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.

[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."

[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 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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Collins Square seemed another run-of-the-mill development until I had the chance last week to take a guided tour through the complex with no less than the development's General Manager, Michael Spence.  Externally it displays all the restrained elegance that's expected of a <a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart design</a>, and internally the innovative layout and finishes are of the highest order, culminating in The Lunch Room; a high quality communal retail space that’s accessible to the public.

Initially though, consider the likely access point for most pedestrians arriving via Collins Street as it connects from Spencer Street over Wurundjeri Way to Batman’s Hill Drive.  707 Collins Street aka The Lantern building is small in stature, yet striking in appearance.  Its interface with the street was deliberately set-back to provide pedestrians with a clear line of sight into the project, whilst also making a contribution to the public realm; a plaza has been constructed over Village Street to connect The Lantern with the main Collins Square site.  Works are for the most part complete, yet two striking markers will appear shortly reinforcing the notion of sense of place.  Designed by sculptor Dion Horstmans, a large yellow steel canopy will be erected between The Lantern and 727 Collins Street creating a public marker that's expected to be an instantly recognisable meeting place for visitors and workers alike.

<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/Horstmans.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Walker 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/Horstmans.jpg?itok=YGZWj6jS" title="Image courtesy Walker Corporation" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

The above render provides an indication as to the scale and intricacy of the glazed sculpture that will cast an ever changing light pattern across the plaza.  Further to this, high-profile restaurateur Pete Evans will deliver two new dining concepts at either end of the plaza, providing activation of the space.  These venues are now under construction and will add to the public experience, bringing life to this section of Collins Street outside of business hours.

As for the star of the show, The Lunch Room was opened to the public last week and will make an instant impression upon those who visit.  The spatial planning was designed by <a href="/architects/the-buchan-group">The Buchan Group</a>, with Walker’s own interior designer working with Blackmilk Interior Design on the fit-out.   The Lunch Room is accessed via a large atrium that seamlessly flows into a food court allowing for a grand feel to the area.  Similar in certain aspects to the internal food court found at QV, yet with a more brooding sophisticated element.   The Lunch Room is a high quality public space with attention given to the slightest detail; so much so Sydney-based developer Lang Walker was a weekly visitor inspecting progress and assuring all finishes met his exacting standards.

Currently home to nine food outlets such as Sobo Japanese and Edamama, the offerings will expand as more towers are developed.  With this in mind Collins Square has intentions of opening over weekends in due course; visitors to Etihad Stadium currently have limited options available.  Pete Evans' restaurants will go a long way to activating an area of Docklands that needs more critical mass to be successful outside of business hours.  In due course it's expected that over time 48,000 people will traverse Collins Square daily enjoying a choice of services, food outlets, cafes, restaurants, fashion, grocery and specialty retailers once the complex is complete.

<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_6653.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Lunch Room during its first week"><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_6653.jpg?itok=KIDwWFuF" title="The Lunch Room during its first week" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Another focal point recently unveiled is King Sun, a 48sqm mural conceived by renowned artist John Olsen.  Located in the lobby of the recently completed Tower 1 anchored by Marsh &amp; McLennan Companies, the Collins Square website carries the following description

"Olsen’s 6×8 metre piece is des­tined for the lobby of “Tower B” at Collins Square, Walker Corporation’s bil­lion dol­lar com­plex of retail and office build­ings at Dock­lands, designed by archi­tects Bates Smart. It is the largest piece the 85-​year-​old has worked on since 1982′s Salute to Five Bells, his vibrant, blue mural for the Syd­ney Opera House." “In this mural it’s based on the sun and we’ve got these incredible images that were taken by NASA,” he said. “Work­ing on that theme, the sun goes into dark cor­ners, the sun gives us light – what’s at the end of it?”

<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/CollinsSquare-012_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="King Sun in frame and focus. Image courtesy Walker 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/CollinsSquare-012_0.jpg?itok=ne0brtV2" title="King Sun in frame and focus. Image courtesy Walker Corporation" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Visible from Collins Street the mural takes pride of place, but only for now.  Mounted on a wall that will eventually make way once the adjoining Tower 2 office tower is constructed, the mural will be relocated elsewhere within the expanded lobby.  Upon completion of Tower 2, the common lobby will result in a cavernous, functional space with great connectivity between all areas, including The Lunch Room.  As for Tower 2, Walker Corporation last week submitted plans for the Hassell-designed commercial building to the State Government (DPCD) for consideration.  The approximately 60,000sqm complex is an evolution of the restrained Bates Smart designed commercial towers and is slated to include a three level mid-tower void laden with greenery.

Two other development sites round out Collins Square, one of which fronts Wurundjeri Way and lends itself to an exceptional design given it's in effect a marker into Melbourne's CBD for those arriving via the West Gate.  Regardless Walker Corporation has made excellent strides in enhancing the user experience at Collins Square, one which will only improve as the development expands to its intended size.

 

www.collinssquare.com.au

See below further internal design features of The Lunch Room located within Collins Square, 727 Collins Street

 
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silvermb

The Lunch Room...and much more at Collins Square

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Another office block in Docklands you say? Same old, same old!

Well not quite. Site developer <a href="http://www.asset1.com.au/" target="_blank">Asset1</a> has in recent days been kind enough to advance to UrbanMelbourne.info a handful of high quality renders for their recently approved development at North Wharf spanning 731-739 Flinders Street, Docklands. Consider initially the media release, excerpts of which are provided below

Asset 1 is commencing a new wave of revitalization and refurbishment for their North Bank Precinct. As Landlord of the largest expanse of Yarra River fronting property, these plans will see a gust of fresh air blown into this significant Melbourne precinct. Plans are underway to create a vibrant new cultural and trade hub across the 11.7 acres of Asset 1 domain, including the World Trade, North Wharf and other key areas of the precinct.

Working collaboratively Cox architects, master-planners and under the supervision of Cox Principal, Patrick Ness, Asset 1 will look to implement a five year vision for this dynamic new expansion. This will include a trade square, trade hub, a cultural precinct, a retail precinct and a green boulevard. The development of North Wharf will also be undertaken and this will flow onto The Jim Stynes Bridge; giving complete connectivity to the prime Yarra River real estate.

This week, Planning Minister Matthew Guy granted a panning permit for North Wharf, anchored by a new 13 story office tower, comprising 33,427 square meters of office space, at 731 – 739 Flinders Street, Docklands. The North Wharf project will also include commercial office towers, the restoration of the historic old Mission to Seafarers and the Seafarers Rest Park, while introducing, retail, cafes and an art gallery. The historic crane will remain.The $90 million development of the North Wharf is the last piece of undeveloped land and is a lynch pin between Melbourne’s CBD, Docklands and the Yarra River.

<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/wharf_render_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="North Wharf as seen from its intended western flank"><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/wharf_render_0.jpg?itok=JfXC7MIe" title="North Wharf as seen from its intended western flank" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

So what makes North Wharf exceptional?

The vast majority of waterfront development in Docklands to date has followed the same formula; large open promenades dividing water and built form which in theory is fine, allowing light penetration and sight lines to be maximised. The issue arises when the promenade abutts said built form, generally by way of a towers podium; the urban realm at times seems an afterthought. I'd contend not enough has been done to soften the nexus between urban space and built form which leads to a monotonous, somewhat harsh experience.

Looking at the provided North Wharf images, is seems as if the urban spaces have been incorporated first with the commercial aspect an afterthought. Don't get me wrong , the commercial tower designed by Cox Architects is of a high quality yet the spaces fronting the Yarra are above and beyond. It certainly helps that the historic Goods Shed No. 5 and the 1948 crane have been incorporated, providing points of interest and history that vast tracks of Docklands waterfront no longer posses.

<a href="http://www.oculus.com.au/" target="_blank">Oculus Landscape Archtecture</a> have produced a mighty result by way of incorporating liberal amounts of greenery into the promenade and park which will link the Yarra to the <a href="/news">Mission to Seafarers</a> building and beyond, whilst also acting as a connection point for a number of pedestrian links including the currently under construction Jim Stynes Bridge. The narrow promenade coupled with the western tree plantings within close proximity to the waterfront gives the impression of an intimate, relaxing environment heavily skewed toward a green experience; certainly not applicable to many other parts of Docklands.

Much has been done to beautify the northern banks of the Yarra in recent years with North Wharf providing the last and most impressive link in this process. The only negative aspect one could conjure is that when realised, North Wharf will further shine the spotlight on the adjoining, abysmally outdated car park fronting both Flinders Street and Siddeley Street. In weeks to come Laurence Dragomir aka Blockhead might just provide a number of novel retrofit green facade solutions for the car park - stay tuned.

 

All images ©, and many thanks to Asset1
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North Wharf - A new urban space

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In a previous life this development site held by MAB Corporation was known as 443-451 Docklands Drive. Now with approval in tow, 6-22 Pearl River Road has been placed on the market via an Expressions of Interest campaign run by CBRE. Occupying a waterfront position with views that cannot be built out over 43 residential levels, 6-22 Pearl River Road would become the tallest building in Newquay and Docklands for that matter, if built. Bearing the above in mind, Apartments.com.au thought it an opportune time to delve deeper into this proposal.
<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/image3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A Newquay family portrait, with 2-66 Pearl River Road towering above all others. Image courtesy CBRE"><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/image3.jpg?itok=XHSefG3U" title="A Newquay family portrait, with 2-66 Pearl River Road towering above all others. Image courtesy CBRE" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Conceived by <a href="http://www.dko.com.au/" target="_blank">DKO Architecture</a> the tower would replace what is now an open air carpark which formed part of ING's Waterfront City. Subsequently purchased by MAB Corporation, the scheme was submitted to DPCD during 2012 and received planning approval a period of time later.
Viewed as one tower, the complex is notionally split in two with Tower A referring to the northern 16 level building while Tower B would involve the southern, 43 level splayed building. Together these buildings would accommodate 425 apartments with options ranging from townhouses and 1 Bedroom through to 4 Bedroom dwellings. 452 car spaces and 128 bicycle spaces would be held through the podium, with the bulk of the building's street level frontages activated. Below left shows the ground floor layout, pink and blue indicating residential/communal spaces, yellow and orange showing parking facilities while 'E' indicates four separate entry points for residents.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image55.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2-66 Pearl River Road ground floor plan and internal atrium. 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/Image55.jpg?itok=yG8iBhDY" title="2-66 Pearl River Road ground floor plan and internal atrium. Image © DKO Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Shaded green above, a naturally ventilated east-west laneway would provide a direct link between the retail and entertainment offerings of Waterfront City Piazza and the high-end lowrise townhouses located west of 6-22 Pearl River Road. Also shown above, a weatherproof atrium would stream natural light to the laneway while an overhung pool/gym complex and multiple ground level art installations provide visual stimulus. Subject to further consultation and a street art strategy, the lobby of Tower B has the potential to yield a significant large-scale art piece while being part of the overall Newquay Central art and laneway strategy. (Further images in forum thread)
In terms of building finishes, timber and lighter colour materials feature heavily over lower floors in order to soften the interaction between building and street level/pedestrians. White integral colour precast panels in a seemingly trademark DKO Architecture pattern will feature heavily over the northern tower podium, providing absolute contrast to the uniform glaze over the higher levels of both towers. The taller Tower A calls for a tri-colour scheme, they being light, dark and super grey glazing.
<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/Image6_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2-66 Pearl River Road as seen from Victoria Harbour. 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/Image6_8.jpg?itok=mVzMSBQc" title="2-66 Pearl River Road as seen from Victoria Harbour. Image © DKO Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
With an offset incorporated midway through the tower, 6-22 Pearl River Road certainly has the potential to become a landmark building on Melbourne's skyline. All that's been written to this point suggests a highly acceptible design and urban outcome should this tower be built. But what of developers running their ruler over this development site prior to Expressions of Interest closing? Without labouring the point, given the site's prime position, exceptional potential views and Docklands history of strong apartment sales, 6-22 Pearl River Road will no doubt land a new owner in due course.
 
To visit CBRE's 6-22 Pearl River Road sale page, click <a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-docklands-500728599" target="_blank">here</a>
All images above © DKO Architecture
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Newquay's tallest tower there for the taking

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Forum member Fedsquared recently created a <a href="/news">thread in the UM forum</a> linking directly to the "'Access Docklands' - A Strategy for the Docklands Transport Network" document - it warrants much more exposure and discussion.  The strategy was devised by Places Victoria and the City of Melbourne in collaboration with <a href="http://www.urbantrans-anz.com/" target="_blank">UrbanTrans ANZ</a> and the original document can be viewed <a href="http://www.docklands.com/cs/Satellite?blobcol=urldata&amp;blobheader=application%2Fpdf&amp;blobkey=id&amp;blobtable=MungoBlobs&amp;blobwhere=1366958913911&amp;ssbinary=true&amp;blobheadername1=Content-Type&amp;blobheadervalue1=application/pdf&amp;blobheadername2=Content-Dispostion&amp;blobheadervalue2=attachment%3B+filename%3DAccess_Docklands_Final_April2013,0.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.

Cutting right to the chase, the strategy provides a long-term view of the individual projects required to position Docklands as another corridor for north-south movement through Central Melbourne.  Key projects which tie in with the long-term E-Gate redevelopment area include a new road and tram line connecting North Melbourne station with Footscray Road and several bridges across the Yarra and a new bridge at the opening to Victoria Harbour immediately East of the Bolte Bridge.

Context of the strategy: 2012-2040 growth predictions for both residents and workers  (Page 27).

<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_surrounds_growth_context.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title='Docklands &amp; environs growth context - map from Page 27 of "Access Docklands"'><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/docklands_surrounds_growth_context.jpg?itok=eP24WgNJ" title='Docklands &amp; environs growth context - map from Page 27 of "Access Docklands"' typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Although a major focus for redevelopment for this decade, over time Docklands will look noticeably small once Fishermans Bend, E-Gate and the Arden-Macaulay precincts start turning the first sod of soil. In saying that however, Docklands, like the CBD, is at the centre of the entire region which will be redeveloped over the next 3-4 decades and the report is very strong on developing the transport infrastructure - walking, cycling, public and private transport - in Docklands to support north-south movements across the river and Victoria Harbour.

We get a glimpse of what's to come with regards to bridges across the Yarra in the walking and cycling transport infrastructure concept plans (Page 47)

<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_walk_cycle_transport.png" rel="gallery-all" title='Docklands walking &amp; cycling infrastructure - map from Page 27 of "Access Docklands"'><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/docklands_walk_cycle_transport.png?itok=ERjEsMvt" title='Docklands walking &amp; cycling infrastructure - map from Page 27 of "Access Docklands"' typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

The new bridges across the Yarra - Collins Street extension starting immediately west of the ANZ HQ, the extension of Bourke Street and at the end of the Victoria Harbour peninsula immediately east of the Bolte Bridge - all have one thing in common: they must cater for marina and large vessel traffic using the waterway.  The report states that Docklands residents, businesses and developers were consulted as part of the Access Docklands process, however there is little detail on how these bridges will work and one would assume boat owners and the developers building the marinas would have stated their access must remain.

The new Collins Street extension bridge is mooted to carry trams from Collins Street and into Fishermans Bend, and I'm looking forward to seeing a more detailed concept design.  As mentioned, the design will need to include an opening mechanism so maritime traffic can make their way up / down river and interesting questions will need to be answered with the regards to the level of service a tram or bus route on the bridge.  Sure, the bridge opening could be timetabled just like a tram can be, however this reduces the flexibility to run as many trams as possible through to Fishermans Bend.

I like out of the box thinking, and there's a great snippet on Page 48 about the procurement and operation of dedicated bus services, potentially utilising existing tram rights of way, to start operating Docklands - CBD connections.  For instance, Access Docklands provides scope for greater utilisation of Flagstaff as an interchange with Docklands - dedicated short route and high frequency bus routes could run down La Trobe Street with a terminus at the curb on the William &amp; La Trobe street intersection.

Indulging for a moment, the La Trobe Street and William Street intersection could be reconfigured to allow shorter buses to perform a U-bolt from the northern curb of La Trobe Street to the southern curb of La Trobe street utilising the space in the middle of the intersection.  Perhaps a 2 minute timer where all traffic - tram and car - is stopped and buses waiting at the northern curb are given the highest priority to turn 180 degrees to go back West along La Trobe Street.  From the southern curb outside Flagstaff station's entry, buses can move onto the westbound tram track and run on the tram lines all the way down La Trobe street and turn left to go south down Harbour Esplanade to Collins Street and then use the new tram/bus bridge through to Yarra's Edge and Fishermans Bend.  No need to widen roads for bus lanes in this case.

<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_public_transport.png" rel="gallery-all" title='Docklands public transport infrastructure - map from Page 49 of "Access Docklands"'><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/docklands_public_transport.png?itok=pZcXcgo5" title='Docklands public transport infrastructure - map from Page 49 of "Access Docklands"' typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

In the above map we get a clear picture of Places Victoria &amp; City of Melbourne's thinking with regards to new public transport infrastructure in the area.  One concept that ties directly into the redevelopment of E-Gate and eventually the Arden-Macaulay area is the new tram route utilising the current track on Harbour Esplanade and Footscray route and building a new road and tram extension across the current Melbourne yard.  Access Docklands lists this as a medium term goal and given any road connecting to North Melbourne station will be need to be elevated to connect with Abbotsford or Dryburgh Street (the rail lines are below street level), the structure to connect Footscray Road and North Melbourne station would need to be elevated for near on its entire length to traverse the still used Melbourne yard.

The objective is to make yet another interchange for Docklands in the short-medium term - North Melbourne Station.  The current Melbourne yard is a barrier and the lack of any link, when rectified, might go a long way to stimulate the northern end of MAB's Newquay and drive visitors back into the Waterfront City precinct.

So it's over to you, what are the positives and negatives that stand out from the strategy?  What do you think of the short-term goal of implementing more bus routes before larger more capital intensive tram projects come along?  What's missing?

Let the discussion begin.
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Alastair Taylor

The Access Docklands transport strategy

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Recently Apartments.com.au wandered through the freshly complete Yarra Point penthouse apartment located in Melbourne's Docklands. Yesterday's <a href="/news/mirvac-announces-oly-san-francisco-display-apartment-at-yarra-point" target="_blank">article</a> highlighted the internal features of apartment 31-01 within Mirvac's Yarra's Edge precinct, while todays pictorial focuses on the superb external views it offers.

 

Life's good at the top

 

Enjoy
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Life's good at the top

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It's not every day I get an unsolicited press release in my inbox, so it was with great excitement and joy to receive our first from top-shelf developer Mirvac.

Mirvac's Yarra Point is complete and has opened its doors to residents and at the same time, Mirvac have announced an Australian-first: An <a href="http://www.olystudio.com/" target="_blank">Oly San Francisco</a> styled display Sky Residence on the tower's highest floor - level 31.

<blockquote>
The Oly display is truly one of a kind - we want our customers to walk through the Sky Residence apartment and feel surprised with something refreshingly unique.
<cite>John Carfi, Mirvac CEO Residential</cite>
</blockquote>

It is also styled for someone who doesn't follow the latest fashion or interior trends:

<blockquote>
I wanted this apartment to feel real and lived in, not staged. The Oly pieces create a contemporary style that is unexpected, adding a sense of play to a luxurious property.
<cite>Rohan Smith, Interior Designer, <a href="http://www.cocorepublic.com.au/furniture-and-homewares/product-listing/oly-san-francisco/" target="_blank">Coco Republic</a></cite>
</blockquote>

Quirky, playful and downright colourful, Apartments.com.au had a preview of the display and we've included images supplied by Mirvac in the gallery at the bottom of this page.

Yarra Point is a 31 level tower with a total project value of $200 million, apartments range from 55sqm up to 214sqm with prices ranging from $520,000 up to a cool $2.42million for a four-bedroom Sky residence. Four display apartments are open on Level 1, 11, 23 and the level 31 Oly San Francisco Sky Residence.

For more information and contact details, visit <a href="http://www.yarrapoint.com.au" target="_blank">Yarra Point's website</a>.

You can also view the <a href="//www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ufr9AYFJIw" target="_blank">Yarra Point video</a> on YouTube.

While you're with us, you can also find more information about Mirvac's most recent Yarra's Edge precinct project, <a href="/buildings/array-100-lorimer-street-docklands#content" target="_blank">Array by Mirvac</a> on Apartments.com.au's project database. We are also covering the construction, like all urban projects around the metro, of Array on our discussion <a href="/news">forum.</a>

We're happy to see more unsolicited Urban Industry press releases, so <a href="/contact" target="_blank">contact us</a>!
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Mirvac announces Oly San Francisco Display Apartment at Yarra Point

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The evolution of MAB's Docklands Newquay precinct marches on with Saturday passed marking the public launch of the first of two new glazed residential towers.

Silver at Newquay Promenade continues a departure from early Newquay designs drawing heavily on precast concrete elements and further enforces an impressive design path initially set by <a href="/buildings/the-quays-231-harbour-esplanade-docklands" target="_blank">The Quays</a> development further east in the 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_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Silver and Bronze as seen from Waterfront City Marina. Image © Woods Bagot "><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_10.jpg?itok=zO6me6Vg" title="Silver and Bronze as seen from Waterfront City Marina. Image © Woods Bagot " typeof="Image"></a>

Conceived by Woods Bagot Architects as replacements for an open air carpark, the two parallelogram crystalline forms are designed with their surrounds in mind.

Both towers are rotated to maximise sight lines toward one another while also maximising views of existing building nearby, the water and new urban park that will be built at their doorstep.

To be built either separately or concurrently, the smaller Silver tower represents the initial market release comprising 164 apartments over 18 levels.

One, two and three bedroom options plus loft apartments principally facing Doepel Way are available with living spaces ranging from to 48sqm to 115sqm - a nice spread seemingly catering for all market segments.

The ground floor plan below shows that while the west and south walls abutt existing buildings, both the north and east aspects will be heavily activated to maximise public use and interface with the building.

The centrepiece of this activation is a new pedestrian link under Silver tower that will link Caravel Lane with the upcoming Newquay Square Park, allowing surrounding commercial workers and residents quick access to the park while also increasing the amount of retail space available through the development.

Above ground level sits the carpark which includes spaces for both towers and vehicle parking for the upcoming tower C facing Victoria Harbour, whether it's use be residential or hotel.

The carpark is sheltered from view by dual-level loft dwellings. Highlighted by their two level balcony spaces, the loft spaces tie in nicely with the overall facades weave pattern.

<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_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground plane as set out by the architect. Image © Woods Bagot "><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_11.jpg?itok=tiRG1fw-" title="Ground plane as set out by the architect. Image © Woods Bagot " typeof="Image"></a>

Further to that weave pattern, Woods Bagot describe the "folded facade as the most striking design detail of the project as a whole." Progressing from a heavy weave of 300mm over lower levels the facade continually tapers as it heads upwards, eventually resulting in a flat facade.

While the unbroken facade treatment brings interest to the design, it also allows for excellent natural light and spectacular floor to ceiling views as seen below - I envy those fortunate enough to hold such a panorama that won't be built out over time.

<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/MAB014_0003_Harbour.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Panoramic views on offer at Promenade. Image © newquaypromenade.com.au"><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/MAB014_0003_Harbour.jpg?itok=rdJYRCxc" title="Panoramic views on offer at Promenade. Image © newquaypromenade.com.au" typeof="Image"></a>

The angular crown atop both towers will hold terraced apartments. Views and expansive internal spaces aside these terraces will be heavily studded with greenery and have the ability to catch and re-use rainfall throughout the complex.

A number of other inclusions such as 6 Star Energy Rating, solar hot water and low emission construction materials allows the Silver tower an ESD Award of Excellence rating.

All in all a highly impressive addition to Newquay and with only 164 apartments currently on offer in Silver, it's a fair assumption the public release of Bronze tower won't be far away.

<a href="http://www.newquaypromenade.com.au" target="_blank">www.newquaypromenade.com.au</a>

Silver tower floorplans and further images of both towers available below and © Woods Bagot
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Silver and Bronze set the standard

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During 2011 developer MAB Corporation purchased the ING Real Estate owned and developed Waterfront City land parcel immediately fronting Victoria Harbour. Struggling with poor public perceptions and a lack of foot traffic brought on in part by delays to the Southern Star observation wheel, MAB stepped in with plans to redevelop the area considered by some to be poorly planned, windswept and unappealing. Media releases at the time carried a master-planned concept by DKO Architects, such as that below, showing five towers surrounding a new central park, one such tower - a waterfront hotel designed to provide a buffer against prevailing southerly winter winds. At the time a MAB spokesperson stated “The scheme will revitalise the existing retail, community and public realm by creating a major public park, residential buildings and an international hotel.”

 

<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/promenade_01_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © DKO Architects"><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/promenade_01_0.jpg?itok=mwZpJi86" title="Image © DKO Architects" typeof="Image"></a>

February 2013 saw MAB release limited images of the first two towers, with the initial Cool Silver residential tower to have its public sales launch in early April. Designed by Woods Bagot Architects, Cool Silver along with its larger bronze sibling are the first two of the five planned buildings to launch.

 

<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/main_bg2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Silver and bronze residential towers. Image © newquaypromenade.com.au"><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/main_bg2.jpg?itok=R5fVOptX" title="Silver and bronze residential towers. Image © newquaypromenade.com.au" typeof="Image"></a>

Further, the images below show for the first time the next phase of Newquay Promenade highlighted by the waterfront hotel. Designed by en vogue architects McBride Charles Ryan, the building is impressive when viewed from the south, but downright incredible when viewed from the north. Although the model images below aren't spectacular, they do give a clear indication that when built it has the potential to become an iconic Melbourne building. Defined by its sloping semi-circle form, the waterfront hotel will be a truly impressive sight to behold and very much a unique shape on the Melbourne skyline.

 

<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_2410_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="South view with Newquay hotel taking centre stage"><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_2410_1.jpg?itok=GJqQtwnv" title="South view with Newquay hotel taking centre stage" typeof="Image"></a>

<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/Image2_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Model of Newquay Promenade with the unique hotel taking centre stage"><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/Image2_6.jpg?itok=B9Mglxek" title="Model of Newquay Promenade with the unique hotel taking centre stage" typeof="Image"></a>

Equal to any notable towers are the open spaces and active frontages that this development will produce. The current complex is a malaise of average looking shopfronts with what I think is a poorly placed circus tent located mid plaza stifling sight lines. At the time ING Real Estate Developments CEO Greg Boyd said: “This scheme will provide a green, north-sun-facing public park to the south boundary of Harbour Town and also connect, as one, the currently-severed east and west NewQuay precincts.” Thankfully that plan has been adhered to with one of the largest green spaces in Docklands to be created, part of which is seen below. With both trams 70 and 86 terminating in the area, pedestrians will have the ability to step off directly into the park - a far more palatable prospect than what is there at the moment.

 

<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_2406.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="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/Img_2406.jpg?itok=PeZCKdM0" title="Image © MAB Corporation" typeof="Image"></a>

MAB Corporation feel they have struck the right mixture in this development, finally ensuring the success of a site that to date has been an abject failure. Whilst this article has been more overview than analysis, Apartments.com.au will in coming days and weeks provide more details on all proposed MAB Newquay buildings including the last two towers of Newquay Promenade and McBride Charles Ryan's hotel. As for now, McBride Charles Ryan's current offering is powering ahead at Newquay further east toward the city. 

 

<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_9018.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Photographer - Ryan Seychell"><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_9018.jpg?itok=31ipuF5q" title="Photographer - Ryan Seychell" typeof="Image"></a>

Click <a href="/news">here</a> so see additional images of the highly impressive and colourful Quays residential complex under construction.

 
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The Quays to success

<html><body>For those unaware Yarra's Edge is the southernmost precinct of Docklands. Essentialy a long, thin residential peninsula, it's bound by Bolte Bridge, the Yarra, and West Gate Freeway to the south. This isolation leads to the precinct at times lacking the character and bustle of Melbourne's CBD, or even other areas of Docklands. So with a an hour or so to burn and camera in hand i decided to sit back and watch the world go by. While the area does lack foot traffic developer Mirvac is in the process of formulating Bolte Precinct, the final westerly land parcel of Yarra's Edge with a number of features they believe will bring increased human traffic through the area; but that is a story for another day.</body></html>

Watching the world go by @ Yarra's Edge

<html><body>
We at Apartments.com.au like most readers out there have a wide variety of opinions when talking about Docklands - positive, negative and all that lies between. Over time Apartments.com.au will give much time and analysis to Docklands, dealing with a myriad of topics but for the time being we'd like to draw everyone's attention to <a href="http://www.docklandsisbeautiful.com.au" target="_blank">docklandsisbeautiful.com.au</a>.
<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/from-my-window.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy docklandsisbeautiful.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/from-my-window.jpg?itok=cHHppo9c" title="Image courtesy docklandsisbeautiful.com.au" typeof="Image"></a>
Unfortunately the website is somewhat spasmodic in its updates, but their campaign statement in particular draws attention:
<blockquote>
Docklands is Beautiful is a grassroots campaign designed to provide Docklanders with the resources and inspiration to let the world know what a wonderful place Melbourne Docklands is.
The campaign is an initiative of Docklands News and comes in response to a growing (and incorrect) negative public perception surrounding Melbourne’s Docklands.
Negative media is very disappointing for the people who live, work and visit Docklands and absolutely love the place. Our community is vibrant and strong. But it appears that we need to roll our sleeves up and simply tell the rest of the world how beautiful Docklands is.
The campaign has come from the ground up. It has not been strategised, spun, devised, concocted or been influenced by any marketers, PR consultants or any other paid experts.
It has come from the exasperation that ordinary Docklanders are feeling about the seemingly regular negative comments and opinions directed at our suburb.
We say … enough!
Don’t criticise what you don’t understand. And if you don’t choose to live here, that’s fine. Just don’t interfere with our quiet enjoyment of the most stunning suburb in Melbourne.
We’re only half-way through our development and we are patiently awaiting its completion. Docklands is not soulless. Docklands is not a planning disaster. Docklands is simply unfinished.
And one thing that can’t be denied is that DOCKLANDS IS BEAUTIFUL!
<cite><a href="http://www.docklandsisbeautiful.com.au/?page_id=18">Docklands is Beautiful » The campaign</a></cite>
</blockquote>
Full marks for passion and well said!
<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/Webb-Bridge-III.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="http://www.docklandsisbeautiful.com.au/"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Webb-Bridge-III.jpg?itok=FavPcw0A" title="http://www.docklandsisbeautiful.com.au/" typeof="Image"></a>
While the images above are taken from the Docklands is Beautiful website, a wander through Docklands one afternoon yielded a selection of art-led images below - it's not all concrete down there.
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