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.

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[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."

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[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;

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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 focus of today's article is <a href="http://www.equiset.com.au/">Equiset</a>'s proposal at 710 Collins Street, designed by <a href="http://www.hassellstudio.com/">Hassell</a> and potentially Docklands' tallest building at 189 metres.  I will also touch briefly on the proposal's impact on the skyline together with <a href="http://www.collinssquare.com.au/">Collins Square</a> <a href="/news">Tower 4D</a> and <a href="http://www.lendlease.com/site-settings/splashpage.aspx">Lend Lease</a>'s <a href="http://www.batmanshillcollinsstreet.com.au/">701 Collins Street project</a> (covered in a separate <a href="/news/batmans-hill-collins-street-the-missing-piece-of-the-docklands-jigsaw">article</a>) by way of a number of in context renders.

Equiset's proposal calls for the demolition of the barely 5-year old <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/">Elenberg Fraser</a> designed 'Lantern' structure fronting Collins Street in addition to 7 bays of <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/#!/project/goods-shed">Goods Shed North</a>, in order to accommodate a 34-storey Premium Grade commercial tower offering 47,500m2 (NLA) of office space. The office space will be supplemented by up to 1,200m2 of retail space, stronger connections between the Goods Shed and Collins Street via a new set of public stairs,  a new laneway and public plaza.

The development is aiming for a minimum 5-Star Green Star Design &amp; As Built, and a minimum 5-Star NABERS.

<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/710%20Collins%20Street_tower%20views.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/710%20Collins%20Street_tower%20views.jpg?itok=jTfQ566S" width="580"></a>

The proposed tower presents as a crystalline element on the skyline "whilst providing a glimpse of the overall super structure within."  Hassell's scheme employs a largely homogenous glazed skin raised above a brick plinth that suggests an erosion of form, with openings 'carved in' to allow views from within and out, with the stair cascading down from Collins Street to the new lobby below.  

While the Goods Shed and proposed tower never physically come into contact, a number of visual relationships are intimated through the timber-lined,  vaulted underbelly of the tower.  Generated from the profile of the goods shed and enhanced via the angled facade to the lower levels of the tower - the skyscrapers highly reflective glazing is designed to capture the Goods Shed in an almost ethereal reflection of what was once a much longer continuous structure. 

The benefit of the proposed development is two fold - it frees up the Goods Shed from any new architectural intervention thus providing the public with a greater viewing opportunity of its interior and structure, allowing  for an enhanced pedestrian experience.  Additionally a new view is opened up through to the Goods Shed below and Stadium Precinct beyond (including another Hassell tower at 720 Bourke), framed by the vaulted ceiling above. 

<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/Public%20Stair.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Public stair with vaulted ceiling above and view beyond."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="413" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Public%20Stair.jpg?itok=AS2DSOGX" title="Public stair with vaulted ceiling above and view beyond." width="580"></a>

The ground floor area of the development is largely permeable with retail offerings flanking the new east-west laneway and activity spilling out on to it which should also go someway to activating both Aurora Lane and Village Street.  The proposed treatment to these areas is a timber decking - a softer contrast to the robust brick plinth. Minimal car parking of only 8 spaces is included with an entry off Village Street; extremely low by any measure but particularly so for a commercial complex.

Cyclist facilities are proposed within the Goods Shed via Village Street with visitor bicycle spaces externally. 

<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/new%20laneway.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="New laneway between tower and Goods Shed."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/new%20laneway.jpg?itok=qqAOs8xS" title="New laneway between tower and Goods Shed." width="580"></a>

An area that could do with a bit more refinement is the westerly wall of the brick plinth, flanking the stairs and housing the substation.  Currently it presents to the street and pedestrian as a blank brick wall save for the car park entry - now I love my brick but I would like to see a bit more articulation whether through the feathering of the brick, manipulation of the brick to create some sort of visual relief, or artwork or even a great big 710 Collins Street sign.

One of the aims of the development is to "re-establish and reconnect Batman's Hill to the traditional city of Melbourne by strengthening the CBD built form from Docklands."   This begins to become evident when 710 Collins Street is viewed in the context of future development at Batman's Hill, namely the new 145m KPMG headquarters at Collins Square and the mammoth 701 Collins Street development - ten buildings ranging in height from 20m to 160m.  

Batman's Hill was always envisioned as being the transitional threshold between the CBD and Docklands, yet visually this is only just beginning to become apparent. 

<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/710C%2001_EDIT_1.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="239" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/710C%2001_EDIT_1.png?itok=detFpOu_" width="580"></a>

One thing that is highlighted is an imbalance in the Batman's Hill precinct - with a taller, denser core towards the south of the precinct.  Buildings such as 750 Collins Street, 700 Collins Street and 737 Bourke Street seem aesthetically and at a macro scale rather transitory, as if it's only a matter of time before they too are replaced by something taller and architecturally more adventurous.

As Docklands continues to mature I expect we will see more and more first generation (or G1 as I like to call them) commercial buildings replaced with taller, more striking buildings and 710 Collins is just the beginning of the next phase of Docklands evolution.  While the partial demolition of Goods Shed North is unfortunate I believe the benefits to the public realm far outweigh the negatives. The employing of timber and masonry as more natural counter elements to the glazed steel structured tower is a huge positive for mine, resulting in a less sterile environment.

Overall I believe Hassell have designed an excellent scheme which strikes a good balance between the commercial requirements of their client, heritage concerns and benefits to the public realm.   
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Laurence Dragomir

Coming up with the Goods - 710 Collins Street Docklands

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Following a five year hiatus, the trouble plagued <a href="http://www.melbournestar.com/">Melbourne Star Observation Wheel</a> (not Ferris Wheel) re-opened on the 23rd December 2013 to very little fanfare.  During the course of my summer break I wandered down to Waterfront City on a warm and blustery day to take the wheel for a spin and a few days later once more on a warm, pleasant Melbourne evening.  
Now I don't frequent Harbour Town often but I must admit I was pleasantly surprised by the number of people shopping, dining or meandering around the precinct which considering the amount of criticism Docklands attracts was fantastic to see.
<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/DPP_0041_0.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Star as seen from Victoria Harbour"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/DPP_0041_0.JPG?itok=8JXR-1wu" title="Melbourne Star as seen from Victoria Harbour" typeof="Image"></a>
What many may not realise is that an incarnation of the Melbourne Star (albeit proposed by a different consortium), called the 'Melbourne Eye' was once one of the short-listed proposals for the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2002/04/05/1017206261265">Sandridge Bridge across the Yarra</a>.  Originally intended to straddle the bridge itself, the wheel was later moved to the northbank of the Yarra parallel to Flinders Street Station.  The bidding process eventually fell through with no successful bidder announced and Sandridge Bridge became the pedestrian and cycling thoroughfare we know today.
The reason I bring this up is personally I feel that Sandridge Bridge in terms of accessibility, way finding and the potential views it would have afforded would have made it a superior location.  The Melbourne Star's 30 minute rotation includes a narrative of various local landmarks - the vast majority of which aren't visible from Docklands but can be viewed on the map you are provided with when you purchase your tickets.
I applaud the operators for attempting to provide a more interactive experience however I believe it is to the detriment of Harbour Town and Docklands as a whole - you have made the effort to visit Docklands but the voice in your cabin is essentially telling you to hightail it out of there and check out the MCG, Fed Square, the Queen Vic Market or a whole host of other CBD attractions for example.  Once again I believe such a strategy would have made more sense had the wheel been built at Sandridge Bridge. In saying that aesthetically Melbourne Star is visually more interesting than what the 'Melbourne Eye' was proposed to be.
<img alt="" height="656" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/pictures/article-images/Image4_25.jpg" title="'Melbourne Eye' proposal straddling Sandridge Bridge. Source: Herald Sun" width="1354">
A general admission adult ticket @ $32 allows you a 30 minute ride on the wheel during the course of the day it was purchased but online GA tickets can be booked for any day of the week but not a specific time.  For an additional $8 (total $40) you can purchase an encore flight which is valid for a period of 30 days from date of purchase, much better value for money if you intend on visiting again, possibly at night - which is exactly what I did.
<img alt="" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/pictures/article-images/Melbourne%20Star%20ticket.jpg">
 
The views over Docklands and towards the city are pretty amazing and I'm a sucker for shipping containers and port infrastructure, but the views north or west might not be everyone's cup of tea and this isn't likely to change until the E-Gate precinct gets underway or the Footscray skyline begins to mature.
While I enjoyed the experience, overall and think it's definitely worth checking out at least once (you can ignore all the negative media) yet  I probably won't be taking a ride on the wheel again for sometime when for a fraction of the price I could go to the Eureka Skydeck, Vue de Monde/Lui Bar @ the Rialto or even the loos on level 35 of Sofitel.  But enough talk, as always please enjoy the images below taken over the course of two days.  Peace out.
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Twinkle, Twinkle Melbourne Star

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Today's content comes directly from the vault; dusted off and ready for inspection. During the late 1990's the then Docklands Authority published an irregular newsletter that although now yellow, worn and stained gives a fair indication as to the expectations maintained by those in charge of delivering Melbourne's new waterfront during that time. Dated November 1998 the fold-out newsletter provides a fantastic glimpse of Melbourne prior to the new millennium.

What immediately stands out is the lack of infrastructure throughout the area. Traversing Docklands over the last twelve years with trusty camera in tow and having no recollection of Docklands prior to its current metamorphosis, it's truly disturbing and impressive that such a large area of land so close to a major metropolis was underutilised for so long. With the Bolte Bridge and La Trobe Street / Collins Street extensions not yet constructed, it truly resembled a wasteland.

Cast your view to the second image below and you'll see a very lonely Crown Casino dominating Southbank's panorama; how times have changed! For Docklands at least the land parcels had at this point been defined, although time would subsume the names Yarranova, Entertainment City and Commonwealth Technology Port, replaced by NewQuay, Waterfront City and Digital Harbour.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Img_0089.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Infrastructure works prior to Docklands commencing. Images © Docklands Authority"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_0089.jpg?itok=NHEcxjLT" title="Infrastructure works prior to Docklands commencing. Images © Docklands Authority" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

See below the official Docklands render of the day, a concept far more advanced than earlier ghastly visions which bore an uncanny resemblance to a Mulgrave office park. For the countless articles of diatribe against Docklands over the years, the precinct has managed to stay true to the render in certain respects. The general height, bulk and density of realised buildings is fairly similar to the image below. NewQuay and Yarra's Edge in particular have delivered to date basically what is seen below. Whilst the central precinct, Victoria Harbour, has in reality a denser built form, Batman's Hill was at the time the exception.

<a href="/news/grollo-tower-one-mans-vision-unrealised" target="_blank">Covered by Urban.com.au previously</a>, Bruno Grollo's then world's tallest Grollo Tower was one of two parties vying for the right to develop the Batman's Hill precinct. History shows that neither gained the right to develop the whole precinct, rather it was portioned off to separate developers with the last slice recently <a href="/news/batmans-hill-collins-street-the-missing-piece-of-the-docklands-jigsaw" target="_blank">granted to Lend Lease</a>, and now subject to further planning. Whilst many think that Docklands struggles on a micro level, it will never be known whether a better outcome could have been achieved by development plot by plot, rather than precinct by precinct.

Would the urban realm have been enhanced by each individual site being subject to a tender process? Docklands may have therefore followed a more organic growth, slowly expanding westwards whilst maintaining the feel of the CBD rather than a large master planned enclave. Gone would be the pockets of development surrounded by vast tracts of empty land which has only in recent years been corrected as the suburb continues its expansion.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/IMG_0094_0.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="The envisaged Docklands. Images © Docklands Authority"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/IMG_0094_0.JPG?itok=us5g6YZA" title="The envisaged Docklands. Images © Docklands Authority" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

In isolation the 1998 Docklands vision seemed to provide a fair balance between the practical expansion of Melbourne's CBD whilst taking into account the desire for open space, density and height considerations. The mind boggles at what would be proposed for the precinct if Docklands were a blank canvas today. Fifteen years ago Melbourne had yet to experience its shift toward apartment living, Southbank was yet to boom and Fishermans Bend, E-Gate and the CBD North/Arden Structure Plan were foreign concepts.

I'd suggest the 1998 vision provided a decent platform for Docklands to base itself upon. Consider now that the precinct is approximately 60% complete; it has been a long haul with many years to come and I can't help but think that one day into the distant future when Docklands is near ringed by far larger developments that public sentiment will shift more and more in favour of the precinct.
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silvermb

The Docklands vision - circa 1998

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Recently, Apartments.com.au wandered down to <a href="http://www.lendlease.com/en/australia/projects/batmans-hill">Lend Lease</a>'s Public Information Session at <a href="http://lifestyleworkingcollinsstreet.net/">838 Collins Street</a> for their latest Docklands project, dubbed (for the time being at least) Batman's Hill Collins Street. It was a good opportunity to provide our two bob's worth and get an insight into the development and some of the key ideas which make up the scheme, from Lend Lease's project team, led by project director Brian Herlihy.

The 2.5ha site at 701 Collins Street is located at a critical juncture where the Melbourne CBD and Docklands meet - diagonally across from Southern Cross Station includes frontages to Flinders Street and partial air rights over Wurundjeri Way. The $1.6 billion precinct will go some way to completing Collins Street and strengthening the connection between Docklands and the CBD, with the introduction of commercial buildings, apartments, two significant public spaces and a network of pedestrian and cycling paths. 

<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%20Hill.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Batmans%20Hill.jpg?itok=k3LrxMmc" typeof="Image"></a>

A brief history of the site:

The 2.5ha site formed part of what was to be the 560m <a href="/news/grollo-tower-one-mans-vision-unrealised">Grollo Tower project</a> and has also seen schemes developed over the years by 'starchitects' <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/architect-to-transform-docklands/2007/08/01/1185647977807">Zaha Hadid</a> (in partnership with local firm <a href="http://www.a-r-m.com.au/">ARM</a>) and Norman Foster, for clients SAMA Dubai, whom had entered into exclusive negotiations for the site with VicUrban. These eventually fell through when SAMA couldn't  guarantee work would commence on site within 2 years, due to financial pressures which arose as a result of the Global Financial Crisis and in 2011 the site was put out to tender once more, attracting competition from property heavy weights Grocon+Mirvac, Equiset + Australand, Lend Lease and Leightons.

After a solid year of rumours circulating around the industry that Lend Lease had won development rights to Parcels 5b, 6 &amp; 6a, it was finally made official on August 1st 2013. Lend Lease's project team consists of Master Plan Architects <a href="http://www.dentoncorkermarshall.com/">DCM</a> (Commercial), <a href="http://www.fkaustralia.com/">FKA</a> (Residential) with landscape architecture by <a href="http://aspect.net.au/">Aspect Studios</a>.

The plans for the precinct include the following:

<ul>
<li>Approx.110,000sqm of NLA distributed across 4 commercial buildings to Collins Street providing space for approx. 10,000 workers, and targeting a 6-Star Green Star rating, ranging in height from 93-160m</li>
	<li>Approx. 600 apartments to Flinders Street housing 1,000 residents with the potential for a hotel in-lieu of one of the apartment towers and targeting a 5-Star Green Star rating, ranging in height from 53-137m</li>
	<li>2 strata office buildings ranging in height from 20-45m</li>
	<li>1,000sqm of community space throughout the site</li>
	<li>Approximately 4,000sqm of retail </li>
	<li>Minor relocation of Bruce Armstrong's  'Bunjil' sculpture</li>
	<li>'The City Room', a major new public space, protected from the elements and flanked by a new 600sqm community building and the commercial towers offering views of 'Bunjil'</li>
	<li>Batman's Square a new pocket park nestled amongst the residential towers</li>
	<li>A new CBD-style north-south laneway connecting Collins and Flinders Streets </li>
	<li>The introduction of Flinders Lane into Docklands along with other minor laneways</li>
	<li>Wurundjeri Steps connecting the lower public realm to the upper ground plane</li>
	<li>New public art which responds to and reinterprets the history of the site</li>
	<li>1,000 parking spaces below Collins Street.</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/1415_LL_BH_Website_Images_Lrg.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/1415_LL_BH_Website_Images_Lrg.jpg?itok=5t4uczIH" typeof="Image"></a>

Taking into account the difficulties the site presents in that is required to 'bridge' over a portion of Wurundjeri Way (but not completely) and negotiating the changes in level between 'upper' Docklands and 'lower' Docklands plus the commercial realities of realising such a project, the master plan is a generally solid and competent response and Lend Lease should be commended for the strong focus on the public realm and creating activated spaces via a good mix of surrounding uses but as always there's some room for improvement, in my opinion. For example:

<ul>
<li>Batman's Square while generally protected from traffic and rail by buildings doesn't look like it will receive very much sunlight particularly around lunch time but unfortunately there aren't too many alternatives.</li>
	<li>The development rights for the site should have included air rights above the full extent of Wurundjeri Way allowing for a reconfiguration of the Wurundjri Way/Flinders Street intersection to improve pedestrian access and amenity. I believe this would free-up the site much more for development, while also potentially addressing the point above re: Batman's Square - it could then be located on top of the deck south of 'The City Room' with 'Bunjil' as its centrepiece. </li>
	<li>Some more variation in building height's by redistributing it towards the east so the site steps down in height from the CBD to Collins Square (With Collins Square Tower 4D sitting at 145m there's the risk for the two developments to appear as a big blob). I'd like to see C4 &amp; at least 200m tall, making it Docklands' tallest building which might mean that C3 is perhaps reduced to 120m.  </li>
	<li>Similarly I believe R1 should be the taller of the residential buildings (perhaps combine with a hotel component - the plan allows for hotel) and aim for about 180m. Reduce the height of R3 to improve solar access to Batman's Square.</li>
	<li>The site should aim for a high quality architectural response. The engagement of DCM and FKA should go someway to achieving this however I think some (if not all) buildings should be the result of design competitions, particularly for such an important and visible site.</li>
</ul>
Lend Lease intends to submit a Development Plan, following completion of the community consultation process, for approval this year before proceeding with Planning Applications for individual towers. Construction is due to begin on Building C1 in 2015 with completion of the entire project forecast for 2025. 

See below further images of the proposed plan plus various unrealised schemes for the site.

Until next time... Peace out.

For further information and to have your say on how Batmans Hill should be developed please visit: <a href="http://www.batmanshillcollinsstreet.com.au/about">http://www.batmanshillcollinsstreet.com.au/about</a>
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Batman's Hill Collins Street - The missing piece of the Docklands jigsaw?

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Apartments.com.au this week had the good fortune of being invited to peruse The Quays, Docklands latest, largest and greatest apartment development.  Situated at the north eastern point of MAB Corporation's <a href="http://www.newquay.com.au/" target="_blank">Newquay</a> precinct, with high exposure to both Harbour Esplanade and Docklands Drive, the locale lent itself to an extraordinary design and that's precisely what project architects <a href="http://www.mcbridecharlesryan.com.au/" target="_blank">McBride Charles Ryan</a> (MCR) delivered.

Externally the towers are dominated by blue, pink and purple glaze, something head contractor <a href="http://www.brookfieldmultiplex.com/" target="_blank">Brookfield Multiplex</a> grappled with as local technology restraints required elements of the facade be imported from overseas due to its complexity.  This facade is punctuated by incredible crumpled precast balconies, yet the true worth of the exterior design lies within the public domain.  At ground level there is visual relief in the form of  varying materials, textures and colours employed, where a passerby isn't confronted by frontages comprising of a single material. 

Whether it be Euroa glazed clay bricks, mosaic tiles in a variety of colours, timber louvres, stainless steel or a multitude of other materials, pedestrian interest is piqued through the intricate nature of the ground and podium levels.  The Quays oozes class and suggests an uncompromising stance taken by MAB in delivering a high quality outcome true to MCR's vision.

Soon to appear will be a Callum Morton installation entitled "Monument Park" at Conder Plaza.  Working in unison with MCR and MAB, the park aims to create an experience which ties residential towers The Conder, The Quays and The Boyd together.  Further a  beach ball installation has yet to arrive; three storeys high and wedged between Harbour One and The Quays podium, the beach ball will undoubtedly be a visual strongpoint.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Img_8697.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Big, bold and beautiful; The Quays toying with sunlight"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_8697.jpg?itok=lpY-dkwS" title="Big, bold and beautiful; The Quays toying with sunlight" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Three separate communal zones have been included within the complex.  Spanning 2260 m² and costing $10 million, the communal spaces are available for all residents to use.  According to MAB, "The facilities are designed to supplement private homes with good quality public space." In describing the areas as communal spaces, MCR endeavoured to provide as many nooks for people to meet and sit within, thereby striking a balance between community and privacy.

The residents lounge is a particularly stunning space which involves a kitchen and dining area, poker room, boardroom and business centre, library, quiet work areas, daily amenities and a cinema room as seen below.  Reinforcing the sense of a shared community is the external space atop the podium.  Featuring a garden retreat and sporting facilities, the space is designed to be used in a variety of functions simultaneously.

Holding 617 apartments in total, The Quays general floor plate is that of a jigsaw puzzle with a distinct lack of perpendicular walls evident.  After a near two year build residents will be free to move in during November with all apartments holding expansive views while 30% will hold harbour views that cannot be built out.

Apartments average 62 m² in size with the average price topping $580,000 within the 6 star energy rated complex.  Expecting no less of MCR, four distinct, vivid apartment colour schemes were offered while a fifth was employed for the Sebel premier apartment hotel component. Initially causing consternation within MAB, the vivd colour schemes employing a pearl and coral theme were received well by buyers although a more subtle scheme was available for less adventurous buyers.  Incidentally for those readers half tempted to secure an apartment within the $300+ million dollar development, all apartments bar one have been sold.  At 60 m² the generously sized single bedroom residence won't be available for long.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Img_8683.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A cinema space is included within the communal facilities"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_8683.jpg?itok=aFqvwfrw" title="A cinema space is included within the communal facilities" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

A key feature of the development is the public thoroughfare bisecting the ground level. Debbie Ryan of MCR states "We were keen to create a bond between private and public space at The Quays and it's the first building we have built with a public thoroughfare which makes getting in and around the area easier."  MCR and MAB wanted to add to Melbourne's laneway network by introducing a thoroughfare and associated atrium through the site, yet with a sense of place.

This sense of place is reinforced with a water theme present throughout the thoroughfare, giving the complex a localised context in what can be considered somewhat of a transient space. The water wall seen below is a nod to the National Gallery of Victoria's water wall; it provides privacy to the swimming area behind while providing a kinetic and tactile quality to the atrium space so much so it's fair to say the image below had the author somewhat perplexed for a period of time.

Various programs spill into the thoroughfare or have some level of interface with it, be it the three retails spaces, Sebel reception, communal facilities or elevated apartment passageways. The sheer size, quality and detail of The Quays and its atrium is exceptional, with the crowning piece an installation by artist Nike Savvas featuring suspended iridescent glass balls.  "The result is colourful, lively and activated, providing delight to the pedestrian realm" according to Debbie Ryan; a well considered development all parties involved can be immensely proud of!

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Img_8721.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Perception or reality? The waterwall in action"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_8721.jpg?itok=Q5RFaf-j" title="Perception or reality? The waterwall in action" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

And what does the future hold for Newquay in general?  After chatting with MAB residential general manager David Allt-Graham, sales for the precincts next project, <a href="http://www.newquaypromenade.com.au/home" target="_blank">Newquay Promenade</a> remain steady with a likely public launch for the second Bronze tower expected during February 2014.  Ideally construction of both Silver and Bronze towers that constitute Newquay Promenade will occur simultaneously.

As for the future McBride Charles Ryan-designed tower destined for what was Waterfront City, work continues to deliver the landmark complex. <a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/development/2013/03/28/the-quays-to-success" target="_blank">First seen on Urban.com.au</a>, the sloping semicircle tower may well include a residential component allowing the lucky few to eventually own a piece of what just may become Melbourne's ultimate address.  Elsewhere within the precinct Mr Allt-Graham expressed MAB's desire to include an office tower on what is now Newquay's last vacant lot fronting Docklands Drive, given 387-395 Docklands Drive is subject to<a href="/news/dko-delivers-387-395-docklands-drive-docklands" target="_blank"> this residentail scheme</a> by dKO Architecture.

As for The Quays, the project is best summed by the words of resident designer and graphics guru Laurence Dragomir, "They just got it right!" Indeed they did; we only hope more developers and architects follow suit.

 

With Laurence Dragomir

Click the images below to view Apartments.com.au's tour of The Quays, Docklands.
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Urban.com.au tours The Quays 

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Following submission to state planning authority DPCD during January, only now are <a href="http://www.dko.com.au/" target="_blank">dKO Architecture</a> poised to add another approved design to their portfolio with 387-395 Docklands Drive.  Currently an at grade car park, dKO have devised a dual tower residential complex atop a common podium to take its place.  Nestled behind the initial tranche of residential towers at developer MAB Corporation's successful <a href="http://www.newquay.com.au/" target="_blank">Newquay</a> precinct, the complex would deliver further apartments and activity to what is Docklands most populous precinct.
Taking the area's surrounds into account, dKo Architecture have delivered a highly complimentary design featuring their near trademark use of precast panels in a irregular vertical pattern aided by a gold facade.  Complementary in that the golden facade ties in with that of MAB Corporation's current, nearby residential offering <a href="http://www.newquaypromenade.com.au/home" target="_blank">Newquay Promenade</a> while the white, precast-laden podium holds commonality with another dKO design located at <a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/forum/docklands-6-22-pearl-river-road-140m-43l-residential" target="_blank">6-22 Pearl River Road</a>.
With Singapore-based developer Hiap Hoe poised to deliver 6-22 Pearl River road in its approved form, it's quite likely that when completed 6-22 Pearl River Road and 387-395 Docklands Drive will appear as bookends within the precinct, framing the former yet soon to be redeveloped Waterfront City precinct.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image1_34.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="387-395 Docklands Drive as per the planning application. Image © dKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_34.jpg?itok=IRrQ1JdM" title="387-395 Docklands Drive as per the planning application. Image © dKO Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Delivering the northern tower initially will allow greater street frontage and pedestrian activity to Dockland Drive, further enhancing its already solid foot traffic.  Whilst ensuring the waterfront promenade along Newquay is a success, equally as important is the built form and urban realm along Docklands Drive as whilst most occasional visitors and tourists will traverse the area using the waterfront, regular workers, residents, shoppers and students populate Docklands Drive.  Quite simply, the quicker the remaining empty sites fronting Docklands Drive can be developed with active street frontages, the better.
As submitted, the scheme calls for dual 17 level residential towers of 57 metres in height.  With 347 apartments in total, the mix consists of 3 studio dwellings, 231 one bedroom options and 113  two bedroom options.  A common car park will be located above ground within the podium catering for 146 spaces in addition to facilities for 115 bicycles.  Shrouded in an apartments,  158m² of retail space, 7 home offices and accentuated by a vertical green wall, the car park will be obscured from view.
The development is split into two stages where the northern Stage A is slated to be delivered first, while Stage B is currently a detailed conceptual design which will be subject to its own planning application.  Having said that level four is expected to host a common landscaped area between the two towers for residential use whilst level 7 over both buildings will carry a large setback allowing for further green areas and residential amenity to be incorporated.
<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/Image4_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Two residential towers divided by a common elevated courtyard. Image © dKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_17.jpg?itok=GvrOEE4t" title="Two residential towers divided by a common elevated courtyard. Image © dKO Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
The site in question already maintains an approved commercial development scheme for a 5 star BBCA / 4.5 star NABERS office complex, as seen below. A product of Melbourne architecture firm <a href="http://www.hassellstudio.com/" target="_blank">Hassell</a>, the 22,000m² A Grade office tower was to have a commercial car park component involving 438 parking bays over lower levels plus in excess to 200 bicycle spaces. Although likely superseded by the current residential application, MAB Corporation would seemingly hold the flexibility of maintaining both designs should they deem one more viable over the other.
Conversely Hassell have also designed a new office complex entitled The Quarter directly opposite at 396 Docklands Drive, heightening the likelihood that 387-395 Docklands Drive will materialise as a residential complex. Currently on offer, detailed imagery of 396 Dockland Drive can be found via the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.garethservant.com/396" target="_blank">Gareth Servant</a> website.
<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/Image5_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="395 Docklands Drive, designed by Hassell Architects. Image © MAB Corporation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_13.jpg?itok=8UeaaJa_" title="395 Docklands Drive, designed by Hassell Architects. Image © MAB Corporation" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
The current residential application was forwarded to Melbourne City Council's <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/AboutCouncil/Meetings/PortfoliosMembership/Pages/FutureMelbourneCommitteeToR.aspx" target="_blank">Future Melbourne Committee</a> for analysis and comment.  Dated September 2013, the officers recommendation provides in principal support for 387-395 Docklands Drive subject to a number of conditions generally surrounding further information requirements prior to construction.  A final DPCD planning decision is pending.
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dKO delivers > 387-395 Docklands Drive, Docklands

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<a href="http://www.docklandsnews.com.au/editions/article/yarras-edge-tram-bridge-outrage_9122/" target="_blank">Docklands News</a> reported (01/10/13) Yarra's Edge residents were growing increasingly worried about the proposed tram bridge as outlined in the Fishermans Bend draft vision.  Under the headline "Yarra's Edge tram bridge outrage", Docklands News quoted boat owners as saying they would oppose any low-level bridge that would restrict access to the Marina.

The article similarly quotes the Planning Minister as saying "the bridge was more than 20 years off from being built" and then quotes a Places Victoria representative as saying "a tram link between Collins Street and Yarra's Edge would be in place within 10 years".  Confused?  You're not alone.

Whilst a tunnel might keep the boat owners of Yarra's Edge happy, we need to look at the overall benefits of building the cheaper option: a low-level bridge:

<ul>
<li>cheaper to construct than a tunnel</li>
	<li>more likely to provide pedestrian &amp; cycle links adjacent to tram tracks</li>
	<li>ability to place a tram stop right on the southern bank of the river - injecting people into an otherwise inactive urban environment</li>
	<li>no unsightly ramp in the middle of Collins Street in Victoria Harbour.</li>
</ul>
One potential idea is to slowly move the berths to the west of the proposed bridge alignment as leases in their current position expire therefore allowing a fixed bridge to be built maximising the public's return on investment in the bridge.  

If you're to believe the Places Victoria representative's timeframe of 10 years then an opening bridge could be built with a view to lock it in position over a longer timeframe once the berths have moved away from their current position.   In 10 years, Fishermans Bend (in particular the Lorimer precinct) isn't likely required to have super-high frequency services traversing the river (therefore periods each hour for opening could be catered for), but in 20 years time (the Planning Minister's quoted timeframe) demand for high frequency access to and from Fishermans Bend is likely to be much greater with the entire redevelopment zone underway in some shape or form.

On the loss of open / green space, it is well within the realms of possibility to acquire the site on the opposite side of Lorimer street (pan the street view below around 180 degrees) to even increase the amount of open space available to existing Yarra's Edge residents, mitigating the obvious loss of existing green space should a low-level bridge be the preferred option.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="400" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com.au/maps?t=h&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-37.824158,144.942455&amp;panoid=ZWn0RAEWSz6zODMx3I5zag&amp;cbp=13,34.19,,0,4.79&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=-37.824793,144.942777&amp;spn=0.001331,0.003015&amp;z=18&amp;output=svembed" width="100%"></iframe> <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps?t=h&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-37.824158,144.942455&amp;panoid=ZWn0RAEWSz6zODMx3I5zag&amp;cbp=13,34.19,,0,4.79&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=-37.824793,144.942777&amp;spn=0.001331,0.003015&amp;z=18" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a>

As I <a href="/news/an-overview-of-fishermans-bends-transport-vision" target="_blank">wrote</a> two weeks ago, the most interesting part of the Fishermans Bend draft vision was the eventual form this new link would take.  I just didnt think it would be this quick for the locals to fire up.

 
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Alastair Taylor

Rumble in Yarra's Edge

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If you're inclined to think along similar lines as I then you'd tend to formulate first impressions of a foreign city based upon your first tangible contact which generally happens to be your hotel of choice. A great hotel is generally a decent precursor as to what can be expected, while a bad one, well... it's enough to give you the brace and bits.

With this in mind, today's article is a follow up to <a href="/news/wraps-are-off-the-altus-238-harbour-esplanade">yesterday's article</a> on Docklands' new centrepiece, <a href="http://www.thealtus.com.au/home">The Altus</a> located with the <a href="http://www.digitalharbour.com.au/">Digital Harbour</a> precinct. Lower levels within the development will carry hotel accommodation under the Sheraton Four Points brand. The 4.5-star hotel will now feature 281 guest rooms and a serviced apartment component according to the project website, and will create an estimated 480 jobs during construction plus 125 ongoing positions thereafter, related to hotel operations.

A critical part of the tourism sector and economic growth, new large-scale hotels in Melbourne are not a frequent occurrence, therefore Apartments.com.au thought it best to give the project its dues.

<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/Image13_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Altus at dusk"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="391" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_7.jpg?itok=tsGXllpA" title="The Altus at dusk" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Altus at dusk</figcaption></figure>As mentioned Sheraton Four Points Docklands will carry 281 hotel rooms where a typical studio hotel room is illustrated below. Room spaces will generally vary between 30sqm and 40sqm according to the planning application approved some months ago, although the floor to floor particulars may have been refined following input from Sheraton brand operator <a href="http://www.starwoodhotels.com/">Starwood Hotels</a>.

Project architecture firm <a href="http://www.moullmurray.com/">Moull Murray</a> describes internals for both hotel and apartment spaces as follows, "The interior design with its Scandinavian influenced clean lines and authentic natural materials, employs a palette of light timber flooring combined with elements of natural timber and light coloured cabinetry, set off with polished reconstituted stone work tops and the latest in kitchen appliances, to create a sophisticated interior ambience.

Referring to The Altus' facilities Moull Murray describes the inclusion of "A 25 m lap pool, residents gym and lounge together with the hotel bar and restaurant, overlook landscaped parks on two sides, which will provide landscaped, tranquil urban retreats as a counterpoint to the activity of the spaces within."

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hotel-010_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A typical studio hotel room"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hotel-010_0.jpg?itok=NCj0pWUo" title="A typical studio hotel room" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A typical studio hotel room</figcaption></figure>Joining two levels of luxury penthouse living at the peak of The Altus will be a dedicated 'Sky Lounge' facility located on level 34 for hotel guests. One could surmise that once Sheraton signed on as the hotel operator with an increased number of hotel rooms than initially anticipated, agreement was reached with developer Digital Harbour Holdings to increase the amenity offerings for future hotel guests. As a result the hotel lounge initially destined for level 14 now finds itself at a higher perch.

Once operational hotel guests will be able to enjoy magnificent, near 360 degree views over Melbourne for the foreseeable future, as depicted below. The Altus is positioned toward the northern border of Docklands allowing for expansive views, even when the neighbouring 23 hectare, high density E-Gate land parcel is developed in the future.

<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/views-level-34e.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The level 34 experience"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="84" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/views-level-34e.jpg?itok=5ZDbW6m0" title="The level 34 experience" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The level 34 experience</figcaption></figure>Being a touch facetious now, put yourself in the position a of typical tourist family, Bob and Wendy from Illinois if you will with sons Chad and Randy in tow (naturally with their caps on backwards). Below is a sequence of images that a typical tourist may encounter when visiting Sheraton Four Points Docklands, from arrival to check-in and then enjoying the array of amenities at the hotel. At some point when the family steps out to sample all that Melbourne has two offer, two thoughts would likely spring to mind; what an impressive hotel complex and "I wonder if they've got the Gap here?"

Enjoy, click the images below for a larger view. All images © Atomic 3D / Moull Murray.
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First impressions last...

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Reported some months ago through a variety of media sources after planning approval was granted, <a href="http://www.thealtus.com.au/">The Altus</a> located within Melbourne's Docklands precinct has been quietly biding its time until the countdown clock (as seen below) reached zero this morning, revealing further information on the projects website. As the apartment sales campaign nears Apartments.com.au today takes a look at The Altus in further detail, particularly with the public realm in mind.

With varying figures in the media as to the final mix of hotel rooms versus apartments and project end value, developer <a href="http://www.digitalharbour.com.au/">Digital Harbour Holdings</a>' website carries the following description, "Planning Minister Matthew Guy has granted approval to build a $300 million hotel and residential complex on the corner of Harbour Esplanade and Dudley Street at the northern end of Docklands. The new 37 level tower will sit on the block of land at 238 Harbour Esplanade, between Harbour Esplanade and Wurundjeri Way. The plans call for a complex of 299 apartments and a 4.5-star 254 room hotel together with 27 serviced apartments operated by Sheraton."

<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/Image1_33.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Countdown clock seen on thealtus.com.au prior to expiration. Image © Digital Harbour Holdings"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_33.jpg?itok=iO7bcaOq" title="Countdown clock seen on thealtus.com.au prior to expiration. Image © Digital Harbour Holdings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Countdown clock seen on thealtus.com.au prior to expiration. Image © Digital Harbour Holdings</figcaption></figure>From the outset project architects <a href="http://www.moullmurray.com/">Moull Murray</a> have sought "To develop an iconic, landmark building completing the northern gateway to Docklands." While individuals generally view a building's aesthetic worth or landmark status from a distance, its true worth lies in the finer design details, amenities, and general usealbility for lack of a better word.

To that end Moull Murray have implemented a loggia through the lower levels of the complex, where "The grand stair leads into the arcade walkway, a semi internal walkway that leads to multiple entry points. This walkway can be seen as an extension of the restaurant within. Passers through will experience a slow space of “street life” which references Melbourne laneways, however activation will mostly be created by the local tower resident usage.

Bare in mind that green/public spaces will be created at either end of the elevated passage plus aspects of the The Altus' pool will be visible externally. Add a cafe, extensive landscaping and furniture incorporated into the passage and Moull Murray have done an excellent job in creating an interactive and interesting public domain; if only other areas of Docklands maintained such standards.

<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/Image17_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Axonometric view if the developments arcade walkway. Image © Moull Murray"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image17_4.jpg?itok=Lq0K9WyD" title="Axonometric view if the developments arcade walkway. Image © Moull Murray" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Axonometric view if the developments arcade walkway. Image © Moull Murray</figcaption></figure>As stated within the planning application, Moull Murray have endeavored to "inject human activity into the podium facade where possible." Subsequently an articulated podium facade was conceived and submitted as part of the planning documents. After feedback from DPCD planners, Moull Murray refined the lower levels (seen below), adding greater variation in order to maximise viewer interest, particularly from the heavy traffic intersection of Harbour Esplanade, Dudley Street, Docklands Drive and Footscray Road.

The result is a highly interesting and articulated public interface over lower levels, with a green space separating the tower and the aforementioned intersection which maintains sight lines at ground level, something fairly uncommon within Docklands. The green wedge in effect provides a soft entry point into the complex.

Submitted plans show the podium levels feature a split between hotel rooms and one or two bedroom apartments facing east or west. These spaces for the most mask the internal above ground car parking, while the north and south aspects feature permeable patterned mesh facades allowing natural ventilation with hotel levels sitting above.

<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/Image31_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alterations outlined during the approval process. Image © Moull Murray"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image31_0.jpg?itok=D8xR6SMW" title="Alterations outlined during the approval process. Image © Moull Murray" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alterations outlined during the approval process. Image © Moull Murray</figcaption></figure>Beyond the hotel levels lie apartment floors with generic layouts from floor to floor. Originally slated for levels 15-33 one would assume now the number of floors dedicated toward apartment living has diminished somewhat due to the increase in hotel accommodation. The majority of residential levels carry a mix of one and two bedroom options, where floor area for one bed apartments generally ranges between 45-50sqm while two bed apartments generally weigh in at the 60-70sqm mark.

For the fortunate few, levels 34-35 are slated to carry sub-penthouse and penthouse apartments. Three bedroom penthouses carry a whopping 250sqm of living space with CBD and Bay views; it will be interesting to see if these are amongst the first to sell during the sales campaign, or if they are snapped up prior.

Digital Harbour Holdings director David Napier recently stated that construction is due to start during the first quarter of 2014. With the Sheraton agreement and financing in place prior to planning approval, it seems a sales campaign for the apartments is imminent. See the The Altus Vimeo below to gain a greater understanding of the project.

<figure><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/74599207" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="100%"></iframe>The Altus - Cinematic HD Film from <a href="http://vimeo.com/atomic3d">Atomic 3D</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</figure><a href="/news/first-impressions-last">Tomorrow Urban.com.au will peruse the internal images for The Altus</a>, with particular attention paid toward the hotel component. Branded Sheraton Four Points Docklands, the renders point to high quality yet subtle serviced apartments/accommodation and facilities for residents and guests alike.
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Wraps are off The Altus @ 238 Harbour Esplanade 

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It is that time again when Apartments.com.au takes a look into the vast depths of our <a href="/developments">project database</a> and this month we select the Top 5 from the projects currently approved.

<h2>5. The Altus, <a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">238 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands</a>
</h2>

Why do we like this? Besides the fact that if built it will be one of the tallest towers in Docklands and most certainly the tallest in Digital Harbour, the design will complement the curves and glass of <a href="/developers/mab-corporation">MAB Corp's</a> <a href="/buildings/the-quays-231-harbour-esplanade-docklands">The Quays</a> to the west located in NewQuay and also provide a landmark structure for the Footscray Road gateway into Docklands. Furthermore, the Altus will include a 4.5 star Sheraton Four Points hotel when completed.

<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/Altus.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Altus © BellaCharlton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Altus.jpg?itok=A2O1v-OU" title="The Altus © BellaCharlton" typeof="Image"></a>

<h2>4. Rawhouse, <a href="/new-apartments/fitzroy-vic-3065">97-99 Rose Street, Fitzroy</a>
</h2>

Why do we like this? From the team that have brought us <a href="/new-apartments/mesh-apartments-8-florence-street-brunswick">The Commons</a> comes <a href="/news/two-thumbs-up">Rawhouse</a> which if built, will incorporate similar architectural and sustainability features as its predecessor. Even though it is a relatively small development only housing a total of 12 apartments, Rawhouse also features an open stair well, a concrete and timber facade which will be recycled where possible and will have no car parking due to its close proximity to amenity and services. Also being located in <a href="/new-apartments/fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy</a> just behind the Veggie Bar, the concept of this building will certainly appeal to those that want to live in this area and with only 12 of these babies available, they will surely be sold in a flash.

<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/raw.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rawhouse © Breathe Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/raw.jpg?itok=6KH3lO73" title="Rawhouse © Breathe Architecture" typeof="Image"></a>

<h2>3. 9-11 Caravel Lane, Caroline Springs</h2>

Why do we like this? We like this because it is a multi-storey island in a sea of suburbia! Along with <a href="/buildings/135-the-esplanade-caroline-springs">Cascada</a> situated just down the road, these apartments set a good example of apartment living in a non traditional setting. If we also consider that the <a href="/buildings/135-the-esplanade-caroline-springs">Regional Rail Link</a> is being constructed and will pass nearby to Caroline Springs, the public transport service starved outer suburbs may see the light yet.

<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-Caravel-Ln-01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="9-11 Caravel Lane © Metaxas Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/MA-Caravel-Ln-01.jpg?itok=qSLGMNtC" title="9-11 Caravel Lane © Metaxas Architects" typeof="Image"></a>

<h2>2. <a href="/buildings/marina-tower-6-pearl-river-road-docklands">6-22 Pearl River Road, NewQuay</a>
</h2>

Why do we like this? This building designed by <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">dko Architecture</a> has the potential to become an iconic building for NewQuay, Docklands and Melbourne. The leaning, protruding structure provides a striking silhouette and would also provide fantastic waterfront views for those lucky enough to live in the building. In July 2013, MAB Corp sold off the site to the prominent Singaporean developer <a href="/developers/hiap-hoe">Hiap Hoe</a> which has hit the ground running in their first foray into the Australian property realm reportedly wanting to start construction immediately! Great enthusiasm!

<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/DKO.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="6-22 Pearl River Road, NewQuay © dko Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/DKO.jpg?itok=gVJr2MQ4" title="6-22 Pearl River Road, NewQuay © dko Architecture" typeof="Image"></a>

<h2>1. <a href="/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">450 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne</a>
</h2>

Why do we like this? An <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a> cracker! This 62 level tower is just shy of the 200 metre mark features a fantastic folding facade that creates a visually striking wave effect from the lower levels and all the way to the top. Hopefully we will see this tower move through to registrations and sales in the near future!

<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/11038_450_Elizabeth_Street_Elenberg%20fraser.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="450 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/11038_450_Elizabeth_Street_Elenberg%20fraser.jpg?itok=1HI0mNya" title="450 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne © Elenberg Fraser" typeof="Image"></a>

Do you agree with our list? Tell us what you think.
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