony Apartments</a>, <a href="http://chtarchitects.com.au/projects-3/evita-maroondah-highway/">Evita</a> and the award-winning <a href="http://chtarchitects.com.au/projects-3/multiresidential/the-maze-apartments/">Maze Apartments</a> in Richmond.

Residents will get to see the building up close soon enough, with settlement approaching and many of its residents able to move in before Christmas 2017.

As Dahua Group's first Melbourne site acquisition post their office being established locally in 2014, Noir's pending completion is a milestone project for the developer and its Project Manager for apartment developments in Australia, PDS Group. At the peak of Melbourne's apartment boom, dwellings within the project sold out promptly.

<blockquote>
We’re delighted to have reached this milestone and thank our partners, particularly Hacer, for getting us to this stage ahead of schedule.

PDS Group is proud to have partnered successfully with Dahua Group for Noir and we are looking forward to Noir welcoming its first residents in the coming weeks and Dahua Group’s next Melbourne project Hawthorn Park.

Dahua Group  and PDS Group wish to thank our partners for their innovation and hard work to date

- Andrew Fortey, Managing Director of PDS Group
</blockquote>

91 residential apartments are located above 6 ground floor tenancies for restaurants and/or retail.1, 2 and 3 bedroom configurations were offered, although a top floor apartment was combined to deliver a massive dwelling looking over Melbourne's skyline.

<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_1891_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Professional photographers get to work on a completed apartment"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="305" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1891_0.jpg?itok=jEkCLeQm" title="Professional photographers get to work on a completed apartment" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Professional photographers get to work on a completed apartment</figcaption></figure>At the time of Apartments.com.au's visit, two apartments were fully completed and styled with DOMO furniture packages. Seen above is a glimpse of a completed single bedroom apartment going through its marketing paces.

DOMO's furnishings were offered across Noir, with certain buyers electing to purchase a combined apartment and furniture package. The synergy will continue with DOMO set to anchor a major Camberwell Road tenancy in Dahua Group upcoming development dubbed Hawthorn Park at 33 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East.

That project will include hundreds of apartments and townhouses, and is a major aspect in Dahua Group's Australian portfolio which is valued at $4.5 billion across 13 projects, with a development pipeline stretching to 2030.

Noir has an end value of $60 million. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_1893.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Uninterrupted and impressive sight lines"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="310" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1893.jpg?itok=Nx1KeBXb" title="Uninterrupted and impressive sight lines" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Uninterrupted and impressive sight lines</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

A look inside Noir as the project races toward completion

<html><body>
Is there any building quite like this in Melbourne? Not when there's a chicken coop on the rooftop.

Mollison Land Pty Ltd has taken to planning a unique proposal for an Abbotsford development site that could yield what is likely to be Melbourne's truest mixed-use building. Across 20-30 Mollison Street, the 12 level community-based proposal by CHT Architects is underpinned by the principles of cross-pollination and collaboration.

Translated that means the building is designed to encompass both private enterprise and the surrounding community to a degree not previously seen in Melbourne for a building of this size.

From dedicated office space to a rooftop farm, dog care facility and childcare centre, 20-30 Mollison Street seeks to make "substantial contributions towards meeting Council's environmental, social and economic objectives for development within the municipality."

<h2>20-30 Mollison Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image2mol.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective. Planning image: CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2mol.jpg?itok=rNcoWKEd" title="Street level perspective. Planning image: CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective. Planning image: CHT Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Proposed: 12-storey building at 47m to roof line</li>
	<li>Dedicated office space: 9448sqm</li>
	<li>Business incubator: 2210sqm</li>
	<li>Cafe: 151sqm</li>
	<li>Childcare centre: 1328sqm</li>
	<li>End of trip facilities: 223sqm</li>
	<li>Dog care facility: 150sqm</li>
	<li>Breakout spaces: 1056sqm</li>
	<li>Roof top farm: 231sqm</li>
	<li>Theatre: 133sqm</li>
	<li>Wellness centre: 271sqm</li>
	<li>3 level basement: 148 vehicles &amp; 122 bicycles</li>
	<li>Estimated cost of development: $18m</li>
</ul>
<h2>In the spirit of Bauhaus</h2>

CHT Architects have referenced Walter Gropius as a basis for the design, evoking the following principles:

<blockquote>
The ultimate aim of all creative activity is a building! The decoration of buildings was once the noblest function of fine arts, and fine arts were indispensable to great architecture. Today they exist in complacent isolation, and can only be rescued by the conscious co-operation and collaboration of all craftsmen.

Let us desire, conceive, and create the new building of the future together. It will combine architecture, sculpture, and painting in a single form, and will one day rise towards the heavens from the hands of a million workers as the crystalline symbol of a new and coming faith.

“Bauhaus Manifesto”, 1919 by Walter Gropius
</blockquote>

<h2>An Abbotsford focal point</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image3mol.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="20-30 Mollison Street varied uses. Planning image: CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="367" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3mol.jpg?itok=TPwbex5Z" title="20-30 Mollison Street varied uses. Planning image: CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>20-30 Mollison Street varied uses. Planning image: CHT Architects</figcaption></figure>The low-rise site encompasses 1,844sqm and is a stark step away from the generally low-rise nature of the immediate area.

In addition to the wellness centre and dog care facility, the balance of 20-30 Mollison Street's ground floor will be dedicated to five artist studios and an expansive gallery space with an atrium void above that terminates at level four. Levels one and two are monopolised by business incubator spaces, save for a theatre and breakout space on level one.

Level three's sole purpose is that of a childcare centre, with both indoor and covered outdoor areas included.

Commercial offices take precedence above, with further green breakout spaces, a triple height void and a full height atrium punctuating the office floors. A water plant, chicken run, vegetable plots, presentation suite and agricultural area cap off the atypical project.

The application has gone through Council preliminary assessment process and is now at advertising.

<h2>20-30 Mollison Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Mollison Land Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architecture &amp; Urban Context Report: CHT Architects</li>
	<li>Planning: SJB Planning</li>
	<li>Traffic Impact Assessment: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Economic Assessment Report: Charter Keck Cramer</li>
	<li>Sustainability Management Plan &amp; WSUD: Intrax Consulting Engineer</li>
	<li>Site history: Alliance EPM</li>
	<li>Noise Assessment: Marshall Day Acoustics</li>
	<li>Wind Impact Assessment: Vipac </li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Chickens on the roof! Mollison Land's Abbotsford mixed-use marvel

<html><body>
Considering the sheer volume of apartment projects Melbourne has absorbed over recent years, the rate of stalled projects is comparatively minuscule.

Very few apartment projects that launched their respective sales campaigns over the last five years failed to progress to construction. One of the more notable projects though was 100 Park Street; the South Melbourne project straddling the busy Kings Way and Park Street intersection had over recent years been expected to be home to an 11 level mixed-use building.

The failure of the project to progress through its then sales campaign has presented an opportunity for current developer RESCOM, which also happens to be headquartered 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/100park-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="100 Park Street as was initially intended. Image: Rescom"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/100park-2.jpg?itok=BrxWxxFd" title="100 Park Street as was initially intended. Image: Rescom" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>100 Park Street as was initially intended. Image: Rescom</figcaption></figure>With the 2012 VCAT-approved scheme now consigned to history, RESCOM has utilised prolific residential apartment design practice CHT Architects to rework the scheme for the dual fronted 593sqm site which fronts a combined twelve lanes of traffic.

Lodged with City of Port Phillip earlier in the year, the new CHT Architects design seeks approval for a taller 19-storey building which includes offices and 67 apartments. Split between 10 single bedroom dwellings, 40 two bedroom dwellings and 17 three bedroom dwellings, the newly formatted tower provides a greater yield relative to the original design.

483.5 square metres of office space is present over the ground floor, first floor and second floor. 44 car parking spaces and 51 bicycle bays are housed across two basement levels and a portion of the ground floor.

Reaching 60 metres in height, the new 100 Park Street represents RESCOM's biggest apartment project to date, following on from their Fernhill Sandringham project and the at construction Herbert King on Richmond's Lennox Street which includes 40 dwellings.

100 Park Street's initial sales campaign was forsaken, with the site eventually <a href="https://www.cbremelbourne.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Park_St_100_4PP_v14.pdf">handed over to CBRE City Sales</a> during mid 2015 with all presales attached, but not acted upon.

<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/image32_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A Kings Way perspective of 100 Park Street. Planning image: CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="456" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image32_7.jpg?itok=Ph4RogDp" title="A Kings Way perspective of 100 Park Street. Planning image: CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A Kings Way perspective of 100 Park Street. Planning image: CHT Architects</figcaption></figure>The current 100 Park Street proposal versus the initial 2012 scheme is chalk and cheese when placed into their respective built form.

Park Street and the immediate surrounds have become one of the more stable apartment development precincts across inner Melbourne. The majority of proposals have pushed through City of Port Phillip's planning channel in the last two years, effectively earmarking this area as a hotbed of apartment activity in years to come.

Including the reworked 100 Park Street, there are currently nine apartment projects either on Park Street or within a 300m radius that have yet to reach fruition. These projects amount to a further 911 apartments in the South Melbourne pipeline.

<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_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fellow proposals at 33 Park Street, 5-7 Park Street and 9-13 Park Street."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_10.jpg?itok=QX0x2y09" title="Fellow proposals at 33 Park Street, 5-7 Park Street and 9-13 Park Street." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Fellow proposals at 33 Park Street, 5-7 Park Street and 9-13 Park Street.</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

A problem South Melbourne site looks for new life

<html><body>
It has arguably been a long time coming. Key suburbs across Melbourne's western region are beginning to unlock some of their development potential as a raft of new projects come to the fore.

Whether they be commercial or residential, the new projects are a sign that Melbourne's western suburbs are front and square in the collective minds of many developers.

<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/image139_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Metrowest's initial build. Image: ABD Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image139_1.jpg?itok=b_Y7tu8C" title="Metrowest's initial build. Image: ABD Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Metrowest's initial build. Image: ABD Group</figcaption></figure>The team behind Sunshine's Metrowest development have taken the project's remaining two towers back to planning with the intention of increasing the overall yield. The called for amendments to the existing planning permit and endorsed plans would see 13 and 15 storey buildings created, with a combined 229 apartments in tow; this is an increase of 76 dwellings over the approved plans.

13 retail premises covering a combined 1,040sqm and 232 car parking spaces are expected for the project which fronts Foundry Road. The revised plans see CHT Architects create dual buildings with a similar architectural expression to the initial phase, which is pictured above.

That initial phase consisted of an 8 storey building with 116 apartments, built by ABD Group.

<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/image133_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gray Puksand's Sunshine commercial development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="230" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image133_0.jpg?itok=i75Q5fb8" title="Gray Puksand's Sunshine commercial development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gray Puksand's Sunshine commercial development</figcaption></figure>ABD Group features once more in Sunshine, having just broken ground on a new commercial building which will provide accommodation for VicRoads.

Crestwood Developments is behind the new 7 level complex at 10-14 Clarke Street and 9-13 Withers Street, which will see 7,500sqm of premium commercial space created within a total gross floor area of 13.500sqm. At a cost of $20 million, they Gray Puksand-designed complex also includes capacity for 150 vehicles.

<blockquote>
This office building was designed for Crestwood Developments to engage and excite the residents of Sunshine, whilst providing quality workspace to VicRoads.

Located on a critical axis and an island site the building was designed as an element to be viewed from all aspects. The façade is sculptural, inspired by a circuit board wrapping all sides in white precast concrete. The wrapping façade flares out to the west and east to provide a sense of openness and activity on these important frontages for pedestrian activation.
<cite>Gray Puksand</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/image136_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Kinnears display alongside initial development imagery"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="267" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image136_0.jpg?itok=UMMjA3_T" title="The Kinnears display alongside initial development imagery" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Kinnears display alongside initial development imagery</figcaption></figure>Also spotted in nearby Footscray is a display suite for the massive Kinnears redevelopment.

Located at 124-188 Ballarat Road Footscray, Elenberg Fraser has designed multiple towers across the sprawling land holding. The initial masterplan called for developer R&amp;F Properties to deliver approximately 1,400 apartments over various stages.

The project headed to VCAT earlier in 2016 with Maribyrnong City Council electing not to approve the company’s masterplan proposal for the 3.3 hectare site. With an imminent project launch, Kinnears will surpass Growland's <a href="/news/growland-group-readies-joseph-place-as-footscrays-next-super-project">Joseph Place</a> as the suburb's largest active apartment development.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image143_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Werribee continues to garner development attention"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image143_0.jpg?itok=oYjrBcCG" title="Werribee continues to garner development attention" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Werribee continues to garner development attention</figcaption></figure>The above comes as Werribee is well on the way to backing up its intentions of becoming the CBD of Melbourne's west. Last week Wyndham City officially signed agreements to develop four separate development sites in the Werribee City Centre.

Project Delivery Agreements have been signed with The Burbank Group and Pelligra, with the latter's intended nine level commercial building already at planning. At 37-43 Cherry Street, Pelligra intend for the building to include 5,000sqm of office space and hundreds of new car parking spaces, within a building spanning 32 metres in height.

The Burbank Group on the other hand now has the ability to create multiple residential towers on key sites facing Werribee River. Towers of up to 20 levels have been envisaged.

Also on the radar for Werribee is a mixed-use project on Watton Street, with the above left image appearing on Probus Built's website. Should it come to fruition, 195 Watton Street could include 49 apartments, 40 offices and three retail spaces within a 12 level building valued at $55 million.
</body></html>

CHT Architects

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

CHT Architects

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News