One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

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fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

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FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

Joel Robinson

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<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/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Collins Street

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So it has come to be that a slab of marble facade dislodging itself during 2012 has led to one of Melbourne's more audacious and sought after planning amendments. From that initial 'loss of face,' a chain of events has since seen 447 Collins Street vacated, approved for demolition and subject to an international design competition at the behest of current owner, <a href="http://www.cbusproperty.com.au/news/latest/cbus-snares-collins-street-gem/" target="_blank">Cbus Property</a>.

<a href="http://www.woodsbagot.com/" target="_blank">Woods Bagot</a> in conjunction with New York-based <a href="http://www.shoparc.com/" target="_blank">SHoP Architects</a> have created dual concept designs that would contravene one of Melbourne's enduring planning covenants, thus potentially setting a new benchmark for others to emulate. The Yarra River and Southbank have long been considered off limits in terms of overshadowing as explained below.

<h2>A river runs through it</h2>

<blockquote>
The importance of the Yarra River as a key natural feature of Melbourne is acknowledged in State planning policy, the Melbourne Planning Scheme and the Planning Schemes of other relevant municipalities. The only basis upon which an exemption to the prohibition could possibly be contemplated is if there was a demonstrated public benefit which would outweigh such an impact on a natural asset of state significance.

However, it is considered that it is premature to consider an exemption from the mandatory shadow prohibition requirement without further resolution of a detailed design for future development of the site.
<cite>Report to the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Bridge and Spire concepts under consideration</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/image18447.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alternative Spire (left) and Bridge concept designs. Image courtesy SHoP / Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="269" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18447.jpg?itok=9-Vzd6w0" title="Alternative Spire (left) and Bridge concept designs. Image courtesy SHoP / Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alternative Spire (left) and Bridge concept designs (right). Image courtesy SHoP / Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Seen above are the two concepts put forward for consideration and comment. Spire refers to the single slender tower in the vicinity of 300 metres in height while Bridge consists of two interconnected towers at 190 metres and 160 metres respectively.

The Spire proposal incorporates a tower to the western portion of the 5,900sqm site. Its massing and three separate elements sees Spire hold a remarkably similar form to another Melbourne proposal, <a href="/news/a-point-of-difference-97-franklin-street-melbourne" target="_blank">97 Franklin Street.</a>

While both schemes are mixed-use (commercial, residential and hotel and retail) only Spire proposes a large public space to three street frontages. This provision of a new public space by way of a city park is the 'carrot' for anointing Spire as the preferred outcome and would see a new public space of 2,000sqm established, equivalent in size to City Square or the State Library forecourt. Interestingly the Spire design seeks to subsume part of Market Street thus increasing dedicated public space 2,739sqm.

A height versus public benefit relationship is at play with the two designs. While Bridge would lessen Yarra River and Southbank overshadowing concerns, it also drastically reducing the amount of square metres dedicated to public space whereas Spire aims to deliver the opposite outcome. Therein lies the crux of the matter.

<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/image15447.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One outcome includes implementing a large public space. Image courtesy SHoP / Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="243" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15447.jpg?itok=XA4Vj_Ya" title="One outcome includes implementing a large public space. Image courtesy SHoP / Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A large open space is the defining difference. Image courtesy SHoP / Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Despite discussions between City of Melbourne's Urban Design Branch and the proponent, City of Melbourne's Future Melbourne Committee report recommends the opposition of the proposed Planning Scheme amendment.

<blockquote>
Overall it is considered that the proposal is not supportable due to the potential to further erode a long-held policy and due to the loss of amenity to Queensbridge Square and the Yarra River corridor. The numerous policies which seek to protect the Yarra River and which highlight Queensbridge Square as an important open space are not given enough weight in the applicant’s submission. Although it is acknowledged that the proposal presents potential gain to an area of open space this should not be at the expense of existing amenity and character to one of our most important assets.
<cite>Report to the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

In effect this places the final decision squarely in the hands of State Planning Minister Matthew Guy.

<h2>447 Collins and 555 Collins to overshadow?</h2>

Further west along Melbourne's premier thoroughfare, 555 Collins Street has garnered media attention in recent times. Touted as the future home of a 404-metre skyscraper, the initial proposal was promptly <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/property/skyscraper-plans-cut-down-to-size-20130710-2pqfv" target="_blank">consigned to history</a> owing to Essendon Airport's flight path restrictions.

Consequently controlling interests sold the site to Singaporean developer Fragrance Group and Apartments.com.au understands that preliminary talks have taken place regarding an optimal design envelope for the site. While a nominal height for 555 Collins Street has been put forward we're unable to divulge further information, suffice it to say that both 555 Collins Street and 447 Collins Street would comfortably overshadow the Yarra at certain times of the year based on initial concepts.
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silvermb

Cbus Property seeks a sky-high planning scheme amendment for 447 Collins

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Last week <a href="/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a> submitted plans for its flagship Melbourne office development at <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">477 Collins Street</a> designed by <a href="/architects/grimshaw-architects">Grimshaw Architects</a>. It will be only the second Premium Grade commercial development built in Melbourne in the last 20 years and Mirvac's largest commercial undertaking in Australia.

The building as a whole has been designed to be multi-tenanted, with floor plates ranging between 1500 sqm (NLA) to 1900 sqm (NLA). Among the design features will be five client floors located every 8 levels, featuring expansive lounges alongside outdoor spaces, with open façade systems incorporating doors that open on to spacious terraces and gardens.

The 38-storey development lies within a pocket of the CBD that is in the midst of rapid transformation. Replacing the current office accommodation to the rear, designed by DCM and PVH in the 80's, 477 Collins Street joins a swathe of eight other large scale developments at the west end of the CBD boasting Collins Street addresses.

The projects in question are: <a href="/developers/cbus-property">CBUS's</a> mixed-use development at 447 Collins, Fragrance Group's <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">555 Collins</a>, the for sale <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">464 Collins</a> residential tower, Equiset's major Rialto revamp, the proposed 710 Collins office tower and <a href="/developers/lendlease-development">Lend Lease's</a> Batmans Hill. These join the already under construction 567 Collins and <a href="/buildings/568-collins-street-melbourne" target="_blank">568 Collins</a> projects.

<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/collins_conga_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The cast of Collins Street, playing soon at the West End. © Urban.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="324" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/collins_conga_0.jpg?itok=6nJZVrX1" title="The cast of Collins Street, playing soon at the West End. © Urban.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The cast of Collins Street, playing soon at the West End. © Apartments.com.au</figcaption></figure><h2>The proposal</h2>

The 3,899sqm site as it exists today comprises of three parts:

<ol>
<li>Three heritage listed buildings along the northern Collins Street frontage, built during various periods of the 19th Century; Olderfleet House, Record Chambers, and SA Insurance Building. These are historically and culturally significant examples of Romanesque and Gothic Victorian architecture they are protected via a Heritage Overlay which extends 12m deep into the site covers which have been adhered by the development team.</li>
	<li>An intervention to the centre of the site by way of a 9-storey, office building of a 40x40m footprint designed by Denton Corker Marshall and Peck von Hartel in the 1980's. This is largely characterised by its tapestry-like facade, consisting up of a number of tinted-mirror glazed panels laid out in various sequences and patterns and its lack of setbacks to the eastern and western boundaries.</li>
	<li>A five-storey carpark with access from Flinders Lane accommodating 598 parking spaces, above which exists a tennis court and garden area. The presence of the car parking structure and associated access requirements has resulted in a largely unactivated frontage along Flinders Lane.</li>
</ol>
Employing a side core configuration for maximum floor plate efficiency, the proposal is in keeping with the campus-style typology that is prevalent amongst commercial buildings of the 21st Century. The tower is expressed as a series of stacked volumes which visually and physically break up the overall massing and responds to the desire for a multi-tenanted building.

The design allows for the potential of further reduction in scale via the provision of tenant driven atria which puncture the floor plate but sit within the glazed envelope. The architects have coined the term Vertical Neighbourhoods to describe the arrangement of commercial programme and tenant driven adaptability and flexibility.

<blockquote>
It is an idea that seeks to address the emerging trends in workplace buildings to connect floors vertically, enabling smaller floor-plate buildings to behave with the efficiencies of larger campus style office buildings.
<cite>Grimshaw Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

The introduction and articulation of a shadow line running vertically over the full height of the tower responds to the common wall of the heritage buildings. This allows for a different visual language to the eastern core - very rigid and ordered. In addition to services and plant infrastructure the core has provision for 'client spaces' to Collins Street. The evolution of the building's form is best illustrated in the series of diagrams below.

<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/form_evolution.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Form Evolution diagrams. © Grimshaw"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/form_evolution.jpg?itok=WiOX-Qas" title="Form Evolution diagrams. © Grimshaw" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Form Evolution diagrams. © Grimshaw</figcaption></figure>The 158m tower is setback 3.8m from the rear of the heritage buildings for a total setback of 16.8m from Collins Street. The remaining east, west and south setbacks measure 4.5m from the site boundary.

In addition to heritage and setback considerations the proposal has been designed to comply with the planning scheme's requirement for preventing overshadowing of the south bank of the Yarra during the winter solstice between 11am &amp; 2pm.

<h2>Ground plane and public realm</h2>

Another key consideration of the 477 Collins proposal is the sensitive interface between the new and the existing heritage buildings, and how this might inform the public spaces within and around the site. Retail spaces are located to Collins Street with a business lounge and end-of-trip facilities located within the basement levels.

The commercial foyer allows for the physical structural separation of existing from new while visually tying the components together through a single common point.

<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/foyer_view.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Commercial foyer. © Grimshaw"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/foyer_view.jpg?itok=NnHCiT8R" title="Commercial foyer. © Grimshaw" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Commercial foyer. © Grimshaw</figcaption></figure>It is intended that the heritage buildings be occupied by a single retail tenant specialising in the high end food industry that can connect the heritage buildings together at upper levels, whilst still observing and respecting their varying character, boundary walls and social qualities. This proposed strategy is illustrated in the indicative section below.

<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/heritage_section.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Indicative Heritage tenancy strategy. © Grimshaw"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="434" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/heritage_section.jpg?itok=wd3xhYaf" title="Indicative Heritage tenancy strategy. © Grimshaw" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Indicative Heritage tenancy strategy. © Grimshaw</figcaption></figure>In a concerted effort to improve the pedestrian experience along the site's Flinders Lane frontage the existing car parking structure is intended to be visually concealed via a screen. This will be achieved via the use of vertical perforated metal blades which also allow for an animation of an otherwise static facade.

At ground level glazed shop front-type facades have been introduced to provide improved permeability and rise to a two storey datum. These are bookended by two glazed staircases which are intended to frame the elevation and provide glimpses of visual activity through the internal vertical circulation of people.

<h2>International design charette</h2>

One of the most interesting aspects of this particular design is its inception. The proposal was fostered via global design collaboration - the outcome of a design charette undertaken amongst four international Grimshaw offices where various ideas were submitted and fused together. This process is described further in the passage below, extracted from Grimshaw's planning application document:

<blockquote>
As part of the appointment for 477 Collins Street, Grimshaw, as an internationally acclaimed architectural practice with a wider global network, offered to undertake for our client an international design charette at the beginning of the design process in January 2014. The intention of this charette utilised teams in New York, London, Melbourne and Sydney offices of Grimshaw and provided a broad based approach to design which gave diversity and multiplicity to the initial design explorations and ideas.

It was not run as a typical design competition between several architects, nor was it intended to choose an outright winner, however the process bought to the surface many excellent ideas for the development of the site that could be harnessed into a singular dynamic vision.
<cite>Grimshaw Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/international_design_charette.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The various 3d massings devised by each office. © Grimshaw"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="309" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/international_design_charette.jpg?itok=WfCVBteV" title="The various 3d massings devised by each office. © Grimshaw" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The various 3d massings devised by each office. © Grimshaw</figcaption></figure>Factoring in all the initiatives, considerations and design rigour undertaken by Grimshaw and its team to develop the proposal it could be argued that 477 Collins Street presents the first real next-gen commercial tower to be undertaken in Melbourne. If the high-rise residential towers popping up all over town can be loosely termed as "vertical villages" then 477 Collins and future commercial towers could possibly be best described as "vertical campuses".

Pending pre-commitments, construction is anticipated for 2016 with completion expected in 2019.

<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/477_collins_street.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="477 Collins Street hero shot. © Scharp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/477_collins_street.jpg?itok=ZaVVWUIC" title="477 Collins Street hero shot. © Grimshaw" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>477 Collins Street hero shot. © Scharp</figcaption></figure><h2>Quick facts</h2>

<ul>
<li>Height: 158.56m (measured from Flinders Lane)</li>
	<li>Floors: 38-storeys</li>
	<li>NLA: 55,000sqm in the commercial tower + heritage office accommodation</li>
	<li>Parking: Reduction from 598 down to 405</li>
	<li>Bicycle Spaces: 541 + end-of-trip facilities</li>
	<li>Retail: 2,461sqm</li>
</ul>
<h2>Development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Mirvac</li>
	<li>Architect: Grimshaw</li>
	<li>Planning Consultant: Urbis</li>
	<li>Heritage Consultant: Lovell Chen</li>
	<li>Structural Consultant: Robert Bird Group</li>
	<li>Services, Traffic &amp; ESD Consultant: ARUP</li>
</ul>
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Laurence Dragomir

Planning Application > 477 Collins Street, Melbourne

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Australia on Collins has taken on a different complexion of late as tenants continue to move out in preparation for the centre's <a href="/news/st-collins-lane-vies-for-a-piece-of-the-luxury-market" target="_blank">considerable redevelopment</a> and ultimate rebirth as St. Collins Lane.

Capitalising on a gaggle of lease expiries while negotiating early lease terminations with others, centre operator LaSalle Investment Management finds itself with a unique asset that now resembles more of a ghost town than retail hub.

<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_6201_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Australia on Collins in its final days"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_6201_0.jpg?itok=uKhoWDwp" style="height:387px; width:580px" title="Australia on Collins in its final days"></a>

The centre's hiatus is temporary however, as leading national contractor <a href="http://www.built.com.au/" target="_blank">Built</a> are due to take site control soon enough, enabling the demolition of existing interiors to begin. With the majority of construction staged from Little Collins Street, the complex will be significantly and structurally refurbished according to management.

<blockquote>
St. Collins Lane will be transformed into a 9000 SQM home to highly desirable, international and local designer brands, offering 60 exclusive tenancies in a light-drenched, sophisticated and urbane shopping environment. Rising from the lower ground, with two levels atop, St. Collins Lane aims to become Melbourneʼs new retail ʻpasseggiataʼ in the tradition of Melbourneʼs historic shopping thoroughfares such as The Royal Arcade.

Located at 260 Collins Street, St. Collins Lane is Melbourneʼs new $200M luxury shopping destination, which is expected to bring the European sophistication of the ʻParis end of Collins Streetʼ down the hill, directly into the city centre.
</blockquote>

Triumphing over fellow architecture firms Buchan and NH Architecture, project lead ARM Architecture has conceived a design that draws upon the success of their previous retail experience. While a laneway strategy has been implemented once more akin to nearby ARM project Melbourne Central, the architect has incorporated a high degree of sophistication into St. Collins Lane with the intent of setting it apart from all-comers.

Chosen to convey an understated quality, 'champagne' is considered the dominant colour both internally and externally as the Collins Street frontage will be remodelled extensively to deliver a grand and glamorous yet practical entrance. The generous foyer coupled with terrace/dining options above constitutes a welcoming exterior, far from what is currently presented to street level.

<blockquote>
St. Collins Lane will now provide a direct linkage and clear sightlines from Collins Street to Little Collins Street. Gone are the days when customers were ʻtrappedʼ in shopping malls. St. Collins Lane has been conceived as a series of boutiques for the 21st century. It is not a traditional shopping centre. It is part arcade and part lane. An intimate experience at the centre of St. Collins Lane, integrated with the urban fabric of the city.
</blockquote>

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image268.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The stylings of ARM are evident. Image courtesy ARM Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image268.jpg?itok=a_KiJuQP" style="height:372px; width:580px" title="The stylings of ARM are evident. Image courtesy ARM Architecture"></a>

In discussing the project with LaSalle Investment Management's National Director of Development, Matthew Bailey, he conveyed LaSalle's desire to create a showpiece for St. Collins Lane. This will be by way of the 'lighscape' seen above which will not only act as a focal point but also cast a dynamic shadow pattern through the complex as natural light permeates through the transparent ceiling above.

<blockquote>
An enormous vaulted roof provides natural light throughout. The crowing glory is an undulating and sculptural ʻlightscapeʼ comprised of neon pendants that will cascade down. A dining terrace on level two will be defined by this lightscape, which is reminiscent of an illuminated canopy of leaves, a reflective place to sit and enjoy a meal.
</blockquote>

While Apartments.com.au will tour St. Collins Lane both during and post construction, tomorrow Laurence will highlight a recent <a href="/news/neil-masterton-talks-st-collins-lane" target="_blank">interview with ARM Architecture design director Neil Masterton</a>. Neil will offer first hand knowledge on the design ethos and guiding principles behind St. Collins Lane.
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St. Collins Lane nears construction

<html><body>
Lend Lease have circulated an April newsletter for their forthcoming <a href="http://www.batmanshillcollinsstreet.com.au/">Batman's Hill</a> development which outlines plans for the two commercial buildings that will front Melbourne's premier locale: Collins Street. Included within the newsletter are images of the dual commercial buildings that as of last week were submitted to State planning body DTPLI for assessment.

Upon first glance last week - and up to this point - little has changed in my opinion of these two proposed buildings.

<h2>Why 695 Collins Street disappoints</h2>

<ul>
<li>In isolation the design has little architectural flair, befitting of a suburban office park rather than a Collins Street address. The duplicated design offers a sheer wall effect with little visual permeability to what lies behind.</li>
	<li>700 Collins Street directly opposite and AXA at 750 Collins Street nearby are prime examples of simplistic, uninviting early Docklands designs which have been roundly criticised. A decade later and 695 Collins displays little design progression.</li>
	<li>Lend Lease trumpet Sydney's Barangaroo as a "Once in a 200 year opportunity to create a bold new place to live, work and visit." If 695 Collins Street is a precursor to a 'bold' Batman's Hill precinct, we have a problem.</li>
	<li>Street level finishes at this point are lacking style and substance. What seem to be odd-sized, composite panel-clad boxes lining Collins Street; they look cheap although in fairness are infinitely more active than the monstrosity that is <a href="http://www.750collinsstreet.com.au/sites/750collins/files/1332_35.jpg">750 Collins Street</a>.</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/llbh4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Indicative Collins Street perspective. Image © Lend Lease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="720" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/llbh4.jpg?itok=HuHyg4qa" title="Indicative Collins Street perspective. Image © Lend Lease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Indicative Collins Street perspective. Image © Lend Lease</figcaption></figure>With a half deck covering Wurundjeri Way as envisaged below, poor old Bunjil, the 25 metre eaglehawk and Docklands sentinel will be relocated. Relocated between Towers C3 and C4 and for the most, lost out of view. I can't help but think the abbreviated deck over Wurundjeri Way has compressed the layout of the commercial buildings leading to maximising the available development envelope - in other words boxy designs fronting Collins Street with little if any setbacks.

The other aspect to note is that the C4 office tower that was expected to reach as high as 160 metres and now looks to be no more than 12 levels in height according to the above image. This pocket of Docklands is littered with boxy 10-15 level commercial buildings - one more to join the party!

<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/llbh5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Batman's Hill site overview. Image © Lend Lease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="693" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/llbh5.jpg?itok=7Rp6_CJ4" title="Batman's Hill site overview. Image © Lend Lease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Batman's Hill site overview. Image © Lend Lease</figcaption></figure>Not impressed with my assertion that 695 Collins Street as seen above is a hapless, ill conceived design? Ponder the following two designs.

Below left sees the Grocon/Mirvac/Hassell Studio concept for Batman's Hill. Aside from a signature high-rise that would define the precinct within Melbourne's skyline, Hassell's scheme carries far more open space by way of a larger deck over Wurundjeri Way and built form which is articulate yet uncluttered.

The other image below highlights ARM's ostentatious Collins Street frontage as part of their precinct design; unique, eye-catching and worthy of the address!

<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/bhprop6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © Hassell Studio and ARM Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="271" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bhprop6.jpg?itok=UQb7zrHG" title="Images © Hassell Studio and ARM Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images © Hassell Studio and ARM Architecture</figcaption></figure>In other words, both examples and their Collins Street frontage are precisely what Docklands requires and a polar opposite to what has been proposed.

By some miracle should the Lend Lease scheme shown above not be the intended design for 695 Collins Street, I'll be the first one to say the joke's on me. Otherwise the joke's on anyone expecting a quality outcome for an area that truly needs it!
</body></html>

Batman's Hill leaves much to be desired

<html><body>
In a retail 'arms race' of sorts to be left behind is to be vulnerable at present, so with that in mind interests controlling Australia on Collins announced last week that the venerable Melbourne address will be vacated next month in preparation for a new retail experience.

Whilst fellow CBD retail venues such as GPO, Emporium and The Strand have progressively unveiled new redevelopments of late, Australia on Collins will rebirth as <a href="http://www.stcollinslane.com/" target="_blank">St. Collins Lane</a> following a transformation valued at $200 million.

Seeking to usurp all-comers as Collins Street's premier retail destination, the redevelopment will be defined by a new internal laneway running between Collins Street and Little Collins Street. When complete St. Collins Lane will be topped by a large vaulted roof allowing natural light to penetrate throughout while the projects showpiece is "An undulating and sculptural lightscape comprised of neon pendants that will cascade down. A dining terrace on level two will be defined by this lightscape, which is reminiscent of an illuminated canopy of leaves."

<h2>Project Summary</h2>

<h3>260 Collins Street - St. Collins Lane</h3>

<ul>
<li>Architect: ARM Architecture</li>
	<li>Client: <a href="http://www.lasalle.com/AU/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">LaSalle Investment Management</a>
</li>
	<li>Cost: $200 million</li>
	<li>60 tenancies over three levels and 9,000 square metres</li>
</ul>
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image1_53.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artists impression of the Collins Street frontage. Image © Cornwell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_53.jpg?itok=TekWSjGf" style="height:310px; width:580px" title="Artists impression of the Collins Street frontage. Image © Cornwell"></a>

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Geographically, St. Collins Lane will complete the north-to-south pedestrian path through the city with both entrances attracting a dramatically increased footfall as commuters flood into the city centre.
<cite>Matthew Bailey, National Director of Development LaSalle Investment Management</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
St. Collins Lane will now provide a direct linkage and clear sightlines from Collins Street to Little Collins Street. Gone are the days when customers were ʻtrappedʼ in shopping malls. St. Collins Lane has been conceived as a series of boutiques for the 21st century. It is not a traditional shopping centre. It is part arcade and part lane. An intimate experience at the centre of St. Collins Lane, integrated with the urban fabric of the city.
<cite>Neil Masterton, Design Director of ARM Architecture</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We commenced our selective and targeted leasing campaign early 2014, with a strong focus on luxury and international retailers. With Melbourne being one of the hottest markets across the globe for these luxury and international brands the interest has been extremely strong. These brands have confirmed a strong desire for a Collins St address and with limited availability in only 60 retail shops. We are confident of securing a globally recognized tenancy mix.
<cite>Alistair Palmer, National Director - CBRE Retail Services Group Australia</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>ARM Draws on Experience</h2>

ARM are no novices when remodeling existing large-scale retail structures, with Melbourne Central the prime example. A light drenched north-south internal laneway, retail spaces over multiple levels and the introduction of glass ceilings are all elements that both retail centres will hold in common, although St. Collins Square fit-outs are expected to be far more decadent given the target tenant profile.

<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/Image5arm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A template of sorts for St. Collins Lane? Image © ARM Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5arm.jpg?itok=A-konLXs" style="height:497px; width:580px" title="A template of sorts for St. Collins Lane? Image © ARM Architects"></a>

With works due to commence during 2014, St. Collins Lane is expected to open after an 18 month construction period.
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St. Collins Lane vies for a piece of the luxury market

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Market Square is the first in a series of articles I will be writing for Apartments.com.au that will be looking at the adaptation, regeneration and development of buildings, structures and sites through conceptual interventions in the form of pretty pictures.

The concept for Market Square, located at 447 Collins Street investigates the possibility of redeveloping the former National Mutual Plaza into a bustling urban oasis in the middle of the Melbourne CBD, that in part pays homage to the site's previous life as the Western Market.

The idea came about after a panel on the Godfrey and Spowers designed building came <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/concrete-slab-falls-10-storeys-20120130-1qp08" target="_blank">crashing down</a> in January 2012. Following which, owner's ISPT engaged consultants Aurecon to complete an assessment of the structural integrity of the tower and its 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/03_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A bustling urban oasis in the middle of the Melbourne CBD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/03_2.jpg?itok=-MVxD5Pt" title="A bustling urban oasis in the middle of the Melbourne CBD" typeof="Image"></a>

<figcaption>A bustling urban oasis in the middle of the Melbourne CBD</figcaption></figure><h2>The Site</h2>

Before I go any further, here is a brief rundown of the site:

<ul>
<li>The current 1960's international style marble facade building replaced the former Western Market following its demolition in 1961.</li>
	<li>The Western Market, established in 1841 and operating for 90 years before its closure, was Melbourne's first official fresh fruit and vegetable market. Market Street is named after it.</li>
	<li>The site is zoned as CCZ1 (Capital City Zone 1) meaning a permit is required to:</li>
</ul>
<ol style="font-style: italic;">
<li>To construct a building or construct or carry out works which will cast a shadow across the north bank of the Yarra River between 11.00 am and 2.00 pm on 22 June. A permit may only be granted if the responsible authority considers the overshadowing will not prejudice the amenity of the Yarra River corridor.</li>
	<li>To construct a building or construct or carry out works which would cast a shadow between 11.00 am and 2.00 pm on 22 March and 22 September over public space, public parks and gardens, public squares, major pedestrian routes including streets and lanes, and privately owned plazas open to the public. A permit may only be granted if the responsible authority considers the overshadowing will not prejudice the amenity of those areas.</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>See <a href="http://planningschemes.dpcd.vic.gov.au/melbourne/ordinance/37_04s01_melb.pdf">Schedule 1 to the Capital City Zone</a> for more info.</li>
	<li>Additonally the usual <a href="http://planningschemes.dpcd.vic.gov.au/melbourne/ordinance/43_02s01_melb.pdf">Design Development Overlay</a> applies to the site.</li>
	<li>Basic Planning Property report for the site can be found <a href="http://services.land.vic.gov.au/landchannel/content/propertyReport?reportNo=3">here</a>
</li>
	<li>Currently no Heritage Overlays apply to the site</li>
</ul>
While ISPT consider the current building's future following the exit of the final tenants mid-year (there has been talk of retaining it and carrying out remedial works to the facade) I have decided in this instance to knock it down and go tabula rasa on its derriere.

You're probably asking "but why Laurence? what's wrong with the current building?" "have you no architectural conscience?" "Tabula, Rasa? Derriere? Good god man what are you on about?"

All very good questions. Here I see an opportunity to inject some much needed sheltered, green space into the heart of the CBD.

<h2>Project Summary</h2>

The key elements of the scheme are as follows:

<ul>
<li>A 4,000sqm, sunken (relative to Collins Street), north facing public park, accessed via stairs and bleachers along Collins and featuring a community garden</li>
	<li>A large timber 'Urbarn' Market (Urban + Barn, gee aren't I clever) paying homage to the site's former life as the Western Market</li>
	<li>A 45-storey office tower raised above a 12-storey public 'podium' housing your stock standard bars, cafe, restaurants etc. plus a publically accesible, tiered, urban farm stepping up from Collins Street. The tower is topped off with a roof top garden and 80m light shard.</li>
	<li>A 12-storey high, concrete verandah over the park on a monumental scale akin to the Grande Arche in Paris providing shelter from the weather and framing the view of the significant beaux-arts former Port Authority Building to the south.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Method behind the madness?</h2>

I tried to be strategic in orienting the tower to run north-south versus the current building which is sited to run east-west. This was done as a means of reducing the visual bulk from the river and the amount of overshadowing for a tower of its height even is it's not ideal from an ESD point of view.

I have attempted to control the amount solar gain through the faceted triple skinned glazed facade which is also intended to act as a wind mitigator, by reducing the amount of 'flat' surface area.

The provision of an urban park was partly done to offset any loss of amenity to the Northbank as a result of the tower's height, which is taller than the current building due to the amount of site area given over to public programme.

I also liked the idea of inserting a park into Melbourne's main street amongst the corporate towers.

I think I've rambled on enough for now, so until next time when I will be tackling Station Pier in Port Melbourne. Please enjoy the site chronology and images below - let me know what you think. Peace out.
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