Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

ClarkeHopkinsClarke

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Not a week after Apartments.com.au noted the submission of a tower for a vacant corner West Melbourne block, plans for the project have been revealed.

What is shown is practice ClarkeHopkinsClarke's definitive foray into high-rise apartment design. Proponent City Gate Pty Ltd is backing plans for a 20-storey development for 404-418 Spencer Street, a site immediately south of the recently finished Spencer Melbourne which is double the height of the prospective tower.

Landing with City of Melbourne during January, 404-418 Spencer Street potentially sees the end of the corner block's underuse; the 1,070 square metre plot has been vacant for some years.

<h2>404-418 Spencer 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/image94_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Active street level interface. Image: Orbit Visualization"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image94_2.jpg?itok=6TF6M0H-" title="Active street level interface. Image: Orbit Visualization" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Active street level interface. Image: Orbit Visualization</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged 16/01/2018</li>
	<li>Proposed 20 level tower at 66.3 metres</li>
	<li>177 apartments of consisting of 92 x 1 bedrooms and 85 x 2 bedrooms</li>
	<li>Communal area of 690 square metres</li>
	<li>287 square metres of retail over 3 spaces</li>
	<li>48 car parking spaces within 2 basement levels plus 94 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>16,779 square metre GFA at a FAR of 13.7:1</li>
	<li>Anticipated development cost of $55.1 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design statement</h2>

Key design factors and assertions regarding the tower's design have been outlined by Urbis within the planning documents:

<blockquote>
At ground level, glazing has been maximised to the retail spaces and the apartment lobby, providing views from the public realm into the development and enhancing pedestrian amenity. Above, darker metal cladding has been used to provide solidity to the podium and the appearance of a stronger street wall. 

Strong white vertical and horizontal banding provides visual interest to the façade, which, when coupled with glazing in varying grey tones, provides visual depth and verticality.

The proposal will not result in unacceptable visual bulk, with the facades highly articulated. As such, the proposal accords with the design objectives of Clause 22.17.

To the north, the proposed 2 metre setback will provide a minimum separation of 8.8 metres, increasing to 12.4 metres to the west. Although the neighbouring development provides greater tower setbacks, the building is 11 storeys higher than the proposed and sits atop a heritage building. Thus, increased setbacks assist to minimise visual impacts of the tower and reduce dominance of the higher built form. 
</blockquote>

<h2>Going green up top</h2>

ClarkeHopkinsClarke have included typical amenities atop the podium by way of a gym and outdoor pool.

It is the roof level though where 404-418 Spencer Street is looking to distinguish itself. Near on 600 square metres is set aside as a heavily greened rooftop terrace which is set to include a substantial area dedicated toward productive gardens, a dining area and breakout spaces.

In and among the heavy planting schedule, four distinct zones are envisaged based upon their respective solar access. These zones will cater for smaller root vegetables and above ground plantings through to potential citrus and walnut groves.

In its submitted form 404-418 Spencer Street would be one of a few contemporary designs and/or developments that fully embraces city of Melbourne's <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/building-and-development/sustainable-building/Pages/rooftop-project.aspx">Rooftop Project</a> initiative.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image95_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective. Image: Orbit Visualization"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="662" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image95_3.jpg?itok=xpyOPWma" title="Hero perspective. Image: Orbit Visualization" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective. Image: Orbit Visualization</figcaption></figure><h2>404-418 Spencer Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: City Gate Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architectural Plans and Urban Design Report: Clarke Hopkins Clarke</li>
	<li>Planning and Landscape Design Report: Urbis</li>
	<li> Visuals: Orbit Visualization</li>
	<li>Acoustic Assessment: SLR</li>
	<li>Arborist Report: Tree Map Arboriculture</li>
	<li>Pedestrian Wind Environment Statement: Windtech Consultants</li>
	<li>Traffic and Transport Assessment: Cardno</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Irwin Consult</li>
	<li>Sustainable and Stormwater Management Plan: Wood &amp; Grieve Engineers</li>
</ul>
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silvermb

West Melbourne's latest tower on show

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During 2015 Apartments.com.au highlighted the <a href="/news/essendons-high-density-development-a-model-example">model example</a> unfolding across Essendon's Mt Alexander Road and Keilor Road, where higher density developments were flourishing along the established transport corridor.

At that time there were six apartment projects in development, with the ClarkeHopkinsClarke-designed Alexa at 1050 Mt Alexander Road fresh into demolition. Construction proper commenced during December 2015 and near on two years later Alexa is now complete.

Developed for Accord Property Group, the project includes 89 one, two and three-bedroom apartments over seven levels and is topped with two expansive penthouses.

ClarkeHopkinsClarke describe Alexa as one of Essendon’s most "significant multi-residential projects which injects a bold, gold-rush era inspired contemporary aesthetic to the surrounding streetscape. The project is defined by smooth flowing forms, offering a high level of design that is distinct against Essendon’s established Edwardian and Art Deco character."

It should also be noted Alexa's form is very much distinct from contemporary higher density counterparts which have also sprung up along Mt Alexander Road. Whilst the majority carry a design nous that is less than inspiring, Alexa does, in fact, deliver on design aesthetics.

<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_6089.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alexa in context."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6089.jpg?itok=f202tCy-" title="Alexa in context." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alexa in context.</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Mount Alexander Road was originally a route to the gold fields and, as the Alexa site is on top of a hill, our design response is about stratification and the layering of rock, which we referenced with the building’s gold coloured screening.

The perforated metal has a distinct quality in that it changes its tone depending on the sunlight. This contrasts with the sculptural massing of the other elements.
<cite>ClarkeHopkinsClarke partner Toby Lauchlan</cite>
</blockquote>

Alexa's gold metal bands are prominent from all visible frontages, and as outlined above takes inspiration from the site’s connection to Melbourne’s gold rush era. This golden visual 'top' flows down to ground level across the projects southern frontage.

Below the gold banding, residential levels are defined by continuous white bands, "tying the design to the movement of the street, while the building’s curved forms work to soften the mass of the development."

Almost triangular in nature, Alexa's footprint provides it with sight lines over Mt Alexander Road and the CBD beyond, whilst eastern facing apartments overlook, and have direct access to Cliff Allison Park. The penthouse level is set well back from the dominant form, resulting in it being barely visible from street level.

<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_6083.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sturt Street outlook."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="354" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6083.jpg?itok=DyYGp-4W" title="Sturt Street outlook." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sturt Street outlook.</figcaption></figure>Internally metallic gold fixtures compliment Alexa's golden highlights.

<blockquote>
The interiors are contemporary and understated. We wanted to provide a neutral canvas that would allow buyers to make their own mark through the addition of artworks or interior decoration.

Within this minimalist palette we put a lot of effort into the detailing and joinery. Providing plenty of well-designed storage as well as ample desk spaces was an important point of difference both for us and the developers.

<cite>ClarkeHopkinsClarke partner Toby Lauchlan</cite>
</blockquote>

Contractor Buildcorp Commercial successfully delivered Alexa on schedule, leaving one current residential project in Essendon attributed to ClarkeHopkinsClarke.

165-169 Keilor Road is a product of the firm and sees approval in place for a seven-level development which includes 121 large apartments and 923 square metres of retail space. Sited on a 3,548 square metre corner plot, the development site was offered for sale mid this year under the guidance of agent Colliers.

<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_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="165-169 Keilor Road. Image: Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="342" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_13.jpg?itok=ScEqlHAb" title="165-169 Keilor Road. Image: Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>165-169 Keilor Road. Image: Colliers</figcaption></figure>
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Alexa provides Essendon with a design focal point

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I have observed over the years, that the urban development process is often very siloed with a very conscious effort made to limit inputs from outside the developer’s core team. This may be seen as commercially and operationally astute and necessary to prevent budget, planning approval and program blow outs.

However, in an increasingly networked society and business world, successful and innovative developments are more often borne out of collaboration and partnerships than they are from keeping all of your cards close to your chest.

By their very nature, development sites do not exist in a vacuum but contribute to a much broader urban ecosystem that is brimming with opportunity for those who take the time to gather information and insights and are willing to cultivate useful partnerships in order to take advantage of certain market opportunities.

I believe there is a distinct commercial advantage to be gained by including local government in the core team, identifying key community and industry groups for consultation, and engaging with future residents as these steps can create a range of benefits. This level of engagement makes it possible to reduce risk; explore potential socially and commercially lucrative ‘what if’s’; create advocates for your project to assist with the planning approvals process; secure tenants and project partners early; and to develop a strong vision and value proposition for your project.

The core team usually consists of just the developer and one or two lead consultants. Alternatively, I am advocating that this core team should be expanded to include ‘place focused’ representatives from the local council. I realise that this is a controversial view as the relationship between developers and local councils is so often adversarial, however the council representatives could provide valuable insights into the local social and economic context, assist to identify service, housing and infrastructure gaps which could be potential market opportunities.

During my recent experience, working on Warralily Village, a new town centre in the growth suburb of Armstrong Creek, Victoria, the early visioning workshops included council officers from key departments such as Economic Development, Strategic Planning and Social Services. This allowed for productive discussion and debate on the most appropriate targets and outcomes for the new community.

The entire core team, including the council representatives, attended site visits to existing village centres to learn from what worked well and what could be improved. This was a valuable process as it allowed the design team to capture new ideas, provided council with a forum to table their concerns and desires from the outset, and provided the developer the opportunity to outline their commercial imperatives while gauging council support in the early design stages.

Involving the council to this degree from the early stages also enables discussion of potential council funded facilities, provides the opportunity to explore more creative and unique site specific design solutions and also ensures there are strong advocates for your project during the development approvals process.

In addition to this suggested change to the core team, it is also important to identify a network of potential tenants/operators/service providers from a mix of sectors. This may include potential stakeholders such as a supermarket operator, major medical group, medium density housing developer, office hub operators, council facilities representatives; through to site specific groups such as the local indigenous representatives or organisations like the local water or energy authority.

They will all be able to provide a different perspective and further inform the core team in the formation of the project vision. While liaison with these stakeholders may involve a mix of individual discussions and potentially larger workshops once a reference group is formed, seeking input from such diverse contributors enables an early understanding of their requirements, allows the feasibility of their inclusion to be explored and, where appropriate, secures their future involvement.

Finally, if we are aiming to create a place that people are proud of, where they can socialise and connect, walk or ride, or start a small business, then it is crucial that we involve those people in the process of creating a new place. By consulting with the community we have the opportunity to hear first-hand what is most important to them, and allow opportunities to capture some unique stories and historical references about the particular site which could be integrated into a broader place making approach.

The difficulty with this form of community consultation in growth areas is that in the very early stages of a development, there may be no residents to consult with. However, there are very often situations where adjacent existing neighbourhoods could be consulted, especially given the statistics that show up to 50 per cent of new residents will originate within a 5–10km radius of the new development.

Also, the delivery of the town centre is often occurring several years after the first housing subdivisions have been established, so there will in fact be an existing community in place that can act as representatives for the future residents that are still to come.

Going one step further, there is potentially a largely untapped opportunity for developers to integrate and thereby simultaneously enhance their marketing, sales and planning activities, by inviting potential residents to participate in consultation sessions in return for genuine pre-sales opportunities, building a network of potential buyers who are actively involved in the process of creating their new neighbourhood.

I am in the privileged position to drive many of these forms of engagement and collaboration in my work as an architect; however, I am keen to hear from others in the industry who are already broadening the traditional stakeholder engagement process to enable a more collaborative approach and whether this is generating positive results?

 

Dean Landy is a registered architect, urban designer, speaker and author for the recently published book, <a href="http://creatingvibrantcommunities.org/">Creating Vibrant Communities</a>. With 19 years experience in community development projects within Australia and overseas and as a partner at Melbourne based architecture firm <a href="https://www.chc.com.au/">ClarkeHopkinsClarke</a>, he is actively involved in the design of many town centres across Australia.

Landy is also the founder and director of <a href="http://oneheart.foundation/">One Heart Foundation</a>, a unique 'for purpose' organisation breaking the poverty cycle in Africa by establishing schools and homes to care for orphaned and abandoned children.
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Dean Landy

The value in a collaborative approach to urban development

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Footscray is to host a new master planned mixed use development adjacent to the heart of Footscray.

Any prospective investor or owner occupier can now secure their space within Cowper Residences, which will be released for sale this month. With Footscray the epicentre of Melbourne's inner west, the wider region is currently subject to $26 billion worth of investment committed to infrastructure and associated projects.

Footscray built form progression is in lockstep with its social transformation. Only 4km from Melbourne's CBD, Footscray now boasts its own evolving cosmopolitan café and shopping precincts.

According to advisory Urbis, the young and fast-growing population in Melbourne's west is expected to more than double over the next 20 years. Over the past 10 years, the median price of apartments in the historical suburb has increased by 7.9 per cent per annum and has experienced the highest annual price growth compared to a selection of suburbs of similar distance to CBD.

In response, Cowper Residences has been positioned in order to attract interest from both astute investors and owner occupiers.

<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_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cowper Village offers a choice of living options"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image136_1.jpg?itok=5wB1S2T7" title="Cowper Village offers a choice of living options" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cowper Residences offers a choice of living options</figcaption></figure>It's Cowper Residences' unique location within the Footscray context that has led to the diverse range of living options within the project.

Nestled between established low rise housing and the Footscray CBD, Cowper Residences allows for a diversified built form and unfettered views toward Docklands, the CBD and beyond. The low to medium density site offers proximity to the city coupled with spacious, quality designs which offer contemporary living and balance with its surrounds.

The development’s first two precincts to market will allow purchasers to choose between sixteen terrace homes, ten SOHOs (Single Office/Home Offices) and 63 traditional apartments.

Cowper Village is the work of ClarkeHopkinsClarke, who have a rich history of creating vibrant, integrated living and community spaces. ClarkeHopkinsClarke partner Toby Lauchlan describes Cowper Residences from the architect's perspective:

<blockquote>
When we saw the site, we immediately recognised it as a standout in Footscray. Centrally located, it’s close to the station and all of the vibrant, lifestyle offerings of this colourful suburb, but rests on a quiet, tree-lined residential street giving it real sense of tranquility.

Cowper Residences has also been designed to capture city views which won’t be built out – a rarity this close to the CBD.

The mix of housing types throughout the precincts allowed us to really diversify the design, with each form appealing to the types of people who will want to reside there.
</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/image135_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expansive views come with Cowper Village"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image135_0.jpg?itok=6xO_OqWX" title="Expansive views come with Cowper Village" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Expansive views are par for Cowper Residences</figcaption></figure>A strong sense of place and community is at the heart of Cowper Residences, with each precinct interlinked by landscaped gardens and internal laneways. Amenities across the development include a café, gym and rooftop terrace and a communal courtyard.

Terrace homes have been designed higher and larger than the norm, with some offering city views; all have a high level of finishes and mix of materials. Each terrace includes two balconies and a private courtyard and are catered toward family living.

SOHOs maintain a loft-style configuration, complete with exposed brickwork and high ceilings. Expected to appeal to young professionals, the SOHOs provide an environment which enables flexible work patterns. 
The small-scale, low density apartment block offers investors and first home buyers the opportunity to enter the Footscray market within the confines of a boutique setting. Spanning six levels and featuring one and two bedroom apartments, the spacious apartments all maintain access to a 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/image137_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Second level views over established low rise living"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="315" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image137_2.jpg?itok=dKzu--Te" title="Second level views over established low rise living" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Second level views over established low rise living</figcaption></figure>Selling agent, F.R. Chee of CT Real Estate, says that while Footscray is still considered affordable, continued gentrification of the area indicates that this may quickly change.

<blockquote>
Currently Footscray is an affordable suburb undergoing the process of gentrification, similar to what we’ve seen in Brunswick and Collingwood where there is now a substantially higher median sale price.

Market growth is also being driven by the high proportion of students and young professionals moving to the area due to its affordability and proximity to the city. Almost 40 per cent of the suburb’s population is aged between 20-34 years.

Cowper Residences’ position and housing mix makes for a unique investment opportunity in one of Footscray’s most premium locations. We are expecting strong sales across the campaign.

With central Footscray set to be transformed, it truly presents one of the last great investment opportunities in Melbourne’s inner ring suburbs.
</blockquote>

Cowper Residences is currently taking registrations of interest, with prospective buyers urged to register their details on <a href="http://www.cowperresidences.com.au?utm_source=urban_melbourne&amp;utm_medium=article_link">www.cowperresidences.com.au</a> and act fast in order to take advantage of off-the-plan stamp duty concessions before 1 July 2017.
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partner_content

Footscray's Cowper Residences set to cater for all buyers

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The humble nursery continues to provide developers with sizeable redevelopment opportunities across Melbourne.

Latest to the public eye is the former Going, Going Green nursery within Hawthorn which has been christened Sierra. The apartment development on the corner at Burwood Road and Drill Street is the latest release by expanding Doncaster East-based developer JD Group.

Having secured the site reportedly for $30 million, JD Group have created a new purpose for the roughly 7,000sqm site.

<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/image6_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a Sierra Hawthorn interior. Image: JD Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_14.jpg?itok=qh9DujPm" title="Artist's impression of a Sierra Hawthorn interior. Image: JD Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a Sierra Hawthorn interior. Image: JD Group</figcaption></figure>Architecturally the building has been described as a dynamic architectural statement which "ventures beyond pure aesthetics to create a tremendous sense of space via its unique ‘S’ shaped configuration. A staggered roof line and shimmering exterior finishes present a building that blends seamlessly with its surrounds."

"Nestled within the building’s elegant curves sit two, large landscaped courtyards that deliver intrigue and a broad outlook by departing from traditional urban clichés."

Internally, JD Group have elected to provide one, two and three-bedroom configurations, with four- bedroom terrace homes also on offer.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image4_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alexa Essendon is well into construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="280" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_14.jpg?itok=A2440Gqt" title="Alexa Essendon is well into construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alexa Essendon is well into construction</figcaption></figure>As Sierra gears up for its sales launch, another example of a nursery transitioning into a major apartment development is nearing construction completion in Essendon.

The former Essendon Plant Farm/Direct Plants centre across 1048-1060 Mount Alexander Road was purchased by Accord Property Group, and now hosts Alexa. 95 apartments and a ground floor retail tenancy are set across the 2,003sqm land holding. 

Designed by ClarkeHopkinsClarke, the building spans seven storeys above a double level basement. Buildcorp Commercial are applying the finishing touches to the building, which also has frontage to Allison Park.

<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/image2rlc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amenities space within the Warrigal Road development. Planning image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="324" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2rlc.jpg?itok=x2o9cv-c" title="Amenities space within the Warrigal Road development. Planning image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amenities space within the Warrigal Road development. Planning image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>Also in the wings is 695 Warrigal Road, Chadstone which as of last month gained a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning Permit. The proponents for the former Flower Power Garden Centre are all but assured in their push to realise a major residential redevelopment for the site.

Entity Chadstone Investments Pty Ltd are behind the development application. Initially seeking heights of up to 11 storeys, City of Monash have decreed that the development be allowed to proceed with two seven storey apartment buildings, 11 standalone townhouses within a three storey building, a child care centre, supermarket and additional retail tenancies.

Spanning 50,821sqm, part of the site is used as a homemaker centre, with the development to be located across the former plant nursery portion of the massive land holding.

<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/image3rlc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Townhouses fronting Collins Street form part of the development. Planning image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="319" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3rlc.jpg?itok=3nsury4W" title="Townhouses fronting Collins Street form part of the development. Planning image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Townhouses fronting Collins Street form part of the development. Planning image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>
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A green thumb's loss the developer's gain

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Site purchase and demolition for one of Footscray's key renewal sites occurred during 2012. Thereafter the Binks Ford site has seen precious little activity.

But now plans are afoot for an intensive redevelopment of the 9,047sqm plot which abuts the Footscray rail corridor.  Developer AVIC Developments Pty Ltd is seeking the green light for 412 dwellings across four separate residential buildings, with the tallest maxing out at 10 levels.

Dubbed 'Cowper Village' within the application, 34 Cowper Street was sold some years ago by Places Victoria. In a push to regenerate the massive land holding, AVIC Developments Pty Ltd has teamed with architects ClarkeHopkinsClarke. 

<h2>34 Cowper 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/image55_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed development's northerly aspect. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="564" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image55_6.jpg?itok=P0SBVfgG" title="The proposed development's northerly aspect. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed development's northerly aspect. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Vacant 9,047sqm site with 166.7m street frontage</li>
	<li>Proposed residential development of 412 dwellings across 4 separate buildings</li>
	<li>16 x townhouses, 192 x 1BR, 194 x 2BR, 10 x SOHO</li>
	<li>Maximum building height: 10 storeys or 31.7m</li>
	<li>4 retail tenancies: total of 518sqm available</li>
	<li>Provision for 196 vehicles and 84 bicycles</li>
	<li>Cost of development estimated at $100 million</li>
	<li>Ground, Level 1 and rooftop green spaces</li>
</ul>
Current plans for 34 Cowper Street are modest from a height perspective, relative to a number of earlier site-specific designs created (as seen below), and relative to the scale of development throughout the adjacent Joseph Road Precinct.

Indeed ClarkeHopkinsClarke's initial submission for 34 Cowper Street was significantly higher; 7 levels have been lopped from earlier plans in order to comply with preferred building heights under local built form guidelines. The loss of 7 levels hasn't demonstrably affected to total project apartment yield, with 33 less dwellings across the project.

Further design changes following Maribyrnong City Council's initial feedback also see a reworked open space plaza, enhanced pedestrian connectivity and amendments to the internal laneway.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image57_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site concepts by Plus Architecture and Peddle Thorp Architects which advanced no further."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image57_6.jpg?itok=Tr2gGNiU" title="Site concepts by Plus Architecture and Peddle Thorp Architects which advanced no further." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Site concepts by Plus Architecture and Peddle Thorp Architects which advanced no further.</figcaption></figure>With Jospeh Road Precinct all but accounted for, and the Kinnears site <a href="/news/rf-property-australias-first-melbourne-project-enters-the-starting-gates">ready for its sales launch</a>, 34 Cowper Street is the last of Footscray's 'super sites' to enter planning. Beyond the Binks Ford redevelopment, smaller-scale blocks such as Ryco at 11-19 Whitehall Street and the 501 Receptions site at <a href="/new-apartments/495-507-barkly-street-footscray">501 Barkly Street</a> represent the next largest development sites in the pipeline.

The additions of 34 Cowper Street to the Apartments.com.au Project Database boosts the overall number of apartments monitored by Apartments.com.au within Footscray to an impressive 7,400. This figure is spread across 37 separate projects, with the majority of apartments found within Joseph Road Precinct.

Of those 7,400 plus apartments under 500 are at construction, alluding to the massive growth in Footscray's population that awaits.

<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/image56_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A broadside development perspective. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="270" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image56_4.jpg?itok=DNs5j1ul" title="A broadside development perspective. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A broadside development perspective. Planning image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure><h2>34 Cowper Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: AVIC Development Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect &amp; Urban Context: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</li>
	<li>Planning: Hellier McFarland</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Sustainable Management Plan: F2 Design</li>
	<li>Environmental Noise Assessment: Marshall Day</li>
	<li>Wind Assessment : MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Landscape Plan: MDG Landscape Architects</li>
	<li>Statement of Environmental Audit: Golder Associates</li>
	<li>Social Impact Assessment: Ratio Consultants</li>
</ul>
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Footscray's Binks Ford site finally in line for development

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Far from the many apartment projects that are the bread and butter of this website, there are of course a variety of developments that cater, or intend to cater for the fraction of our society's population that find themselves in hardship.

Among the 1,300 plus listings within the Apartments.com.au Project Database are a smattering of projects such as 179-191 Flemington Road that are designed to cover the needs of the vulnerable, be they homeless or displaced.

Another grass roots design contribution within Newport is currently under construction, with the aim of providing specific women's housing under a higher density built form. 

Architecture firm <a href="/architects/clarke-hopkins-clarke-0">ClarkeHopkinsClarke</a> during 2016 settled upon a design for a new women's housing development within the Hobsons Bay suburb, which upon completion will provide another outlet for affordable and safe long-term housing to women, many of whom are escaping family violence. 

All tenants in the development will come from the public housing waiting list, with rent set at a maximum 75 per cent of the market price, or 30 per cent of the household’s income. Undertaken by Women’s Housing Ltd, Newport is funded by a $5.5 million grant from the Victorian Property Fund, which is administered by Consumer Affairs Victoria.

From a design perspective, there were several elements which ClarkeHopkinsClarke incorporated into the project's design to allow it would respond to the needs of social housing for that area. Melding with its surrounds, the building's frontage appears as little more than two double-story townhouses, whereas the development actually includes 20 one and two bedroom 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/1384_image_02b-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level view of Newport's social housing addition. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="287" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1384_image_02b-1.jpg?itok=oTUgKnlC" title="Street level view of Newport's social housing addition. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level view of Newport's social housing addition. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure>ClarkeHopkinsClarke's Newport design sees the apartments take on the look and feel of a traditional residential home. The three storey building is designed to read as two double storey townhouses from the street, with the third floor recessed and cloaked from view within the angular roofline.

On-grade car parking, terraces for each dwelling and a design which allows for ageing in place are also project design highlights.

Newport's design reflects ClarkeHopkinsClarke's previous success with their first development for Women's Housing Ltd in Bayswater, which subsequently snared Winner for Affordable Housing at the 2012 UDIA Victoria Awards for Excellence. 

According to ClarkeHopkinsClarke and Women's Housing Ltd, the majority of tenants in the Bayswater building are victims of domestic violence, and prior to the development were living in women’s refuges, cars or couch surfing with family and friends. Women’s Housing Ltd's Judy Line says that increased public awareness campaigns surrounding domestic violence against women has helped secure more funding for projects of this ilk. 
The Newport build is midway with completion expected mid to late 2017.
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CHC's grass roots contribution to the community and the needs of the vulnerable

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Les Clarke, the last of ClarkeHopkinsClarke’s three founding partners recently retired in his 56th year with the practice.

Alongside David Hopkins and Jack Clarke, the trio founded Melbourne-based architecture practice ClarkeHopkinsClarke. With an early focus on residential and education projects, Les also designed several acclaimed homes, including the Housing Institute of Australia’s House of the Year in 1978. Today the practice’s work spans the education, multi-residential, retail, commercial, mixed-use, community, health care and aged care sectors.

Melbourne's robust development scene has allowed the firm to grow across key sectors, with the ClarkeHopkinsClarke team encompassing over 100 team members. This growth represents a new chapter for ClarkeHopkinsClarke and new opportunities, with associates Jordan Curran and Simon LeNepveu recently enlisted as new partners.

Continuing the work of Les Clarke, LeNepveu’s focus is on education planning, and he is well regarded for his strong capability in the design and delivery of these projects. LeNepveu has been with ClarkeHopkinsClarke for over 10 years, and will continue working with education team leader Wayne Stephens to carry Les Clarke’s legacy into the future.

Commencing his career working closely with Les Clarke and Dean Landy, Jordan Curran’s focus within the ClarkeHopkinsClarke practice is on projects with a strong urban design component such as those in the community, retail and mixed use sectors.

Urban.com.au spoke both Jordan Curran and Simon LeNepveu about planning for the future of the practice.

Urban.com.au: Firstly congratulations on your promotions to the position of partner within the practice. With Les Clarke stepping down how do you both see your respective roles evolving; Jordan in community, retail &amp; mixed use and Simon in education planning?

Jordan Curran: Les was a bit of a mentor for both Dean Landy and myself. His legacy in the retail, community sector will always be the idea that his work was always based around the end user and developing a real sense of community with his work.

I'm still involved with most of the retail and mixed-use, urban planning and design projects in the office and my role has now evolved with one of collaborating with Les for the least 7 years to taking on his work and adopting his ideas moving forward and exploring greater possibilities through innovation.

Simon LeNepveu: I would echo similar thoughts to Jordan. When Les founded ClarkeHopkinsClarke almost 60 years ago, it was founded as a practice that did a lot of work in education, which is what I specialize in.

I see my role now as taking Les' legacy - and we have been very fortunate to have him - and now stepping into the position of partner it's really about looking to take the work to the next level and pushing the boundaries with regard to what a school is and how that fits into the community and its role as both a community and city resource.

UM: How do you see those sectors evolving in the future? And what possibilities exist for innovation? Particularly with the move towards a vertical model of education.

SL: In terms of education there are some really exciting things happening both within Australia and here in Victoria. It's really starting to push boundaries about what a school is and re-imagine the traditional idea of a school as a 9 to 3:30 place but being a real active part of the community.

And as you mentioned there's been a recent shift towards a vertical model with quite a few in Melbourne in the works, one of which we're involved in and they're all looking at really inner city, dense sites and exploring how they might fit in within the urban fabric.

In a lot of ways it's very similar to the work Jordan does in retail and mixed-use and the idea of creating vibrant communities.

JC: With education we see that as an integral part of most of our town centres. We're currently working on about 3-4 town centres at the moment, new growth centres that would have community facilities, apartments, residential and we try to push education into that as a core part element and one which helps to activate other elements such as the retail - we want everyone spilling into the main street of town.

But what it means is that because there's not many community buildings being built at the moment, that's why from an education point of view we see that as an area in which to invest money from a community point of view - it's building a school.

UM: What sort of challenges do you think your respective sectors face with regard to issues such as population growth, for example, amongst others and what do you need to do as a practice to respond to these?

JC: For me the biggest challenge is keeping up with rapid growth and we want to be careful particularly in growth corridors where there's so much happening. And that's why important in the work we do; the community, mixed-use, education that it all comes together to form these vibrant communities.

What we don't want to be involved in is areas of rapid growth and they essentially become dormitory suburbs.

We actually want to bring all the work at CHC across all the sectors and bring it in to really create these active community hubs and great places where people want to be. That's part of our greater focus and we focus on key sectors which we always try to bring as many as we can to the table in the first stage.

So we try and masterplan and bring as many of these key pieces - medical, education, retail, townhouses, SOHO type townhouses etc - into stage one to create that buzz.

With retail another key challenge is online shopping so the focus becomes about creating a sense of place; somewhere you actually want to be and interact with others. A lot of that comes down to food and beverage, children's play areas and the use of fine grain materials such as timbers, bricks and different types of textures.

UM: Does CHC harbour ambitions to expand the Melbourne office in size and beyond that into other markets both in Australia or internationally?

SL: That's part of the discussion we've been having in the office and we've been invited to do a some projects in South Australia, Queensland where we are looking at some aged care projects and we've even designed a school in Indonesia, in addition to a few in New Zealand as well. Up until now it hasn't really been a core focus outside of Victoria but that's definitely an area of opportunity in the future.

How any interstate or international expansion will most likely manifest is with a Melbourne base and then satellite offices. Part of that ties into the research that we do and not just having the best research of the projects we're doing in Victoria but if we want to be considered leaders then we need to be analysing projects nationwide and globally.

So we want to be in those markets testing things out.

<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/image3_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Soho Village Point Cook is a pending ClarkeHopkinsClarke project"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="371" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3_4.jpg?itok=a0znqudg" title="Soho Village Point Cook is a pending ClarkeHopkinsClarke project" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Soho Village Point Cook is a pending ClarkeHopkinsClarke project</figcaption></figure>UM: And lastly can you speak a bit about some of the projects that you're both working on in the office?

JC: In terms of the retail mixed-use, SOHO Village in Point Cook is one that we're working on and that's a bit of a test case for Wyndham City Council and UDIA. What we have tried to do is create an urban precinct in Point Cook which is very much car-centric.

We were able to get them to rebrand the IGA as the Village Pantry, we've got a boutique grocer, specialty shops, medical centre, yoga studio, apartments, townhouses, there's a church that also functions with childcare and conference facilities and then an office building which has some flexible desks you can actually rent out.

So the idea of this urban precinct is that you can live there and have everything at your doorstep. The apartments are the first in Point Cook and have all sold off the plan - it's been incredibly successful. Almost everything we try to push in terms of mixed-use developments we've put every piece of the puzzle into it and people have really bought into the idea of living in an urban village.

A lot of developers are taking notice of the project and we're looking at replicating the model in a lot of greenfield suburbs - looking at a bit of SOHO in every greenfield site we're working on in Victoria. The project is around 90% complete with completion expected in the next 3 months.

SL: One of the vertical schools we're working on is the new Beaumaris Secondary College on an existing school site and it's a very exciting project actually. It's different to some of the other vertical schools in the sense that you don't really think of Beaumaris in an urban context and even though it's quite a big site and one of the things that has made it interesting is some of the partnerships that are involved.

The school is a joint venture between The Department of Education and the Melbourne Cricket Club with the MCC developing a high performance training centre on the site as part of the JV and providing sports facilities and because they require so much space it has necessitated that the school be a multi-level school.

The project is about creating interaction between the wider urban precinct and it's an interesting area down with the site being formerly a part of Sandringham College which is a multi-campus school with two other campuses. This particular campus really struggled in the Beaumaris community and lacked its own real sense of identity and competing with private schools nearby so the Department is using this as a flagship case along with the other vertical schools.
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Laurence Dragomir

ClarkeHopkinsClarke looks to the future

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During 2015 Apartments.com.au highlighted Essendon's Keilor Road and surrounds as <a href="/news/essendons-high-density-development-a-model-example">a prime example of progressive high density living along a transport corridor</a>.

More specifically Keilor Road's drift toward medium density development is essentially what was envisaged by City of Melbourne's Director of City Design, Rob Adams in his <a href="http://www.transformingaustraliancities.com.au/%5C">Transforming Australian Cities</a> study. Principally focused on exploring "The potential yield that could accrue through good urban design of the urban corridors/strategic sites," Keilor Road and the adjoining Mount Alexander Road fit the bill with both tram and bus services present.

Fast forward beyond last year's article and Moonee Valley City Council are assessing the latest development looking to call upon Keilor Road with Romano Property Group seeking to add 142 apartments to the evolving strip.

<h2>165-169 Keilor Road Essendon Development Summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image16_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Keilor Road perspective. Image courtesy ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="342" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16_2.jpg?itok=blBHaawH" title="Keilor Road perspective. Image courtesy ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Keilor Road perspective. Image courtesy ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Currently vacant former car dealership covering 4,470sqm.</li>
	<li>Three apartments buildings proposed of up to seven levels or 21.6 metres.</li>
	<li>142 apartments: 59 * 1BR, 68 * 2BR, 15 * 3BR.</li>
	<li>203 car parking spaces, 135 bicycle spaces and 114 storage units included.</li>
	<li>Three ground floor tenancies: 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li>Dual rooftop terraces.</li>
	<li>Project value: $30 million.</li>
</ul>
ClarkeHopkinsClarke have designed 165-169 Keilor Road, continuing their relationship with Romano Property Group which now see's a handful of ClarkeHopkinsClarke-designed projects in development for the North Melbourne-based outfit.

At 4,470sqm and with 107 metres frontage to Keilor Road, the former ŠKODA dealership continues the trend of large development plots in the area being repurposed into sizeable apartment developments. A former stronghold of various car dealerships which have since been lured to Essendon Fields, 165-169 Keilor Road represents one of the last sites along the strip to go this way.

<h2>One in, all in</h2>

The domino-like fall of these prime Keilor Road and Mt Alexander Road sites has accelerated in recent years, while the scale of apartment buildings proposed has also increased.

Directly opposite 165-169 Keilor Road, Blue Earth Group have sought approval for an apartment development on what was a former Nissan dealership. Amended plans would see 232 apartments created within a multi-staged, CHT Architects-designed apartment building. The project at 144-160 Keilor Road is now in the hands of VCAT after the adjusted plans were submitted during October.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image22_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="CHC's Parkside alongside CHT's 144-160 Keilor Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="392" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_4.jpg?itok=gopv1O6C" title="CHC's Parkside alongside CHT's 144-160 Keilor Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>CHC's Parkside alongside CHT's 144-160 Keilor Road</figcaption></figure>ClarkeHopkinsClarke are also enjoying further exposure within Essendon with two additional projects in development. Accord Property Group's Alexa is under construction while Parkside Essendon is Goal Property Group's latest pursuit.

CBD Development Group shapes as the latest entrant into the area, running with a sizeable apartment development at 1144 Mt Alexander Road. Yet to reach City of Moonee Valley's planning channels, the project dubbed Unique on the Park is the design of Peddle Thorp and will feature a full size Coles supermarket at ground level along with ancillary retail.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image28_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Leake Street, Alexa and CBD Property Group's pending 1144 Mt Alexander Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28_1.jpg?itok=43MiPtxp" title="Leake Street, Alexa and CBD Property Group's pending 1144 Mt Alexander Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Leake Street, Alexa and CBD Property Group's pending 1144 Mt Alexander Road</figcaption></figure>Keilor Road's most recent apartment project completion was BPM Group's Collins and Queen which provides an additional 116 apartments for the strip. Over recent years Keilor Road alone has seen seen seven substantial apartment developments completed, with the likes of Amne, Essque, Erantis, Horizon, Mink and 386-388 Keilor Road joining Collins and Queen in pumping 520 additional dwellings into the area.

Recently completed Mount Alexander Road apartments total 240 dwellings.

The influx of apartment developments through Keilor Road and Mount Alexander Road has also served to alter the streetscape with increased retail and commercial tenancies replacing what were previously for the most inactive street frontages.
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Essendon's model example set for another addition

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Australia’s rapidly growing population requires a smarter, more sustainable and community orientated approach to placemaking. The creation of new outer ring suburbs, particularly in Melbourne, has seen an influx of development to meet this demand, from housing estates to transport options and retail offerings.

While new housing is required to cater for Melbourne’s rapidly growing population, what is often overlooked in this process is the need for infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and parks to support new residents. A successful and vibrant community relies on the creation of strong and numerous social connections, which is dependent on amenities that evoke a sense of place.

<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/_dsp1284.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Officer Education Hub. Image supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/_dsp1284.jpg?itok=6csFDJi0" title="Officer Education Hub. Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Officer Education Hub. Image supplied</figcaption></figure>At ClarkeHopkinsClarke, we see education as integral to the success of these growth areas. School precincts strengthen town centres, deliver friendly and familiar civic landmarks within barren estates, and provide desperately needed community resources. Developing these facilities is the difference between a ‘dormitory suburb’ or ‘commuter town’ where residents simply come home to sleep, and a thriving community that residents are proud to call home.

New schooling developments not only carry the potential to attract increased residents, but often include multifunctional facilities such as school halls, cafeteria, gymnasium, sporting grounds that can be utilised by the wider community.

A case study that demonstrates the positive impact of education in the creation of a new community is the Department of Education and Training’s recently developed Officer Education Hub, located in Officer, Victoria and designed by ClarkeHopkinsClarke and opened in 2014.

<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/_dsp1558.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Officer Education Hub. Image supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/_dsp1558.jpg?itok=Y-Z0DwKf" title="Officer Education Hub. Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Officer Education Hub. Image supplied</figcaption></figure>Despite the suburb being positioned between several populated areas in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, Officer remained considerably under serviced by community infrastructure and called for an education hub to attract residents and bring the area to life.

A specialist school and a secondary college were the facilities included in the hub’s original brief, however, upon consultation with the local Cardinia Shire Council, demand for a wider range of community facilities was revealed. Recognising the potential of the school as a community hub, our mission as architects was to demonstrate how the education precinct could integrate a range of facilities for dual use by both the school and local community, and in turn attract both local and state funding.

The aim of the hub’s design was to create strong physical connectivity between the education precinct and the newly established Officer town centre. In order to achieve this, the main entry to the secondary school campus acts as an extension of the town centre’s main street, providing a safe and logical route of access.

An area for teaching food technology is located adjacent to the canteen, providing a suitable overflow area for catering should the facility be utilised for a community event. The food technology area joins onto a large space that incorporates a space suitable for conversion to a reception area for community events.

<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/_dsp1961.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Officer Education Hub food technology area. Image supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/_dsp1961.jpg?itok=tctnRn-G" title="Officer Education Hub food technology area. Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Officer Education Hub food technology area. Image supplied</figcaption></figure>Even the approach to sports fields was carefully considered in this process, being positioned to interface with existing council managed playing fields to create a larger recreational precinct for the area.

Alongside these community facilities are the two schools of the hub. Officer Specialist School allows for capacity of up to 260 students, with approximately 80 already enrolled since opening in 2014. The school is a reflection of a modern approach to specialist education, embracing contemporary building forms to best suit students’ needs. Traditionally, these types of schools have been institutional and clinical in character, rather than an aesthetically pleasing environment. The Officer Specialist School however breaks away from this mould, creating an inspiring environment for learning.

Officer Specialist School Principal Sue Campbell released a statement following the school’s completion stating, “Typically the classroom environment and transitioning between spaces can be extremely problematic, particularly for students with autism. However the design incorporates high, acoustically friendly spaces with natural light and sensitive colour selection.”

“For the students with autism, it means that anxiety levels are significantly reduced and learning greatly enhanced,” Campbell says.

<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/_dsp2230.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Officer Education Hub interior. Image supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/_dsp2230.jpg?itok=DZUXDQah" title="Officer Education Hub interior. Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Officer Education Hub interior. Image supplied</figcaption></figure>The second school in the Officer Education Hub is Officer Secondary College, designed to eventually support up to 1600 students and their teachers. The school is currently servicing 150 year seven students, with plans to add an additional school grade ever year until 2020.

There are two general learning buildings in the secondary school. Each learning community includes spaces to accommodate a range of learning activities, including large collaborative areas that can accommodate up to 50 students, a formal learning space and conferences rooms. The learning communities are designed to enable teachers to move through the spaces with their students during the day, utilising the areas most suited to the activities undertaken. Already, the secondary college is recognising the benefits of these learning communities for encouraging informal learning. Students are increasingly empowered to take control of their learning.

The Officer Education Hub is a contemporary learning environment, an important civic contribution to the Officer town centre, and an example of a truly community integrated learning environment. As new housing estates continue to develop across Melbourne, education must be embraced and placed at the forefront of new communities to ensure their enduring appeal.

Wayne Stephens is a partner at Melbourne architectural practice ClarkeHopkinsClarke.
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