Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils signature penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Docklands

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The latest research from Docklands Cityscope shows that commercial property sales for the quarter have significantly declined.
In the three months to April 2016 there were 11 sales at a total value of just $4.2 million, compared to 16 sales at a total value of $120.2 million for the quarter to January 2016, and 11 sales at a total value of $164.2 million for the quarter to October 2015. The yearly figures are also markedly down, with 54 sales at a total value of $300.2 million for the twelve months to April 2016, compared to 64 sales at a total value of $1.494 billion over the previous year.
Notable sales, such as they are, in the April 2016 update of Docklands Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>Lot 222 at 838 Collins Street, Docklands, a commercial unit on the level four mezzanine, which sold for $820,000;</li>
<li>Lot 15 at 838 Collins Street, Docklands, a retail unit on the ground floor, which sold for $650,000; and</li>
<li>Unit 216 at 757 Bourke Street, Docklands, a commercial unit on the second floor, which sold for $395,000.</li>
</ul>
<a href="/images/2016/04/29/Screen%20Shot%202016-04-30%20at%2012.49.39%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/04/29/Screen%20Shot%202016-04-30%20at%2012.49.39%20AM.png" alt=""> 
Properties listed as for sale in the April 2016 update of Docklands Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>Unit 13 at 42 Newquay Promenade, Docklands, a retail lot of 323 sqm, at an asking price of $1,850,000;</li>
<li>Unit 101W at 425-441 Docklands Drive, Docklands, a 200-sqm shop, available through CVA Property Consultants and No Agent Property Moorabbin; and</li>
<li>Unit 4 at 54 Newquay Promenade, Docklands, a 236-sqm shop, available through MP Burke Commercial.</li>
</ul>
Leasing opportunities in the April 2016 update of Docklands Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>Aurecon Centre, an eight-storey office building with retail space and parking on the ground floor at 850 Collins Street, which has up to 6,464 sqm of office space for lease through Colliers International and CBRE;</li>
<li>Ericsson Commercial Tower, a ten-storey office building with retail space on the ground floor and three levels of parking at 818 Bourke Street, Docklands, which has up to 3,600 sqm of office space for lease through JLL; and</li>
<li>The Gauge, an eight-storey office building with retail space and parking on the ground floor at 825 Bourke Street, Docklands, which has office space of up to 1,508 sqm for lease through CBRE.</li>
</ul>
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Docklands commercial property sales fall sharply in quarter to April: Cityscope

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A newly built Melbourne Docklands townhouse on three levels with rooftop deck in New Quay Promenade has been listed for sale.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-docklands-114271459" target="_blank">3 Augusta Avenue, Docklands</a> offering is an urban style residence of 311sqm.
It has four bedrooms, the top floor master coming with ensuite including bath.
The mid-level is the designated living zone, with balconies adjoining the living and kitchen areas.
The lower level features a media room, cellar, two-car lock up and bathroom.
The asking price is $3.2 million through Jing Wang and Lisa Wang at First Choice Property International.
When is a pre-purchase building inspection a must?  What do they entail?  How does one interpret the results?  What defects can be fixed and which ones should prompt you to walk away. Jarrod McCabe, associate director, Wakelin Property Advisory and Peter Alexander, building inspector, Safehome Building Inspections present a webinar for Victorian home buyers on April 20. <a href="https://wakelin.com.au/inspection" target="_blank">Click here to register</a>.
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

Three level Melbourne Docklands townhouse listed

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Following on from my visual essay on progress throughout Docklands I've again revisited Docklands part of the <a href="/news/urbancomaus-3d-model-is-evolving">Urban.com.au 3D model</a>, in light of all the activity and new proposals which have come through. One or two projects may require updating or are adsent, otherwise the model remains up to date across each precinct.

The model also now features the major proposals along Spencer Street such as Premier Tower and the West Side Place development on the former Age site at 250 Spencer Street, which together with the development at Docklands provide a new face to Melbourne's western CBD.

As touched on in the previous Docklands article, the majority of construction currently occurring within the precinct is concentrated at NewQuay, Victoria Habour and Batman's Hill. Yarra's Edge is also experiencing limited construction activity with the Wharf's Entrance development, consisting of Forge apartments and a series of low-rise townhouses.

<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/docklands_model_nq_wfc.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Over NewQuay and Harbour Town. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="227" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/docklands_model_nq_wfc.png?itok=rJ9OfmlX" title="Over NewQuay and Harbour Town. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Over NewQuay and Harbour Town.</figcaption></figure>In terms of progress westward toward Bolte Bridge, Yarra's Edge is the most advanced with Voyager, Mirvac's latest and tallest currently at planning, with seemingly only one more tower thereafter which will complete the precinct. NewQuay and Victoria Harbour on the other hand are both approximately halfway through their respective precincts.

It's also evident that Yarra's Edge boasts the tallest crop of apartment buildings due to its position south of the Yarra, however they are still a fraction of the height of Southbank's tallest towers. Victoria Harbour, it could be argued, has the greatest variety in building typology and height, ranging from low-rise campus to high-rise residential towers, in addition to multiple community facilities.

All sub-precincts either are in the process of building or proposing the tallest building within their scope of development, which are also a step up in height for the wider precinct.

<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/docklands_model_ye_vh.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Above Yarra's Edge and Victoria Harbour "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="270" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/docklands_model_ye_vh.png?itok=_VeJxSiN" title="Above Yarra's Edge and Victoria Harbour " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Above Yarra's Edge and Victoria Harbour</figcaption></figure>Of the buildings under construction, ten are purely residential, one a hotel, and three office buildings which are all located within Collins Square. With the exception of the three commercial buildings found within Melbourne Quarter, it is expected that most upcoming development within Docklands will be predominantly residential in nature.

This is largely in keeping with the Melbourne-wide trend, although Digital Harbour for example had never envisaged residential uses until recent years.

<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/cbd_docklands.png" rel="gallery-all" title="CBD and Docklands "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="242" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cbd_docklands.png?itok=t2UGMOQd" title="CBD and Docklands " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>CBD and Docklands</figcaption></figure>Another observation to be made is the gradual knitting of Docklands to the existing built form of the Hoddle Grid; a slow process being helped along with projects such as 664 Collins Street and Melbourne Quarter set to occupy airspace above road and rail environments, essentially bridging the divide between the two.

Lastly I leave you with a render from the Bolte Bridge, which I'll be revisiting as I transfer more of the existing CBD geometry over to the new model.

<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/bolte_bridge_shot.png" rel="gallery-all" title="View from Bolte Bridge."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="277" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bolte_bridge_shot.png?itok=uEdcQw_W" title="View from Bolte Bridge." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>View from Bolte Bridge.</figcaption></figure>
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Laurence Dragomir

CBD Model update: Docklands to the fore

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Melbourne-based developer Capital Alliance has continued with its successful Docklands formula of combining both residential apartments and a luxury hotel within the same building by announcing operator Marriott has committed to its forthcoming project at 3-43 Waterfront Way.

Within close proximity to the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and Harbour Town retail complex, the tower of some 37 levels will represent the first newly built Marriott hotel in Australia for almost 20 years. While the project is currently at planning, it is expected that the tower will proceed quickly upon receiving approval.

Valued at $250 million, 3-43 Waterfront Way will include 200 Marriott-branded suites in addition to 260 residential apartments. Included will be an rooftop infinity pool with expansive views toward Melbourne's skyline, bar area and dining area which will be open to the public.

<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/capital_alliance_docklands_development-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of Marriott Docklands"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="697" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/capital_alliance_docklands_development-1.jpg?itok=gsd4Jxxc" title="Artist's impression of Marriott Docklands" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of Marriott Docklands</figcaption></figure>Designed by Docklands-based DKO Architecture, 3-43 Waterfront Way will also see a ground level pedestrian link with Docklands Drive, allowing for a previously inactive street frontage to become permeable. Planning documents show 3-43 Waterfront Way's exterior studded with pop-out facade panels which will be complimented by LED highlights applied to the facade.

Approximately 500 jobs are to be created during the build, with 100 permanent jobs created upon completion.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We are extremely proud to be able to deliver yet another hotel project to Melbourne. We believe that mixed-use developments are the right direction for development in our city and provide the stimuli Docklands needs to flourish. Our vision is to deliver a hotel and apartment project that will be celebrated and draw tourists both internationally and locally to the area.

We envisage the rooftop amenities will provide a unique experience and complement a range of amenities in the building that will be open to both residents, guests and the general public.
<cite>Mohan Du, Capital Alliance Managing Director</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
There is a real demand for hotel accommodation within Melbourne and this hotel will help service the many people looking for accommodation in Docklands, be they tourists or business travellers. Securing the first new-build Marriot hotel in nearly two decades is testament to the capabilities of Capital Alliance and the demand for quality hotel accommodation in the precinct.
<cite>Simon Wilson, General Manager Precincts at Places Victoria</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We’re really excited to be working alongside Capital Alliance. Melbourne is fast becoming one of the most popular travel destinations throughout the world.

The vibrant culinary scene and unique culture makes this property an ideal addition to our Australian portfolio of properties. Australia will continue to be a vital part of our growth strategy and the Marriott brand will continue with further expansion in 2016.
<cite>Raj Menon, Chief Operating Officer, Asia Pacific for Marriott International</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>The big picture</h2>

While the Marriott signing paves the way for Capital Alliance's next project, the developer is approaching the finish line for their first Docklands foray at 679 La Trobe Street. Consisting of both apartments and Melbourne's first Peppers Hotel outlet, M Docklands as it is known will be fully completed in the new year.

Capital Alliance is also expected to deliver a sister development to 3-43 Waterfront Way, namely 26-38 Pearl River Road nearby which will hold in excess of 400 apartments.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mdocks.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="M Docklands is nearing completion. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mdocks.jpg?itok=eYFLd1EV" title="M Docklands is nearing completion. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>M Docklands is nearing completion. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>The Marriott announcement adds further to Melbourne's blossoming hotel sector with a sizeable number of new projects in the pipeline. Only last month both <a href="/news/new-ibis-and-novotel-hotels-for-melbournes-cbd">Ibis and Novotel committed to a new CBD tower</a> while construction continues on QT Hotel on Russell Street and the Four Points by Sheraton also in Docklands.

Above these as many as a dozen new hotels are mooted for varying developments around Melbourne over the next decade.
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silvermb

Marriott Docklands adds to the Melbourne hotel mix

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Forming the Flinders Street Neighbourhood of Lend Lease's $1.5 billion Melbourne Quarter development at Batman's Hill, an application is being assessed for three Fender Katsalidis-designed towers delivering 1,644 apartments at 614-666 Flinders Street.

Located within Docklands, Melbourne Quarter is a key urban infill location opposite Southern Cross Station, with frontages to Collins Street, Flinders Street, Aurora Lane and Wurundjeri Way. The site consists of a number of land parcels, as well as air rights over Wurundjeri Way.

Places Victoria awarded the rights to develop the precinct to Lend Lease on 31 July 2013, following which a Precinct Development Plan for the site was developed and lodged with DTPLI in February 2014. Approval was consequently given during October 2014 and in November 2014 Lend Lease rebranded the site as Melbourne Quarter, commencing the early marketing phase of the development.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mq_masterplan_02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Melbourne Quarter masterplan. Image courtesy of Lend Lease."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="295" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mq_masterplan_02.jpg?itok=9YXubYXq" title="The Melbourne Quarter masterplan. Image courtesy of Lend Lease." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Melbourne Quarter masterplan. Image courtesy of Lend Lease.</figcaption></figure>While nothing out of the ordinary in terms of height; residential towers R1 and R2 at measure 135.5m in height while the smaller R3 measures 70.6m from Flinders Street. The sheer breadth of the two taller towers' floor plates coupled with the number of apartments across the development is rather impressive.

However coupled with a uniform height, facade articulation and finishes, there is a danger of creating a large visual mass on the skyline. The arrangement of the buildings onsite appears to try to address this issue, but it would be surprising if the development team weren't asked to provide greater variance to each individual tower's facade in order to create a point of difference and to further visually distinguish one from another similar to what has occurred with the Upper West Side project.

The towers' respective footprints are illustrated in the typical floorplans 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/floor_plates.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Typical Tower floor plates. Image courtesy of Lend Lease."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="358" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/floor_plates.jpg?itok=4sxks1tG" title="Typical Tower floor plates. Image courtesy of Lend Lease." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Typical Tower floor plates. Image courtesy of Lend Lease.</figcaption></figure>The three towers rise above a common deck with four car parking levels beneath the deck. The Flinders Street heritage wall remains, however it is punctured to allow for vehicular and pedestrian traffic into the site, providing a front door to the project and an interface with the new Flinders Street Plaza, while offering the opportunity for public reinterpretation of the physical and symbolic roles of the wall.

The plaza also offers the opportunity for re-engagement of the heritage wall as an essential part of the future of Melbourne Quarter, as well as a connection to the site's past.

Located centrally at the heart of the Flinders Street Neighbourhood is Batman's Garden, a green space which sits just south of the shorter R3 tower which allows over 50% of the landscaped area having access to sunlight from the morning through to lunch on 22 September. Batman's Garden is a protected space away from the noise of trains and vehicular traffic, forming a welcome area of respite surrounded by the residential buildings with views back towards the city skyline.

Considered a primary component of the series of linked public external spaces leading through the site from Flinders Street to Collins Street, Batman’s Garden provides external amenity for the residential neighbourhood and the general public by creating integrated active and passive recreation areas which interface with and are activated by residential, retail (cafe) and community uses.

It sits 12.5m above Flinders Street and 3.5m below Collins Street, playing a pivotal role in the re establishment of Batman's Hill and negotiating the change in level from north to south.

<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/batmans_garden.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Batman's Garden. Image courtesy of Lend Lease."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="417" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/batmans_garden.jpg?itok=nC4PpK5x" title="Batman's Garden. Image courtesy of Lend Lease." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Batman's Garden. Image courtesy of Lend Lease.</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Melbourne Quarter is a westward extension of the character of the Melbourne CBD. That character is derived from the built form, the resultant public and private spaces, and the way those are used and inhabited. That extension of Melbourne occurs through the hierarchy of road networks – the frontage to the major road of Flinders Street (and Collins Street when the whole Melbourne Quarter has been built out), the connection of those by the minor road of North South Lane, and the filigree of minor connections, echoing the famous laneways of Melbourne.

The development recreates the historic Batman’s Hill, both physically and in terms of its significance of place. The ground plane ascends from Flinders Street to Collins Street in a reconstructed topography of steps and levels. The public realm that follows this ‘hill’ is conceived as an urban grain flowing between and under the built form.
<cite>Planning and context submission.</cite>
</blockquote>

Returning to the topic of facades, the articulation of towers R1 &amp; R2 bares some strong similarities to Lend Lease's Koichi Takada Archtects-designed <a href="/new-apartments/889-collins-street-docklands">839-889 Collins Street</a> residential project at Victoria Habour. However in place of a more dynamic and textured facade of brick and timber, the taller two towers within Melbourne Quarter are clad in matching metal panelling forming a waved expression across the facades.

These are supplemented by planter boxes which run along indented spines up the towers, providing a softer more natural touch. R3 while shorter has a far greater vertical expression of timber fins spanning three floors, interrupted by dual level spanning fins staggered between each vertical cluster.

<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/mq_towers.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Quarter's 3 residential towers. Image courtesy of Lend Lease."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mq_towers.png?itok=sTK54E6W" title="Melbourne Quarter's 3 residential towers. Image courtesy of Lend Lease." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Quarter's 3 residential towers. Image courtesy of Lend Lease.</figcaption></figure>The towers are to be developed in stages with R1 the first cab off the rankalong with Batman's Garden and part of the deck, followed by R2 and R3, developing gradually north as the Collins Street neighbourhood simultaneously develops southward.

<h2>By the numbers</h2>

<ul>
<li>Building heights: R1/R2: 45-storeys or 135.5m to roof &amp; R3: 24-storeys or 70.6m</li>
	<li>Combined 285 parking spaces</li>
	<li>493 bicycle spaces: 164 visitor bicycle spaces and 329 resident</li>
	<li>R1 (725 Apartments): 4 studio, 243 x 1bed, 269 x 2bed +1, 197 x 2bed + 2, 12 x 3bed</li>
	<li>R2 (775 Apartments): 4 studio, 280 x 1bed, 321 x 2bed +1, 155 x 2bed + 2, 15 x 3bed</li>
	<li>R3 (144 Apartments): 72 x 1bed, 54 x 2bed +1, 18 x 2bed + 2,</li>
	<li>172sqm cafe within R1 with frontage to Batman's Garden</li>
	<li>459sqm of Community Space within R3</li>
</ul>
<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Lend Lease</li>
	<li>Architecture: Fender Katsalidis</li>
	<li>Landscape Architecture and Urban Design: Oculus + Aspect</li>
	<li>Planning: Contour</li>
	<li>Structures: Robert Bird Group</li>
	<li>Building Services: Aurecon</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Madigan Surveying</li>
	<li>Wind: Windtech</li>
	<li>Heritage: Lovell Chen</li>
	<li>Acoustics: Renzo Tonin and Associates</li>
	<li>ESD: Lend Lease</li>
	<li>Traffic: Cardno</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Access and DDA: Morris Access Consulting</li>
</ul>
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Planning Application: 614-666 Flinders Street, Docklands

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A new piece of street art has been unveiled opposite Etihad Stadium that is in stark contrast to its drab surrounds. The poorly activated surrounds of Etihad Stadium has been given a boost with Melbourne developer Capital Alliance commissioning internationally recognised street artist <a href="http://r-o-n-e.com/">Rone</a> to create a mural overlooking the sporting venue.

The result is a new 140sqm edifice adoring <a href="/buildings/m-docklands-679-la-trobe-street-docklands">M Docklands</a>, a new five star hotel and residential complex which will officially open during January 2016.

Although Docklands carries varying forms of public art, Rone's Edge of your seat is considered the first ever piece of street art to land in Docklands. With the art medium commonly seen throughout the Hoddle Grid, Docklands' first addition is a welcome boost to the urban realm and the result of 250 hours of labour.

Edge of your seat is a continuation of Rone's penchant for <a href="http://r-o-n-e.com/artwork/">paintings of glamorous women</a>, while attempting to create an iconic form of urban art with a strongly emotional bent, according to the artist's website.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
This piece celebrates the connection to the Melbourne sport scene and captures the transcendence of supporters in moments of high anticipation. The challenge was to capture this emotion and the expressions on the fans’ faces, as they passionately support their team in victory or defeat.
<cite>Rone, Artist</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We’re thrilled to combine these three pillars of Melbourne’s identity in one piece of art, with one of our city’s finest artists celebrating sport on the side of a new five star hotel.
<cite>Mohan Du, Managing Director, Capital Alliance</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/image169.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Marking the piece's completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image169.jpg?itok=moqpPvNW" title="Marking the piece's completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Marking the piece's completion</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment: none too soon</h2>

Telstra Dome, Etihad Stadium or whatever guise the venue has taken over its existence must surely be one of Melbourne's most poorly conceived modern additions in terms of both design and influence upon the immediate urban realm; essentially the venue is a non-urban design in a very urban setting.

Its shortcomings have been compounded by many of the surrounding buildings which have reciprocated, in effect creating an inactive chasm and a very harsh built form environment for pedestrians/sporting fans who traverse the precinct.

Both M Docklands and its sister building Lacrosse in many respects provide an excellent human scale experience relative to other buildings surrounding Etihad Stadium. Engaging podium design, permeability and visual intrigue have thankfully not been lost, with Rone's Edge of your seat adding further diversity where it matters: at ground level.

At some point in the future, Etihad Stadium will receive a much needed overhaul, but until that day arrives pending large-scale developments neighbouring the stadium such as AZX Group's 685 La Trobe Street and Salta's <a href="/news/feeling-at-home-next-to-the-dome">695 La Trobe Street</a> have the opportunity to further the decent public realm outcome achieved by M Docklands, or further slide the precinct into a design 'abyss' for lack of a better term.
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Feeling at home next to the dome

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Always a point of conjecture amongst many a Melburnian, Docklands has become the area of interest for a group of students from RMIT University’s Master of Arts (Art in Public Space) program who have launched an eBook that showcases visions that were conceived and designed to activate open spaces around Docklands' Harbour Esplanade spine.

The students spent weeks researching the design, construction and formation of Docklands and analysing the ways in which the public experienced and inhabited its public spaces. The research then informed the creation of a series of site-specific propositions for these public spaces.

Nine propositions feature in "A Proposition for the Docklands", with visions striving to capture the quirky, the colourful and sublime elements of open space activation.

Public art 'propositions' vary from formal 'proposals' as they provide artists with the opportunity to imagine things that are not possible or have not been created.

The propositions varied from large-scale interactive and immersive installations, and roller coasters, to canopies of indigenous flora.

One proposition is the absence of domestic daily tasks being undertaken in Docklands locations and wondering why we don’t see people cleaning their belongings, washing dishes in public spaces as we do in other cities around the world.

<blockquote>
The RMIT public art students’ enthusiasm, research and creative propositions for the Docklands reveal how vibrant Melbourne’s urban planning may become if artists collaborated with urban and town planners to develop and realize their visions for Melbourne.
<cite>Rebecca West, Urbis Director of Planning and 2014-2015 Future Focus Group participant</cite>
</blockquote>

The students also launched their propositions as a series of postcards and led a group of 30 people on a walking tour of the Docklands to showcase and explain their creative work earlier this month.

My personal favourites are propositions one and two, which are both interactive installations embedded into the pavement and which engage with the pedestrian and provide a kinetic quality to an otherwise static strip of pavement. Combined, the two ideas could add a sense of playfulness to the waterfront turning Habour Esplanade into a interactive playground for all ages.

<h2>Proposition one: Connecting to Disconnect &gt; Disconnecting to Connect</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/prop02.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Proposition one. Image courtesy of Urbis."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="477" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/prop02.png?itok=vnNI51Ob" title="Proposition one. Image courtesy of Urbis." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Proposition one. Image courtesy of Urbis.</figcaption></figure>Conceived by Molly Braddon, this proposition is intended to play with the idea of disconnection. During the day, the work is designed to interrupt the linear path of pedestrians.

Every time a foot falls one one section of the work another section in the distance becomes animated with flashes of light, movement and sound turning an otherwise sterile journey into an interactive game, that allows the pedestrian to engage with other pedestrians in the distance and influence their movement through the site based on their own.

At night when pedestrians become more sparse the installation mimics the movements of the day's earlier visual orchestra.

<h2>Proposition two: Coil</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/coil_-_proposition_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Proposition two. Image courtesy of Urbis."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="497" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/coil_-_proposition_2.jpg?itok=3vm9LnBM" title="Proposition two. Image courtesy of Urbis." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Proposition two. Image courtesy of Urbis.</figcaption></figure>Shu Jie Jia's response to the site contextualises itself by tapping into the transport and shipping history associated with the site's former life. Dubbed 'Coil' the proposition manifests as an industrial arbour in the form of a coiled train line.

Embedded within the tracks are a series of LED screens illuminating the harbour at night and filling it with colour during the day. The screens will display abstract patterns of shipping containers moving along the arbour, referencing the movement of goods through Docklands; connecting the pedestrian with the history of the site and providing a sense of protection from the elements.

The RMIT project was supported by leading independent property consultancy Urbis, in conjunction with Pop Up Melbourne, a Future Focus Group project. Future Focus Group is the Committee for Melbourne’s two year business leadership program.

The Pop Up Melbourne initiative brings people and places together to work with the private, public and not-for-profit sectors, activating spaces that may otherwise go unloved.

To download a copy of the "A Proposition for the Docklands" ebook and view all nine propositions visit the <a href="http://www.urbis.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/APropositionfortheDocklandsEBook.pdf">Urbis website</a>.
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RMIT students propose pop-up activation for Docklands

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<blockquote>
I don't think Melburnians understand Docklands yet. We see it as a suburb that needs time to evolve; it needs to find its own spirit, its own character.
<cite>Jesse Linardi, Design Director, DKO</cite>
</blockquote>

As construction in and around Docklands continues at pace, Apartments.com.au thought it an opportune time to garner an update on the precinct from Docklands locals <a href="http://www.dko.com.au/">DKO Architecture</a>. Architect Dennis Chew and Design Director Jesse Linardi were kind enough to discuss their experience of working 'on site' in addition to their two latest projects for <a href="http://capitalalliance.com.au/">Capital Alliance</a> within Harbour Town.

The catalyst for the practice's relocation from Mitchell House on Lonsdale Street to Docklands was DKO's engagement in the masterplanning for NewQuay Central following <a href="http://www.mab.com.au/">MAB Corporation</a>'s acquisition of the site from ING. DKO seized the opportunity to be at the coalface so to speak, gaining intimate experience of the precinct.

Having developed the built form envelopes and urban design principles around the ground plane and laneways for NewQuay Central, DKO was subsequently engaged to design what is now Hiap Hoe's Marina Tower development.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/80_08-10-2014_8976.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="788" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/80_08-10-2014_8976.jpg?itok=fa1oOnRH" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Probuild are currently constructing Marina Tower. Image courtesy DKO</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The story with NewQuay Central is around having diversity in the architectural built form, so getting a variety of architects involved in each project, away from the repetitive type of approach you might otherwise get from a single office. We talk about it as being part of the city so we tried to encourage an interesting skyline rather than a uniform one.

We really pushed for that which might seem illogical from a commercial decision making point of view, but we felt really strongly about having that diversity.
<cite>Jesse Linardi</cite>
</blockquote>

DKO's work on NewQuay Central expanded to include a development site at <a href="/buildings/elm-stone-387-docklands-drive-docklands">387-395 Docklands Drive</a> which would deliver dual 17-storey buildings over two stages, replacing an earlier scheme by Hassell for a commercial building. The as yet unnamed project is due to begin its sales and marketing campaign shortly.

More masterplanning followed for MAB's NewQuay West which has gone through a number of iterations over the years, the latest incarnation being driven by the addition of Ron Barassi Snr Park. Similar to the initial stage of NewQuay Central, the process for the western precinct wasn't so much about architecture but more so diversity in scale and the impact of built form on built form, as well as the ground plane and pedestrian environment.

Within that framework are considerations of views, shadowing, solar access, wind; a set of principles which DKO's design team works from to derive a built form which they believe to be the best outcome possible.

<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/newquay_masterplan-reduced.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="NewQuay Masterplan. Image courtesy of DKO."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/newquay_masterplan-reduced.jpg?itok=l3bB9e-X" title="NewQuay Masterplan. Image courtesy of DKO." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>NewQuay Masterplan. Image courtesy of DKO.</figcaption></figure>This in turn brings us to DKO's latest Docklands projects, 3-43 Waterfront Way and 26-38 Pearl River Road within Harbour Town. Offloaded by <a href="http://ashemorgan.com.au/">Ashe Morgan</a> to emerging Melbourne developer Capital Alliance Investment Group, the at planning 3-43 Waterfront Way features a mixed-use tower of 37-storeys with the first 11 levels dedicated hotel accommodation with residential above.

<blockquote>
The opportunity here was designing a mixed-use tower as opposed to a completely residential building, that's something we believe the precinct needs more of: true mixed-use developments. To punch through the existing building and create a direct connection back through to Docklands Drive and the pedestrian retail strip within Harbour Town was highly satisfying.

The other interesting thing about these sites, I believe there's an opportunity and scope for more height and scale than the CBD. The closest building to these sites could be 20-30m away, you don't get the same concerns and issues as those you might in the city, with regards to adjacencies, overlooking and so forth.

Historically this area of Docklands has had relatively low height limits. The driver for height on this site (3-43 Waterfront Way) is the new park and not overshadowing it, which is a logical way to look at it.
<cite>Jesse Linardi</cite>
</blockquote>

The designs for both sites had to address key environmental impacts, in particular wind in places where there doesn't presently exist any built form. The buildings were designed to respond and mitigate the wind conditions; predominantly the westerly and northerly winds the site experiences.

At one stage the Pearl River Road site was going to be one building but was pulled apart to address the wind and allow it to pass through between the buildings rather than be driven downwards to the footpath.

<blockquote>
It was about coming back to those earlier design principles once again. We tested the sites and envelopes quite rigorously with the wind engineer initially. What normally happens is you test it in the wind tunnel, the wind hits the building and creates a downward draught; you typically then provide a awning to deal with the issue.

For these sites the wind is literally carving and sculpting the buildings to provide a more comfortable and better walking condition at ground level.
<cite>Dennis Chew, Architect, DKO</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/wfc_se_site.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="DKO's 37-storey mixed use tower at 3-43 Waterfront Way. Image courtesy of DKO."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="509" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/wfc_se_site.jpg?itok=q1NE0jY_" title="DKO's 37-storey mixed use tower at 3-43 Waterfront Way. Image courtesy of DKO." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 37-storey mixed use tower at 3-43 Waterfront Way. Image courtesy of DKO.</figcaption></figure>Other design drivers include internal amenity such as minimising the number of apartments with only southerly aspects; the vast majority are afforded east or west outlooks. With the debate surrounding the introduction of apartment standards in Victoria, Jesse says a lot of those design principles and requirements are standard practice and come second nature to the office as part of their design process and that was most certainly be the case for the Harbour Town towers.

Where Pearl River Road and Waterfront Way were initially treated as service roads for the existing retail and ice rink offerings within Harbour Town, the new buildings look to activate them and encourage pedestrian movement through whilst also transforming the look and feel of the area.

The fact that their client, Capital Alliance Investment Group was passionate about good design, amenity and quality outcomes made DKO's task far more appealing. This manifested itself via the client's desire to provide residents and guests with a unique experience by way of a infinity rooftop pool in a similar vein to Marina Bay Sands Singapore, with views back towards the CBD.
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DKO and designing Docklands

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The pace of construction activity continues to quicken at Victoria Harbour as Lend Lease cashes in on the seemingly endless demand for apartments. Their Docklands precinct currently sees seven residential towers at various stages of construction, a far cry from the solitary project on the radar during 2005.

Add a number of ongoing infrastructure and civic projects within the precinct and the level of development activity within the waterside hub is truly impressive.

Leader of the pack is the Bates Smart-designed <a href="/buildings/concavo-8-waterside-place-docklands">Concavo</a> residential tower which is rapidly approaching completion, while the dual towers of <a href="/buildings/888-collins-street-docklands">888 Collins Street</a> directly opposite Concavo are making swift progress. 888 Collins Street's western tower has topped out while the 40 level eastern tower has nudged past a third the way to its eventual height.

Most impressive is the progress of <a href="/new-apartments/889-collins-street-docklands">839-889 Collins Street</a> which has seen four Koichi Takada-designed towers advance to construction in seemingly no time. Replacing intended commercial buildings along Victoria Harbour's waterfront, promenade works and foundation piling have commenced which will ultimately see an additional 1070 apartments added over the four buildings.

<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/image20.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="There's no shortage of construction within Victoria Harbour"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20.jpg?itok=6jn-hEIy" title="There's no shortage of construction within Victoria Harbour" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>There's no shortage of construction within Victoria Harbour</figcaption></figure>It's not all apartments at Victoria Harbour though with the <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/CommunityServices/CommunityFacilities/CommunityInfrastructure/Pages/DocklandsFamilyServicesBoatingHub.aspx">Community Hub at The Dock</a> set for completion later in the year. The hub will feature a new home for Docklands Yacht Club, the Victorian Dragon Boat Association and the Melbourne Outrigger Canoe club, plus a family services centre encompassing consulting, playground and communal facilities.

The Community Hub joins<a href="/news/talking-up-docklands-newest-showpiece"> Library at the Dock</a> which opened during 2014; both projects represent a shift toward providing community-based facilities within Victoria Harbour. In addition, demolition works continue further west along North Wharf Road in preparation for future development stages, effectively stretching construction along a roughly 500 metre front within Victoria Harbour.

Perhaps most interesting is the regeneration of Merchant Street. Near completed aspects of the project seek to add greater variety to the streetscape, with an eye toward creating a finer grain pedestrian experience and enticing workers to stay within the area post work hours.

Whether this is a natural progression of Victoria Harbour or an admission that the original builds were lacking where it matters - street level activation and design quality - is another topic altogether. Upon first viewing below the near complete corner of Bourke and Merchant is somewhat bland relative to the render which depicts a greater level of intricacy over the newly projected podium.

<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/image21_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Community Hub, promenade works and Merchant Street. Render courtesy Lend Lease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="329" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_2.jpg?itok=oUhM6Hao" title="Community Hub, promenade works and Merchant Street. Render courtesy Lend Lease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Community Hub, promenade works and Merchant Street. Render courtesy Lend Lease</figcaption></figure>​So what was the state of Victoria Harbour during 2005? Only John Wardle's impressive <a href="http://www.johnwardlearchitects.com/projects/project/11-dock-5">Dock 5</a> residential tower was on the menu, creeping skyward over the course of the year. It's purple facade and overhung metal crown complimented the 148 apartments within the project, giving the precinct a focal point upon its completion.

Dock 5 followed on from both the Ericsson and NAB low-rise commercial buildings representing the initial projects within the expansive Victoria Harbour precinct. Providing exceptional spaces internally, the buildings arguably offered little by way of design nous externally; a failing that could be applied to many builds within Victoria Harbour over the years to come, namely Myer Docklands, Montage, Mosaic and Forte.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image22_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dock 5 on the rise"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="524" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_2.jpg?itok=9VsVrFJB" title="Dock 5 on the rise" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Dock 5 on the rise over the course of 2005</figcaption></figure>If nothing else the seven to one ratio of apartment projects under construction over the decade-long gap serves to exemplify the rate at which apartment living has rocketed throughout Melbourne, particularly since 2000. Looking forward to 2025 and Victoria Harbour will most likely be complete as further projects creep westward toward the Bolte Bridge.

What the fully completed precinct will look like at that point is anyone's guess at this stage.
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Now and then: Victoria Harbour during 2015 and 2005

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Two key projects have emerged in recent days within Docklands that will for differing reasons create an improved experience and/or environment within the oft maligned suburb adjoining Melbourne's CBD.

It's been announced that Harbour Town Melbourne will receive a multi-million dollar transparent roof canopy, providing shelter from Melbourne's variable weather. Instigated by AsheMorgan who purchased the 40,000sqm retail precinct from ING Real Estate, the canopy and associated facade/amenities regeneration represents the first in a series of upgrades set for Harbour Town Melbourne with the intent of establishing the northern Docklands precinct as one of Melbourne’s premier shopping and entertainment destinations.

Buchan Group and Red Design Group are responsible for the alterations and additions to Harbour Town Melbourne, having been charged with the task of creating a clean, contemporary and inviting feel for the area.

In addition to the sprawling canopy, certain pedestrian bridges and escalators which have been deemed to be underutilised will be removed, resulting in the creation of two new plazas. These new spaces are expected to accommodate public events and rotating interactive displays upon completion.

<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/image71_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Initial images of Harbour Town's upgrade. Images courtesy AsheMorgan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image71_1.jpg?itok=f3fo7uVv" title="Initial images of Harbour Town's upgrade. Images courtesy AsheMorgan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Initial images of Harbour Town's upgrade. Images courtesy AsheMorgan</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
We based our concept for the centre around the proposition that Harbour Town Melbourne was already unique in its outdoor living environment.

Using that, our design theme draws on the natural environment with recessed timbers contrasting with vegetation to soften the walkways – ultimately creating a ‘green oasis’ and an opportunity to engage with customers with a range of pause points along their shopping journey.
<cite>Colin Bell, Creative Director Red Design</cite>
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<blockquote>
The overriding design imperative for the canopy project is to touch as lightly and unobtrusively as possible on the ‘open’ sense of the existing centre. We have the opportunity to enhance the customer experience by providing additional protection from the elements and incorporating a simple and elegant ‘floating’ canopy that allows natural light to penetrate and provide a year-round outdoor shopping experience.
<cite>Joe Genovesi, Buchan Group Design Principal</cite>
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AsheMorgan have indicated that this first phase is one of a number of initiatives that will see a substantial investment in Harbour Town Melbourne by the Brisbane-based outfit. AsheMorgan Principal Alton Abrahams expects the implementation of the first phase of Harbour Town Melbourne's masterplan will breathe new life into the precinct.

Including Harbour Town Melbourne (40,818sqm of GLA), associated car parks (2,818 car spaces) and the Medibank Ice House, AsheMorgan also hold a number of development sites with approved masterplan for the precinct.

<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/image70_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A first glimpse inside Docklands’ first five-star hotel. Image courtesy Peppers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70_0.jpg?itok=G4J9E4qS" title="A first glimpse inside Docklands’ first five-star hotel. Image courtesy Peppers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A first glimpse inside Docklands’ first five-star hotel. Image courtesy Peppers</figcaption></figure>Nearby and the first image has emerged of the suburb's first completed five-star hotel suite within Peppers Docklands. Located at 679 La Trobe Street, Peppers Docklands is part of the <a href="/buildings/m-docklands-679-la-trobe-street-docklands">M Docklands</a> mixed-use tower which is being developed by Capital Alliance Investment Group as their first Melbourne project.

The completed prototype hotel suite has been delivered ahead of the project's scheduled completion during early 2016, with builder Hamilton Marino undertaking works on the $140 million project. Designed by Elenberg Fraser as an accompanying tower to the adjoining LaCrosse building, M Docklands features 87 five-star hotel suites and 186 private apartments atop a podium containing 11 retail tenancies.

<blockquote>
We’re proud to be playing a significant role in the emergence of a revitalised Docklands. Docklands is already home to world-class facilities such as Etihad Stadium, which attracts visitors from across Australia and indeed around the world.

If you look at the situation in Melbourne, demand for hotel rooms is projected to grow and grow. It made perfect sense for us to partner with a well-respected hotel operator like Mantra Group and lead the way in bringing luxury accommodation to the Docklands – keeping tourists in the area and driving the local economy.
<cite>Mohan Du, Managing Director and Founder of Capital Alliance</cite>
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<blockquote>
Docklands is in need of a sophisticated hotel product to cater to an increasingly selective global market that is looking for quality, location and facilities of a world class calibre. Peppers Docklands has this, and will set a benchmark for future mixed-use developments in Australia.
<cite>Mantra Group (Peppers operator) CEO Bob East </cite>
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The delivery of Peppers Docklands is a boost for the precinct's ability to provide premium hotel suites following the stalled beginning to <a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">The Altus</a> at 238 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands. Precious little has occurred onsite following a turning of the first sod ceremony held during October 2014.

Construction has yet to commence for the project which features 281 suites under the 4.5 star Parkroyal brand.
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