A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’s long-term commitment to regional cities.

“Today’s groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong’s city centre,” Elias said. 
&nbsp; 
“Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

Evolve Development

<html><body>
Developed by award winning developer, Evolve Development and designed by award winning architect, SJB Architects, BOTANIC is the 5th residential project collaboration for this team. BOTANIC is seen as a further contribution to the growing reputation of Melbourne as one of the world’s most liveable cities and Evolve Development, along with SJB Architects are proud to be associated with and contribute to this significant project.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/botanic-25-27-coventry-street-southbank-5aac16a2face4b073cb0275e3b7020ee.jpg?itok=ohJyvEeR" style="width: 580px; height: 290px;"></figure>Designer apartments comprising 1,2,3 and 4 bedrooms all with abundant natural light and supreme quality finishes including timber flooring to the kitchen and lounge areas, stone benchtops and Miele appliances. 
Choose from three beautifully conceived colour palettes, expertly designed by SJB.

Botanic Melbourne offers magnificent northern views towards the city skyline and eastern views over the Royal Botanic Gardens, providing an opportunity rarely available so close to the city centre. Upon arrival into the lobby, you are greeted by elegance and luxury. The inclusion of a dedicated business hub with a boardroom and private meeting room on a mezzanine level provides residents with an impressive work space.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/botanic-25-27-coventry-street-southbank-bf57a72abe439aa17eec926ce693eff1.jpg?itok=qV4Xg7Mu" style="width: 580px; height: 232px;"></figure>Amenities are plentiful with premium shared facilities on level 5 including a serene garden retreat with BBQ, fireplace and outdoor dining, luxurious swimming pool, residents kitchen and dining area, lounge area, well-equipped gym, and beautiful landscaped surroundings.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/botanic-25-27-coventry-street-southbank-1606e0979c13036c50f7ee37cb2ffd71.jpg?itok=0yQHpnh4" style="width: 580px; height: 290px;"></figure>Live close to the exciting CBD and feel the thrill of the Arts Precinct and the calm of the Royal Botanic Gardens. The historic and cultural significance of the immediate surrounds ensures the magnificent views from these luxurious apartments are protected and will remain interrupted.
</body></html>

urban.com.au

Southbank - Endearing off-the-plan opportunities for Melbourne's hottest new development

<html><body>
The issue of air rights has been given heightened media attention in recent times, principally due to Yarra House within South Yarra's Forrest Hill Precinct where developer Michael Yates <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/residential/yarra-house-to-rise-with-views-secured-20131015-jgwls">purchased apartments in the adjoining low-rise building</a>. This in turn secures the right to veto any future development, thus protecting Yarra House's views.

Air rights and appropriate development is also at the crux of a dispute headed to VCAT, where Albert Road-based Evolve Development is seeking to amend an already approved scheme for 25-27 Coventry Street, so as to expand the tower's built form above the neighbouring property. Having purchased the Southbank site with approval in place for a 22 level residential building, Evolve Development have subsequently secured air rights above the adjoining 21-23 Coventry Street.

<blockquote>
Our client has also purchased the air rights of the eastern adjoining property and a subdivision permit obtained to amalgamate this land. It is noted that the permit contained Condition 1 (f), which required the built form to be set back from the eastern boundary at least 4.5 metres from the eastern boundary at Level 5 and above. This requirement was due to Council's concerns in relation to the proposed development restricting the future development potential of the adjoining land, in particular any restrictions on east facing apartments in any future development of that land.
<cite>SJB Planning document to VCAT excerpt, April 2015</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/image166.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Air right over part 21-23 Coventry Street. Image courtesy SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="365" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image166.jpg?itok=i-1vNYzD" title="Air right over part 21-23 Coventry Street. Image courtesy SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Air right over part 21-23 Coventry Street. Image courtesy SJB</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The purchase of the air rights over 21-23 Coventry Street has resulted in an expansion of the built form to the east from Level 5 upwards. This has had consequential effects on the layout of apartments at these levels. Particularly, the apartments located in the south east quadrant of the building from Level 5 to Level 20 have been reoriented to ensure appropriate setbacks from the properties to the south and west and to ensure adequate daylight access to all habitable rooms.

Evolve No.21 Pty Ltd now seeks permission to pursue an amended development strategy which incorporates the air rights over 21-23 Coventry Street to the east and which better reflects current inner urban housing market trends.
<cite>SJB Planning document to VCAT excerpt, April 2015</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>25-27 Coventry Street, Southbank amendment highlights</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image168.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A comparison between approved and proposed. Images courtesy SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image168.jpg?itok=8l3s_v4t" title="A comparison between approved and proposed. Images courtesy SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A comparison between approved and proposed. Images courtesy SJB</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>21 level residential tower at 70 metres in height</li>
	<li>252 apartments - 99 * studio, 105 * 1BR, 48 * 2BR</li>
	<li>177 car parking spaces and 80 bicycle spaces within a three level basement</li>
	<li>279sqm commercial/restaurant space with 50 person capacity</li>
	<li>Meeting room and library included within the development</li>
	<li>1,147sqm site area</li>
</ul>
The reworked SJB Architects design seeks to bump up apartments numbers by an additional 72 over the initial scheme which was given the nod via City of Melbourne during 2013. This is principally achieved by increasing studio dwellings from 8 to 99 within the amended proposal, at the cost of two bedroom dwellings which decrease by 20.

While the design still adheres to the DDO60 height limit, the external look has been drastically altered with the addition of balconies to the eastern facade. It's argued within the documents that the balconies which overhang the adjoining 21-23 Coventry street will aid in the retention of both on-site and off-site amenity.

Evolve Development currently have the project listed on their website as valued at $140 million and holding a completion date of 2017. It's fair to assume both these figures will change.

<h2>North, south, east and west</h2>

<blockquote>
The building form varies on each of its four elevations, relating to the immediate neighbouring conditions, whilst the use of varied colours and materiality presents a continuity and connection to the surroundings.

The north elevation presents an elegant tower on a setback podium with expressed columns that lightly anchor the elevation to the ground. Laneway access provided at the rear of the site along Wells Lane ensures flexibility and street activation of Coventry Street by way of tenancy and residential lobby interface. Street canopies, individually expressed between columns, break up the podium providing a human scale in the current streetscape rhythm while providing protection from the elements.

The tower is expressed in distinctive elements to provide visual interest and articulation. A recessed floor plan is incorporated at level 5 to distinguish the podium from the tower above. This break in the facade is introduced to respond to the height of the parapet of 312 St Kilda Road to the east, and the fagade composition of 35-37 Coventry Street to the west. The western elevation incorporates an angled setback to individual apartments facing south-west to protect the amenity of existing residents to the south and future neighbours to the west.

The south elevation is set back in response to the proximity of the residential tower at 6-8 Dorcas Street to the south.
<cite>SJB Planning</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Join the club</h2>

25-27 Coventry Street would join Evolve Development's initial Southbank project, <a href="http://www.evolvedevelopment.com.au/completed-projects.php#guilfoyle">The Guilfoyle</a> at 39 Coventry Street. LU Simon Builders completed the $190 million tower during 2013, which holds 353 apartments spanning 21 levels. SJB Architects were also responsible for the design of The Guilfoyle.

Currently fellow developer VIMG have sold in excess of 70% of Coventry Haus located at 33 Coventry Street, which will see the project head to construction shortly. Designed by Jackson Clement Borrows, the tower began life considerably shorter but was expanded upon VIMG's purchase of the site to the maximum allowable height.

<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/141029-33-coventry-photomontage-dusk-edit-3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Coventry Haus at 23 levels. Image courtesy JCB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="899" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/141029-33-coventry-photomontage-dusk-edit-3.jpg?itok=2ZAoQ8ld" title="Coventry Haus at 23 levels. Image courtesy JCB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Coventry Haus at 23 levels. Image courtesy JCB</figcaption></figure>The 'secondary' Southbank apartment market has proven popular in recent years with a string of apartment tower completions falling between Coventry and Dorcas, as witnessed by Sunday Apartments, Elm and the aforementioned Guilfoyle.

Waiting in the wings are the approved <a href="/buildings/kings-domain-southbank-68-dorcas-street-southbank">68-70 Dorcas Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/the-evermore-southbank-58-66-dorcas-street-southbank">58-66 Dorcas Street</a> and potentially 25-27 Coventry Street which between them would pump a further 1000 apartments into the tail end of Southbank.
</body></html>

silvermb

Air rights, share rights: 25-27 Coventry Street, Southbank

<html><body>
An apartment sales campaign looks imminent for one of Melbourne's more contentious and long lasting development sites, referred to as Nelson Place. In recent weeks Dalton Consulting Engineers have been appointed to handle civil infrastructure matters and the like whilst Icon Construction currently have phase one of what will be known as <a href="http://waterlineplace.com.au/" target="_blank">Waterline Place</a> listed online as an active construction tender.

Comprising 83 apartments and two retail tenancies, the initial development phase will include a six level SJB Architects-designed complex as seen below. The completed development will potentially see 20 level towers and in excess of 800 dwellings.

<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/image24will.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Stage One of Waterline Place features an apartment building of 83 dwellings. Image courtesy Icon Construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image24will.jpg?itok=KU2lnICc" title="Stage One of Waterline Place features an apartment building of 83 dwellings. Image courtesy Icon Construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Stage One includes 83 apartments. Image courtesy Icon Construction</figcaption></figure><h2>Site History</h2>

Formerly the Port Phillip Woollen Mills, the site is bound by Nelson Place (north), Kanowna Street (east), Cecil and Aitken streets (south) and Ann Street (west). Carrying a handful of historic structures, the development site has been subject to a decade of wrangling between Hobsons Bay City Council, the Save Williamstown action group and proponent, Evolve Development.

The long-running saga prompted developer Ashley Williams to deliver this broadside in response to the development and parking concerns raised by opposing bodies:

<blockquote>
A bunch of what I'd say are fairly selfish established residents, who have benefited from property price rises, make it very hard for developers to respond to that demand. They forget that the changes that led to the parking issue have meant that there are more people around, more cafes, the place is a more vibrant retail centre, the supermarket and greengrocer open later, so you can't have it both ways.
<cite>Ashley Williams, "<a href="http://www.news.com.au/finance/real-estate/developer-furious-at-selfish-residents/story-fndbarft-1226586508083">Developer furious at 'selfish' residents</a>" (news.com.au), February 27, 2013</cite>
</blockquote>

It was argued by Save Williamstown that the development would:

<ul>
<li>Destroy heritage</li>
	<li>Be situated too close to the shipyards</li>
	<li>Be situated too close to Mobil MHF(includes feeder arms on jetty, pipelines &amp; tank farm with tanks up to 40m diameter) and fuel importation ships flagged overseas</li>
	<li>Destroy nationally significant jobs</li>
	<li>Overwhelms local schools, child care and community services</li>
	<li>Make Williamstown less family friendly</li>
	<li>Overburden roads and traffic</li>
	<li>Lead to tourists being squeezed out of the peninsula</li>
</ul>
Ultimately VCAT ruled in favour of the development as was <a href="http://williamstown.starcommunity.com.au/star/2013-01-15/development-upheld/" target="_blank">reported during January 2013</a>, dismissing a number of gauzy claims above.

<h2>Staged development</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image29will.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy Lovell Chen &amp; Save Williamstown"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="317" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image29will.jpg?itok=fVOxuPqu" title="Images courtesy Lovell Chen &amp; Save Williamstown" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images courtesy Lovell Chen &amp; Save Williamstown</figcaption></figure>The overall site is broken into 14 separate lots according to the graphic above. <a href="http://www.savewilliamstown.net/" target="_blank">Save Williamstown</a> provides a concise summary of events and applications to date, where Stage One will involve Lots 1,2 and 3 with permitted plans allow for the demolition of the 1800's Oriental Hotel and provision for 142 dwellings by way of apartments and townhouses.

Lot 2 situated on the Nelson Place and Ann Street intersection holds the 6-storey apartment building which rises 19.6 metres above ground. Hobson Bay City Council's Built Form Outcomes seeks “A prominent building which provides emphasis to the corner of Nelson Place and Ann Street” and “A building that incorporates innovative façade articulation and limited sheer walls.” Vertical louvres look to be design response.

Subsequent stages are expected to see building heights rise to 9 levels, with the potential for multiple 20 level apartment towers considered likely for latter stages of the project. Expected to stretch toward 2020, the overall program is envisaged to deliver 700 apartments and 100 townhouses, although given the size and elongated delivery period for Waterline Place final numbers are unknown.
</body></html>

Evolve Development

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Evolve Development

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News