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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

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

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

Elenberg Fraser

<html><body>
Lodged for approval during June, Aspial-World Class Land Pty Ltd have sought to amend an existing planning permit for 54-64 A'Beckett Street with a taller, grander residential project put forward.

Designed by Elenberg Fraser, the pinkish-red tower would hold a slender, easily recognisable form in Melbourne's northern skyline, discerning itself with a diagrid facade which 'collapses' as the form reaches ground level. Planning application documents suggests that the revamped design would provide an increased positive contribution to the northern precinct of Melbourne's CBD in terms of design livability and visual amenity.

<h2>54-64 A'Beckett Street summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Site area: 1,280sqm</li>
	<li>Current use: 1 &amp; 3 level commercial buildings</li>
	<li>Previously approved: 50 level residential tower of 502 apartments</li>
	<li>Current application: 81 levels @ 253.65</li>
	<li>750 apartments (300 1B + 450 2B)</li>
	<li>126 car spaces and 370 bicycles</li>
	<li>1,862sqm communal area over three levels</li>
	<li>90sqm retail space</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news">See more images of the striking 54-64 A'Beckett Street within the forum thread</a>.

<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/image28ab.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Surface phenomena. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="549" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28ab.jpg?itok=Z9882zO1" title="Surface phenomena. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Surface phenomena. Image © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><h2>Surface phenomena</h2>

<blockquote>
The design proposal uses a treatment that expresses the structural charactersitics of the building. This treatment has been applied as a surface treatment nad then modulated to wrap around the entire building, creating as super surface.

The super surface treatment resembles a weave like pattern that wraps the mass, compressing as it reaches the ground and being extruded as stretches towards the to of the building. The treatment is made up of a network of white aluminium fins.
<cite>Elenberg Fraser</cite>
</blockquote>

54-64 A'Beckett Street's corners are also chamfered within each facade segment, emphasising the prevailing pattern while also allowing winds to work around the building in an easier fashion. With the neighbouring MY80 residential tower in close proximity, directional fins have been applied to the blush-coloured facade, thus negating overlooking between towers while still maintaining resident view lines for the most.

<h2>From the ground up</h2>

Elenberg Fraser have designed the ground floor with "direct reference to the buildings across A’beckett Street." The provision of a double height, clear glazed foyer is designed to reference the height of the buildings opposite while also enclosing a cafe courtyard.

Parking for 128 vehicles is found over levels 2-8, with apartments fronting the A’Beckett Street podium in order to maintain a degree of activity. The general shape of the tower is that of a ‘L’ shape, in keeping with the site while setbacks are included to all boundaries, excluding a small portion of the east boundary. 
Within the tower, single bedroom apartments fall within the 40-50sqm bracket while two bedroom apartments are generally within the 50-60sqm range according to the planning report development summary. It can be suggested that based upon the apartment mix and sizes, investor/rental stock will play its part in 54-64 A'Beckett Street's overall composition

<h2>‘Vertical living’ – analysis of residential amenity</h2>

<blockquote>
A key aspect of the amended design has been the focus to improve the internal amenity of the apartments and that generally of the overall development for future residents. High rise housing is becoming commonplace throughout the Melbourne CBD and inner renewal areas as a result of both the population increases and strong desire by the market for inner city accommodation options.

We are now seeing the emergence of ‘vertical communities’ which provide important outdoor and communal spaces for residents of these new apartment buildings.
<cite>Urbis</cite>
</blockquote>

Improvements over the initial design sees the deletion of internally facing podium apartments, replacing studio and borrowed light apartments within the podium with layouts allowing for natural light and ventilation plus the provisions above which negate privacy concerns.

1,862sqm of communal space is located over spaces at ground level, L10 and L80. A gym, group fitness studio, lap pool and associated recreation area (sauna, wading pool, steam room and sauna) and outdoor balcony/ urban landscaped terrace consue the useable area over level 10.

Designed as a mass entertaining space, level 80 will hold two dining rooms and catering kitchens able to be booked by tenants, a large outdoor communal garden terrace, viewing room, poker/games room, lounge and entertainment room, informal dining and BBQ area. Urbis contends that the high level of internal amenity in forthcoming projects such as 54-64 A'Beckett Street will in part reduce additional demand placed on surrounding areas of public open space as the CBD's population increases.

<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/image26ab.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lobby render taken from the planning application. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="689" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image26ab.jpg?itok=OwGgi-Cx" title="Lobby render taken from the planning application. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lobby render taken from the planning application. Image © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>54-64 A'Beckett Street joins the much discussed <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">70 Southbank Boulevard</a> as Aspial - World Class Land's two initial Melbourne developments; 70 Southbank Boulevard being the abrogated Australia 108 project. While sales for what will be Melbourne's tallest tower on Southbank are expected to start in the new year, the Singaporean-backed local arm last week submitted their third Melbourne development for approval.

385-405 King Street was scooped by ­Aspial last year for $41.5 million and is now subject to an application seeking a 23 level residential tower. The current commercial building is to make way for the expectation of 392 apartments and a host of retail tenancies.

Combined the three projects yield Aspial - World Class Land a development pipeline of 2247 apartments in Melbourne.

<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Client: Aspial Corporation - World Class Land Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: Elenberg Fraser</li>
	<li>Town Planner: Urbis</li>
	<li>Façade Consultant: Aurecon Group</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: TTM Consulting</li>
	<li>Wind Consultant: MEL Consulting</li>
	<li>Structural Consultant: Winward Group</li>
	<li>Services Consultant: Murchie Consulting</li>
	<li>Quantity Surveyor: Slattery Australia</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: Murchie Consulting</li>
	<li>Aviation Consultant: Thompson GCS</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

silvermb

Aspial seek to deliver another marquee Melbourne tower

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Hiap Hoe have reinforced the trend of Asian-based developers proposing large-scale mixed-use developments within the City of Melbourne. Having <a href="/news/hiap-hoe-lets-go" target="_blank">purchased 380 Lonsdale Street during 2013</a>, the developer has turned to the ubiquitous Elenberg Fraser to deliver a new scheme.

Superseding an approved single 47 storey tower design delivered by Spowers for the previous owner, Elenberg Fraser have increased height, apartment yield, included a hotel and maintained the initial designs width, albeit over two towers rather than one. It's the tremendous width of the proposal (running from Lonsdale to Little Lonsdale) which has enabled Elenberg Fraser to apply an architectural facade treatment which sees ripples emanating from a low slung nexus between towers and podium.

<blockquote>
The revised proposal represents a landmark building of high architectural quality located in a prominent site within the city. It has been designed in a manner to be respectful of the character of the area and surrounding properties while making a notable contribution to the urban renewal and evolving character of this part of the CBD and will also support the various roles of the City Centre.
<cite>Urbis Planning Permit Amendment Application</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>380 Lonsdale Street at a glance</h2>

<ul>
<li>Existing use: 6 storey commercial car park</li>
	<li>3,165sqm site</li>
	<li>South (Lonsdale) tower: 51 levels @ 166.5 metres</li>
	<li>North (Little Lonsdale) tower: 67 levels @ 217.5 metres</li>
	<li>728 apartments &amp; 312 suite hotel component: increased from initial 627 apartments</li>
	<li>Retail, function, office space and car parking through the 7-level podium</li>
	<li>Timothy Lane to become a connected arcade/thoroughfare</li>
	<li>Activation of adjoining Heape Court</li>
	<li>469 car parking spaces: reduced from 774</li>
	<li>822 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Total GFA: 109,448sqm</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news">&gt;&gt; See the revised 380 Lonsdale images within the dedicated forum thread</a>

<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/image5380.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The initial and revised 380 Lonsdale Street designs. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="512" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5380.jpg?itok=1VmIBlpw" title="The initial and revised 380 Lonsdale Street designs. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elenberg Fraser's initial and current 380 Lonsdale Street designs. Images © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><h2>Apartment divide</h2>

A graphic within the planning amendment application shows apartments have been categorised according to the dwellers status. 112 Residential Type 1 (owner occupier) apartments are located within the southern tower over levels 34-49 and are expected to consist of 64*1-Bed, 32*2-Bed and 16*2-Bed/2-Bath apartments.

Residential Type 2 (renter occupied) dwellings are limited to the taller northern tower with 616 apartments included. 224*1-Bed, 112*2-Bed and 280*2-Bed/2-Bath options constitute the apartment breakdown. Dividing the project into two towers categories by whether the occupant owns or rents the apartment isn't standard practice, although in this instance we assume the distinction is made due to the four star hotel within the southern tower and associated communal facilities use etc.

As part of the revised scheme no bedrooms will rely on borrowed light, improving upon the original design which town planner Urbis states would have been the case for many single bedroom apartments.

<h2>What's in a podium?</h2>

Elenberg Fraser have loosely maintained the form of the approved Spowers-designed podium structure, thus taking a step back from the unadorned uniform glass lines that have defined a number of their recent planning applications.

Two distinct volumes are kept in order to allow pedestrian access via a rejuvenated Timothy Lane, with a podium-top hotel swimming pool seemingly 'resting' across both built volumes. Transparent from beneath, the hotel pool will join mirrored cladding, pocket gardens, stone soffits, varied podium depths and active pedestrian frontages in bringing visual interest to the lower levels of the structure.

<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/image1380.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © Spowers &amp; Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="253" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1380.jpg?itok=77cSuNn0" title="Images © Spowers &amp; Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images © Spowers &amp; Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>As it stands Starwood Hotels &amp; Resorts have signed on to operate the southern Lonsdale tower hotel component under their Aloft brand, as was <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property/starwood-hotels-in-deal-with-singapore-real-estate-group/story-fn9656lz-1226800998921" target="_blank">reported</a> earlier this year. With essentially three quarts of the Lonsdale tower dedicated to hotel use alongside a relatively light 112 private apartments, Hiap Hoe could advance the initial tower to construction briskly post approval.

In addition Hiap Hoe and Melbourne-based Probuild currently have a partnership in place whereby the the latter will undertake the builds on both Hiap Hoe's current Melbourne projects, the other being <a href="/buildings/marina-tower-6-pearl-river-road-docklands" target="_blank">Marina Tower.</a>

<h2>380 Lonsdale Street project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Client: Meteorite Development (Lonsdale Street) P/L on behalf of Hiap Hoe Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: Elenberg Fraser</li>
	<li>Project Manager: PDS Group</li>
	<li>Town Planner: Urbis</li>
	<li>Landscape Architect: Oculus</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: ARK Resources</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: Cardno Gorgan Richards.</li>
	<li>Wind Consultant: MEL Consulting</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Reeds Consulting</li>
	<li>Structural Consultant: Winward Group</li>
	<li>Services Consultant: Murchie Consulting</li>
	<li>Quantity Surveyor: Slattery Australia</li>
</ul>
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Hiap Hoe supersize their 380 Lonsdale Street development

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How do you adequately express in words how impressive Elenberg Fraser's latest and likely greatest design really is? The futuristic structure is just... astounding.

Simple yet complicated, monolithic but still graceful, unrealistic yet practical; it makes any admirer of quality design take notice... I can't put it any other way. Last week <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/approvals-add-2000-flats-to-city-skyline/story-e6frg8zx-1226968155908" target="_blank">The Australian</a> reported the project had "Secured a permit to demolish the company’s headquarters on Sturt Street and build a 41-storey apartment tower," although there has been no other mention elsewhere.

Planning Minister Matthew Guy has a fondness for publicly announcing large-scale residential projects and given this development finds itself in a precinct of architecturally significant buildings, I can only surmise it hasn't received approval yet.

<h2>248-250 Sturt Street, Southbank</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Hudson Conway.</li>
	<li>Architect: Elenberg Fraser.</li>
	<li>40 above ground levels @ 122 metres.</li>
	<li>304 apartments over multiple one bedroom and two bedroom options.</li>
	<li>119 car, three motorcycle and 98 bicycle spaces over six basement levels.</li>
	<li>88 sq.m retail space.</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image129.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Daylight perspective. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1068" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image129.jpg?itok=FfZa9S7k" title="Daylight perspective. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>Daylight perspective. Image © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><h2>The wow factors</h2>

The shape is unique to any Melbourne building and is best described by Elenberg Fraser:

<blockquote>
The building form consists of two dominant floor plates that are connected by a transitional twist in the building. The twist in the building form is a response to the twisting forms of the freeway and Kings Way either side of the site; something that has been identified in the landscaping of the freeway exit ramp.
</blockquote>

Facade finishes are also of an excellent quality and consist of ceramic fritted, clear and reflective silver glass which plays off the polished stainless steel solid panels incorporated predominantly over the north and south facades. At a moments notice I can't recall too many Melbourne buildings that employ reflective stainless steel in great proportions?

Perhaps the tower is at its best after dark when a monochromatic lighting system is put to use, highlighting the sleek, transitional form of the tower. As seen in the lead image:

<blockquote>
The lighting highlights the unwrapping of the apartments to the street lower down the buildings which culminates with an interactive canopy at street level. The canopy provides multiple functions; it shelters pedestrians and their activities beneath, it intrigues the passerby with its ability to project information, it provides safe ambient lighting at night and it creates a definitive entrance for the residents above.
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image128.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="419" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image128.jpg?itok=8LNhV3F5" title="Street level perspective. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>Street level perspective. Image © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><h2>The pivotal issue</h2>

The subject site is covered by a Melbourne Planning Scheme overlay which calls for a discretionary 40 metre height limit, although as the architect explains within the planning report there is scope for an architecturally significant building to exceed the discretionary limit. Elenberg Fraser asserts the building has the potential to create a positive connection between the Arts Precinct and South Melbourne.

City of Melbourne have no public opinion on the proposal as yet, but you don't have to go out on a limb to suggest they will take the 'It's far too tall' stance which is their perogative.

<blockquote>
In this case all parties seek an outcome that leads to buildings of quality and good urban design. There can be little dispute that a quality tall building can be a better outcome than a poorly designed small building. In planning, there is an underlying imperative to achieve high quality urban design outcomes.
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

Is the above enough to see approval and consequently a new benchmark for height in this stretch of Sturt Street that currently has no genuine high-rise structures? 248-250 Sturt Street, Southbank seems to be the canary down the mineshaft of sorts. The result will be interesting but one thing is known for sure, the author's admiration for this design is absolute!
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Feel the love > 248-250 Sturt Street, Southbank

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What better place to start than with a glimpse of Elenberg Fraser's most recent planning application at 248-280 Sturt Street, Southbank as seen above. Designed for property stalwart Hudson Conway, <q>The building form consists of two dominant floor plates that are connected by a transitional twist in the building.</q>
With its incredible form and monochromatic adaptive lighting, the 120 metre residential tower is more at home in a sci fi landscape rather than Southbank. Silver reflective glazing and polished stainless steel define its exterior - the tower smacks of cutting edge quality!
<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/Image2spy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Cottee Parker"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2spy.jpg?itok=svYPJyS_" title="Image © Cottee Parker" width="580"></a>
Above is the first public viewing of Cottee Parker's newest Melbourne tower, 605-613 Lonsdale Street. Adjacent to Upper West Side, this is Cottee Parker's fifth tower for the block with four more in planning directly opposite at 250 Spencer Street - all for Far East Consortium.
The 160 metre tower holds 399 apartments and carries some interesting design features such as exposed 'ribs' similar to those of Tower 5 in Docklands.
<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/Image3spy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © dKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3spy.jpg?itok=4Ky0CP_6" title="Image © dKO Architecture" width="580"></a>
dKO Architecture also feature with their redefined scheme at 6-22 Pearl River Road, Docklands. Under the auspices of Singaporean developer Hiap Hoe, dKO have produced <q>A well designed mixed use village that is lively and interesting, has a coherent urban character and provides a signature building for the NewQuay Central Precinct.</q>
Gone is the precast northern tower, in its place a sleek 56 metre hotel tower. Carrying shades of Crown Metropol through the design, the reincarnation is of a high quality and inline with the slightly altered adjoining residential tower.
<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/Image1spy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="324" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1spy.jpg?itok=fBp4efg9" title="Image © Hayball" width="580"></a>
Last but not least is Hayball's Fishermans Bend quad tower proposal on behalf of Goodman Group. 850 Lorimer Street will feature four residential towers containing 1354 apartments, with two towers expected to peak at 145 metres.
Wedged between Mirvac's Yarra's Edge and the proposed <a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">351 Ingles Street</a> development, the scheme represents a departure from the humble precast concrete panel which visually define so many Hayball projects.
Watch for detailed articles outlining each of the planning applications in the weeks to come.
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I Spy... new planning applications

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It's not a common occurrence; the restoration of one of Melbourne CBD's fleet of early, red brick warehouse and/or office buildings coupled with the addition of a handful of levels.
A number of classic red brick edifices in recent years have been lavished with a particularly golden touch. <a href="http://www.kubic.com.au/lonsdale" target="_blank">105 Lonsdale Street</a> was transformed at the hands of Kubic Construction and is now crowned with a golden mesh clad covering the additional floors which resemble old lanterns, a nod to the building's proximity to China Town.
Elsewhere VCAT have recently approved a golden kinetic facade extension to the 1902 <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.facebook.com/MelbourneHeritageAction/posts/682514651795099" target="_blank">Metcalfe and Barnard</a> warehouse fronting Russell Street (seen below right).
<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/Image3redbrick.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="105 Lonsdale &amp; 24 Russell. Images courtesy Kubic &amp; Melbourne Heritage Action"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="358" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3redbrick.jpg?itok=0a7w611D" title="105 Lonsdale &amp; 24 Russell. Images courtesy Kubic &amp; Melbourne Heritage Action" width="580"></a>
The focus of today's article however is 167 Flinders Lane which was redeveloped late last year. Designed by Elenberg Fraser, the existing structure received three additional levels consisting of commercial space and penthouse.
Head contractor Maben describes the project as follows:
<blockquote>
	A heritage listed building in the former ‘rag-trade’ district of Flinders Lane was gentrified and enlarged with a luxury penthouse and office addition on its roof.
	This very complex project required the erection of a tower crane for the removal of the roof, demolition of the upper floors and insertion of two concrete lift shafts. A new 3 level, clear span, steel and concrete structure was added, including a new luxury penthouse apartment, two level office fitout and extensive base building refurbishment. The works were completed in an operational environment whilst maintain public access to the existing retail and office tenants located on the lower floors.
	The site location, in the centre of the CBD, meant complex materials loading and traffic management techniques were adopted on this extremely tight site. Public protection was paramount and water proofing, dust protection and noise reduction was essential in maintaining the amenity of the retail and commercial offices on the lower floors.
	<cite><a href="http://maben.com.au/projects/167-flinders-lane-melbourne/">Maben: Flinders Lane</a></cite>
</blockquote>
Enjoy the images taken from the Maben website, depicting the high quality expansion of 167 Flinders Lane.
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Inside a red brick reinvention

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When it rains, it pours! No not a reference to the dismal weather at the moment, but the continuing surge in new apartment project releases Melbourne is experiencing.

Sure to be one of 2014's marquee releases, Light House Melbourne is the assigned moniker to one of this city's more unique apartment projects. 450 Elizabeth Street first gained approval during 2012 on behalf of site owner Sixth Grange Pty Ltd for a 62 level, 197 metre tower carrying 541 apartments.

Subsequently project partner Hengyi Australia was added and during February 2014 consent was received to extend the tower beyond the approved scheme seen below. Melbourne City Council now lists the project at 67 levels and 218 metres, although Colliers via their statement below have the tower at 69 levels of undulating edifice.

<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/11038_450_ElizabethStreet_Apartments_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="511" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/11038_450_ElizabethStreet_Apartments_01.jpg?itok=DJxOGzH1" title="Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Apartment living redefined by a kaleidoscope of possibility, with its shimmering, striking exterior Light House is certain to become a hero of the Melbourne skyline. This unique building has a sculptural presence, rising an impressive sixty-nine stories. Within each of these exterior facets is an exceptional bay window, increasing the light and space in every residential apartment to witness the lively streetscapes below and enjoy the sense of community in this bustling part of the city.
<cite>Colliers International (Selling Agent)</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Appearing to turn on its trajectory, the building has no corners. How do you dissolve the corners of a skyscraper when that is where all sheer forces are normally resolved? Well, we discovered the answer lies in traditional masonry techniques for turning corners using bricks.

This three-dimensional kaleidoscope not only twists and undulates on its axis but its façade is a moving object. The effect of constant motion is amplified by the multi-chromic directional paint system applied to the surface, which reflects and draws the building up into the sky. You may have seen this paint effect on cars before, but never on a building!
<cite>Elenberg Fraser (Architect)</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ef450eliz.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A distinctive facade. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="374" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ef450eliz.jpg?itok=eceF2KK9" title="A distinctive facade. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A distinctive facade. Image © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
This supermodel of a building also needed to battle the slenderness ratio – the rule that governs how tall and thin buildings can go. It overcomes this constraint by virtually becoming a vertical cantilever with a series of outrigger beams to prevent it from overturning, and to stop it rotating along with the façade system. The series of rotational units are a series of bay windows for the apartments, which pick out different vistas of city as the façade crinkles.
<cite>Elenberg Fraser (Architect)</cite>
</blockquote>

Joining Light House Melbourne in the immediate vicinity are the soon to be released <a href="http://empiremelbourne.com.au/" target="_blank">Empire Melbourne</a>, <a href="http://www.victoriaoneapartments.com.au/" target="_blank">Victoria One</a> and the at sales <a href="http://www.eqtower.com/#" target="_blank">Eq. Tower</a>.

Registration of interest for Light House Melbourne are open via the project website http://www.lighthousemelbourne.com.au/
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Light my way - 450 Elizabeth Street

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<blockquote>
Elenberg Fraser is the architectural partner of choice to identify a specific architectural approach that realises all of UEM's ambitions. With this project there are not multiple answers like Google, there is one true answer.
</blockquote>

Bold assertions are best backed with bold outcomes and whilst a handful of poor quality images have been circulated of late, today we look at the full might of what may well become Melbourne's defining skyscraper. Purchased by Malaysian developer UEM Sunrise, 224-252 La Trobe Street is a 3197 sqm site opposite Melbourne Central which currently serves as a car park.

Via the work of a development team headed by Urbis and Elenberg Fraser, UEM Sunrise have been presented with a monolithic skyscraper which as the initial quote suggests, fulfills a stated UEM Sunrise ambition of "Changing the landscape of 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/Image5_24.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A truly imposing proposition. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1109" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_24.jpg?itok=c_WWoda_" title="A truly imposing proposition. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<h2>Project Summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>88 levels &amp; 267.15 metres in height</li>
	<li>1139 apartments &amp; 204 serviced apartments, total 1343 dwellings</li>
	<li>Total Gross Floor Area 123,226 sqm</li>
	<li>364 car spaces within the 8 level above ground podium &amp; 786 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>3037 sqm of retail area and 3048 sqm of office space</li>
	<li>three dedicated common areas with no less than four pools on one level</li>
</ul>
<h2>New Connection to Melbourne Central Station</h2>

The planning application seeks to relocate the existing Melbourne Central Station entrance from La Trobe Street to the north east corner of the site which fronts Little La Trobe Street. In doing this, Basement level 2 retail exposure is maximised, acting as a new pedestrian thoroughfare which will join with Melbourne Central's lower ground food court and station entry. The food and drink options 224-252 La Trobe Street's Basement 2 will be arranged in a hawker market theme.

Urbis notes "the basement design is subject to further input from PTV to understand the proposal’s impact upon the existing rail network and any other considerations for public transport in this area."

<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/Image7_25.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cross section of the interplay with Melbourne Central. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image7_25.jpg?itok=VUGgpjZ4" title="Cross section of the interplay with Melbourne Central. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<h2>Common People</h2>

Four separate communal facilities are proposed, which in total equates to a healthy 2.9 sqm of communal space per apartment. Level 8 carries the main recreational level which includes spa, cold pool, indoor and outdoor pools, yoga/pilates area, gym, internal/external daybeds, gym....and the list goes on. In addition to this recreational hub, communal areas are also located at ground level which are skewed toward visitors and those transiting ground level to access the relocated station entrance.

Whilst acting as a mid tower plant/services area, Level 54 is also described as a social hub facility with dual private dining areas, an expansive westerly-facing lounge and dual sky gardens included. At 257 metres above ground, the owners club covers level 83 and includes a cinema, private dining/lounge areas, library and fireplace, kitchen, pool table and card pods which resemble faux gambling tables.

<h2>Design Nous</h2>

The proposal essentially consists of two concave, U-shaped towers back to back. The highly articulated tower is described as "a unique, curvilinear design response utilising a cross-style layout with undulating setbacks to each site boundary... The cross-style layout limits wind impacts and facilitates angled view lines from apartments while also limiting overlooking opportunities to surrounding development."

The back to back format negates overlooking for the most whilst sections subject to a tight concave form are addressed with vertical fins, further enhancing privacy. Given the development's girth and sheer number of dwellings, it's impressive that all apartment habitable rooms will receive direct daylight and natural ventilation in this targeted 4 star Green Star rated proposal.

Elenberg Fraser has endeavoured to mitigate wind effects by way of the tower's sculptural form. "The building responds to the prevailing wind directions encouraging the wind to flow around the building rather than being directed to ground level, thus minimising the environmental wind effects at street level." Wind amelioration zones are also included through the design to minimise the effect of down drafts whilst wind tunnel testing determined open balcony distribution, maximising usability.

<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_19.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A view vortex. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="368" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image6_19.jpg?itok=U8wMk-Gp" title="A view vortex. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<h2>Author's Opinion</h2>

Whilst tall skyscrapers are becoming all the more common it's excessively rare that a skyscraper with such immense dimensions and unique silhouette has the ability to grace Melbourne's skyline. After too many years of viewing economically prudent, rectangular 'box' buildings expanding the city's skyline, its refreshing to see a proposal of this ilk for Melbourne - a true mould breaker such as Eureka Tower when initially proposed.

Whilst I'm well and truly ensconced in this development's corner, the clean cut nature of the podium which interacts with both La Trobe and Little La Trobe could be perceived by some as bare and incohesive with the existing streetscape, a potential cause for concern? Regardless Elenberg Fraser asserts the tower is "where Melbourne finds its destiny as an international south east Asian city" - an interesting notion!

<h2>Development Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Applicant and client: <a href="http://www.uemsunrise.com/UEMSunrise/Home" target="_blank">UEM Sunrise</a> (La Trobe Street Dev) Pty Ltd)</li>
	<li>Architecture: <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/" target="_blank">Elenberg Fraser</a>
</li>
	<li>Urban planning: <a href="http://www.urbis.com.au/" target="_blank">Urbis</a>
</li>
	<li>Wind mitigation: <a href="http://melconsultants.com/" target="_blank">Mel Consultants</a>
</li>
	<li>Aboriginal Cultural Heritage: <a href="http://www.alassoc.com.au/" target="_blank">Andrew Long and Associates</a>
</li>
	<li>Aviation Assessment: <a href="http://www.thompsongcs.com/www/home/" target="_blank">Thompson GCS</a>
</li>
	<li>Landscape Architecture: <a href="http://www.aecom.com/" target="_blank">AECOM</a>
</li>
	<li>Traffic engineering: <a href="http://www.traffixgroup.com.au/" target="_blank">Traffix Group</a>
</li>
	<li>Environmental Sustainable Design: <a href="http://www.ark-resources.com.au/" target="_blank">Ark Resources</a>
</li>
	<li>Waste management: <a href="http://www.leighdesign.com.au/" target="_blank">Leigh Design</a>
</li>
</ul>
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The Answer > 224 - 252 La Trobe Street, Melbourne

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What do you do when you're a Malaysian Government-backed property developer intent on breaking into the hotly contested Melbourne apartment scene? Why you go big...really big with two grandiose towers!
Not content with dipping their toes into local waters, <a href="http://www.uemsunrise.com/UEMSunrise/Home" target="_blank">UEM Sunrise</a> will rather perform the mother of all bombs as it seeks to implement itself firmly at the pointy end of Melbourne's apartment development scene. As has been well documented the wholly owned <a href="http://www.uem.com.my/" target="_blank">UEM Group</a> subsidiary purchased two prime CBD sites late last year with grand intentions.
Asked of the two projects which are expected to go to public sales late 2014, UEM Sunrise Chief operating officer Raymond Cheah stated "Both projects will change the landscape of Melbourne city," Let's have a closer look at the two designs in question:
9-23 McKenzie Street
<ul>
<li>
		Site size - 2,030 sqm</li>
	<li>
		Site purchased for $22.5 million or $11,084 per sqm</li>
	<li>
		Height - 35 floors and approximately 120 metres</li>
	<li>
		388 Apartments</li>
	<li>
		Design - Cox Architecture</li>
	<li>
		one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>
		preliminary priced between A$400,000 to A$600,000 each</li>
</ul>
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Bdk94HhCEAEpRzw.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="McKenzie Street at tweeted by project architect Cox"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1395" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Bdk94HhCEAEpRzw.jpg?itok=eC18hVW_" title="McKenzie Street at tweeted by project architect Cox" width="580"></a>
224-252 La Trobe Street
<ul>
<li>
		Site area - 3,197 sqm</li>
	<li>
		Site purchased for $43.15 million or $13,497 per sqm</li>
	<li>
		Height - 82 floors and 265 metres</li>
	<li>
		1343 dwellings</li>
	<li>
		Design - Elenberg Fraser</li>
	<li>
		one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments + serviced apartments</li>
	<li>
		preliminary price from AA$450,000 and A$650,000 each</li>
</ul>
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image23_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Raymond Cheah and the La Trobe Street project"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="425" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image23_2.jpg?itok=007WqZQD" title="Raymond Cheah and the La Trobe Street project" width="580"></a>
Both designs are a-typical in shape, owing to the developers intent in delivering a product that makes a design statement, and in the case of 224-252 La Trobe Street, a monolithic statement at that.
According to Cheah, "We decided on Melbourne first as there is high population growth rate, with 1,750 people moving to the city every week. The occupancy rate for apartments in Melbourne is about 97 per cent. The student population is also growing, helped by major universities set up in the city. We expect a lot of Malaysians investing in our two projects".
Watch for a review of the respective planning applications in coming weeks.
&gt;&gt; Content in part sourced from <a href="http://www.malaysia-chronicle.com/index.php" target="_blank">Malaysia Chronicle</a> and <a href="http://www.businesstoday.net.my/" target="_blank">Business Today</a>.
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UEM Sunrise intent on making a statement

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Victoria One, at 452 Elizabeth represents <a href="http://www.goldenagegroup.com.au/">Golden Age Group's</a> third foray into the Melbourne apartment market. Designed by <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/">Elenberg Fraser</a>, the 75-storey development is set to join a growing number of high-rise developments beyond 170 metres in height through the northern end of the CBD, which are illustrated in the images below.

These include <a href="http://www.icdproperty.com.au/">ICD Property's</a> <a href="/buildings/eq-tower-127-abeckett-street-melbourne">Eq Tower</a>, <a href="/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">450 Elizabeth Street</a>, <a href="http://www.meh.com.my/main">Mammoth Empire's</a> <a href="/buildings/empire-melbourne-398-elizabeth-street-melbourne">398 Elizabeth Street</a>, and <a href="http://www.bradygroup.com.au/">Brady Group's</a> Vision Tower with the twisting form of 450 depicted at 202 metres, although it's uncertain whether it has increased to 218 metres in height. Should these all proceed, they will greatly impact the northern entry into the city although that's an article for another day perhaps.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/03_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="268" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/03_6.jpg?itok=SFu5UdFM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Northern Cluster as viewed from north-west . © Blockhead.</figcaption></figure><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/02_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="263" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/02_4.jpg?itok=QhZ2g9b_" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Northern Cluster as viewed from south-west . © Blockhead.</figcaption></figure><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/elizabeth%20st_height%20profile.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/elizabeth%20st_height%20profile.jpg?itok=3Iy1dPvc" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elizabeth Street Height Profile diagram. © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>For now though let's focus on the subject of today's article - the 241 metre Victoria One. First announced during November last year, Jeffrey Xu's behemoth would become the tallest residential tower within the traditional Hoddle Grid.

Anchoring the Elizabeth/Franklin corner, the tower would provide a gateway partner to another Elenberg Fraser designed tower at 450 Elizabeth Street. Victoria One as it has been dubbed intents to replace the current single and two storey buildings housing a Drummond Golf outlet, a site which has previously seen an <a href="http://eatas.com.au/">Architects EAT </a>concept for a 32-storey Tetris-inspired building simply known as Drummond Apartments.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com.au/maps?ie=UTF8&amp;layer=c&amp;sll=-37.807867,144.960438&amp;cbp=13,125.12,,0,0.02&amp;cbll=-37.807786,144.96029&amp;q=452+elizabeth+street&amp;hq=&amp;hnear=452+Elizabeth+St,+Melbourne+Victoria+3000&amp;ll=-37.807867,144.960438&amp;spn=0.007188,0.013937&amp;t=h&amp;z=14&amp;iwloc=A&amp;panoid=FWmdRcaDGfQ5KTODDhYw9A&amp;source=embed&amp;output=svembed" width="100%"></iframe> <a href="https://maps.google.com.au/maps?ie=UTF8&amp;layer=c&amp;sll=-37.807867,144.960438&amp;cbp=13,125.12,,0,0.02&amp;cbll=-37.807786,144.96029&amp;q=452+elizabeth+street&amp;hq=&amp;hnear=452+Elizabeth+St,+Melbourne+Victoria+3000&amp;ll=-37.807867,144.960438&amp;spn=0.007188,0.013937&amp;t=h&amp;z=14&amp;iwloc=A&amp;panoid=FWmdRcaDGfQ5KTODDhYw9A&amp;source=embed">View Larger Map</a>

<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/drummond%20apartments.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/drummond%20apartments.jpg?itok=Tuny5DK1" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Drummond Apartments. © Architects EAT</figcaption></figure>Should it gain approval the proposed development would boast 622 apartments, (a positively low) 163 parking spaces, the capacity to store 263 bicycles with retail applied to ground and first floors. A wrap of apartments conceals the parking levels along the western and southern frontages whilst residential amenities are distributed throughout the building, located on levels 09, 44 and 64.

Presenting as a strong vertical element the development employs a tower-podium typology of sorts which a shadowline visually separating tower and podium, with no setbacks to the south or east due to the site's small footprint of 937 square metres. Minor setbacks of 5m to the common boundary to the north and 4.5m to the centre of the laneway to the east have been designed in.

<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/setbacks%20diagram.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="231" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/setbacks%20diagram.jpg?itok=QeCGA3lc" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Setbacks diagram. © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>The tower's facade is a formal representation of Victoria's 'Garden State' identity drawing upon elements of Victoria's landscape such as gardens and waterfalls. The fluid transition of the silver fin elements which cascade down the face of the tower, contract, expand and peel away where communal facilities are located, allowing for glimpses from the outside world of the coloured green glazing behind.

A departure from Elenberg Frasers's typical and successful bronze facade formula, the green facade is reminiscent of the dramatic unfolding when passing through Victoria's rainforest environments. The green gradually fades into a silver towards the tower's apex as landscape meets sky.

The podium heavily features vegetation as a way of softening the building's presence to the street and concealing the car parking along the eastern facade by way of the introduction of shallow angled planter boxes breaking up the otherwise precast concrete.

<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/452_PODIUM.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium design response. © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/452_PODIUM.jpg?itok=DUqVAzct" title="Podium design response. © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Podium design response. © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Overall the design is another solid addition to Elenberg Fraser's growing portfolio of high-rises, provoking visual metaphors of a vertical garden oasis in the midst of an otherwise concrete jungle. Sporting a rippling facade 452 Elizabeth street not only provides visual interest but goes some way to alleviating the effects of wind on the pedestrian environment below.

With the <a href="/news/victorian-government-announces-suite-of-super-tuesday-approvals">recent approvals</a> of Eq. Tower at 127-141 A'beckett Street and 398 Elizabeth Street and 452 Elizabeth Street likely not far behind, the north end of Melbourne's CBD is beginning to present as the counterpoint to Southbank's growing high-rise cluster.

According the Golden Age's website, Victoria One is expected to have its public sales launch during 2014.

<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: <a href="http://www.goldenagegroup.com.au/" target="_blank">Golden Age Development Group</a>
</li>
	<li>Architect: <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/" target="_blank">Elenberg Fraser</a>
</li>
	<li>Project Manager: <a href="http://www.sinclairbrook.com.au/">Sinclair Brook</a>
</li>
	<li>Town Planner: <a href="http://www.urbis.com.au/">Urbis</a>
</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: <a href="http://www.ratio.com.au/home">Ratio Consultants</a>
</li>
	<li>Waste Management Consultant: <a href="http://www.leighdesign.com.au/">Leigh Design</a>
</li>
	<li>Landscape Consultant: <a href="http://www.oculus.info/">Oculus</a>
</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: <a href="http://www.plpaust.com/">PLP Building Surveyors</a>
</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: <a href="http://www.ark-resources.com.au/">Ark Resources</a>
</li>
	<li>Structural &amp; Civil Engineer: <a href="http://www.robertbird.com/">Robert Bird Group</a>
</li>
	<li>Services Engineer: <a href="http://murchie.com.au/">Murchie Consulting</a>
</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: <a href="http://www.bosjon.com.au/">Bosco Jonson</a>
</li>
	<li>Quantity Surveyor: <a href="http://www.wtpartnership.com/">WT Partnership</a>
</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer: <a href="http://melconsultants.com/">MEL Consultants</a>
</li>
	<li>Fire Engineer: <a href="http://www.aecom.com/Where+We+Are/Australia+-+New+Zealand/Building+Engineering">AECOM Fire Engineers</a>
</li>
</ul>
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Laurence Dragomir

Victoria One - 452 Elizabeth Street

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St. Kilda Road has gone about transforming itself from a commercial hub into a haven for upmarket apartments for some time now, morphing from a dead after hours office precinct into an affluent residential boulevard.
A new proposal for the Fawkner Centre at 499 St. Kilda Road continues this trend, with intentions to convert the dated commercial tower into a rejuvenated 19 level residential complex.  Currently the Fawkner Centre stands at 18 levels and ulilises approximately half the 6,050 square metre site with 20,000sqm of office space and five retail tenancies the headline figures.
<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/1178.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Fawkner Centre. Image courtesy Lemon Baxter"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1178.jpg?itok=sQRkaZIr" title="The Fawkner Centre. Image courtesy Lemon Baxter" width="580"></a>
After purchasing the site during 2012, local developer <a href="http://www.lasgroup.com.au/" target="_blank">LAS Group</a> now aims to transform the complex into 19 levels of apartments whilst also expanding the smaller podium building toward St. Kilda Road. Within this new scheme, residential facilities are principally located atop the podium building, whilst double storey dwellings will be included amongst the anticipated 245 apartments available.
Level 19 will house outdoor facilities for the associated penthouses below while the aforementioned residents facilities include a lounge, communal garden, sauna and steam room, yoga facilities, gym as well as an indoor pool and external sundeck. A total of 245 apartments with a variety of layouts will be developed in the project in conjunction with 293 car parks, 19 tandem car parks and 270 bike spaces.
3020.5 square metres of new area will be built, complementing the refurbishment however there are no plans to include retail space into the reincarnated structure. Along the St. Kilda Road frontage the proposal aims to develop a new identity for the building with the lanning application stating that the construction of an additional 7 levels to that side of the building will help change the “face” of the structure from its current bland office exterior to that of a dymanic residential building.
In addition to augmenting the original structure, the St. Kilda Road interface will be revamped via a new drop off zone in conjunction with a new mirrored canopy which will greet residents as they enter the building, creating a distinctive entrance for the revamped tower.  Reconnecting the building with its surrounds is one of the key areas project architect <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/" target="_blank">Elenberg Fraser</a> and landscape design firm <a href="http://www.oculus.info/">Oculus</a> have focused on, with high attention to detail given to revitalising the connections between building adjoining enviorns.
<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/Image10_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected Fawkner Park interface. Image © Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="234" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image10_8.jpg?itok=ihExiN3M" title="Expected Fawkner Park interface. Image © Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>
At present, the Fawkner Park interface includes a large at grade car park against the boundary.  Through the introduction of initiatives such as soft articulated fencing and landscaping, a stepped landscaped façade to the ground and first floor of the building and planter boxes at ground level with vertical batten fencing, the design team have aimed to “soften” the building.  By creating a visual link more in keeping with the qualities of the park, the designers intent to “reactivate and reinstate the visual relationship between the building and Fawkner Park.”
In keeping with the “greening” of the site, the vehicular access way between St. Kilda Road and Fawkner Park will be eliminated, transforming it into a pedestrian link with a green edge being planted along the passageway.
Through the courtyards at ground level, pergola like structures are incorporated which are designed to provide privacy from level 1 as well as promote the landscaping to flourish and spread in a natural fashion.  Enhanced connections with Fawkner Park and private access for residents aims to promote use to the park.
<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_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="499 St Kilda Road's enhanced facade. Images © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_10.jpg?itok=APrxG8qZ" title="499 St Kilda Road's enhanced facade. Images © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>
As a refurbishment rather than new build, certain constraints were considered by Elenberg Fraser to ensure the new design would not affect the structural integrity of the existing building, in particular the existing structural spandrels which constitute the façade.
By remodelling and recladding the spandrels in a way that gradually transitions vertically and horizontally along the building’s elevation, they have been able to develop an appealing solution to the dated concrete façade which exists at present.  By having the spandrels transition horizontally, the appearance of the building is altered dramatically without stripping the existing original form.
Furthermore, a secondary level of articulation has been introduced to the façade, with a shifting pattern developed that is able to further enhance the elevation by the creation of a three-dimensional like illusion. The carved spandrels are planned to be reclad in a silver metal, with surrounding aspects painted a dark colour to allow the spandrels to highlight the architectural statement across the façade.
Either side of the main facades will be given a dark curtain wall combined with metallic trims as a way to “provide an anchor to the building’s form and complement the rest of the building”.
Having been with state planning body DTPLI for a number of months, 499 St Kilda Road's future will become clear soon enough with a decision on approval likely in the short to medium term.
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