<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA</a>&nbsp;doesn’t just rise over North Sydney, it redefines it. Now in its final release, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>’s $1 billion architectural statement is not just complete, but already reshaping the way people live, connect and dine in this rapidly evolving harbourside CBD.

Positioned beside the new Victoria Cross Metro Station and boasting panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, Aura’s 386 residences crown a mixed-use precinct designed with unapologetic ambition. The curvaceous sandstone-inspired form by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, paired with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richard Stanisich</a>’s understated interiors, sets a design tone that’s both monumental and intimate.

At its peak, literally, the two penthouses so spectacular they command their own names; La Davina and Il Magnate. The residents are spread across the&nbsp;entire top floor, offering what many consider the most refined residences ever built in North Sydney. Designed by Richard and Kirsten Stanisich, each four-bedroom home is meticulously crafted to evoke calm, space, and permanence.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VB70993aG-I?si=adRBlXQliYmYvaSz" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The kitchens are fully wrapped in natural stone, with integrated Gaggenau appliances, Sub-Zero fridges, concealed sculleries, and even a zip hydro tap delivering boiling, chilled and sparkling water on demand. A linear stone fireplace anchors the open-plan living space, dividing lounge and dining zones with quiet sophistication.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292861]

The master suite, meanwhile, feels more like a private retreat, complete with a custom stone makeup vanity, walk-through dressing area, and spa-inspired ensuite with heated stone floors, a freestanding Villeroy &amp; Boch tub, and timber veneer joinery throughout.

Kirsten Stanisich, Director of Richards Stanisich, said the penthouses offer incredible scale reflective of a single residence.&nbsp;

“We sought inspiration for these remarkable residences from the classic top-floor Parisian apartment," Stanisich said.

"We looked at what made these French apartments so elegant and found it really came down to their scale. It was ultimately this generosity of space that we used for the AURA penthouses, where we’ve designed considered rooms with deep large-scale proportions."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

Everyday living at Aura feels no less elevated. A dedicated 24-hour concierge, Technogym fitness centre, sky dining terraces, and a resort-style pool serve a lifestyle designed to rival luxury hotels.

At street level, Aqualand’s own hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, curates a precinct of LA-style bistros, Japanese fine dining, and local wine bars, all seamlessly integrated into the building’s sculptural podium.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

This final chapter, aptly dubbed The Finale, is more than a sales phase, it’s an invitation to two of the most exclusive apartments ever to be built in North Sydney.

With limited residences remaining, buyers can access curated incentives including stamp duty rebates, rental guarantees, legal fee coverage, and even $20,000 towards dining within the precinct.

From generous one-bedders to The Icons, two singular penthouses priced well into prestige territory, Aura’s offerings reflect a scale and calibre rarely seen in urban Sydney. And with move-in now immediate, this is no longer a promise of future luxury. It’s happening.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Staff Writer

Aqualand unveils penthouse collection at AURA By Aqualand in North Sydney

There’s no sign of the development wave that began several years ago slowing along Old Burleigh Road.

Around 10 new apartment developments are either underway or preparing to launch along the 800-metre strip stretching from the southern edge of Surfers Paradise towards the heart of Broadbeach, collectively adding just shy of 1,000 new apartments to the beachfront corridor.

The latest plans propose a further 30 apartments to replace an original six-unit walk-up on a 658 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/20a-old-burleigh-road-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">20A Old Burleigh Road</a>. The 14-storey building has been designed by Ferro Chow Architecture, which recently joined the Elevation Architecture Group.

The developer behind the project is Geoffrey Booth, whose Future Liv In has focused on delivering rental accommodation across regional Australia.

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99d393e7-d404-43bc-80cb-6255c39b83d6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ZFT8F3mOny4M4ut.kFF3woC9WH9oR5gT" />

The Old Burleigh Road development will comprise 18 two-bedroom apartments, 10 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom residence occupying the entirety of level 12. Above, the building will be crowned by a two-storey penthouse with its own private lift, several multi-purpose rooms, and two rooftop terraces — one featuring a puppy lawn and spa, the other offering a private swimming pool, sunset deck, and built-in barbecue.

Resident amenities will be located on the second level and include a pool with adjoining spa, cabana, and pool deck, along with an indoor residents’ lounge featuring a bar and an alfresco barbecue kitchen.

In the architectural statement submitted by Elevation Architecture, the project is referred to as “UMI”, which the firm says has been “inspired by the majestic hinterlands and shaped by the coastal climate”.

“It is an exemplar of how community living can still feel at one with nature, breathable, and deeply connected in place,” the architects noted.

They added that the site benefits from established building separation to adjoining towers, helping to maintain privacy, sunlight, and residential amenity, while still offering direct beach access within an urban setting.

“Drawing inspiration from the Gold Coast hinterlands and the region’s natural landscape, the podium and tower detail highlights the contrasting elements of treetop green and cliff-face peach. The vibrant texture and materiality shaped by time has a richness in depth and character.”

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3d6c923-a0ab-4d74-86da-177313447e8e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.38%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=i2fygmoVQM6hWpbATTAW_yTitoMTrnI1" />

Old Burleigh Road has become a hotspot for developers, with the three-tower Jewel development kickstarting a wave of projects up and down the strip when it was completed in 2020.

Currently under construction and approaching completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/faro-broadbeach-123-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">FARO Broadbeach</a> by 5Point and Bottega, 21 large-scale half- and full-floor apartments. 5Point is also behind the recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumara-108-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Lumara</a>, another 37 apartments to add to the pipeline.

Luxury builder GRAYA is progressing construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/enclave-by-graya-118-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Enclave</a>, its first Gold Coast tower, while Polycell remains the most active developer on the street. They are preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sandpiper-broadbeach-155-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Sandpiper</a>, a 50-storey redevelopment of the former Sandpiper Holiday Resort that will deliver around 200 apartments alongside extensive resident amenity. The group also has another 130-apartment project approved nearby, as does <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/dvb-approved-for-second-broadbeach-apartment-development">Dean Gallagher’s DVB Projects</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Old Burleigh Road apartment development wave continues

Sunshine Coast developer Habitat Development Group continues to position itself as one of the region’s largest new apartment developers.

Its latest project is in Maroochydore, where it is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-millwell-2-millwell-road-east-maroochydore-qld-4558">The Millwell</a>. Adjacent to the new 53-hectare Maroochydore City Centre project, Habitat is planning a further 180 apartments on a 3,468 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/132-136-aerodrome-road-maroochydore-qld-4558">132–136 Aerodrome Road</a>. The site was purchased with approval for a smaller 13-storey, 103-unit building.

Habitat will demolish the two existing retail centres, currently home to the Salvation Army Family Store and Neighbours Aid, and replace them with an 18-storey building featuring the significant rooftop amenities that have become a hallmark of Habitat developments in recent years. The rooftop will include both indoor and outdoor spaces, anchored by an infinity swimming pool.

<img alt="Maroochydore" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad434d07-666b-4614-b33e-530ad6a2d261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.33%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7pyLsPWKQuwv0us3_v.9DmbzEc2VZe9Z" />

There will be a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments.

The Development Assessment Report, submitted to the Sunshine Coast Council, says the proposal&nbsp;is not speculative, but a response to both zoning intent and demonstrated housing need.

“The proposed development represents an appropriate and logical intensification of the site, consistent with the planning framework and the intended urban outcomes for the locality.”

Across the Sunshine Coast, councils are increasingly scrutinising not just height or yield, but whether new projects genuinely align with the long-term structure plans underpinning growth corridors. The&nbsp;ASTP Planning Report&nbsp;reinforces the approach, noting that the project has been shaped around site responsiveness rather than generic typology.

“The development has been designed to respond to the physical constraints and opportunities of the site, while delivering a high-quality residential outcome that integrates with the existing and emerging urban context.”

<img alt="Habitat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a03fc54-4ca5-4868-88d0-eeced70604e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.28%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=1pkK3lJrrZjkghTLBReM2zatcas4Nc4B" />

In mid-2025, Habitat, a developer that also builds its own projects, commenced construction on The Millwell, located just over one kilometre from the new proposal. The Millwell will comprise more than 200 apartments across two eight-storey buildings.

Habitat also has two projects on Lake Kawana in Birtinya: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-clair-birtinya-930-931-waterside-retreat-birtinya-qld-4575">St Clair</a>, a 200-unit, two-building development launched last year and set to welcome buyers this year; and Esperance, a 175-apartment project currently progressing through the development approval process.

First look: Habitat continues to bolster Sunshine Coast apartment pipeline with Maroochydore development plans

John Camilleri, the breeder of legendary racehorse Winx, is set to deliver a landmark two-tower beachfront development that would redefine the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Camilleri, who spent around $100 million acquiring development sites across the Gold Coast in 2025, has lodged plans for two new towers on the dress-circle stretch of Garfield Terrace, just two days before Christmas.

In assembling the site, Camilleri's Celestino Developments has effectively acquired the 71 Garfield project by Iris Capital and AALTO by Weiya Holdings, creating an unrivalled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">4,000 sqm beachfront holding along Garfield Terrace</a>.

The proposal comprises two residential towers of 55 and 48 storeys, linked by a dramatic skybridge which will home “exclusive VIP and wellness amenities.”

In total, the development would deliver 275 two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments across the two towers, rising above a shared landscaped podium that incorporates a central green space and a beachfront swimming pool stretching more than 90 metres.

<img alt="DBI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="097900f3-6bef-4919-b168-b08f2f762876" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.37.58%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=et0SpmcvaPPVrexI_zWi46BVFtZBxAzx" />

Architecture firm DBI, in documents submitted to Gold Coast City Council, said the project at 63–79 Garfield Terrace would “establish a new benchmark for beachfront residential living on the Gold Coast.”

"The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience. Together, the 48-storey North Tower and 55-storey South Tower form a distinctive twin-tower composition whose dynamic silhouette will make a significant contribution to the Surfers Paradise skyline."

DBI said the architectural language draws inspiration from the fluidity and movement of the coastal landscape.

"Each tower is defined by organic, curving forms and continuous balcony ribbons that wrap the buildings, providing deep shading, enhancing environmental performance, and reinforcing the rhythmic, sculptural expression of the façade. These balcony forms also reduce the apparent mass of the towers while maintaining strong visual continuity from podium to summit. Sculpted reflective downturns run along the western spine of both towers, shifting and lifting as they extend upwards to frame service zones and open eastward to maximise ocean views."

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2a00ce3-a0e9-45d6-b4b5-b7baed592ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.40%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=DnruWV1dhLrtXOeElwekyd7vPq2gw55t" />

The project’s most striking feature is the skybridge at level 45, which will house executive lounges, formal dining spaces, wellness facilities and panoramic ocean-facing views.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI added.

The podium will host an extensive suite of recreational amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a large open green lawn, and the signature 90-metre pool stretching along the beachfront. The pool is divided into lap, lounge and children’s zones.

The southern end of the podium will accommodate additional wellness facilities, including a gymnasium, plunge pools, treatment rooms and a dedicated yoga lawn.

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee1b4f25-231f-4804-83b1-a573a1481962" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.55.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zObzIA3D5w7EwqPsHjr2pKrA4vbB28zL" />

There will be 127 apartments in the North Tower and 148 in the South Tower, including multiple penthouses, while the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages will be activated by a series of food and beverage tenancies.

Camilleri emerged as the most active site acquirer on the Gold Coast in 2025. He spent just over $30 million acquiring Pacific Point, a 10-level Surfers Paradise apartment block and an adjoining three-level duplex, from fellow racing identity and Aquis billionaire Tony Fung. Plans are now underway for a 93-apartment, 40-storey tower on the 1,682 sqm site.

He also paid $53.65 million for the 1,500 sqm Garfield Terrace site previously marketed as AALTO by Weiya Holdings, before acquiring the adjoining parcel from hotel billionaire Sam Arnaout’s Iris Capital, the developer behind V&amp;A Broadbeach.

First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge

The Melbourne-based HLA Group is the latest developer to expand into South East Queensland, lodging plans for a unique mixed-use short-term accomodation and apartment building in Taringa, with the building design inspired by the Glasswing Butterfly.

The development application for 10 Morrow Street seeks approval for a total of 232 dwellings, comprising 116 residential apartments and 116 short-stay accommodation units. The build-to-sell residential component is made up of 31 one-bedroom apartments, 67 two-bedroom apartments, 17 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom apartment, offering a diverse mix aimed at singles, couples, families, and downsizers.

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33913cd4-9839-4456-b325-d35b3f8b4694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=sLvc7jUrYzDwqPDZBPrXTosKHDSp.qrt" />

Designed by Ellivo Architects, the tower takes strong inspiration from nature, with the architectural language driven by one of Queensland’s most delicate species. As described in the planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council, Ellivo Architects state the design is “inspired by the elegance of the Glasswing butterfly," and mirrors the graceful sweep of its wings, a form that feels light, fluid, and alive.

“Lush subtropical greenery is throughtfull woven throughout, transforming the building into a sanctuary in the heart of the city.”

The proposal positions the building as more than a conventional residential tower, with Ellivo Architects describing 10 Morrow Street as “an urban oasis that blends short term accomodation with residential living. A destination for rest, relaxation, and renewal.”

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84e9a0ff-464e-4973-bffe-5d5a8fe9f087" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.32%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dhX9eVgUaQE2TvCzJPhF8N8_hzYSKpyK" />

Formally, the building’s massing and floorplate are directly shaped by its butterfly inspiration. Ellivo explain that, “adopting the wings of the Glasswing Butterfly, the tower's plan is divided into four distinct quadrants, each shaped to mirror the wing's segmented geometry and taking the slender ‘veins’ up the facade of the tower.”

"This approach results in a sculpted tower form with articulated façades and a strong vertical expression."

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5947011d-ff6c-4a57-bdc1-9072a472a79c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.29%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=nnGqd4WCZM8AOJZY.c3u49BO4LurKRhb" />

The Assessment Report by Human Habitats said the 19-storey tower capitalises on its strategic connectivity and prominence at the entrance of Taringa Village and adjoining the Taringa Station.

"The proposal offers a significant revitalisation of the subject site that integrates architectural excellence, innovation, and sustainable design to directly address long-standing connectivity and safety challenges, housing supply , and diversity together with enhanced streetscape activation and convenient access to major transport corridors."

HLA Group Australia is registered to South Yarra and is currently delivering Adamson No.5, just 15 luxury apartments that start from around $2 million.&nbsp;

The Butterfly Effect: Glasswing butterfly inspires Taringa apartment development

Clifton Hill

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A three level red brick building in Clifton Hill is on the market with $4.9 million hopes.
The property at 24 Groom Street with an area of 925 square metres is on a corner site.
It has a site area of 340 square metres plus additional seven off street car parks. 
The vendor has recently completed a strip out of the until recent commercial office use of the building which now exposes the cavernous building spaces and the fabric of the structure. 
Gray Johnson director Brett Simpson says these works also expose the opportunity to create a single floor repurposing.
“There is even an opportunity to add mezzanine floor spaces,” Brett Simpson adds. 
“The character is derived from the history of uses dating back to the 1900s with the 24 Groom Street building acquiring its history and various uses along the way. 
“For instance, this building was taken over in September 1911 by the then Department of Defence and became the home of the Commonwealth Harness, Saddlery and Leather Accoutrements Factory, with an occupancy that extended until the late 1920s as a manufacturer of equipment for the armed forces. 
“I understand that during this period it became the provider of harness equipment for the Battle of Beersheba and other major World War One military campaigns. 
“There is still a commemorative plaque on the building façade acknowledging the contribution the building made to the Australian Military Forces from 1912-23. 
“During 1930s the building became the Bourke &amp; Cooke boot factory, before Zig Zag Paper took over manufacturing their legendary roll-your-own cigarette papers here.”
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/14/GJ%2024%20GROOM%20STREET%20STRIPPED%20OUT.jpg" alt="">
In 1973, it was acquired by National Can Industries to manufacture many of Australia’s famous tin can packaging here.
National Can on the closure of manufacturing here continued to occupy the building as their corporate office until recently. 
“It holds a Mixed Use zoning with city views able to be accessed from the property’s location that is just off Hoddle Street and the access to the Eastern Freeway,” Simpson said. 
“The property has two street frontages of 16 metres to Groom Street and a side frontage to Yarrabing Lane of another 25 metres. 
“Now exposed by the strip out works are the historic building features including exposed timber beams, ceilings and floors, brickwork, with a goods lift remaining in place.”
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Historic Clifton Hill commercial building listed for $4.9 million

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The Clifton Hill commercial premises of national pet retailer Petstock has been sold by Savills.
Petstock has a new five plus five year lease signed late last year for the 460 square metre building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-clifton+hill-502833266" target="_blank">592-596 Smith Street</a>.
They pay around $126,500 per annum for the Smith Street space which is passed by 74,000 vehicles per day.
Savills selling agents Jesse Radisich, Nick Peden, Mark Stafford and Julian Heatherich were marketing the property as an opportunity to acquire a prominent asset leased to a secure tenants in the blue-chip city fringe suburb of Clifton Hill.
Petstock have over 155 locations across Australia.
 
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Petstock premises at Clifton Hill sold

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Following on from <a href="/news/on-site-with-wulff-projects-part-01-newry-street-richmond">Part 01</a> of Apartments.com.au's site tour with Adam Wulff of Wulff Projects, comes Part 02 - 122 Roseneath Street. Developed in partnership with Icon Development and Assemble Projects, the small footprint development is progressing on site at a rapid pace, and like Wulff's Newry Street project is targeting an early Q3 2018 completion date.

<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/160809_assemble-projects_project-slider_011-1050x460.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="122 Roseneath Street upon completion. Image : Assemble Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="254" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/160809_assemble-projects_project-slider_011-1050x460.jpg?itok=o5Sh9gpg" title="122 Roseneath Street upon completion. Image : Assemble Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>122 Roseneath Street upon completion. Image : Assemble Projects</figcaption></figure>Roseneath Street follows a suite of other developments by Wulff Projects in Clifton Hill, successfully acquiring the site off-market in 2014. A town planning permit was obtained outside of VCAT in April 2016 for 49 apartments, 18 townhouses, and one retail tenancy.

Designed by Fieldwork, the design possesses a strong sustainability and community design focus, and comprises three main forms aligned north-south along the site, with two raised landscaped terraces which provide separation, access, and outlook.

These green spines or 'linear parks' are achieved by rising above the ground level car park beneath, removing the need for underground parking and costly basement excavation.

The linear parks are accessed via two cascading stairs from Roseneath Street which are accessible 24/7 - there are no gates, but the change in levels provides a threshold of sorts between the public and private domains.

To the street, the car park is concealed behind a retail tenancy and workshop space with 3-storey townhouses located either side, with a central 6-storey apartment building, that terraces down to Roseneath Street.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/20180209_082132.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The central apartment building's staggered form responds to the lower scale of the streetscape."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="353" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20180209_082132.jpg?itok=-VpHv8mM" title="The central apartment building's staggered form responds to the lower scale of the streetscape." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The central apartment building's staggered form responds to the lower scale of the streetscape.</figcaption></figure>A portion of an existing Brutalist office building on the site has been retained, which provided inspiration and was a key driver in the choice of materiality for the project.  

According to Wulff, its retention was not without its challenges, particularly in how the existing floor levels and structure were integrated into the rest of the development, but says it was ultimately worth it, providing the team with an opportunity to celebrate a key element of the site's existing fabric.   

A redbrick wall along the western boundary has also been retained providing the development with another layer of existing grain and local context.

The building is a highly site-responsive design with strong sustainability, quality, and community focus with extensive Council, community and purchaser consultation which assisted the team in refining the design to sit comfortably within its context and provide a product that was appealing to the local market. .

<blockquote>
The outcome is driven by fundamental principles including an emphasis on internal amenity, privacy, light and air access, equitable view lines, and communal facilities. The project is conceived as an exemplar of contextually sensitive, high-quality design and sustainable, small footprint living.

- Fieldwork
</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/20180209_094623.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Making an impact on the Clifton Hill skyline."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20180209_094623.jpg?itok=jgkC0tvO" title="Making an impact on the Clifton Hill skyline." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Making an impact on the Clifton Hill skyline.</figcaption></figure>One of the more interesting aspects of the development and one which reinforces the project team's commitment and belief in the quality of the project is the fact that several members of the project team will call Roseneath home. In the realm of residential development, there's no stronger endorsement in a project than when its team commits to it.  

This particularly was reassuring for prospective purchasers who were involved in the consultation process, providing them with the confidence that this wasn't your typical run of the mill apartment project.

While the extensive consultation process with the community and interested buyers might not always be required or practical on every project, it proved beneficial in shaping the final design and mix of dwellings for Roseneath, says Wulff. 

Look out for Part 03 in the coming months which will focus on Wulff Projects' upcoming 210 Alexandra Parade development. In the meantime please enjoy the slideshow of construction photos below;
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Laurence Dragomir

On site with Wulff Projects (Part 02) : 122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill

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Late last year Carta Group and Wulff Projects submitted a planning application for an OLA Studio-designed development at 210 Alexandra Parade East Clifton Hill, which has undergone a number of changes to respond to Council and community feedback.

The proposed development is for a 6-storey building comprising of 26 apartments and a resident’s communal workspace at ground floor. The building's design is highly site responsive and employs carefully considered amenity oriented design principles, coupled with a strong ESD focus, located in a mixed-use zone just north of the Eastern Freeway and within close proximity to both Victoria Park and Clifton Hill train stations.

210 Alexandra Parade is expressed as an articulated form that draws inspiration from the original factory while providing a considered building response to both the existing and future context. Additionally, design proposes the adaptive re-use of existing bricks from the original building on-site for communal workspace, lobby feature walls, courtyard paving and landscaping.

Planters &amp; landscaping will be provided to selected balconies and window boxes to aid in softening the building's exterior, while winter gardens have been designed into south facing apartments. Private open space averages in size at approximately 22 sqm with deep soil planting along the northern and eastern boundary.

The ground floor communal workspace ensures the building provides an active frontage to Alexandra Parade. 

<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/210_alexandra_parade_march2018.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="210 Alexandra Parade in context. Image : OLA Studio "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="449" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/210_alexandra_parade_march2018.jpg?itok=AcsC3qpk" title="210 Alexandra Parade in context. Image : OLA Studio " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>210 Alexandra Parade in context. Image : OLA Studio Design Report</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The design draws upon the architectural character and materiality of the surrounding area while referencing the site's industrial past. The original building is an old red brick Factory which is used to inform the composition of the building mass. The first 4 levels of the proposed design form a red brick podium interpretive of the original brick factory.

The upper levels and form on the eastern boundary employ a fenestrated dark metal cladding that subtly transitions from solid wall to battened screens when positioned in front of openings. The metal is dark and recessive so as to not distract from the strong form of the lower mass. The change of material from white brick to metal also allows us to read the upper levels as one element resulting in a clean and interesting compositional form.

A breakline of glazing is applied between the podium and fifth level to create the illusion that elements of the top level are floating to provide a sense of lightness.

- OLA Studio
</blockquote>

The proposal for 210 Alexandra Parade represents the Development Partners' continued focus on facilitating positive change to Clifton Hill, via a very robust design-based agenda with the objective of meeting community expectations of the suburb attracting quality, design-focused developments such as Wulff Projects' 122 Roseneath Street project in partnership with Icon Co and Assemble.

To this end the project team have worked closely with Council to refine the design to address feedback relating to privacy, overlooking, height and building mass, and dwelling diversity. This has resulted in a much stronger composition of elements to provide a  positive contribution to the streetscape.

<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/210_alexandra_parade_street_interface.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="210 Alexandra Parade street interface. Image : OLA Studio Design Report"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="373" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/210_alexandra_parade_street_interface.jpg?itok=0zciixN2" title="210 Alexandra Parade street interface. Image : OLA Studio Design Report" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>210 Alexandra Parade street interface. Image : OLA Studio Design Report</figcaption></figure><h2>Key Project Features</h2>

<ul>
<li>Family-focused design, with 90% of apartments containing 2 &amp; 3 bedrooms</li>
	<li>Community design focus with a variety of communal facilities &amp; adept architectural integration</li>
	<li>More than one bike space for every dwelling &amp; one communal scooter space</li>
	<li>Diversity in apartment sizes and types, including 2-storey apartments</li>
	<li>Diverse range of communal facilities for residents including indoor landscaping areas, an integrated laundry and a functional workspace sustainability</li>
	<li>Strong sustainability characteristics with extensive landscaping, abundant natural light &amp; cross-flow ventilation</li>
	<li>No borrowed light to apartments</li>
	<li>Operable louvres to south facade balconies for noise protection from the adjacent freeway</li>
	<li>Provision of infrastructure for electric car charge station</li>
	<li>Rain water harvesting, PV solar panels for common area lighting and power, and 6.9 star average rating</li>
	<li>Pergola to ground floor north facing apartments facilitating indoor-outdoor living.</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/210_alexandra_parade_context.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="210 Alexandra Parade street view in context. Image : OLA Studio Design Report"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="449" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/210_alexandra_parade_context.jpg?itok=lu1HouGc" title="210 Alexandra Parade street view in context. Image : OLA Studio Design Report" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>210 Alexandra Parade street view in context. Image : OLA Studio Design Report</figcaption></figure>
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210 Alexandra Parade adds to Clifton Hill's growing design credentials

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Owner occupiers are making their presence felt in Melbourne’s inner suburban property purchasing market, according to Savills.
The firms ‘s CBD and metropolitan sales team, Julian Heatherich, Nick Peden, and Jesse Radisich, said this trend was evident in the firm’s recent sale of a Clifton Hill property.
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-clifton+hill-502248554" target="_blank">44 Alexandra Parade</a> sold privately for $910,000 at the healthy land area rate of $5000 a square metre, Savills said.
The property comprises a single storey, 140 square metre corner freehold with an internal office fit-out, and storage and roller door access.
Two other Clifton Hill properties sold at auction earlier in March through Savills.
Hilton Street - a 205 square metre office/warehouse – sold for $900,000, and Reeves Street - a 884 square metre showroom/warehouse on an 1175 square metre site – sold for $3.6 million.
“This is the third property we have sold to an owner-occupier in the last few weeks underlining just how strong the current owner-occupier market is,” Heatherich said.
“With interest rates remaining very attractive we are likely to see this trend continue.
“The market for inner-city property has rarely been stronger and Clifton Hill is now clearly on the radar.”
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Owner occupiers out in force in Clifton Hill office market: Savills

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A freehold property at Clifton Hill has been sold.
Located at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-clifton+hill-502247574" target="_blank">179 Queens Parade</a>, the property is located in the heart of the Clifton Hill Village and is leased to the post office.
Zoning is available as a Commercial 1 with a land size of 581 square metres and a building area of 210 square metres.
The tenant is on a long term lease and is secure with possible future development potential.
The property was offered through Nelson Alexander Commercial agents Luke Sacco and Damien Theisz.
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Clifton Hill freehold property sold

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Two properties in Melbourne’s inner suburb of Clifton Hill have sold for a total of $4.5 million in deals brokered by Savills.
According to Savills Australia CBD &amp; Metropolitan sales team, Julian Heatherich, Nick Peden, and Jesse Radisich, the sales reflected the increasing demand for inner city locations such as Clifton Hill, according to the selling agents.
The properties comprise 3 Hilton Street - a 205 square metre, office/warehouse with roller door access – which sold for $900,000, and 10 Reeves Street - an 884 square metre showroom/warehouse on an 1,175 square metre site – which sold for $3.6 million.
"The market for inner-city property has rarely been stronger and Clifton Hill is now clearly on the radar as it offers very close proximity to the CBD, the Eastern Freeway, and trams and train services," said Heatherich.
"The local area which includes Brunswick, Lygon and Smith streets and Queens Parade has also been very popular with both residential and commercial users over several decades with property values appreciating accordingly.’’ 
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Two commercial properties in inner Melbourne sold through Savills

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Three towers at planning, three suburbs and the prospect of three new tallest buildings within their respective postcode.

Across Moonee Ponds, Clifton Hill and Highett, these three residential towers are working their way through the approvals process, with some having a seemingly smoother ride than others.

Of the trio, Caydon Property Group's 40 Hall Street Stage 2 within Moonee Ponds is the largest. At 34 levels it is also one of greater Melbourne's largest proposed buildings.

Moonee Valley Leader <a href="http://leader.newspaperdirect.com/epaper/viewer.aspx">reported late last week</a> that the Fender Katsalidis-designed tower will be heading to VCAT, given Council's dissatisfaction with the size of the project; so much so Cr Nicole Marshall described it as an "offensive application." Subsequently, Council has urged Planning Minister Richard Wynne to rule upon the tower, although Mr Wynne's department has yet to receive a formal request asking as much.

<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/img6_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Moonee Ponds' new tallest? Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="484" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img6_1.jpg?itok=hGUauUYG" title="Moonee Ponds' new tallest? Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Moonee Ponds' new tallest? Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>With the VCAT hearing scheduled for January, the Moonee Ponds project represents Caydon's fifth development in succession that will make a visit to the planning tribunal. Hall Street Stage 2 joins Cremorne's Malt District project, Only Flemington, Ivanhoe Apartments and 40 Hall Street/Mason Square as having visited VCAT.

In Clifton Hill, 249-265 Queens Parade has received feedback from City of Yarra, with altered plans now on public display.

With the intended tower still at 17 levels, changes to the scheme see revised floor plans and a decrease in apartment numbers from 127 to 115, with the intent of increasing the internal amenity within the tower. This move was a <a href="http://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/IgnitionSuite/uploads/PlanningApps/PLN160494%20-%20Response%20to%20Council%20Concerns.pdf">direct response to Council's initial concerns</a> for the project which is championed by Salta Properties and Wolf Capital.

Architect in charge, Fieldwork, has modelled the exterior to closely resemble that of its neighbour, 243 Queens Parade, which is also a Fieldwork design.

<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/queenspde_ext03_east_a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Reworked upper floors for 249-265 Queens Parade. Image: Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/queenspde_ext03_east_a.jpg?itok=RS0Go0WM" title="Reworked upper floors for 249-265 Queens Parade. Image: Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Reworked upper floors for 249-265 Queens Parade. Image: Fieldwork</figcaption></figure>Highett also figures prominently with 1233-1237 Nepean Highway on display with Kingston City Council after revisions to the initial design.

Spanning 14 storeys, the RotheLowman-designed residential project has sought approval for 242 apartments on behalf of Growland. Covering a 4,300sqm site opposite Southland, the proposal would see a mix of building heights ranging from three to fourteen levels.

A retail strip, gym and pool feature at ground level, as does a four bedroom apartment. At 45 metres, the proposal comfortably outsizes other recent apartment projects within Highett. As part of the proposal, a substantial courtyard faces neighbouring northern properties at ground level, with further outdoor terraces across levels 11 and 13.

<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/v3-1000-e1460537966954.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Highett is subject to a new tallest building. Image: RotheLowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="462" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v3-1000-e1460537966954.jpg?itok=PVsDhplW" title="Highett is subject to a new tallest building. Image: RotheLowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Highett is subject to a new tallest building. Image: RotheLowman</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Three projects at planning which could redefine their suburbs

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A development consortium is hoping that a Clifton Hill site which recently went into planning will ultimately become the suburb's first high-rise building.

Plans for 249-261 Queens Parade were lodged with City of Yarra during May for a 17 storey tower of a consisting predominantly of apartments. The small stretch of Queens Parade abutting Hoddle Street has seen a limited number of mid-rise projects thus far, but nothing of the scale which has been designed for 249-261 Queens Parade.

With a development cost of approximately $30 million, 129 dwellings are designed to sit above ground level retail, with two basement levels also included.

Development Manager Wulff Projects carry the following description of the project on their website:

<blockquote>
Neighbouring the Patch Apartments, these adjoining sites were acquired separately and off-market by Wulff Projects on behalf of the Joint Venture comprising Wolf Capital and Salta Properties. Currently, over 100 apartments are planned, striving to be an exemplar of high quality design and all with high level amenity and priority ESD consideration.

This development is expected for completion in 2018.
</blockquote>

The two sites in question are 265 Queens Parade at 310sqm and 249-261 Queens Parade covering 885sqm. <a href="http://www.colliers.com.au/news/2015/off---market-sales-heat-up-in-clifton-hill/#.V4IUB7h9670">According to Colliers</a> the combined purchase price for the land parcels was $8.5 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/image9_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Colliers graphic for Queens Parade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_7.jpg?itok=oAkGs9kW" title="Colliers graphic for Queens Parade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Colliers International graphic for Queens Parade</figcaption></figure>Formerly light industrial, the eastern side of Queens Parade is gradually being repurposed as higher density development. 

The green plot seen in the Colliers International graphic above relates to Salta Properties and Wolf Capital's planned 17 level tower whilst the mustard site holds approval for an 11 level project at 243-247 Queens Parade. Dubbed <a href="http://patchapartments.com.au/">Patch Apartments</a>, a project website for the development is still operational.

Seen in orange above is aged care provider TLC's site for a 10 level integrated care hub at 217-241 Queens Parade. With revised plans submitted during January, Yarra City Council have the application listed as having a Notice of Decision; the final step prior to a planning permit being granted.

205-211 Queens Parade also shapes a future development with Colliers International recently running a campaign for the 1,440sqm 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/image10_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_6.jpg?itok=JrMMHsL3" title="243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade. Images: Fieldwork Projects &amp; Baldasso Cortese</figcaption></figure>
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Clifton Hill in for a dose of the high life with 17 levels planned

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Appearing on Apartments.com.au not for the first time and certainly not for the last time, 122 Roseneath Street in Clifton Hill provides a model for development centred around community engagement.

A collaboration between development partners Wulff Projects, Icon Co and Assemble, as advocates of small footrpint living, the project gained planning approval from the City of Yarra in May following an extensive period of community consultation which has resulted in a flexible design that offers prospective residents variety.

With May's <a href="/news/assemble-papers-and-open-house-present-the-brutalist-block-party">Brutalist Block Party</a> on site done and dusted, the development team's focus now shifts to a second round of purchaser consultation before embarking on a formal sales and registration campaign.

122 Roseneath St is a showcase for a new way of thinking about multi-residential developments, one that is true to its context and respectful to existing residents within the neighbourhood.

The mixed-use development is designed around flexible communal spaces, including a multipurpose workshop and a communal room for dining and entertaining. A hallmark of the project is two raised linear parks that intercept the three buildings, with drought-resistant native landscaping by MALA.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders_roseneath-street_external-4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="122 Roseneath Street raised landscape communal walkways. Image courtesy Assemble"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="580" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders_roseneath-street_external-4.jpg?itok=tE60l8-2" title="122 Roseneath Street raised landscape communal walkways. Image courtesy Assemble" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>122 Roseneath Street raised landscape communal walkways. Image courtesy Assemble</figcaption></figure>The development is only a short walk to the cafes, grocers and shops of Queens Parade and closer still to Clifton Hill train station. It connects to the breathing spaces of the Merri Creek nature corridor, with its bike trails leading directly to the Yarra River and Federation Square.

Architecturally, the development responds to the history of its location, retaining the skeleton of the Brutalist-style building on site and drawing on its materiality for inspiration throughout the design.

Veil-like metal balustrades reference the surrounding architectural features in the heritage-listed local area, while timber soffits to balconies add a warmth to the northern facade.

122 Roseneath Street presents a mix of studio apartments; single-to-three-bedroom apartments; and two-to-three-bedroom townhouses. Internal areas range from 38 square metres for studios to 148 square metres for three bedroom townhouses, in addition to generous balcony and terrace areas. Prices support community diversity, ranging from $380,000 to $1.5 million.

Through the consultation process which began in September 2015, potential residents were consulted on the functions for the communal room and adjoining terrace, the type of ground floor retail tenancy, car park demand, pet-friendly owners corporation rules and sustainability features, including external operable shutters, an embedded energy network and a shared composting facility.

A philosophy of flexibility and owner choice continues the design brief inside the dwellings. The proposal offers standard and premium options across kitchens, bathrooms and flooring as well as extras – including the possibility to add a children’s baths beneath the shower, the provision for a pet door or an ‘arrival station’ by the door to drop off coats, keys and shoes on the way in.

Seeking to provide affordable well designed living spaces on par with The Commons model whereby architects take on the role of developer, the approach adopted by 122 Roseneath's triumvirate differs somewhat in that the design has been informed by feedback from both community and prospective buyers via consultation sessions.

The design process becomes more fluid rather than linear and the development team don't dictate to buyers what they want rather they listen to their needs.

Having a development team that includes architects and builders also means that design decisions can be made during the design process with the knowledge that these won't later be value managed out once a builder is appointed post tender process and there aren't any major surprises in terms of costing and 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/gabrielsaunders_roseneath-street_external-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="122 Roseneath Street streetscape. Image courtesy Assemble"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders_roseneath-street_external-1.jpg?itok=1g8k75nv" title="122 Roseneath Street streetscape. Image courtesy Assemble" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>122 Roseneath Street streetscape. Image courtesy Assemble</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au met on site with Wulff Projects Development Edward Cramer, Assemble Creative Director Pino Demaio and Icon Development Manager Kyle Reeve to discuss the merits of their exhaustive consultation process and the next round to come.

According to Cramer, following acquisition of the site which came with a permit for a larger scheme, the development team spent 3-6 months engaging with the community to ascertain what aspects they liked and disliked about the scheme.

This feedback helped the team set some of the parameters for the revised scheme that was ultimately developed for the site. This process involved community consultation evenings at Fieldwork's previous office in addition to one on one conversations with neighbours and people within the neighbourhood.

Icon Co joined the team prior to town planning and once the application was lodged they set about addressing some of the concerns they received around setbacks and overlooking says Reeve.

This involved providing greater privacy via increased setbacks, reduction in the height of townhouses, employing screens or planter boxes which act as screening elements on terraces.

With one neighbour the team increased the setback to the east and will also relocate their solar system so their ability to generate green energy is not impacted by the development.

The development team's goal was to keep the dialogue as open as possible and the process as transparent as possible, continues Reeve, rather than pushing them away or putting up the notice of advertisement and waiting to see what objections come in and then deciding whether or not to address them.

He admits it's a somewhat untested process and while it also may have drawn out the design and town planning process it was something they all felt equally passionate about.

<blockquote>
In terms of time frames it definitely took longer to undertake that consultation process and a lot more time and effort on the part of the design and development team. To meet with 50 people and try and work through there concerns is really hard work.

But it was evident when we went to Council's Internal Development Approvals Committee (IDAC) meeting that it was worth it as only three objectors attended, two of which said that their concerns had been addressed and the third was dismissed by council for raising concerns that wouldn't impact them based on the fact they lived 100's of metres away.

Out of the 140 objections that the previous scheme received we managed to get that right down to three.
<cite>Kyle Reeve, Development Manager, Icon Co.</cite>
</blockquote>

The process of then engaging with prospective buyers in information sessions of 30-50 people was more about ensuring that prospective residents were comfortable with the design and that it resonated strongly with them, rather than simply being a marketing ploy to advertise the project, says Cramer.

In addition to this the team drew on the feedback and research gathered through surveys conducted via Assemble Papers on the subject of medium-density living and better apartment design standards, says Demaio and really trying to understand what is most important to people and inform the spaces based on demand for certain aspects within a townhouse or apartment.

This, continues Demaio, is in contrast to the traditional method of relying on agents to inform the design and product without the intimate understanding or knowledge of the key design drivers of a project.

All going well, demolition could commence as early as August with completion anticipated in late 2017.
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