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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

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

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

Cox Architecture

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Another of Melbourne's batch of sizeable apartment projects is closer to reality, with a construction tender now open for <a href="/buildings/queens-place-157-a-beckett-street-and-370-queen-street-melbourne">Queens Place</a> Tower 1. The tender process was initiated mid July with developer 3L Alliance expecting construction to begin toward the end of the year or early next year.

Queens Place is currently 81% sold. Consisting of dual residential towers spanning 246 metres in height, Queens Place is a joint design between firms Cox Architecture and Fender Katsalidis Architects, with Hecker Guthrie handling the interiors.

Fronting La Trobe Street and Queen Street, the $1 billion dollar project covers a 7,295sqm site and will include the retention of KTS House at 350 Queen Street, in addition to roughly 1,700 apartments spread over two towers.

<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/qppodium.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An elevated perspective of the podium. Image: 3L Alliance"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/qppodium.jpg?itok=B0UpdEyG" title="An elevated perspective of the podium. Image: 3L Alliance" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An elevated perspective of the podium. Image: 3L Alliance</figcaption></figure>The sheer size of both site and project has facilitated a design that includes a mass of services at ground level.

Shaping as a prime example of a vertical master-planned community, Queens Place joins the likes of West Side Place and Southbank's approved 93-119 Kavanagh Street in bringing a gamut of uses throughout its lower levels.

Queens Place will include a criss-cross network at ground level of public spaces, including a laneway running from La Trobe Street to A'Beckett Street.·A central public plaza will be surrounded by a supermarket, medical clinic, crèche, professional office space and shared facilities for a farmers market, outdoor cinema and/or art exhibitions.

Across its lower levels, Queens Place has been designed by the development team to enhance the way in which pedestrians interact with their surroundings. Currently the site is dominated by a single level car park that was built as an infill development a little over a decade ago.

<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/qplobby.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queens Place's lobby. Image: 3L Alliance"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/qplobby.jpg?itok=21PI8o6C" title="Queens Place's lobby. Image: 3L Alliance" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queens Place's lobby. Image: 3L Alliance</figcaption></figure>The twin-tower project is arguably a genuine master-planned community, albeit a vertical one.

Queens Place will sit in stark contrast to many of the contemporary apartment projects appearing through the northern reaches of Melbourne's CBD, which are located on smaller single tower sites, lacking the size capacity to incorporate extensive public features. City of Melbourne's Munro site shapes as the next project that will have a highly interactive and permeable public podium interface, with a 200 plus metre residential tower tipped to sit above.

On a wider note, Queens Place's construction start will likely coincide with those of <a href="/new-apartments/union-tower-296-300-little-lonsdale-street-melbourne">Union Tower</a>, <a href="/buildings/399-little-lonsdale-street-melbourne">399 Little Lonsdale Street</a> and Iglu's student accommodation project at <a href="/new-apartments/iglu-229-franklin-street-melbourne">229 Franklin Street</a>, providing the northern CBD with its next wave of construction activity.
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silvermb

Construction beckons for Queens Place

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At a point where City of Melbourne are grappling with <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/shapesouthbank">multiple projects</a> aimed toward beautifying Southbank, a current planning application at the behest of private Malaysian developer PJD Property intends to create a new park and surrounding open spaces far superior to anything currently found within postcode 3006.

Plans have been touched upon in recent months for 93-119 Kavanagh Street which many readers would currently identify as a sprawling open air car park adjoining CityLink that covers the best part of a city block or approximately 21,000sqm.

In addition to six intended high-rise towers for the site, project lead Cox Architecture and design partner Rush Wright Landscape Architects have added considerable green spaces into the project master plan. These spaces are expected to not only service the project which has been dubbed Kavanagh Park but also create a green space network throughout Southbank by linking with adjoining sites.

To the north of Kavanagh Park lies the Boyd Community Hub site which is due for a new high-rise residential tower and new public park while to the south lies ancillary green CityLink land.

<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/image84_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The urban park as envisaged from Kavanagh Street. Image courtesy Cox Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="321" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image84_2.jpg?itok=dEEgBtie" title="The urban park as envisaged from Kavanagh Street. Image courtesy Cox Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The urban park as envisaged from Kavanagh Street. Image courtesy Cox Architecture</figcaption></figure>The Kavanagh Park master plan identifies the need to "plug widely observed gaps in the more localised existing provisions of open space, local services and amenities in Southbank." As a guide the development team have referenced the design brief for the adjoining Boyd site in order to gauge the size and functionality of open spaces included within the Kavanagh Park site.

In addition to the new park and greatly enhanced public realm network Cox Architecture have identified active podiums, laneways and liveable streets as key CBD attributes which they have incorporated into Kavanagh Park.

<h2>Kavanagh Park key landscape design principles</h2>

A landscape master plan has been devised as part of the proposed development, with key design approaches identified. They include:

<ul>
<li>Creation of a public landscape network - with generous pedestrian spaces - which keys into Kavanagh Street as a wide, green east west corridor within Southbank, linking local community infrastructure.</li>
	<li>Landscape character - a blend of “civic with some neighbourhood eccentricity (not corporate)" to make permanent public amenity at ground level and landscape levels over structure.</li>
	<li>Use of natural durable materials, detailing, lighting and inbuilt furniture which ages gracefully.</li>
	<li>Installation of large canopy trees and water - signature elements for intimate scale pocket parks and a new city park space.</li>
	<li>Landscape design for flexibility of use and diversity of residents - families, community events, BBQs.</li>
	<li>Establishment of urban forest canopy - equivalence between podium and tree scale - and botanic diversity supporting different ecological values.</li>
	<li>Public spaces which are safe, well lit, activated with a diversity of building programme with passive surveillance 24/7.</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/image58_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An overview of the precinct. Image courtesy Cox Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image58_1.jpg?itok=fWVQM-s5" title="An overview of the precinct. Image courtesy Cox Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An overview of the precinct. Image courtesy Cox Architecture</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The most recent demographic data on Southbank’s population, received from City of Melbourne provides a picture of the makeup of households in the Southbank area. This research has informed our approach to an open space brief for the site, the potential residential and employment makeup and the different groups who may use the public spaces.

This data shows there is a need to balance the mix of open space offered within the Southbank precinct and across neighbouring park developments. The landscape design should focus on the role of open space for “backyard” functions in an area with 94% of dwellings being apartments.
<cite>Kavanagh Park master plan</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Parkland first to arrive</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/image64_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The main park will be delivered immediately. Image courtesy Cox Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="347" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image64_4.jpg?itok=PK_7d6d9" title="The main park will be delivered immediately. Image courtesy Cox Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The main park will be delivered immediately. Image courtesy Cox Architecture</figcaption></figure>While the overall project is expected to be rolled out over six stages and possibly see additional parties join PJD Property in developing the substantial towers, the public park will be delivered immediately upon the master plan receiving approval according to planning documents.

Stage One will see the main park fronting Kavanagh Street, a supermarket, food hall, further retail, child care centre and gym delivered. According to the master plan creating the park and associated community facilities "upfront is a rare and positive outcome for the Southbank community as it fills the currently recognised gaps in services and activity for current residents."
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Southbank set to gain a new park

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It's not just apartment developments which are presently enjoying heightened levels of construction. A large number of education-driven projects are also under construction throughout Melbourne, with Apartments.com.au nominating five of the more significant builds below.

Impressively one builder has collected four of the highlighted five, with Kane Constructions currently enjoying a rich vein of projects in the sector; the combined value of Kane Construction's four projects on the go is in excess of $100 million.

In terms of location the five nominated projects are skewed toward Melbourne's inner suburbs and follow on from two recently completed projects of a similar nature, namely <a href="http://www.architectus.com.au/en/projects/mandeville-centre-loreto-mandeville-hall">The Mandeville Centre</a> and the architecturally intriguing McBride Charles Ryan-designed <a href="http://www.mcbridecharlesryan.com.au/#/projects/pegs-middle-girls-school/">PEGS Middle Girls School</a>.

Here are five education-based projects currently under construction.

<h2>Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science</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/morrison_street1_view_low_resolution.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science's Morrison Street aspect. Image courtesy Scotch College"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/morrison_street1_view_low_resolution.jpeg?itok=DESPVgFp" title="The Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science's Morrison Street aspect. Image courtesy Scotch College" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science's Morrison Street aspect. Image courtesy Scotch College</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Location: Hawthorn</li>
	<li>Builder: Kane Constructions</li>
	<li>Value: $30 million</li>
	<li>Client: Scotch College</li>
	<li>Architects: Cox Architecture</li>
	<li>Development team members: Taylor Thomson Whitting &amp; Norman Disney Young</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Our conversational teaching approach is most powerful and effective in facilities designed to encourage student and teacher interactions. Each level of the new centre will be a unique learning landscape bringing together formal teaching labs, staff offices and facilities and a central learning hub.

The new Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science will be the showcase of environmental sustainability on the campus. We will be targeting a Green Star rating to validate the environmental credentials of the building, placing Scotch College at the leading edge of sustainable teaching environments.
<cite>engagingcuriousminds.net.au</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>The Artemis Project</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/pph_ko.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Artemis Project. Image courtesy MGG"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/pph_ko.jpg?itok=eUZZTYxd" title="The Artemis Project. Image courtesy MGG" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Artemis Project. Image courtesy MGG</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Location: South Yarra</li>
	<li>Builder: Kane Constructions</li>
	<li>Value: $23 million</li>
	<li>Client: Melbourne Girls Grammar</li>
	<li>Architects: BVN</li>
	<li>Development team members: Taylor Thomson Whitting, Umow Lai, WT Partnership &amp; Case Meallin &amp; Associates</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Kane Constructions has been appointed preferred contractor for the Artemis project at Melbourne Girls Grammar. The Artemis Project comprises the construction of a health and wellbeing centre located on the Senior School campus at Anderson Street South Yarra.

The new facility includes an indoor pool, indoor multipurpose courts, gymnasium, break out spaces and extensive landscaping. Works will be completed ahead of the 2017 school year.
<cite>Kane Constructions</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Southern Gateway Building</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/trinity_college_web_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Gateway Building. Image courtesy Kane Constructions"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="334" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/trinity_college_web_1.jpg?itok=tRaNXt3F" title="The Gateway Building. Image courtesy Kane Constructions" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Gateway Building. Image courtesy Kane Constructions</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Location: Parkville</li>
	<li>Builder: Cane Constructions</li>
	<li>Value: $24 million</li>
	<li>Client: Trinity College University of Melbourne</li>
	<li>Architects: McIldowie Partners</li>
	<li>Development team members: Trevor Main &amp; Associates, VanDeMeer and Waterman AHW</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
This landmark building will exemplify the commitment that the University of Melbourne and Trinity College share in furthering the education of all our students.

Construction of the building represents the long-term realisation of this important academic centre that all of our students deserve. The College anticipates that this academic centre will be ready for use in the 2016 academic year.
<cite>Trinity College</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>PLC Performing Arts Centre</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/767-plc-perf-arts-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="PLC Performing Arts Centre. Image courtesy Root Projects Australia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/767-plc-perf-arts-2.jpg?itok=zEU0WXac" title="PLC Performing Arts Centre. Image courtesy Root Projects Australia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>PLC Performing Arts Centre. Image courtesy Root Projects Australia</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Location: Burwood</li>
	<li>Builder: Kane Constructions</li>
	<li>Client: Presbyterian Ladies College</li>
	<li>Architects: Cox Architecture</li>
	<li>Development team members: Wood &amp; Grieve, Wilde &amp; Woolard and Root Projects Australia</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
The project brings together the key education functions at PLC in a performance environment. Within a gross floor area of 6,500 square metres it includes: a 550 seat auditorium tailored to the specific needs of the school’s noted music program; the music school including two major performance studios and 12 rehearsal studios; a ‘black box’ studio for both drama classes and performances.
<cite>Root Projects Australia</cite>
</blockquote>

PLC's Performing Arts Centre is expected to be completed during mid 2017.

<h2>The Commons</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/ma-edu-st_michaels_the_commons_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Commons is well into construction. Image courtesy Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="309" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ma-edu-st_michaels_the_commons_01.jpg?itok=dCl7XhQP" title="The Commons is well into construction. Image courtesy Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Commons is well into construction. Image courtesy Architectus</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Location: St Kilda</li>
	<li>Builder: Contract Control</li>
	<li>Value: $15.4 million</li>
	<li>Client: St Michael’s Grammar School</li>
	<li>Architects: Architectus</li>
	<li>Development team members: Gallagher Jeffs</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Rising over three levels the Commons includes spaces for Knowledge, Science, Food Technology and School Café within an urban context of adjacent apartments, townhouses and individual residences amid a busy road. The street facade is composed as a working green wall that enables a new type of interaction with landscape for students in a site that yearns for green space as well as promoting a ‘learn from life’ approach to Science.
<cite>Architectus</cite>
</blockquote>

Contract Control are well advanced in delivering The Commons which is scheduled to be completed at the turn of 2016. This follows on from Contract Control's recently completed project <a href="http://www.architectus.com.au/en/projects/mandeville-centre-loreto-mandeville-hall">The Mandeville Centre</a> which also featured Architectus as project design lead. Completed on behalf of Loreto Mandeville Hall, the education facility carried a development value of $12 million.
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Five noteworthy education projects flying under the radar

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Further light can now be shed on the proposed 'Queens Place' development which is expected to eventually consume a sizeable and underutilised CBD corner site. Developer 3L Alliance has found a new home within the existing 350 Queen Street office complex onsite, that will eventually be flanked by dual high-rise residential towers.

With a nominal value of $750 million, the project will see an expansive five level podium topped with two towers terminating at 246 metres in height. Having only purchased the site during late 2014, 3L Alliance instated Cox Architecture and Fender Katsalidis as joint project architects following a limited design competition.

The sheer size of the development will likely see the residential towers delivered over two stages, with the current planning application seeking approval for Towers 1 and 2, with Tower 2's building envelope subject to further detailed development plans which will be provided by the development team for assessment at a future point.

Aviation exclusion zones has seen a separate Stage 1 plan for a 206 metre tower included, although for all intents and purposes the planning application focuses almost exclusively upon the dual 246 metre design.

<h2>350 Queen Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image60a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="350 Queen Street aspects. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="398" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image60a.jpg?itok=YdSZwfYA" title="350 Queen Street aspects. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>350 Queen Street aspects. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Planning application lodged April 2015</li>
	<li>Site area: 7,295sqm with existing 20L office complex retained, other structures to be demolished</li>
	<li>Application seeks full approval for Stage 1 and envelope approval for Stage 2</li>
	<li>Dual 79 level residential towers at 246.23 metres envisaged, with secondary Stage1 design of 206 metres included (non-OLS incursion)</li>
	<li>Total GFA sought: 176,217sqm</li>
	<li>554 car parking &amp; 603 bicycle spaces (154 bay commercial car park included within basement)</li>
	<li>1,925sqm of retail space and 120-space child care facility</li>
	<li>Strata offices suites between 174sqm and 647sqm</li>
	<li>Stage 1 apartment total: 864</li>
	<li>Amenities: Pools/spas, gym, saunas, home theatre, kitchen/lounge, yoga studio, karaoke area</li>
</ul>
<h2>COX and FK on 350 Queen Street</h2>

<blockquote>
‘Queens Place’ is a compelling opportunity to re-engage the site at 350 Queen St into the precinct. Using a finer grain of public connections and amenity paired with taller elements of urbane city proportions; the site is redefined to offer Melbourne’s CBD an activated, connected and enlivened precinct.

The design process has given rise to a concept that enriches the ground plane with new connections and an enhanced public realm within the Queen Victoria Market Precinct. In the podium, a variety of uses such as retail, childcare and commercial suites provide activation to the critical ‘first 25m’.

Atop the podium are positioned two towers, shaped and sculpted by design drivers from within and around the site. They step as they ascend, forming a dynamic pairing on Melbourne’s continuously evolving skyline. At both the ground plane and in the sky, this development has real potential to enliven and enrich the liveability and character of Melbourne’s CBD.
<cite>Cox Architecture and Fender Katsalidis, architectural report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Overs and unders: OLS / PANS-OPS a 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/image57_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="OLS Diagram. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="303" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image57_2.jpg?itok=f5I03ufG" title="OLS Diagram. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>OLS Diagram. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA</figcaption></figure><a href="/news/aviation-impact-on-building-development-in-the-melbourne-cbd">Obstacle Limitation Surface</a> (OLS) exclusion zones have been taken into account within the 350 Queen Street planning documents. OLS is essentially a series of height limits for objects surrounding a particular aerodrome, with Essendon Airport the major consideration.

As the preferred 246 metre outcome would breach the OLS ceiling of 228.5 metres, an alternative scheme of 206 metres has been included within the planning documents for comparisons sake (and for approval should the 246 metre version fail). While various CBD towers already penetrate the OLS ceiling, including the nearby Aurora Melbourne Central, they do not penetrate the more rigid PAN-OPS ceiling.

350 Queen Street is no exception in this regard with the development team citing constructability and PAN-OPS limitations as halting their advance skyward.

<h2>The first 25</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/image59_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression from Queen and A'Beckett. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image59_0.jpg?itok=1hA3XQuO" title="Artist's impression from Queen and A'Beckett. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression from Queen and A'Beckett. Image courtesy COX &amp; FKA</figcaption></figure>Numerous references have been made to 'The first 25 metres' within the planning documents, alluding to the weight placed upon creating a dynamic podium structure.

<blockquote>
The importance of the first 25m to the human experience at ground level and contribution to the City’s fabric is crucial. Queens Place makes a clear separation between tower and podium, providing a highly detailed vibrant base and a calm simple tower above.

Rather than treat the public space as the space left over from the development, the design team approached the task from the opposite direction, designing the public realm first responding to existing conditions, through site connections and solar access and then placed the buildings around this space.
<cite>Cox Architecture and Fender Katsalidis, architectural report</cite>
</blockquote>

The result is a highly articulated podium both externally and internally, with a large covered central plaza included at the heart of the project. Transparent glazing wraps ground level frontages while site entry points are discerned with distinctive bamboo plantings which supplements hanging greenery over the podium structure.

The curved podium is veiled with operable, contoured timber louvres which respond to prevailing weather conditions.

<h2>Two towers</h2>

Both Melbourne City Council and the The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning have been consulted with regard to the size and nature of the proposed development. Based upon the joint discussions a twin tower outcome was considered most appropriate for 350 Queen Street.

Setbacks and tower separation has been considered, with a distance of between 15 and 33 metres representing the void between both buildings while a boundary setback of at least 4.5 metres are present above the podium.

The towers present in a clean and simple form, and this has been continued over the plant levels atop each structure. Described as a 'visual flourish' within the architecture report, the crown of each tower has been integrated into the tower form and will be glazed in bronze finishes thus providing a focal point from many surrounding angles.

<h2>350 Queen Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: 3L Alliance Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architecture, Urban Context Report: Cox Architects and Fender Katsalidis Architects</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Project Manager: Gallagher Jeffs</li>
	<li>Aviation Report: Airport Consultancy Group Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Landscaping: Rush\Wright Associates</li>
	<li>Wind Assessment: Mel Consultants</li>
	<li>Heritage Assessment: prepared by Lovell Chen</li>
	<li>Sustainability, Lifts and Services: Aurecon</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Geotechnical Report: Golder Associates</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: McKenzie Group</li>
	<li>Structural Report: WSP Group</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Bosco Johnson</li>
</ul>
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3L Alliance pushes for twin 246 metre towers at 350 Queen Street

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Purchased in late 2013 by Malaysian developer <a href="http://www.uemsunrise.com/UEMSunrise/Home">UEM Sunrise</a> in conjunction with <a href="/news/the-answer-224-252-la-trobe-street-melbourne">224-252 LaTrobe Street</a>, the site at 9-23 Mackenzie Street was part of an invited design competition that encompassed two sites and three teams of architects. A rare opportunity to compete for the rights to design two signature towers at the top end of the CBD, <a href="http://www.coxarchitecture.com.au/">Cox Architecture</a> were successful in securing design services following a process, which according to UEM Sunrise was "indicative of a desire from both the developer and the Architect to ensure that design excellence is integral to this development."

Occupying the site of an at-grade parking lot, the project would complete the block that also includes the Elenberg Fraser-designed 33 Mackenzie Street. Together the two sites once formed a much larger 4,000sqm development site once owned by Drapac who upon receiving approval for a 84m Peddle Thorp-designed office block promptly put the site on the market in 2008, before carving it up into two.

<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/9-23_mackenzie_st_overall.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The tower topped with conservatory. © COX"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1168" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/9-23_mackenzie_st_overall.jpg?itok=-XAADNz-" title="The tower topped with conservatory. © COX" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The tower topped with conservatory. © COX</figcaption></figure><h2>Project summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>37 levels &amp; 124 metres in height</li>
	<li>473 apartments</li>
	<li>Total Gross Floor Area 44,484 sqm</li>
	<li>123 car spaces within the 8 level above ground podium</li>
	<li>392 sqm of retail space and ground level cafe</li>
	<li>Key communal amenities in the form of a ground level lounge, podium garden terrace, city view roof terrace and Conservatory terrace located at its apex</li>
</ul>
<h2>The podium and the public realm</h2>

Adhering to the podium and tower typology sought by the Melbourne Planning Scheme, the development's 7-storey podium responds to its north facing outlook via a re-imagining of the verandah vernacular. Accommodating a wrap of apartments as the podium form transitions from rectilinear to curvilinear, this has resulted in the provision of an active edge to the Mackenzie Street frontage above ground level.

An inflection in the geometry of the podium aids in delineating the main entry point. Frontages to Bell Place are largely dedicated to ancillary activities with the exception of the cafe located at the corner with Mackenzie 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/podium_ground_plane.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium &amp; ground plane strategy. © COX"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="190" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/podium_ground_plane.jpg?itok=S-_PlGhw" title="Podium &amp; ground plane strategy. © COX" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Podium &amp; ground plane strategy. © COX</figcaption></figure><h2>Tower form and facade</h2>

The tower form and configuration were achieved based on the following drivers:

<blockquote>
<ol>
<li>A tower plan that is responsive to its context and directs views through a curved facade to its east and west.</li>
	<li>A slender north and south facade which minimises visual obstruction and allows other buildings exposure to sunlight from the north.</li>
	<li>Articulation of the elliptical form to create vertical expression in the mass in particular to the address to Mackenzie Street and the axis of Drummond Street.</li>
	<li>A tower plan in an elliptical form to maximise the view amenity to Carlton Gardens and to reduce direct overlooking of existing and proposed apartments.</li>
	<li>The elliptical form has beneficial wind effects at street level as it encourages horizontal wind movement rather than creating downdrafts that a bluff faced rectilinear response would create.</li>
</ol>
</blockquote>

The curvilinear tower form is expressed as a series of seven bands articulated with vertical perforated white screens that extend over 4 floors of the building at right angles. These culminate in a sloping bladed structure housing the conservatory terrace at its summit.

A variety of glazing types are employed over the facade ranging from a silver grey to a silver blue grey frit. Combined these elements form an “environmental skin” that provides partial protection from wind, rain and sun. This skin extends beyond the balcony line in an effort to provide a comfortable and quality outdoor environment allowing for a seamless interior-exterior experience.

<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/9-23_mackenzie_st.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="As seen from LaTrobe Street. © COX"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="351" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/9-23_mackenzie_st.jpg?itok=fOUYL3D-" title="As seen from LaTrobe Street. © COX" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>As seen from LaTrobe Street. © COX</figcaption></figure><h2>Conclusion</h2>

The proposed development provides a welcome contrast to the solid and robust nature of neighbouring 33 Mackenzie Street. Height aside the two towers couldn't be anymore different, yet there is a sense of familiarity about both designs; two varying answers to the same question. By different architects.

I leave you with an Elenberg Fraser scheme that accompanied the sales campaign for the site.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/9-23_mackenzie_street_ef.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elenberg Fraser scheme for 9-23 Mackenzie Street. © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="755" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/9-23_mackenzie_street_ef.jpg?itok=D6L9HMaP" title="Elenberg Fraser scheme for 9-23 Mackenzie Street. © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elenberg Fraser scheme for 9-23 Mackenzie Street. © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: UEM Sunrise</li>
	<li>Project Architects: Cox Architecture</li>
	<li>Town Planner: Contour Consultants</li>
	<li>Development Managers: Sinclair Brook Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineers: Cardno</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Bosco Jonson</li>
	<li>Wind Assessment: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Heritage Consultant: Lovell Chen</li>
	<li>ESD Consultants: Umow Lai</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
</ul>
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Laurence Dragomir

Mack to the Future > 9-23 Mackenzie Street 

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What do you do when you're a Malaysian Government-backed property developer intent on breaking into the hotly contested Melbourne apartment scene? Why you go big...really big with two grandiose towers!
Not content with dipping their toes into local waters, <a href="http://www.uemsunrise.com/UEMSunrise/Home" target="_blank">UEM Sunrise</a> will rather perform the mother of all bombs as it seeks to implement itself firmly at the pointy end of Melbourne's apartment development scene. As has been well documented the wholly owned <a href="http://www.uem.com.my/" target="_blank">UEM Group</a> subsidiary purchased two prime CBD sites late last year with grand intentions.
Asked of the two projects which are expected to go to public sales late 2014, UEM Sunrise Chief operating officer Raymond Cheah stated "Both projects will change the landscape of Melbourne city," Let's have a closer look at the two designs in question:
9-23 McKenzie Street
<ul>
<li>
		Site size - 2,030 sqm</li>
	<li>
		Site purchased for $22.5 million or $11,084 per sqm</li>
	<li>
		Height - 35 floors and approximately 120 metres</li>
	<li>
		388 Apartments</li>
	<li>
		Design - Cox Architecture</li>
	<li>
		one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>
		preliminary priced between A$400,000 to A$600,000 each</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/Bdk94HhCEAEpRzw.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="McKenzie Street at tweeted by project architect Cox"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1395" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Bdk94HhCEAEpRzw.jpg?itok=eC18hVW_" title="McKenzie Street at tweeted by project architect Cox" width="580"></a>
224-252 La Trobe Street
<ul>
<li>
		Site area - 3,197 sqm</li>
	<li>
		Site purchased for $43.15 million or $13,497 per sqm</li>
	<li>
		Height - 82 floors and 265 metres</li>
	<li>
		1343 dwellings</li>
	<li>
		Design - Elenberg Fraser</li>
	<li>
		one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments + serviced apartments</li>
	<li>
		preliminary price from AA$450,000 and A$650,000 each</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/Image23_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Raymond Cheah and the La Trobe Street project"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="425" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image23_2.jpg?itok=007WqZQD" title="Raymond Cheah and the La Trobe Street project" width="580"></a>
Both designs are a-typical in shape, owing to the developers intent in delivering a product that makes a design statement, and in the case of 224-252 La Trobe Street, a monolithic statement at that.
According to Cheah, "We decided on Melbourne first as there is high population growth rate, with 1,750 people moving to the city every week. The occupancy rate for apartments in Melbourne is about 97 per cent. The student population is also growing, helped by major universities set up in the city. We expect a lot of Malaysians investing in our two projects".
Watch for a review of the respective planning applications in coming weeks.
&gt;&gt; Content in part sourced from <a href="http://www.malaysia-chronicle.com/index.php" target="_blank">Malaysia Chronicle</a> and <a href="http://www.businesstoday.net.my/" target="_blank">Business Today</a>.
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