Melbourne developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pdg-corporation">PDG</a> has unveiled its vision for the former Water Tank Site in Ivanhoe, which would see it transformed into a thriving residential neighbourhood, complete with a 2000 sqm public park.&nbsp;

Delivered in partnership with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a>, the proposal would transform the prominent corner of Bell Street and Upper Heidelberg Road into a connected community comprising two residential buildings, generous public open space and shared amenities.&nbsp;

The vision includes 287 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with a minimum of 10 per cent allocated to affordable housing, alongside a 2,000-square-metre publicly accessible park featuring a children's playground, activity lawn, indigenous planting, timber climbing logs, seating areas and a rock gathering circle.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>, the proposal draws on the site's industrial heritage, using a robust architectural language that references the former water tank through expressive structural elements and durable, self-finished materials.&nbsp;

Extensive landscaping has been woven throughout the development, creating a living landscape that strengthens connections to nature while responding sensitively to the surrounding neighbourhood. Two residential buildings ranging from three to 12 storeys are linked by a landscaped forecourt, creating a welcoming arrival experience and improving pedestrian connections through the site.&nbsp;

Residents would also enjoy more than 1,000 square metres of communal open space, including barbecue and dining facilities, vegetable gardens, landscaped seating pavilions and a dedicated coworking space.&nbsp;

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the vision reflected an opportunity to transform one of Ivanhoe's most recognisable sites into a place that balanced housing, community and landscape.&nbsp;

"This is an opportunity to reimagine an important site and create a neighbourhood that delivers lasting benefits for Ivanhoe," Giuliano said.&nbsp;

"We're creating much more than new homes. The vision brings together affordable housing, quality architecture, meaningful public open space and shared places that encourage people to connect, while respecting the site's history and its place within the local community."&nbsp;

Development Victoria’s Executive General Manager Precincts, Niall Cunningham, said the application is an important step for the government-owned site.&nbsp;

“This is about delivering more homes in a well-connected location, along with public open space that the Ivanhoe community will benefit from for years to come,” Cunningham said.&nbsp;

PDG was selected as development partner in late 2025 following a competitive tender process.&nbsp;

A planning submission for the project is currently being progressed through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program, with positive early engagement from both Banyule Council and the Department of Transport and Planning.

Joel Robinson

PDG unveils plans to transform landmark Ivanhoe Water Tank Site

Shane Wilkinson's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pace-development-group">Pace Development Group</a> has lodged plans for a major residential precinct on the former Presentation College site in Windsor, with an eight-building masterplan ultimately rising to 10 storeys.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/167-dandenong-road-windsor-vic-3181">167–187 Dandenong Road</a> spans a substantial 19,027 sqm site and is being progressed across six stages, with the first residential stages comprising 170 homes across four buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>.

Stage Two will deliver the bulk of the initial housing, with Building A comprising 81 apartments and Building B 49 apartments, both rising to six storeys.

Stage Three will deliver a further 40 homes. The heritage Nagel Building, identified as Building C, will be converted to 12 dwellings, while a new five-storey Building D will comprise 28 apartments at the Hornby Street and Dandenong Road corner.

The 170 homes across Stages Two and Three will include a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including townhouse-style dwellings.<img alt="First look: Pace plans landscaped housing precinct on former Windsor school site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="83c56e3e-dfb9-4e12-b172-c3f18513ec32" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_9.png?VersionId=xRcRpSZsxX.UX_NDDGcRZktw7HVrzx7u" />

&nbsp;

The longer-term masterplan points to considerably greater density across the site.

Indicative plans show Building E accommodating around 80 dwellings across up to 10 storeys, while Building F is earmarked for around 120 dwellings and also up to 10 storeys. Building G is planned to range between four and 10 storeys, however its apartment yield is yet to be determined. That means the masterplan currently identifies at least 370 dwellings across Buildings A to F before any apartments within Building G are counted.

Across the 1.9-hectare site, that represents an indicative density of at least 194 dwellings per hectare, with the final figure to increase once the yield of Building G is established.

Pace is pursuing the project through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program, with Urbis lodging a combined Section 96A planning scheme amendment and planning application on behalf of the developer, which secured the site earlier this year.

The application seeks detailed approval for Stages One, Two and Three, alongside approval of the broader masterplan framework that will guide the later residential stages. Stage One will see an existing heritage building adaptively reused for a wellness and fitness-related facility, while the broader precinct will retain several significant heritage buildings and established trees as part of the redevelopment.

A minimum 10 per cent affordable housing contribution is proposed across both the initial residential stages and the later masterplan stages, delivered through a discounted rental model.

The project comes immediately after a major change to the site's planning controls.

The site was rezoned to the Housing Choice and Transport Zone through Planning Scheme Amendment GC285, gazetted on July 22, 2026, and now sits within the inner catchment of the Windsor Station precinct under the State Government's Train and Tram Zone Activity Centres Program.

While the new controls identify large sites within the inner catchment for buildings of up to six storeys, Pace's masterplan pushes height to 10 storeys in parts of the site, with the taller buildings concentrated toward the centre and along the Sandringham railway corridor.

Lower-scale built form is proposed toward the site's more sensitive residential and heritage edges, with Buildings A and B generally stepping from three storeys at their interfaces to six storeys at upper levels.

Cera Stribley's masterplan breaks the development into a collection of separate buildings rather than a continuous built form, with landscaped spaces, new pedestrian links and a new publicly accessible road forming part of the precinct.

The planning report says the development will create new pedestrian connections to Elm Place and along the railway corridor, as well as a new publicly accessible road linking Elm Place with Dandenong Road. The proposed buildings will occupy around 54 per cent of the site, leaving a substantial portion available for landscaping, communal areas and permeable surfaces.

Urbis said the scale of the project reflected the site's strategic location close to Windsor Station, tram services and the Chapel Street Activity Centre, with the former school campus identified as a significant opportunity to increase housing supply on an underutilised inner-Melbourne site.

&nbsp;

First look: Pace plans landscaped housing precinct on former Windsor school site

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/jl-place">JL PLACE</a>'s Veil Brighton is approaching its final months of construction, with the nine-townhouse development at 17 Rooding Street expected to complete in December 2026.

The milestone is bringing the boutique project closer to becoming a finished part of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brighton-vic-3186">Brighton</a> streetscape, with much of Brighton's everyday amenity within a short walk.

Palace Cinema, Coles Supermarket and North Brighton Station are all around five minutes on foot from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/veil-brighton-17-rooding-street-brighton-vic-3186">Veil</a>, alongside numerous cafés, restaurants and bars. The station provides a direct rail connection toward Melbourne's CBD, while Bay Street and the wider Brighton retail and dining network add to the range of services accessible without relying on a car for every trip.

"The location was fundamental to the project. Brighton is an established suburb where many buyers already have strong connections to the area and want to remain close to the people, places and amenities that form part of their everyday life," the developer said.

"Veil sits in a highly walkable part of Brighton, with a Walk Score of 90/100."

For buyers looking to right-size within Bayside, that level of walkability adds to the appeal of a more manageable way of living. Everyday shopping, dining, entertainment and public transport can be accessed without relying on the car for every trip, while residents remain connected to the places and routines that make Brighton familiar. It allows buyers to simplify day-to-day life without giving up the convenience, amenity and connections they already value.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7877 project_image_fid=355754]

As completion approaches, the architecture, landscaping and material palette are progressively becoming visible on site, giving prospective purchasers a clearer view of the finished development beyond its plans and renders.

Veil comprises nine townhouses, predominantly three-bedroom homes with between 2.5 and 3.5 bathrooms, two car spaces and, depending on the residence, study areas and private outdoor space. Selected homes include a bedroom on the ground floor.

Veil occupies a middle ground between detached housing and apartment living, retaining private gardens, storage and secure parking within a more manageable residential format.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/schmidt-pang-architects">Schmidt &amp; Pang</a> designed the architecture around natural light, ventilation, privacy and practical use of space. From Rooding Street, the façade has been composed to read as a cohesive residential building rather than nine individual townhouses, with landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick Landscape Architects</a> integrated throughout the site.

Inside, natural stone, oak flooring, integrated joinery and brushed nickel finishes establish a restrained material palette, while kitchens include Miele appliances and substantial storage such as pantries. Walk-in robes and dedicated study spaces have also been incorporated across the collection.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7877 project_image_fid=355852]

The project team said the planning of the homes has been informed by how the spaces function for both daily routines and larger gatherings.

"Our new homes owners at Veil have enjoyed the attention to detail in creating efficient layouts that use every space well. Hosting Christmas lunch and large family gatherings is an ease when care is taken to consider how people really live and entertain."

Private landscaped gardens extend the living spaces outdoors, while secure basement parking and bicycle parking are provided below. The homes have also been designed to achieve a 7-star energy rating, supported by double glazing, high-quality insulation, natural ventilation, LED lighting, water tanks and water-efficient fittings. Each residence is backed by a 10-year building guarantee.

Veil is being built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/jeniton">Jeniton</a>.&nbsp;Limited-time stamp duty savings are also currently available on selected purchases at Veil, adding another consideration as the project moves toward completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7877]

Veil Brighton nears completion in one of the suburb's most walkable pockets

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a> has recorded 134 sales worth just over $400 million in two months of pre-release activity at The Riversdale, as the developer brings its $750 million South Brisbane riverfront project to the broader market.

The sales represent more than 60 per cent of the project's 213 apartments, with Mosaic reporting the majority of purchasers have been local owner-occupiers and downsizers.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale</a> will rise 39 storeys from its north-facing site at 91 Montague Road, delivering a mix of two, three and four-bedroom apartments alongside a collection of Mosaic's premium Masterpiece Series Sky Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=371872]

The early buyer response comes ahead of the wider evolution of the northern end of Montague Road, where The Riversdale will be one of the first major residential projects delivered within an emerging riverfront precinct.

Directly adjoining the development is a planned 7.1-hectare mixed-use precinct, set to introduce new residences, parkland and public realm along the river's edge. The Riversdale's position directly on the Brisbane River gives it a relationship with the waterfront that Mosaic says cannot be replicated by future buildings within the precinct.

The site is also the result of a years-long pursuit by Mosaic. The developer first earmarked the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/south-brisbane-qld-4101">South Brisbane</a> property in 2018, reflecting what Founder and Managing Director Brook Monahan has described as a deliberately patient approach to acquiring development sites.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=372083]

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan previously told Apartments.com.au.

"Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau Proberts</a>, The Riversdale has been shaped around the qualities of the riverfront site, with apartments oriented to capture northern light and uninterrupted Brisbane River views.

Generous floorplans and expansive balconies extend the living spaces towards the river, while natural materials and a restrained interior palette have been selected with longevity in mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=371890]

Residents will have access to a level of amenity more commonly associated with world-class hotels and private members' clubs, with almost 3,000 sqm dedicated to wellness, connection, recreation and everyday convenience.

At ground level is a business lounge, private meeting rooms and dedicated workspaces. Mid-tower is a wellness sanctuary featuring magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, sauna, steam room, infrared therapy facilities, a Pilates and yoga studio, and a commercial-grade gymnasium.

Crowning The Riversdale is a rooftop featuring a 35-metre swimming pool with lap lane and spa, outdoor dining and seating terraces, firepit lounges and views of the city, river and Mount Coot-tha.

A private members' club-inspired retreat offers private dining rooms, a whisky lounge, media rooms and immersive entertainment experiences. Completing the amenity offering are two hotel-style guest suites and a resident-exclusive electric vehicle fleet and car-share program.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=371877]

The Riversdale sits at the northern end of Montague Road between South Bank and West End, around 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, providing access to the city's major cultural, dining and recreation precincts.

It becomes Mosaic's largest Brisbane project to date and adds to a pipeline already under construction across the city.

In Brisbane, the developer is currently delivering The Bedford and The Carter at Kangaroo Point, both of which are approaching sell-out, with a further four projects being delivered on the Gold Coast. Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects since 2012 and has a further development pipeline exceeding $2 billion across South East Queensland.

Early works are underway at The Riversdale, which will be delivered by Mosaic's in-house construction division. Completion is anticipated in late 2029, with remaining apartments priced from $1.98 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151614]

Mosaic records more than $400m in two months at South Brisbane's The Riversdale

Lender, fund manager and apartment developer Princeton has completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale-nsw-2216">Marque Rockdale</a>, the first new apartment development in South Sydney to provide its owners with a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, the most comprehensive insurance available for a new apartment building.

The policy has been a key consideration for prospective purchasers of the 58 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, strategically located between&nbsp;Rockdale Plaza and Rockdale Station.&nbsp;

Buyers have also been drawn to the fact that it is one of few new apartment developments delivered in the suburb in the last 10 years, and the only one located on Princes Highway to be set well back from the street to reduce noise. There's also a communal rooftop, a rarity in the suburb, complete barbecue facilities, landscaped seating areas, a children's play zone and herb gardens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374084]

Ray White Projects’ Matt Otway said buyer enquiry reflected the increasingly diverse and cosmopolitan population that has made Rockdale home.

“We’re seeing strong interest from a broad mix of buyers, including young professionals and people who have rented in Rockdale and the surrounding suburbs and now see Marque as an opportunity to buy a brand-new apartment in an area they already know,” Otway said.

“Proximity to the CBD and Sydney Airport is another key advantage particularly for buyers working in these locations who want the added convenience of living close by.”

Investors have also been attracted to the project, with rental yields of more than five per cent, which is considered a strong result for the Sydney market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374090]

Adding another layer to the buyer proposition is Marque's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy from Resilience Insurance, making it the only new apartment development in Rockdale to offer the cover.

The policy protects apartment owners against major structural and waterproofing defects for 10 years following completion, giving Marque purchasers cover until early 2036 at no additional cost.

The likelihood of defects emerging has also been mitigated through the Technical Inspection Service (TIS), which saw independent experts inspect the building at various stages throughout construction to identify potential issues during the build, rather than after the fact.

SDSS, which provided the TIS, consistently ranked the construction quality at Marque, undertaken by iCIRT-rated builder Coplex, among the best across its extensive portfolio of projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374088]

Otway said the LDI had become a major drawcard for buyers, particularly given Rockdale has seen relatively little new apartment development over the past decade.

"Rockdale hasn't had a lot of new apartment buildings in the last decade, and has never had a project with 10-year defect insurance," Otway said.

"Marque presents a truly rare opportunity at an affordable price point, so well connected to the Sydney CBD."

One-bedroom apartments at Marque start from $735,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136442]

Marque Rockdale completes as South Sydney’s first apartments backed by 10-year defect insurance

Collingwood

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The legendary Collingwood full forward Peter McKenna has his Richmond home listed for May auction.
It is an Edwardian cottage at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/8-malleson-street-richmond-vic-3121-2012744820" target="_blank">8 Malleson Street</a> listed through Jellis Craig agent Luke Schickling, who has $1 million plus hopes for the three-bedroom property.
McKenna, who kicked 874 goals playing 180 games for Collingwood between 1965 and 1975, is considered of the game’s all-time greats.
It was bought at 1998 auction costing $306,750.
It goes to May 14 auction.
Collingwood's median house price is $907,500, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Peter McKenna lists Richmond Edwardian cottage

<html><body><div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
Developer Tim Gurner has acquired his fifth development site in Collingwood.
His plans are for about 170 luxury apartments will be targeted at owner-occupiers.
Mr Gurner acquired 23-33 Johnston Street in a $12 million off-market deal struck with the Martino Family.
Angelo Martino of Martino Properties will stay on as a joint venture partner of the 1800 sqm site.
It is the third Melbourne acquisition for the BRW Young Richlister this year.
He has also acquired sites in Fitzroy North and one in Prahran in partnership with the Smorgon family.
The latest acquisition adds $130 million in end value to Gurner's $2.6 billion development pipeline split between Melbourne and Brisbane.
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Tim Gurner to joint venture in Collingwood residential project

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The rebirth of <a href="/new-apartments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood's</a> Yorkshire Brewery is complete with the local landmark now standing resplendently as a residential apartment complex. Located at 1-21 Robert Street Collingwood, the redevelopment includes townhouses, 338 apartments over multiple new buildings and retail spaces at ground level.

The foundation stone for the retained heritage elements onsite was laid during 1876, with the brick tower the site's most intriguing feature. Over time Yorkshire Brewery has hosted both brewing and cooperage activities, although in recent decades the complex has remained largely abandoned save for the odd squatter.

<a href="/developers/sma-projects">SMA Projects</a>, architect <a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and contractor <a href="/builders/icon">Icon</a> formed the core of the project development team, undertaking the task of bringing the landmark back to life over an 18 month build period and along the way seeking a 5 Green Star energy rating.

Prior to the development parties such as the Collingwood Historical Society were requesting a "Development that will respect and enhance its heritage significance." How the existing fabric of the historic onsite buildings is interwoven with the new builds is a subjective matter, nonetheless the amount of public space available within the development is altogether impressive.

<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/image18_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Inside the newly finished complex"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="440" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_3.jpg?itok=xQm60Evn" title="Inside the newly finished complex" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Inside the newly finished complex</figcaption></figure>Hayball describe the project as follows:

<blockquote>
A contemporary new residential neighbourhood, anchored by the restoration and adaptive re-use of the heritage-listed former Yorkshire Brewery

Located in close proximity to the CBD, parklands and myriad dining and entertainment options, 1-21 Robert Street is a strategic new neighbourhood-oriented development in Collingwood. At the core of the project is the sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of the former Yorkshire Brewery, coupled with exceptional design quality, residential amenity and public open space.

By reducing site coverage and providing higher built form away from the heritage fabric, a vibrant heritage precinct can accommodate ground-level retail, a 480sqm neighbourhood Square at the base of the brew tower and provision for heritage interpretation.

As well as offering environmental sustainability, diversity and affordability, the development will provide greater amenity and access to the site for residents, neighbours and the general public.
<cite><a href="http://www.hayball.com.au/projects/yorkshire-brewery-apartments/">Hayball: Yorkshire Brewery Apartments</a> </cite>
</blockquote>

Most interesting is the placement of multiple visual markers throughout the site which provide a historic snapshot and visual accompaniment to the site's varied past. This is a unique touch among contemporary Melbourne apartment developments and is aimed at visitors moving through the site, as is the Melbourne Bike Share station located within the development.

Much like Brunswick's <a href="/buildings/tip-top-brunswick-170-edward-street-brunswick-east">Tip Top development</a> which was completed during 2014, Yorkshire Brewery doesn't hold absolute frontage to a prime street and consequently won't have waves of pedestrian traffic passing through. Nonetheless a very pleasant outcome has been created with strong ground level permeability throughout the site.

Should the light commercial sites immediately south of Yorkshire Brewery be developed, the potential exists for a network of laneways to be implemented. In many ways the area has the appropriate scale, history and urban character for such a move to succeed if attempted.

<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_8397.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Yorkshire Brewery has a story to tell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_8397.jpg?itok=CKQTYtEl" title="Yorkshire Brewery has a story to tell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Yorkshire Brewery has a story to tell</figcaption></figure>Post Yorkshire Brewery, SMA Projects will now turn its attention to three forthcoming projects. Hayball have been retained as the architect of choice and look to have taken their design queue from Yorkshire Brewery with a similar exterior design theme from across both <a href="/buildings/fitzroy-ltd-250-gore-street-fitzroy">250 Gore Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/the-lyric-338-gore-street-fitzroy">338 Gore Street</a>, both in Fitzroy.

A third as yet unnamed project is also planned by the Southbank developer.

See below a host of images taken of Yorkshire Brewery in recent days.
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silvermb

Yorkshire Brewery open for all to see

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This coming Saturday Inhabit Design's Ariel Lopez, the lead architect on Spec Property's Trilby development in Collingwood is offering the general public the opportunity to 'Ask the Architect', affording prospective purchasers and members of the community alike a platform to interrogate the development's design and apartment living and ask all the pressing and vexing questions about the development.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/shot01-hero_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Trilby hero shot. Image courtesy of Spec Property."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shot01-hero_0.jpg?itok=egGU7n0N" title="Trilby hero shot. Image courtesy of Spec Property." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Trilby hero shot. Image courtesy of Spec Property.</figcaption></figure>Trilby, located at 466-482 Smith Street, is a new apartment offering in Collingwood, which seeks to find the balance between old and new Collingwood, through the retention of its distinctive redbrick façade.

In his approach to the site, Ariel Lopez was very aware of the manufacturing and industrial heritage of Collingwood, which is currently undergoing rapid gentrification.

<blockquote>
The industrial brick façade of the building informed the identity of the development. I’m really interested in creating a visual language respectful to the street and the individual experiences of those living in the building.
<cite>Ariel Lopez, Architect, Inhabit Design</cite>
</blockquote>

Making the most of long summer nights, the experience of living at Trilby will be heightened even further on the rooftop with a veritable playground of amenity which will include an outdoor cinema, fully equipped kitchen, library, bar, table tennis table and Teppanyaki grill providing sweeping views to the city skyline and over Clifton Hill.

<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/shot02-aerial.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial view towards the city. Image courtesy of Spec Property."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="269" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shot02-aerial.jpg?itok=Odc3KBkG" title="Aerial view towards the city. Image courtesy of Spec Property." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial view towards the city. Image courtesy of Spec Property.</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au met with Ariel over coffee to hear about his design philosophy and approach to working on Trilby. Ariel noted that the site came with an existing application which council had concerns about the bulk of the building and how it would present to the street.

Receiving guidance from Rob McGauran who prepared an urban design report, the design team immediately set about trying to address the problem of creating a street wall effect which was achieved via reduction of the mass.

The mass was broken down via a 3 tier solution which also included maintaining the existing red brick facade despite it not being heritage listed. Above this, a 'tower' element setback from the podium presents as a strong vertical expression due to the indentations in the building form, articulated with rusted steel panels and timber soffits which create a perception of warmth from both apartment and street.

The development and design team felt that they had covered all of council's major concerns as the development headed to VCAT for consideration. VCAT supported the height believing that there was no negative impact to the street.

Ariel considers the site a unique and curious one. While it isn't a corner site in the true sense of the word it does provide the perception of a corner site due to the relative scale and nature of the neighbouring corner pub, "The Trilby site is the beginning of the precinct, defining the gateway to the southern portion of Smith Street", says Ariel.

The development seeks to respond to the site's industrial context, with the new facade designed to complement and draw on the qualities of the existing red brick facade. As with other developments in the area the site is covered by an inundation overlay which means the ground floor must be raised 1.5m above street level.

In designing a space for a commercial tenancy for the ground floor, Ariel says they have created a buffer zone within the retail space to allow retailers a street presence while addressing the flood level issue, stressing that the ground floor experience was the main focus for the team.

Trilby has also been designed to respond to two different conditions: Smith Street and the laneway to the rear of the site, with each condition requiring a different approach. To Smith Street the provision of loft apartments within the podium activating the street and providing passive surveillance, while the laneway has apartments above the 1.5m flood level, in addition to the car park entry.

Moving to the building's rooftop, working in conjunction with Tract on the landscape design, the design team were able to create an informal playground which doubles as cinema seating through manipulation of the roof plane. The communal rooftop areas have been designed to engage the building's community and create a neighbourhood within.

<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/shot11-outdoor-cinema.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rooftop cinema. Image courtesy of Spec Property."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shot11-outdoor-cinema.jpg?itok=U9XLUGWz" title="Rooftop cinema. Image courtesy of Spec Property." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rooftop cinema. Image courtesy of Spec Property.</figcaption></figure>Trilby offers a diversity of typologies catering for various segments of the market such as the loft apartments which comprise 1 bed + study and 2 bed + study and as a means of maximising space and offering flexibility island benches have been designed with the capacity to double as dining tables.

While the apartments are generally larger and care has gone into the design of the communal areas, the most engaging moments happen on the street, "the amenity is the street. The public realm is where people engage," says Ariel. "I'm a firm believer in contextualism: responding to context in a contemporary manner and also designing for people."

To take the opportunity to meet Ariel Lopez, listen to his reflections on site and his inspiration for Trilby’s design approach, see the event details below.

<dl>
<dt>When:</dt>
	<dd>Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd November 2015, 2pm – 4pm</dd>
	<dt>What:</dt>
	<dd>Ask the Architect</dd>
	<dt>Where:</dt>
	<dd>Trilby Display Suite 410 Smith Street, Collingwood</dd>
</dl>
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Laurence Dragomir

Ask the Architect: Ariel Lopez talks Trilby

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Synonymous with large-scale commercial developments for much of its history, Cbus Property is increasingly turning its hand to apartment development in Melbourne. The unique property investor and developer - backed by its superannuation parent - has recently lodged plans for a sizeable Collingwood development, its fifth current Melbourne residential apartment pursuit.

With the lodgement of plans for 61-71 Wellington Street Collingwood, Cbus Property now holds hundreds of apartments in its Melbourne development pipeline in addition to the 408 dwellings currently under construction over two Melbourne sites.

<h2>The latest addition</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/image72_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cbus Property's latest pursuit. Images courtesy John Wardle Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="316" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image72_0.jpg?itok=3J_27jWH" title="Cbus Property's latest pursuit. Images courtesy John Wardle Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cbus Property's latest pursuit. Images courtesy John Wardle Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>61-71 Wellington Street and 37-39 Langridge Street, Collingwood</li>
	<li>13 level residential development</li>
	<li>196 dwellings: 98 x 1BR, 82 x 2BR and 16 x 3BR</li>
	<li>163 car parking spaces and 93 bicycle spaces within three basement levels</li>
	<li>117sqm retail space</li>
	<li>Three commercial spaces: 392sqm total</li>
</ul>
Designed by John Wardle Architects, the proposed glazed tower is to sit behind a partially retained and restored brick facade onsite, with new podium brickwork set to match the existing exteriors.

John Wardle Architects provided a design response for the project, which reads as follows:

<blockquote>
The Collingwood silos have been a significant part of Melbourne's skyline since the expansion of industry and the development of production in the mid 20th century. Originally used to house Barley for brewery/malting works, today the remaining silos are either idle or have been converted into apartment buildings.

The apartment building slab edges have been generated using a negative imprint of a cylindrical form that contextually references the historical Collingwood silos. The curved, scalloped slab edges are expressed around the entire perimeter of the building which also form the apartment balconies.
<cite>Design statement, John Wardle Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>The Cbus juggernaut gathers momentum</h2>

Construction progress on <a href="/buildings/35-spring-street-melbourne">35 Spring Street</a> is set to hasten as the premium 43 level residential tower moves beyond its podium structure, while North Melbourne's <a href="/buildings/assembly-181-capel-street-north-melbourne">Assembly</a> sees its concrete structure for the 138 associated apartments nearing the midway point. Assembly was purchased from private developer Equiset just as public sales began for the project.

It remains to be seen what will be achieved with Cbus Property's forthcoming <a href="/news/cbus-enters-west-melbourne-with-9-dryburgh-street">9 Dryburgh Street</a> West Melbourne project which was met with refusal from Melbourne City Council during April 2015, although is now shown as being at referral. In its initial guise 9 Dryburgh Street would have seen 217 apartment over 13 levels, although Cbus now suggests a yield of approximately 160 apartments is likely with construction commencement anticipated during 2016.

<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/image64_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Assembly's progress and a more recent image of 447 Collins Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="676" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image64_3.jpg?itok=kdXxWzC7" title="Assembly's progress and a more recent image of 447 Collins Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assembly's progress and a more recent image of 447 Collins Street</figcaption></figure>Last in line is 447 Collins Street which in previous incarnations has involved residential applications within the mixed-use project. With reports a revised planning application is set to be lodged shortly, it is likely a portion of the project will be set aside for apartments which would command top dollar given the project's premier location and unimpeded southerly views.

Incidentally should the project resemble the above recent render, the upper reaches of 447 Collins Street will bring a new design dynamic to the Melbourne skyline; perhaps a unique selling point for future apartment sales?
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Cbus Property pushes further into the Melbourne residential market

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The past fortnight has brought a number of high profile approvals which have been placed firmly in the public eye, but what of the lesser known planning applications that have been given or are poised to receive the green?

85-93 Lorimer Street, 1 Warde Street and Avant at 54-64 A'Beckett street have all had their time in the sun owing to their sizeable nature, with the three projects combining to add as many as 1,780 apartments to the Melbourne skyline. Avant in particular is set to make a striking addition to the northern end of the CBD due to it's reddish-pink exterior, carrying an expected $500 million development tag along the way.

There has also been a wave of other approvals of late, all of which will add to the city's development pipeline. In a variety of locations, some of the more notable developments to gain approval include:

<h2>3 Shiel Street, North Melbourne</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/1018_3-5_shielst_tp_-_3d_view_-_view_01_-_shiel_st.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="3 Shiel street has been given the green light. Image courtesy SPEC Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="321" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1018_3-5_shielst_tp_-_3d_view_-_view_01_-_shiel_st.jpg?itok=YJ6c1Xfe" title="3 Shiel street has been given the green light. Image courtesy SPEC Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>3 Shiel street has been given the green light. Image courtesy SPEC Property</figcaption></figure>SPEC Property have secured a permit for a project dubbed The Shiel Apartments at 3 Shiel Street, North Melbourne. Melbourne City Council saw fit to provide a permit for the 65-apartment project earlier this month.

The Shiel Street development is notable in that it along with a handful of other projects sited on Shiel Street and the adjoining Haines Street represent the vanguard push of residential developers into the Arden-Macaulay Precinct; a large tract of North Melbourne and Kensington slated to become a high density residential zone.

<h2>20-22 Queens Road and 74 Eastern Road</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/image34_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queens Road and Eastern Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="295" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_3.jpg?itok=19_PZJCm" title="Queens Road and Eastern Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queens Road and Eastern Road</figcaption></figure>VCAT have ruled on both these projects which fell under the jurisdiction of Port Phillip City Council. Respective developers JD Group and GURNER are now free to pursue their approved schemes as they see fit.

20-22 Queens Road is the larger of the two developments at 17 levels, consuming a 4,598 sqm site and holding 269 dwellings. Both projects are at the foot of Albert Park, with 20-22 Queens Road set to enjoy unencumbered views.

<h2>6-10 Keele Street, Collingwood</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/image296.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="SJB's Keele Street design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image296.jpg?itok=eHEkmgkP" title="SJB's Keele Street design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>SJB's Keele Street design</figcaption></figure>Keele Street comes into focus as the latest project for local developer Pirovich. Submitted during late 2014, the SJB-designed project has gained approval according to Yarra City Council. With a determination dated June 25th, the 55-apartment project over a 930sqm block has a nominal value of $12 million and looks set to join the multitude of apartments projects within postcode 3066.

<h2>Incoming</h2>

Two high-profile projects are also set to gain approval in the not-too-distant future. A planning officer's report set to be tabled before Monash City Council on July 28th recommends the approval of The Glen redevelopment at 227 Springvale Road. Initially submitted with 515 apartments over three buildings, a variety of conditions have been suggested, chief of which is the reduction of the 'Signature Tower' from 86 metres to 63.7 metres in height.

<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/about-header-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the revamped Royal Womens Hospital"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="329" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/about-header-2.jpg?itok=bJA6Ih-7" title="Artist's impression of the revamped Royal Womens Hospital" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the Royal Women's Hospital first stage</figcaption></figure>July 28th also looms as the date where <a href="http://www.carltonconnect.com.au/">Carlton Connect</a> will formally be adopted by Melbourne City Council. The project involves rezoning the former Royal Women’s Hospital to allow for a comprehensive redevelopment yielding three buildings which are expected to accommodate Australia’s premier innovation precinct.

Melbourne University will anchor the redevelopment which will seek to deepen the application of knowledge throughout the Australian economy according to the project's website.
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Poised and primed: key developments gain approval

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Not another apartment development on <a href="/buildings/e-s-smith-368-374-smith-street-collingwood">Smith Street</a>? Well, no, Trilby is not like any other in certain regards with the team at SPEC Property going to great lengths in order to tailor the development toward the owner-occupier market.

Apartments.com.au visited the display at 410 Smith Street Collingwood in recent days following SPEC Property's latest residential release. The broad-ranging discussion encompassed topics such as the shifting dynamics of the residential sector, successfully designing a project relative to its surrounds and harnessing the target buyer for a development aiming to achieve an 80% owner-occupier buyer rate.

<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/shot01-hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Trilby as envisaged from smith Street. Image courtesy SPEC Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shot01-hero.jpg?itok=XUrZsymn" title="Trilby as envisaged from smith Street. Image courtesy SPEC Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Trilby as envisaged from smith Street. Image courtesy SPEC Property</figcaption></figure>SPEC Property like many local developers has recognised a shift toward smaller scale, non-CBD developments which are more intimate in nature than the sizeable towers within Melbourne's CBD. Shying away from large, investor-grade apartment stock is nothing new to SPEC Property, with a sweep through the Apartments.com.au Project Database showing <a href="/developers/samma-property-group">eight small and medium-scale residential developments</a> currently under the guidance of the Cremorne-based property outfit.

<a href="/buildings/trilby-466-smith-street-collingwood">Trilby Apartments</a> is the latest to join this stable of projects. Upon purchasing the site the developer immediately went about redesigning the initial scheme which was still with Yarra City Council. Chief architect Ariel Lopez of Inhabit Design explained that the previous scheme was not in line with the developers expectations and ethos, thus the decision was made to rework every aspect of the project to better suit its setting.

Consequently Trilby apartments now presents as being more open to Smith Street, and with a softer exterior relative to the previous proposed design. Timber and greenery have been introduced, as has been a revised podium that better integrates with the retained facade.

<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/shot06-loft-apartment.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a loft within Trilby. Image courtesy SPEC Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="313" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shot06-loft-apartment.jpg?itok=f0qzsgkM" title="Artist's impression of a loft within Trilby. Image courtesy SPEC Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a loft within Trilby. Image courtesy SPEC Property</figcaption></figure>Maintaining every aspect of development from design to delivery in-house, SPEC Property have gone with a revamped interior layout in order to create living options that will best suit the target market. The in-house nature of the business allows for, and almost demands that the developer taps into their customer database in order to gain critical feedback on issues of design, livability and the like.

Consequently loft apartments have been introduced throughout the Trilby podium; a direct result of the success of their experience of placing lofts within <a href="/buildings/helio-91-flemington-road-north-melbourne">Helio</a> on Flemington Road.

The sales team have been delighted to date with the volume of foot traffic through the display suite. Quizzed on the catchment area of both prospective and actual purchasers, it's explained that the bulk of traffic to date is from Collingwood and surrounding suburbs, with a skew to areas such as Kew and Hawthorn. Tram 86 which stretches to Bundoora also accounts for a notable amount of display traffic, with a tram stop in close vicinity to the display front door.

Downsizers have also been prevalent in the buyer profile, with the most notable being a couple who have chosen to leave Shepparton behind in favour of a podium loft-style apartment.

In addition to the lofts, terrace apartments are located over level three with the balance of the building's 106 dwellings dedicated toward one and two bedroom apartments; all of which have been given the touch befitting of an apartment set to be owner-occupied. As Ariel Lopez explained, it serves no purpose going to such great design lengths to simply churn out further investor-driven apartment stock.

<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_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A two bedroom interior. Image courtesy SPEC Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="367" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image55_2.jpg?itok=DmBd6IZ1" title="A two bedroom interior. Image courtesy SPEC Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A two bedroom interior. Image courtesy SPEC Property</figcaption></figure>As such the apartments are finished to an exceedingly high level and carry a number of features previously unseen by Apartments.com.au. The surprise within the display are the kitchen kickboards which are actually draws, providing additional storage space.

All apartment finishes carry an industrial edge in their design. Aged bronzed tapware, Smeg appliances and powder-coated steel island benches define the kitchen spaces, with a similar motif throughout the bathrooms. Resembling plywood in appearance, the novel finish to the joinery continues the industrial theme, but with an underlying quality.

Crowning Trilby will be an external rooftop deck incorporating a lounge and kitchen, library, bar, ping pong facilities, playground, outdoor cinema and Teppanyaki grill. Bricks salvaged from the site demolition will be reused throughout the rooftop deck, bringing a lived-in quality to the communal area while avoiding the perception of sterility which tends to define many communal areas of recent residential projects through Melbourne.

In-house builder TriUrban Construction is set to commence construction works on Trilby 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/image56_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Recycled bricks frame the rooftop area. Image courtesy SPEC Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image56_1.jpg?itok=NF_Ey5xE" title="Recycled bricks frame the rooftop area. Image courtesy SPEC Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Recycled bricks frame the rooftop area. Image courtesy SPEC Property</figcaption></figure>
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Trilby Apartments a reflection of its target market

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Having <a href="/news/you-i-enters-construction-phase">commenced construction during July 2013</a> with Apartments.com.au present at the <a href="/news/you-is-ground-breaking-ceremony">ground breaking ceremony</a>, this month saw the first residents of ICD Property's YOU &amp; I development begin moving in which also marks the developer's first completed apartment development in Melbourne.

Located along one of Melbourne’s most iconic streetscapes, YOU &amp; I at 450 Smith Street Collingwood consists of 63 apartments designed by Orbit Solutions. Apartments.com.au toured the recently completed building with ICD Property Director of Operations and Development Manager, Sal Quah, who said the team was thrilled to deliver its first project in its expanding development portfolio.

<blockquote>
We’ve had a busy few years and are pleased to see all of our efforts come to life through the completion of YOU &amp; I where buyers have been quick to recognize our vision in creating developments that contribute to Australia’s urban fabric.

YOU &amp; I is just one chapter completed of the ICD Property story with a series of developments underway including Eq. Tower and our latest collaborative project, Maple in Hawthorn, with Melbourne developer, ANGLE also completely sold out.
<cite>Sal Quah</cite>
</blockquote>

ICD recognised the potential of Collingwood as an emerging and desirable suburb due to the popularity of Smith Street and its restaurants, cafes, boutique shops and retail outlets which are considered some of the best in Melbourne. As a result YOU &amp; I is one of the first larger scale residential developments to be built on Smith Street, acting as a visual landmark, particularly when approaching from the north.

<blockquote>
The building represents one of the suburb’s largest residential gentrification projects along the famed Smith Street shopping strip, and we are pleased to breathe new life into this emerging Melbourne suburb.

Considered as one of Melbourne’s most exciting and highly coveted new lifestyle precincts, its little surprise the response we have received in the project from buyers and the local Collingwood community alike.
<cite>Sal Quah</cite>
</blockquote>

With Collingwood once famed for its local artisan residents during the 60s, 70s and 80s, the project team strived to assemble the best collaborators in order to design a development that would contribute to Collingwood’s unique character.

YOU &amp; I has integrated a selection of artworks from local Melbourne artist, Steve Rosendale, turning what would be an otherwise static and blank façade into a visually interesting storyboard which alludes to and draws upon Collingwood's eclectic and artistic history.

Rosendale has created five custom, larger-than-life stencil-style artworks which adorn the façades, referencing the retro and underground cinematic culture that was once synonymous with the area.

At 7-storeys tall and with significant upper level setbacks, the building features a robust base with timber highlights to soffits with a vertically expressed veil that acts to create "visual ambiguity" for the pedestrian. Residents will have access to the communal terrace located on level three of the development which opens out and holds views over Smith Street and back towards the Melbourne CBD skyline.

The setback was employed to alleviate planning concerns about the height and bulk of the building to the 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/you_i_023.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The upper veiled volume setback from Smith Street. Image courtesy ICD Property."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/you_i_023.jpg?itok=qLhxWnIw" title="The upper veiled volume setback from Smith Street. Image courtesy ICD Property." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The upper veiled volume setback from Smith Street. Image courtesy ICD Property.</figcaption></figure>The now fully sold apartments feature soft, neutral interiors with quality fittings and finishes used throughout, with buyers offered a selection of either a light or dark colour palette. Kitchens feature stone benchtops and Miele appliances with apartment afforded ample daylight coupled with generous ceiling heights, giving even the smaller apartments a spacious feel.

Bathrooms feature concealed in-wall cistern and chevron-patterned tiling that tie in with the contemporary look and feel of the 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/you_i_002.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A typical one bedroom apartment. Image courtesy ICD Property,"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/you_i_002.jpg?itok=j-r6znfT" title="A typical one bedroom apartment. Image courtesy ICD Property," width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A typical one bedroom apartment. Image courtesy ICD Property,</figcaption></figure>Sustainability has been considered and included within the building's design via a grey water harvesting system and solar panels that contribute to the building’s energy needs whilst reduce hot water bills.

A ground floor retail tenancy fronting Smith Street has been reserved for a potential café or restaurant space to be occupied with the option to also accommodate multiple smaller tenancies. The tenancy appears to float above the street with planting beds sitting below the projecting plates. Operable windows allow the space to open up to the street and allow for passive surveillance and visual interaction with the action along Smith Street.

Residents access the building via an entry lobby off Mater Street that also accommodates the mailboxes and can also be accessed from the basement car parking level which features triple height car stackers per parking bay and a bicycle storage area. Storage cages are located within a mezzanine level that has been created as a result of the basement's double height space.

<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/you_i_024.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="YOU &amp; I Entry lobby. Image courtesy ICD Property."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/you_i_024.jpg?itok=GCwBxXOl" title="YOU &amp; I Entry lobby. Image courtesy ICD Property." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>YOU &amp; I Entry lobby. Image courtesy ICD Property.</figcaption></figure><h2>Key facts</h2>

<ul>
<li>Address: 450 Smith Street, Collingwood</li>
	<li>Developer: ICD Property</li>
	<li>Architect: Orbit Architecture</li>
	<li>Builder: Harris HMC</li>
	<li>Number of apartments: 63 (28 x 1 bedroom apartments and 35 x 2 bedroom apartments)</li>
	<li>Sizes of apartments in square metres internally:
	<ul>
<li>1 bed 1 bath apartment size 40.3-62.6 m2 (Internal)</li>
		<li>2 bed 1 bath apartment size 61.3 m2 (Internal)</li>
		<li>2 bed 2 bath apartment size 63.8-86.9 m2(Internal)</li>
	</ul>
</li>
	<li>Who is buying: 50% owner occupier, 50% investor</li>
	<li>Prices:
	<ul>
<li>1 bedroom apartments from $385,000-418,000</li>
		<li>2 bedroom / 1 bathroom apartments from $519,000-580,000</li>
		<li>2 bedroom / 2 bathroom apartments from $530,000-680,000</li>
	</ul>
</li>
</ul>
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ICD Property delivers its first project: YOU & I

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Tim Gurner may well need to be referred to as the man with the golden touch soon enough as another of his development firm's projects has sold out almost immediately. GURNER had little trouble in finding buyers for all apartments within <a href="/buildings/28-stanley-street-collingwood">28 Stanley Street</a>, reaching 100 percent sales within 48 hours.

Registrations of interest were taken prior to the project's launch, resulting in a bias toward owner occupier purchasers intent on securing an apartment within Collingwood's Foy and Gibson precinct. 28 Stanley Street joins a fellow GURNER endeavour nearby at 107 Cambridge Street which has progressed quickly to construction after a brisk sales campaign.

Overall 28 Stanley Street is Tim Gurner’s 14th project within a two kilometre radius of the Collingwood site, taking into account projects from fellow developer Urban Inc. in which Tim Gurner has an interest.

<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/gurn87921.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 28 Stanley Street. Image courtesy GURNER"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="709" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gurn87921.jpg?itok=5jGREBAU" title="Artist's impression of 28 Stanley Street. Image courtesy GURNER" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 28 Stanley Street. Image courtesy GURNER</figcaption></figure>With a project value of $30 million, 28 Stanley Street is a design of New Zealand architecture practice Warren and Mahoney, who have recently opened a Melbourne office. 40 large loft style apartments are included within the development, with retail and entertainment spaces at ground level.

Single bedroom apartments account for near on 20% of dwellings, with the project being reconfigured prior to launch in order to accommodate increased apartment sizes pitched toward owner occupiers. Apartment sizes range between 55sqm for single bedroom dwellings to up to 150sqm for three bedroom penthouses, all of which fetched prices in excess of $1.5 million.

<blockquote>
The interest from owner occupiers has been absolutely astounding. Our large apartment offerings have been the first to sell, with many purchasers buying two apartments and customising them to suit their lifestyle – a new trend in Collingwood that only two years ago would have been unheard of.

Based on the sales of our previous sell out Collingwood project, 107 Cambridge Street, we knew the owner occupiers demanded larger apartments, so we completely redesigned this project to offer larger-than-average, luxury apartments.
<cite>Tim Gurner</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Tim Gurner on the folly of minimum apartment guidelines</h2>

Citing the success of 28 Stanley Street as a project that has directly responded to the wants and desires of potential customers, Tim Gurner believes 28 Stanley Street also reveals flaws in the proposed minimum design standards for apartments in Victoria.

<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/gurn87922.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A market-driven product. Image courtesy GURNER"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="349" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gurn87922.jpg?itok=NVRmsYkZ" title="A market-driven product. Image courtesy GURNER" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A market-driven product. Image courtesy GURNER</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Had we offered these large apartments in the CBD or West Melbourne, it would have been a totally different story as the market in these locations has very different demands and desires. That’s why it is so important to assess each and every project on its own merits using its extremely local buyer profile as a guide, rather than using a blanket formula across the board.

What works for one location is absolutely not going to be the right mix for another location, which is why I strongly believe that applying apartment standards across Victoria is a flawed premise that simply won’t be able to keep up with our rapidly moving market trends.

This is evident of the market dictating appropriate product and we as developers must be flexible in order to adapt and deliver what the market wants.
<cite>Tim Gurner</cite>
</blockquote>

If implemented, the binding guidelines would effectively hamstring architects and developers from adapting to future fluctuating market trends according to Tim Gurner. Expecting the guidelines to quickly become outdated in the event they are implemented, he also expects they would severely limit supply and increase costs across the board.

<blockquote>
The proposed apartment standards guidelines could have a devastating effect on Victoria’s affordability and supply, just as it did in Sydney when New South Wales introduced the SEPP 65 over a decade ago. The implications of those policy changes caused 10 years of under supply which pushed up prices to unsustainable levels, which has now resulted in a property market which is simply unaffordable for anyone trying to enter the market for the first time.

Under the proposed changes, a development site which would currently house 100 apartments, may in the future be limited to just 60 or 70 under the new laws. This means less apartments are delivered but at a greater cost to the end user as developers will still need to recoup development costs.

This is coupled with Melbourne’s restrictive new neighbourhood planning laws which have placed severe restrictions on development in many of Melbourne’s desirable inner suburbs, which is already having a marked effect on supply in our most in-demand locations. The combination of these two policy changes together would absolutely have a lasting negative effect on supply which would ultimately push up prices to unsustainable levels.
<cite>Tim Gurner</cite>
</blockquote>
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Going Going Gurner! 28 Stanley Street and minimum apartment guidelines

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Earlier during 2014 Apartments.com.au highlighted the strengthening momentum <a href="/news/hot-or-what-the-collingwood-apartment-juggernaut-rolls-on">Smith Street</a> Collingwood was gathering as one of Melbourne's must-live destinations. With the apartment development landscape in the area changing rapidly, it pays to once more visit the current state of play in terms of Smith Street and Collingwood as a whole.

While many have now progressed to construction, a second wave of apartment projects are emerging as a multitude of developers look take advantage of continuing buyer interest in the suburb.

<h2>At construction</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/image22.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="All Collingwood projects currently under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="763" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22.jpg?itok=Kno1Nc95" title="All Collingwood projects currently under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>All <a href="/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood projects</a> currently under construction</figcaption></figure>Eight major apartment projects are currently at various stages of construction, yielding in the vicinity of 980 apartments. With completion for the majority expected mid to late 2015, Collingwood will see an appreciable swell in residents at these projects progressively achieve completion.

Seen above in clockwise fashion are <a href="/buildings/you-and-i-450-smith-street-collingwood">You and I</a>, Oxley Apartments, <a href="/buildings/41-peel-street-collingwood">41 Peel Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/yorkshire-1-robert-st-collingwood">Yorkshire Brewery</a>, <a href="/buildings/little-ox-2-johnston-street-collingwood">Little Ox</a>, <a href="/buildings/tapestry-apartments-80-stanley-street-collingwood">Tapestry Apartments</a> and <a href="/buildings/oxford-peel-22-peel-street-collingwood">Oxford &amp; Peel</a>. Last but not least is <a href="/buildings/smith-co-132-172-smith-street-collingwood">Smith&amp;Co.</a> which under developer Banco Group announced on Apartments.com.au yesterday the final release of extra spacious apartments over the top levels of the development.

<h2>Registration and sales</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/image27.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ever closer to construction; projects at registration and sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image27.jpg?itok=gGOtAWce" title="Ever closer to construction; projects at registration and sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ever closer to construction; projects at registration and sales</figcaption></figure>In between the construction boom and surge of new projects in their infancy a handful of developments are seeking to make the transition from sales to reality. Shown as accepting registrations of interest on developer Preview Property's website, <a href="/buildings/this-is-collingwood-60-66-islington-street-collingwood">Islington Apartments</a> joins Angelo Property Group's <a href="/buildings/haus-apartments-416-smith-street-collingwood">Haus Apartments</a> as the two projects most likely to progress to construction next, with the latter having already completed site demolition.

Factoring in <a href="/buildings/this-is-collingwood-60-66-islington-street-collingwood">9 Smith Street</a> and The Patersons which also at sales and front Smith Street yet are considered to be in Fitzroy, the four projects may well add in excess of 250 apartments to the area.

<h2>The new wave</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/image35.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The next wave lining up Collingwood"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="889" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image35.jpg?itok=cUp3S1lG" title="The next wave lining up Collingwood" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The next wave lining up Collingwood</figcaption></figure>Here are the seven latest Collingwood projects in waiting, with only <a href="/buildings/the-lantern-195-wellington-street-collingwood">195 Wellington Street</a> holding approval. Clockwise once more <a href="/new-apartments/386-smith-street-collingwood">386 Smith Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/peel-by-milieu-47-peel-street-collingwood">109 Wellington Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/little-oxford-7-little-oxford-street-collingwood">7 and 9-15 Little Oxford Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/trilby-466-smith-street-collingwood">466-482 Smith Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/28-stanley-street-collingwood">24-28 Stanley Street</a> find themselves at planning while Koúl Property enters the suburb with their proposed predominantly brick building at 203-205 Johnston Street which has yet to hit the official planning channels.

These projects combined are slated to hold in excess of 250 apartments; while the number of apartment developments continues to flow, the smaller site size dictates that fewer apartments will be contained within each development on average.

Not yet submitted for approval are two additional projects which will add approximately 200 additional apartments. Angelo Property Group is set to go again with 365 Smith Street which in time will host in excess of 100 one and two bedroom apartments and retail tenancies fronting Smith Street. Gurner also plans a return with 107 Cambridge Street (following 24-28 Stanley Street) which is expected to carry 92 apartments in an Elenberg Fraser-designed complex highlighted by an almost lace-like facade.

All in all the mass of residential developments within Collingwood ensures Apartments.com.au will be writing about the area for some time to come.
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