Perth’s new apartment market recorded its strongest quarter of sales since Q4 2021, with 412 apartments sold in Q1 2026 and a record quarterly sold value of $537 million, according to Urbis’ latest Apartment Essentials results.

Urbis said the March quarter result reflects strong, highly product‑specific demand across both ends of the market, from more attainable projects delivering at scale, through to premium stock being absorbed by equity‑rich downsizers.&nbsp;

David Cresp, Partner at Urbis, said the key story in Perth is not demand, it is the market’s ability to convert demand into delivered housing.&nbsp;

“This is the strongest sales quarter since Q4 2021, and it reinforces that demand in Perth is real and it’s local,” David Cresp said. “But the task now is delivery, turning that demand into projects that can actually be built and completed.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=302785]

<h2>Affordable product leads, premium demand remains resilient</h2>

Sales in Q1 were led by more affordable projects, with The Boulevard (SKS Group) recording 115 sales in the quarter, the presentation noting this is only the second time a single project has surpassed 100 quarterly sales. The project was able to offer more affordable housing product right next to a train station.&nbsp;

Palmyra West (Finbar) also delivered strong results with 28 sales in Q1, following 84 sales in Q4, with an average price of under $800,000, underscoring depth of demand for well‑located, attainable new stock.&nbsp;

At the premium end, Urbis said downsizer demand is continuing, with the results highlighting Romeo (Applecross, Finbar) recording 75 sales and reaching almost 50% sold in one quarter.

Jual (Shenton Park, Celsius Property) also posted a strong quarter with 28 sales, reaching 39% sold in one quarter.

Urbis noted that Perth apartment demand is not speculative, not investor‑led, and not uniform, describing it as localised, often equity‑driven and highly product‑specific, a pattern reflected in the polarisation between strong “attainable” performers and premium downsizer product.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364102]

<h2>Prices underpinned by costs, and the delivery risk is growing</h2>

Urbis said pricing pressure is cost not demand‑driven: construction costs and delivery risk are now a central constraint, with the results noting build costs remain elevated and volatile, and that energy, fuel and labour uncertainty weigh on feasibility.

David Cresp said a growing challenge for private Build‑to‑Sell developers is simply securing a builder in the current environment.

“Developers are really feeling the pressure from a building market that was operating at capacity and securing a builder is challenging,” David Cresp said, adding that even where a builder can be secured, “trying to get to the price that makes the development financially viable is incredibly challenging in the current market.”&nbsp;

Urbis’ broader WA commentary also notes that industry remains at or above capacity with lot and housing creation, and that many builders are limiting new sales to manage stretched workforces and fixed‑price contract pressures, conditions that flow directly into apartment feasibility and delivery timing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108869 project_image_fid=317905]

<h2>Supply: improving later, but still constrained, and Perth lags eastern benchmarks</h2>

While near‑term supply remains constrained, Urbis’ forecast shows completions lifting “Supply is forecast to be back above 1,500 apartments per annum for the first time since 2019”, with 1,775 completions forecast for 2026, and volumes remaining above that level over the following years.&nbsp;

Looking further ahead, completions are forecast to reach 2,500 in 2028, with the report noting 32% of that total is social/affordable, reflecting the role of government‑supported delivery in rebuilding the pipeline.&nbsp;

However, Urbis said Perth remains behind comparable markets on pipeline scale. In a national comparison of projects under construction, the report shows under construction Perth Build‑to‑Sell (BTS) at 3,446 apartments versus the Gold Coast at 7,922. Mr Cresp said “The challenge for Perth is how to we grow the delivery pipeline”.

Urbis’ conclusion is that Perth’s market is increasingly defined by product discipline and delivery certainty, with the research identifying “delivery certainty is key” and calling out builder risk and procurement models as core success factors, alongside “timing and staging”.&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Perth apartment sales hit strongest pace since late 2021 as builder capacity tightens

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sammut-developments">Sammut Group</a> has secured development approval for its latest Brisbane apartment project, marking the Sydney developer’s next step in expanding its Queensland pipeline following the success of its debut Gold Coast development, Coast.

The approved project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/44-glen-road-toowong-qld-4066">44 Glen Road, </a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> will deliver a 15-storey riverfront apartment building with 42 residences, significantly increasing the scale of the site’s previous approval for a smaller luxury scheme. Designed by Bureau^proberts, the development will comprise a mix of predominantly four-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments positioned to maximise Brisbane River and city views.

Sammut Director Julian Sammut said the group had been actively searching Brisbane for several years before identifying Toowong as the right fit.

“Brisbane was the right step for Sammut,” Sammut said.

“With the success of Coast we thought we should definitely look to do more in Queensland alone. We then pushed up to look at Brisbane. We've been looking for I'd say two to three years actually and it was hard to find the right location.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dYAVIL7qdcGA8ojvkslSrLjczXFejSSx" />

Sammut said suburbs including New Farm and Teneriffe were considered before the group ultimately focused on Toowong due to its strong downsizer demographic and limited supply of developable riverfront land.

The site was acquired off-market after what Sammut described as a lengthy negotiation and planning process, with the developer pursuing an uplift to the original approval.

“We are DA approved now which is very exciting,” Sammut said.

“We've had our change approval come through and we've obviously doubled the height, 15 storeys plus rooftop. We've got 42 amazing apartments that are going to be coming to market soon.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ohkRkY0dIZlqdfME2EZePsCQavRiBadE" />

Bureau^proberts said the design responds to Toowong’s evolving urban character, balancing contemporary apartment living with the area’s established residential identity.

“A place where traditional Queensland living has taken place for centuries; Toowong is seeing a shift of contemporary influence, commercial and retail hubs mixed with well-considered residential offerings – all the while maintaining its character and charm,” the architect noted in planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council.

The architecture practice said the project’s form was shaped by its riverfront setting, flood considerations, neighbouring building scales, and view corridors.

“They said the mix of four and two-bedroom apartments capture the ‘fundamental qualities of Queenslander living,’ translated into the context of a contemporary subtropical building.”

The development sits just off Coronation Drive within walking distance of Toowong’s retail precinct and the upgraded Regatta ferry terminal, while also benefiting from proximity to the incoming green bridge connection to West End. Sammut said the accessibility and amenity offering were central to the site’s appeal.

The approval adds to growing residential activity along the Toowong riverfront, joining nearby projects including Consolidated Properties’ Monarch Residences and Spyre Group’s ARC Residences.

Sammut secures approval for debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong

Developer Lanevick is heading back into Sydney’s apartment market after focusing more heavily on the luxury townhouse and terrace sector in recent years.

Lanevick, founded and directed by Steve Maroun, is expecting to receive approval in the coming months for a new apartment development in Gladesville, with the aim to launch it to the market later this year.

The 51-apartment project, designed by Studio Johnston, will comprise a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments positioned toward the Hunters Hill downsizer market.

“Traditionally it’s been difficult for people in that market to downsize because there just hasn’t been the right product available,” Maroun said.

“We’re targeting buyers who might have 30 to 40 per cent of their house value sitting in the bank after downsizing.

“They still want good spacious entertaining areas, they still want quality design, but they also want flexibility and the ability to enjoy life a bit more after working hard for a long time.”

The project sits near Boronia Park and within close proximity to the Parramatta River foreshore, an area Maroun says offers more of a Hunters Hill lifestyle than a traditional apartment precinct.

“From a lifestyle perspective, it’s really more Hunters Hill than Gladesville,” Maroun said. “You’re close to the foreshore, close to parklands, and still connected back into the village precinct.”

From level four and above, apartments will capture water views&nbsp;toward Sydney Harbour. Communal amenity will include rooftop entertaining areas, wellness spaces, and a gym tailored toward owner-occupier buyers.

“We’ve really designed these apartments around that buyer coming from the Hunters Hill LGA and what they’re actually looking for in their next chapter.”

The proposed development has also been designed to respond to the changing character of the broader Gladesville town centre, where a growing number of mixed-use and residential proposals are expected to emerge over the coming years.

“Gladesville presented a rare opportunity to deliver a genuinely design-led residential project within an evolving lifestyle precinct, just moments from the growing Gladesville town centre, and we’ve approached the project with a strong focus on architecture, liveability and long-term community value,” Maroun said.

Maroun said Lanevick saw a first-mover advantage within the precinct as planning controls continue to evolve to accommodate greater housing density.

“We think there’s a real opportunity there that hasn’t really been serviced properly yet,” he said.

“There’s going to be a broader evolution of the whole Gladesville village precinct over time, particularly with more activation and mixed-use outcomes.”

The Venus Street proposal will include a commercial and retail component at ground level designed to contribute to that evolving streetscape activation.

“A big part of the thinking was how do you activate that area properly and create more vibrancy and amenity, which is what Hunters Hill has been looking for,” Maroun said.

Lanevick’s focus since 2020 has largely been on smaller-scale luxury townhouse and terrace developments. The developer recently completed Royale Randwick, also designed by Studio Johnston, where prices reached $3.65 million. The project was featured in the UDIA NSW 2026 Professional Development Prospectus and was also named a finalist for Development of the Year.

&nbsp;

Lanevick to cater for Hunters Hill downsizers with new Gladesville apartment development

Property developer One Living, backed by former Macquarie banker turned investment manager Chris Green’s investment firm, has unveiled plans to bring more institutional capital into housing to help address the national supply crisis.

The New York-based investor has focused his firm, GreenPoint Partners, on addressing the supply shortage hitting middle market housing in Australia.

It is backing the new One Living business to develop more than 1000 units along the eastern seaboard. The new firm is starting with a development on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with around 140 apartments planned. They are eyeing off more sites across the city.

With cost pressures rising in the industry, One Living’s model is to be a vertically integrated developer-builder, so it can respond directly to the housing gap by removing the cost inefficiencies embedded in traditional residential delivery.

“We are building a platform designed to operate at scale and starting in a market where there’s a clear need for quality, attainable housing,” One Living joint managing director Joseph Scuderi said.

“It’s that missing middle – it’s that attainable end of housing… that’s what most Australians invest into and what Australians can actually afford.”

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="798dfa93-4941-4db6-a696-31e9dc18e81c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.31.50%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=mKBqi5C_DmeiXS.AtJkcR8LQIxqCqmFi" />

GreenPoint Partners brings years of experience assembling and scaling real estate operating businesses across major markets. And Green sees a big opportunity in Australia.

“For its size, sophistication and importance to the community, Australia’s living sector has remained largely under-institutionalised, which represents significant opportunity,” Green said. “GreenPoint identified that gap, assembled the right team, and is backing One Living to build a platform that is aligned to market needs.”

Green said being a builder-developer would give the company the capacity and flexibility it required to deliver reasonably-priced homes.

“We want it to be at that attainable level; not super high end luxury but at that attainable level,” he said.

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74a5344a-4b26-4d4a-ada3-056b1220be77" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.32.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=vY8hXHO4reBMdO8ZXMWCNtGZJofUPQ3j" />

&nbsp;

One Living will undertake a component of affordable housing in its schemes, which it will own and operate, and it could also run build-to-rent on some sites.

Green praised local policy settings.

“The NSW government is being very supportive, strategic and pragmatic in terms of how do we generate more supply of housing,” he said. “We think it’s actually positive for development and the bit that’s been lacking at that attainable level is that it’s lots of relatively small private developers, whereas we want to create an institutional platform.”

One Living is also&nbsp;looking at high-density projects and could take on more institutional funding in the future.

“The way we will be able to achieve economies of scale is through size,” Green added.

One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition

It's been several years since there's been an opportunity to buy a brand new townhome in Melbourne's coastal suburb of Mordialloc. Even apartment developments in recent times have been few and far between in the area.

Local developer LDS Property identified the gap in new housing, securing a site on White Street, directly opposite&nbsp;Woodlands Golf Club Mordialloc. They've recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/wm-residences-mordialloc-102-white-street-mordialloc-vic-3195">WM Residences</a>, just 13 townhouses which they have already started building.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson, who is selling WM Residences, says the townhouses x that perfect middle ground be

"Mordialloc residents have had limited options to downsize within the suburb, often forcing them to look elsewhere despite long-standing ties to the area," Thompson says.

"With very little comparable new supply coming to market, projects like WM Residences are well placed, particularly as buyers look to capitalise on current conditions amid constrained supply."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6109]

The development, designed by regarded architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>,&nbsp;adopts a deliberately restrained architectural approach, focusing on simplicity, durability and liveability rather than overt design gestures.

The boutique scale is central to the offering. With only 13 three-bedroom residences, each home is configured to prioritise functional layouts and everyday use, supported by private terraces and secure two-car garages.

Ewert Leaf’s design response leans into a calm, neutral material palette. Interiors are defined by oak flooring, white walls and soft finishes, creating a consistent and understated backdrop. The approach avoids trend-driven detailing in favour of longevity, with an emphasis on natural light and spatial clarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6110]

Beyond aesthetics, the homes are designed to meet contemporary performance expectations. Each residence targets a minimum 6-star energy rating, incorporating double glazing, comprehensive insulation and all-electric Bosch appliances.

The project’s location supports a walkable coastal lifestyle, sitting within close proximity to Mordialloc’s foreshore, Main Street retail strip and the train station. Local cafés and dining venues, including Suburbia Deli and Hendriks Café, are within a short walk, reinforcing the area’s established neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6116]

While <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is often defined by its beach and pier, the project taps into other areas of day to day living, offering easy access to local food, casual dining and transport, rather than positioning itself purely as a lifestyle retreat.

WM Residences reflects a continued trend across Melbourne’s coastal suburbs towards smaller-scale, design-led townhouse developments, particularly on infill sites where proximity to amenity is already established.

With construction commenced prior to its market entry, the project aligns with a growing preference among buyers for developments with visible progress and defined delivery timeframes.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134646]

WM Residences fills gap in Mordialloc townhouse market

Fender Katsalidis

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LongRiver Group have ramped up their Box Hill development intentions. The privately owned property player is poised to launch a major apartment tower fronting Whitehorse Road whilst simultaneously working to secure the right to build Melbourne's latest DoubleTree by Hilton outlet.

820 Whitehorse Road's redevelopment came to light early last year, with Whitehorse Council ultimately granting LongRiver Group the right to proceed with the 30 storey building just prior to the turn of 2017. Valued at around the $200 mark, <a href="/buildings/east-central-tower-820-whitehorse-road-box-hill">East Central Tower</a> as it will be known is now accepting registrations of interest.

Included within the tower designed by Fender Katsalidis are approximately 280 apartments, 1,500sqm of residential facilities plus 3,000sqm of combined office and retail space.

<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/image111_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East Central Tower is nearing its sales launch. Image: Longriver Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="832" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image111_3.jpg?itok=b-m7nOYO" title="East Central Tower is nearing its sales launch. Image: Longriver Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East Central Tower is nearing its sales launch. Image: Longriver Group</figcaption></figure>East Central Tower's pending launch comes as LongRiver Group work on bringing DoubleTree by Hilton to Box Hill.

Integrated property and infrastructure consultancy APP have released details of the intended DoubleTree by Hilton tower at 874-878 Whitehorse Road. Whitehorse Council are still assessing the project which landed at planning late last year.

<blockquote>
The new hotel, to be developed in the <a href="/developments/box-hill-vic-3128">suburb of Box Hill</a>, will be the second DoubleTree by Hilton in Melbourne. Box Hill is a major commercial hub in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs and is an area of strategic significance with planned growth in employment, housing, business, services and public investment.

Currently in the design phase, the hotel will include 200 stylish and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar and gym coupled with an array of contemporary amenities consistent with the DoubleTree by Hilton brand. 

DoubleTree Hilton is renowned for delivering upscale, full-service hotels and identifying key markets around the world, and the new development is no exception. Expected to open in 2020, the hotel is in a prime position surrounded by education, government and healthcare facilities and is anticipated to inject a fresh, energetic presence to the Box Hill area.
<cite>APP </cite>
</blockquote>

874-878 Whitehorse Road has an expected project value of $90 million.

<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/image114_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="DoubleTree by Hilton is headed for Box Hill. Image: APP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114_3.jpg?itok=ealmaEpR" title="DoubleTree by Hilton is headed for Box Hill. Image: APP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>DoubleTree by Hilton is headed for Box Hill. Image: APP</figcaption></figure>Whilst Box Hill has over recent years transformed into a favoured apartment market, it's only now that the suburb has gained traction in terms of attracting hotel operators.

DoubleTree by Hilton's 200 suites will follow The Chen, an Art Series Hotel containing 100 suites which is nearing completion as part of the larger Whitehorse Towers development. Also in play atop the hill are 150 approved hotel suites within Spotlight Property Group's 845-851 Whitehorse Road project and 77 serviced apartments as part of Golden Age Group's proposed 517-521 Station Street development.
</body></html>

silvermb

Doubletree by Hilton and East Central Tower define LongRiver's Box Hill aspirations

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There's movement regarding a number of imposing skyscrapers planned for Southbank.

The Planing Minister has granted approval for 51-65 Clarke Street during April, allowing developer Newcity Development (One) Pty Ltd to proceed with the hulking 70 storey tower. The twisting multi-coloured design by Elenberg Fraser which tops out at 233m would rank the tower among Southbank's tallest, although still well short of the suburb's tallest approved tower - 1 Queensbridge Street at 323m.

Spanning a GFA of 52,313sqm, 51-65 Clarke Street consists predominantly of 512 apartments, supported in turn by 327 bicycle bays and 120 car parking spaces.

<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/image72_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="51-65 Clarke Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="417" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image72_2.jpg?itok=nka0KwWu" title="51-65 Clarke Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>51-65 Clarke Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Although well in excess of the desired Southbank/CBD plot ratio, both Melbourne City Council and the Planing Minister saw fit to support the project.

<blockquote>
With a proposed height of 233m and setbacks that comply with the requirements of DDO10, the development will not overwhelm or dominate the public realm or adjoining buildings

As the development exceeds the maximum plot ratio of 24:1, the applicant is required to demonstrate a public benefit contribution. With the provision of a new through block link between Catherine Street and Hancock Street and contributions to nearby streetscape upgrades and projections actions with the City Road Masterplan and Southbank Structure Plan, it is considered that the plot ratio of 30.8:1 can be supported.
<cite>Report to Future Melbourne Planning Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

Also offered in principle support last month by Melbourne City Council was 87-105 Queensbridge Street. With Melbourne City Council's support or otherwise a prudent indicator as to whether a project will receive support from the Minister's office, 87-105 Queensbridge Street is now seemingly in the box seat to receive the green light.

If approved, the 170m tower would prove to be a boon for developer Aohua Sheng Le Property Pty Ltd.

Whether they choose to develop or move the site on, a permit for 852 apartments on Southbank is a substantial outcome. The planning application is also seeking the right to add 312 bicycle bays and 453 parking spaces within the Fender Katsalidis-designed project. 

87-105 Queensbridge Street's apartment split sees 354 single bedroom, 471 dual bedroom and 27 triple bedroom dwellings within the edifice which holds a massive GFA of 113,401sqm.

<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/image73_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="87-105 Queensbridge Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="443" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image73_4.jpg?itok=06TQZqvO" title="87-105 Queensbridge Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>87-105 Queensbridge Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>As the above duo navigate the planning process, a further two projects are looking for new owners as their current vendors choose to offload their respective assets.

38 Freshwater Place is the higher profile project of the duo up for sale. Knight Frank and CBRE have jointly listed the project, with its EOI campaign closing mid May. Up for grabs is the right to deliver a 273m mixed used tower featuring apartments, a hotel component and retail. After picking up the site at the turn of 2016, PCT Development &amp; Management have chosen to move on the trophy property.

Rounding out the Southbank do-si-do is 127-129 Kavanagh Street, which - save for a couple of months of piling activity at the turn of 2017 - has been dormant for some years. Designed by Squillace, 127-129 Kavanagh Street's approved permit allows for 780 apartments and multiple retails space across two towers, with the taller at 48 storeys. 

The above two projects are particularly valuable given the planning changes implemented over recent times, restricting height and density, and therefore apartment yield within the suburb. 

<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/image76_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="38 Freshwater Place &amp; 127-129 Kavanagh Street. Images: Knight Frank &amp; Squillace"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="287" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image76_2.jpg?itok=EosnoaVC" title="38 Freshwater Place &amp; 127-129 Kavanagh Street. Images: Knight Frank &amp; Squillace" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>38 Freshwater Place &amp; 127-129 Kavanagh Street. Images: Knight Frank &amp; Squillace</figcaption></figure>
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51-65 Clarke Street's approval leads the Southbank shuffle

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Clarendon Street's position as a hotel and serviced apartment hub is likely to be strengthened by way of a new tower proposed for 56-62 Clarendon Street.

Already boasting Crown Metropol, Clarendon Street will also see construction commence on a Peppers hotel shortly, and is subject to a substantial hotel proposal as part of the <a href="/news/tea-for-two-southbanks-historic-tea-house-up-for-a-towering-addition">Tea House's prospective redevelopment</a>. In addition to traditional apartments, 56-62 Clarendon Street is proposed to also include 128 serviced apartments across its lower levels.

Submitted late last year, the application on behalf of developer Yang Clarendon.

<h2>56-62 Clarendon Street application summary</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/image83_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the new Southbank tower. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="925" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image83_3.jpg?itok=BquFwcHB" title="Artist's impression of the new Southbank tower. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the new Southbank tower. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>1,212sqm site current utilised as a Europcar outlet and motor mechanic centre</li>
	<li>Proposed 48 level tower at 151m to roof</li>
	<li>Plot ratio: 22.6:1</li>
	<li>128 Serviced Apartments: 24 x DK 1BR, 56 x DK  Studio, 48 x Studio</li>
	<li>234 apartments: 117 x 1BR, 117 x 2BR</li>
	<li>2 retail spaces fronting Clarendon Street</li>
	<li>372sqm of amenities</li>
	<li>80 car parks &amp; 93 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>GFA: 27,214sqm</li>
</ul>
Fender Katsalidis Architects have designed the tower, with the broader development team having already responded to preliminary DELWP queries during February this year.

<blockquote>
The building facade is designed to give the overall building form a more bold and expressive appearance, with different elements working to define the podium, tower and roof of the building.

At street level the podium appears more bold and dramatic, a point of interest and excitement along the pedestrian street. The tower form appears simpler and lighter, in the background but with the facade design winding its way up towards the top. At roof level the facade folds back along the top, extending the expressive and bold facade up to the roof, to be read from afar at the scale of the wider urban context, if only slightly.
<cite>Urban Context Report</cite>
</blockquote>

At 48 levels, 56-62 Clarendon Street is among the tallest towers in the immediate area; diagonally opposite, BPM's Shadow Play is under construction whilst 334-344 City Road holds approval at 38 levels.

56-62 Clarendon Street carries a similarly themed exterior to a number of other Fender Katsalidis-designed Southbank towers such as Eureka Tower, Australia 108 and 18 Moray Street. Certainly, in the three projects below, gold highlights over a predominantly blue facade has become somewhat of a Southbank norm for the design practice.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image21_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gold over Blue. Images: Yellow Red Fox, Meinhardt &amp; Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="317" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_12.jpg?itok=lgCyXCO6" title="Gold over Blue. Images: Yellow Red Fox, Meinhardt &amp; Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gold over Blue. Images: Yellow Red Fox, Meinhardt &amp; Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><h2>56-62 Clarendon Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Yang Clarendon</li>
	<li>Architects: Fender Katsalidis Architects</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Breese Pitt Dixon</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Abdec Building Surveyors</li>
	<li>Structural and Services Engineering: WSP Structural Engineering</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Wind Consultant: MEL Consultants</li>
</ul>
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Another substantial Southbank tower emerges

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The large-scale redevelopment of Richmond's former Jaques engineering complex has been marked by an number of onsite dedications.

Dating back to 1885 and with frontages to Palmer, Coppin, Dyer and Griffiths Streets, the 9,945sqm site's engineering heritage has been permanently embossed across the site. Planning Minister Richard Wynne and Riverlee Group's Clement Lee were recently onsite to unveil plaques dedicated to the Jaques family; these are in addition to the many original engineering sketches and blueprints dotted throughout the build.

The recent event signified completion of the $290 million redevelopment backed by Riverlee Group and Macquarie Real Estate Equity Funds, and which has been delivered in stages. Overall the Fender Katsalidis-designed complex includes 377 apartments and 17 townhouses, car parking provisions, two landscaped courtyards, a rooftop terrace and four retail tenancies.

2,530sqm or 30% of the site is provided for amenity, underpinned by Dyer Street, who's unveiling was marked by Yarra City Council's Lord Major Amanda Stone and Jack Dyer Jr.

<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/jaques_unveiling_of_historical_panels-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Commemorating Jaques' place in Richmond's history. Image:supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="704" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jaques_unveiling_of_historical_panels-1.jpg?itok=m6bRyEqP" title="Commemorating Jaques' place in Richmond's history. Image:supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Commemorating Jaques' place in Richmond's history. Image: supplied</figcaption></figure>After picking up the Jaques site during 1997, Riverlee Group and Fender Katsalidis reworked initial plans for the site to provide a heightened design outcome.

Works began an Stage One during 2012, with this month's event heralding the completion of the entire project which includes three separate buildings. Following on from Stage One's Boiler Shop Building &amp; Hammermill Apartments, and Stage Two's 5 Tonne Apartments &amp; Iron Works Building, Palmer Street was completed earlier this year.

Palmer Street includes 22 one bedroom, 23 two bedroom and 10 three bedroom apartments in a highly articulated building designed to be the precinct's most luxurious offering.

<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/image44_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Differing aspects of the now completed Jaques development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image44_0.jpg?itok=YsEAxaGb" title="Differing aspects of the now completed Jaques development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Differing aspects of the now completed Jaques development</figcaption></figure>Architect Karl Fender of Fender Katsalidis was on hand to walk Apartments.com.au through the completed project, paying much attention to the project's street-level interface along the way.

Upon taking on the project, Fender Katsalidis effectively scrapped the existing development scheme which Karl Fender described as being highly unsympathetic to the surrounding low-rise street character. Under the new design, Stage One saw the retention of the existing brick facade which was worked into the development, with higher levels set well back.

The scaled brick theme continues across Stage Two's lower levels, with Stage Three/Palmer Street a nod to modern design. Copper panels, white polished pre-cast framing, metal features and copper framing provide the building with a modern character.

Dyer Street is a cross-site link that includes the retail tenancies at ground level. Set on a skewed axis, it's expected that Dyer Street will link up with a new pedestrian link to be created on the opposite vacant site that will soon be home to the new <a href="http://www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/Pages/Schools/Richmond-High-School.aspx">Richmond High School and community-based Multi-Purpose Facility</a>.

On the corner of Palmer and Dyer streets the original main visitors entry from the original industrial building has been retained, with viewable displays charting the site’s history and paying tribute to Richmond icon Jack Dyer.

<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/image43_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Jaques Stage 1. Image:supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image43_5.jpg?itok=-ydSGr8L" title="Jaques Stage 1. Image:supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Jaques Stage 1. Image:supplied</figcaption></figure>Jaques Richmond was the initial project between architect and developer, and has since spawned further projects.

<a href="http://riverlee.com.au/projects/108-flinders-street">108 Flinders Street</a> was completed during 2014 and features a Tract Landscape Architects-designed internal courtyard and 190 apartments. The <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">Northbank Goods Shed</a> is next on the duo's agenda, with Fender Katsalidis preparing plans for a mixed-use tower containing apartments and hotel suites.
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Karl Fender provides insight as Jaques Richmond reaches completion

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The planning equivalent of a 'Days of our Lives' episode may be on the verge of a development resolution.

<a href="/developers/action-group-australia">Action Group Australia's</a> very long and public bid to redevelop a prime slice of land opposite Station Pier has entered its latest phase, with plans now on display for a new design seeking grace the defunct site. Since development plans for <a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">1-7 Waterfront Place</a> first surfaced early this decade, it has been subject to a local resident backlash, <a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/waterfront-place-development.htm">Council bids to protect the site</a> from overdevelopment, VCAT hearings and <a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/amendment-C104-Waterfront-Place.htm">Ministerial intervention</a>.

During 2015, the Minister for Planning approved site specific amendments to the Port Phillip Planning Scheme, which ushered in new policy and planning controls. Among them were a mandatory 35m maximum height limit, in addition to podium, setback and overshadowing requirements.

Via entity Waterfront Place Pty Ltd, Action Group Australia and long serving project architect <a href="/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a> have come back with revised plans for a substantial residential project featuring a mass of resident amenities.

<h2>
<a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">1-7 Waterfront Place</a> application summary</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/image39wp.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A broadside perspective of the proposed development. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="307" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image39wp.jpg?itok=Lgr8z1qc" title="A broadside perspective of the proposed development. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A broadside perspective of the proposed development. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 5,487sqm</li>
	<li>Currently a vacant amenities complex for the immediate area</li>
	<li>Proposed: 10 level residential building spanning 38.5m to plant level</li>
	<li>175 dwellings: 31 x 1BR, 8 x 1BR townhouse, 103 x 2BR, 14 x 2BR townhouse, 17 x 3BR, 1 x Penthouse</li>
	<li>Provisions for 244 car spaces across 2 basement levels</li>
	<li>184sqm of ground floor retail space</li>
	<li>A publicly accessible plaza and north-south laneway</li>
	<li>Amenities include: golf simulator, fitness studio, lounge, lap pool, library, business room, dining and events room.</li>
</ul>
Two retail tenancies opposite the Port Melbourne railway station frame a proposed western plaza that continues through the development at ground level. A large northern courtyard also breaks the building's form to Beach Street.

The Waterfront Place frontage is dominated by townhouses across the building's podium, whilst public artwork is also set to feature at ground level.

<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/image41_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Development at the human scale. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_2.jpg?itok=FSGgs6Lx" title="Development at the human scale. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Development at the human scale. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>1-7 Waterfront Place has spawned a number of designs over the years, with the most notable being an early wave-shaped tower that was also the largest proposal seen for the site. Subsequently, following designs have been more modest in height, with the latest version being the shortest.

On the current scheme, planning consultancy <a href="/developers/urbis">Urbis</a> asserts "DDO23 is a site-specific overlay that has taken into account the strategic location and objectives for the site. Accordingly, this report assesses the planning permits of the proposal, primarily in regard to the objectives and requirements of DDO23 but also the relevant sections of the Port Phillip Planning Scheme."

All things being in accordance with the regulatory formwork, it now looks like one of this city's longest planning sagas will find resolution soon enough.

<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/image47_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Designs for Waterfront place that have been consigned to history"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="471" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47_4.jpg?itok=mSOnV1B_" title="Designs for Waterfront place that have been consigned to history" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Designs for Waterfront place that have been consigned to history</figcaption></figure><h2>1-7 Waterfront Place development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Waterfront Place Pty Ltd (Action Group Australia)</li>
	<li>Architecture and Urban Context Report: Fender Katsalidis</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Sustainability Management Plan: Norman Disney &amp; Young</li>
	<li>Traffic Impact Assessment: Cardno</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Salt</li>
	<li>Landscape Plan and Landscape Report: Tract</li>
	<li>Acoustic Assessment: Acoustic Logic</li>
</ul>
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Port Melbourne's long running Waterfront Place saga enters a new phase

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Although applications for substantially tall apartment towers have eased over recent times within City of Stonnington, two current development applications across Prahran and South Yarra represent the next sling of smaller sized towers for the municipality.

A 14 storey apartment building at 10-16 Cecil Place is being sought by Bensons Property Group. The quiet Prahran thoroughfare is eventually expected to be graced by the Fender Katsalidis-designed building that includes 92 dwellings, with the vast majority of those encompassing two bedrooms.

10-16 Cecil Place along with <a href="/buildings/vanguard-781-807-dandenong-road-malvern-east">Vanguard</a> and <a href="/buildings/chronicle-960-high-street-armadale">Chronicle</a> sees a total of 447 dwellings across various stages of development within Stonnington under the Bensons umbrella.

<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/image6_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Cecil Place development as envisaged from Chapel Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="315" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_12.jpg?itok=Cf4NyvXg" title="The Cecil Place development as envisaged from Chapel Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Cecil Place development as envisaged from Chapel Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>Replacing a low-rise commercial building which spans the 1,263sqm site, 10-16 Cecil Place's proposal carries an estimated cost of development of just under $21 million.

Existing built form precedents in the immediate area rise to a similar height, with the most notable being Caydon's Troligi development. Set atop four basement levels for 96 vehicles, 10-16 Cecil Place's ground floor will also include a 229sqm food/drink venue and a 127sqm retail outlet.

Fender Katsalidis have taken steps to compliment yet distance the tower from the adjoining property which carries heritage value. Expression lines across the proposed podium facade match the scale of the heritage facade, with a similar degree of density also employed, as opposed to the tower proper's glazed finish.

Whilst 10-16 Cecil Place shapes as a future Bensons project, Vanguard is at construction. With ABD Group enlisted as builder, Vanguard includes 3 basement levels supporting 18 above ground levels and 323 apartments, 2 retail spaces and a gymnasium.

<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/image45_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="121-123 Commercial Road. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_4.jpg?itok=4z_y4Chd" title="121-123 Commercial Road. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>121-123 Commercial Road. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>121-123 Commercial Road on the other hand represents Headland Properties' latest foray into the Melbourne apartment market.

Partially sited above the adjacent rail corridor, Headland's proposal includes a ten storey building, with VicTrack and structural engineering specialists having been included during the design stage. In preliminary feedback, City of Stonnington expressed concern about the buildings intended height of 33.8m, which exceeds the preferred height of 18 metres for the area as specified by the proposed Activity Centre Zone overlay.

In its submitted form, the Elenberg Fraser-designed 121-123 Commercial Road includes two retail spaces totalling 267sqm, 80 apartments, 88 car spaces and 42 bicycle spaces at ground level. Key to the design is a large courtyard fronting Commercial Road, which doubles as the building's major design feature.

From a public perspective, 121-123 Commercial Road also includes a new 3m wide proposed public footpath / bike path linking Osborne Street and Balmoral Street that would be maintained by the building's future body corporate.
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Bensons and Headland sign in at Stonnington

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Developer Lendlease is pushing ahead with early site works for their pending Melbourne Quarter development; a massive mixed-use project that will round out the Batman's Hill precinct within Docklands.

Effectively a nexus between Melbourne's CBD and Docklands, Melbourne Quarter will continue the growth of inner city apartments aimed squarely at professionals, young families and empty nesters who are seeking a high-rise lifestyle. With the flood of investment grade apartment projects into the inner city over recent years, there is now a concerted push to create projects that go above and beyond, particularly in terms of amenity.

Lendlease Head of Apartments, Ben Christie, states that Melbourne Quarter has been designed to cater to the demands of astute buyers seeking a lifestyle which includes minimal outdoor and apartment maintenance, inclusive facilities, and communal socialising spaces.

<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/view04_mq_squre_elevated_v2_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Quarter Neighbourhood Park. Image courtesy Lendlease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/view04_mq_squre_elevated_v2_0.jpg?itok=oW3M2lzk" title="Melbourne Quarter Neighbourhood Park. Image courtesy Lendlease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Quarter Neighbourhood Park. Image courtesy Lendlease</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Melbourne buyers from all demographics have one of the strongest appetites for high-quality apartments. This is a design conscious city in its fashion, food and coffee, and also Melburnians’ appetite for good architecture is no different. In Melbourne, people expect a comprehensive offering which includes open floor plan layouts for social spaces, ample storage in residences and basements, and health-conscious building amenities.

The biggest selling point for our Melbourne Quarter project is the precinct’s green space and gardens at the base of residences. This gives people the opportunity to live in and be amongst a community that contributes to Melbourne's rich cultural tapestry. Melbourne has traditionally been framed around its parks, and Melbourne Quarter will create a floating Skypark and a new neighbourhood park within the city; a very good thing for residents and the public at large.

<cite>Ben Christie, Head of Apartments, Lendlease</cite>
</blockquote>

Lendlease's Melbourne Quarter development is bordered by Collins and Flinders Streets in Docklands, and upon completion will offer city living, future workplaces, dining, shopping and green spaces. A series of new internal laneways will connect workers, residents and visitors to the traditional Hoddle Grid and to approximately 40 new specialty retailers, including cafes and bars, dining, fashion and lifestyle offerings.

The development's residential towers have been designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects (FKA), who have a long and successful history of residential buildings in Melbourne, including the Republic Tower, Eureka Tower and Australia 108.

Urban.com.au posed a number of questions to Ben Christie and FKA's Karl Fender about the development and the evolution of apartment living in Melbourne.

<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/view_20_mq_resi_1x1_bed_desk_02_crop_option.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Quarter typical one bedroom apartment. Image courtesy of Lendlease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="213" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/view_20_mq_resi_1x1_bed_desk_02_crop_option.jpg?itok=nX2S7XBr" title="Melbourne Quarter typical one bedroom apartment. Image courtesy of Lendlease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Quarter typical one bedroom apartment. Image courtesy of Lendlease</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au: Both Lendlease and Fender Katsalidis have extensive experience in apartment developments in Melbourne. How has the market evolved in the last 20 years and by extension the demands of purchasers?

Karl Fender: The transition of Melbourne over the last 25 years from a commercial hub to a thriving multi-faceted metropolis can be attributed to the migration of people from suburban to city living. Large sections of the Melbourne community enjoy, and have come to depend on proximity to workplace, city based rich living options, security, and the convenience of apartment living.

With this increased understanding and focus on the broader benefits of city living, the expectations of apartment design standards with the owners have developed substantially. That community sector now has sophisticated views about their personal living environment. Flexible planning, sizes appropriate to need, provision of ample recreational amenities, quality materials and excellence of architectural design are expected.

People today regard their apartment as far more than simply a good investment. Pride in home, which was underpinned the Australian dream of ownership in the suburbs, is now of paramount importance in the higher density multi-residential realm.

Ben Christie: The great thing about Melbourne’s apartment market is that it offers a variety of city-centric living opportunities that weren’t available 10 years go. Melbourne in general boasts a very high quality of apartment design. Our customers expect a comprehensive apartment offering, which might include open floor plan layouts for social spaces, ample storage in residences and basements, and health-conscious building amenities like a gym or swimming pool.

There is also a growing demand for concierge and hotel-style offerings as time-poor residents use these services to cut down on chores and free up leisure time. Melbourne Quarter will offer such concierge services to enhance the quality of our resident’s living experiences, including services on ground and upper ground lobbies which will use smart technology systems to connect residents in their community.

Many of our customers consider the surroundings of their apartment building too, looking for things like recreational facilities, parks, playgrounds, cafes and community services like child-care facilities and libraries. Our diverse Victoria Harbour community has the highest concentration of Green Star rated buildings in Australia and is located next door to many popular community amenities including Library at The Dock, Buluk Park and the newly-opened Community Hub at the Dock.

UM: How do developments like Melbourne Quarter respond to these demands from a design point of view? What does the architecture say about its locale and the residents within?

KF: Melbourne Quarter is an exemplar of quality environment for its new resident and commercial community. In the broader context of the central business district of Melbourne, its location and provisions will redefine and enrich this strategic entry point of the city. It will certainly be a catalyst for urbane completeness which this currently underutilised corner of the city so desperately requires.

Within the development, public placemaking, rich pedestrian linkages, carparking and servicing strategies have been carefully considered to deliver the best possible outcome. Enticing connections between Collins and Flinders Streets has been achieved through a series of pedestrian experiences, enriched by gardens, recreational and retail opportunities.

The apartments within the residential sector of Melbourne Quarter provide a diverse range of sizes and outlooks, but quality and facility are the common threads. The new resident community can enjoy the privacy of home and counterpointed by the connection of city opportunities at their doorstep. Their living experience is further enriched by their communal facilities which include an elevated 120m pool looking over the northern park, gym, sauna, multi-purpose yoga studio, lounge, library and luxury dining spaces.

UM: How has the history of the site informed the architecture?

KF: The Melbourne Quarter precinct is a very historically significant location in Melbourne and has played a key role in the history of the city’s founding. It is remembered as the site that city father John Batman chose for his family house which he built on Batmans Hill - the site of Melbourne Quarter - in 1836 not long after the beginning of Melbourne’s settlement in 1835.

The precinct also engages with the indigenous heritage of the site and indigenous artists will also play a key role in the placemaking, design and art of the precinct.
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Laurence Dragomir

Karl Fender and Ben Christie talk Melbourne Quarter

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The lure of capitalising upon Melbourne's super strong hotel sector has not gone unnoticed at Salta Properties, with the developer's approved plans for a prime Docklands corner reworked to include a hotel component.

A long time at planning, 695-699 La Trobe Street was resubmitted with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) earlier in the year, with the intention of providing 175 hotel suites in addition to 305 residential apartments. The emergence of 695-699 La Trobe Street in its current form adds weight to Docklands' hotel credentials, with a handful of projects planned or at construction.

Planning documents show that for their Docklands venture, Salta Properties were negotiating with InterContinental Hotels Group to bring aboard Hotel Indigo as the operator, although of course any tie-up is subject to confirmation from the respective parties.

Active across all development spheres, 695-699 La Trobe Street shapes as Salta Properties' second mixed-use project which would include a hotel component. As part of Abbotsford's Green Square development, Salta Properties snared serviced apartment provider Quest to manage 93 studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments.

From an exterior design perspective, 695-699 La Trobe Street's shape remains for the most unchanged, with a new facade and ground floor plane in tow.

The redesigned exterior features a facade application that has become somewhat of a Fender Katsalidis trademark in recent times. Vertical timber-finish fins now veil much of the podium aspect of the intended tower, and are similar in nature to other Fender Katsalidis projects such as Ivanhoe Apartments.

A new ground floor layout would see dual lobbies and a combined bar/dining space provide continuous activation to both La Trobe Street and Harbour Esplanade. As part of the revised application, Urban Art Projects have included an urban art strategy with the option of including three major artworks across the tower's ground floor and car park podium section.

<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/image110_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new ground level interface. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="301" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image110_0.jpg?itok=rHAI1EAS" title="A new ground level interface. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new ground level interface. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>Docklands and the adjoining South Wharf continue to prove themselves as a magnet for hotel development.

Salta Properties' entry into Docklands is in addition to Four Points by Sheraton which is nearing its construction completion, while Quest can expect its second Docklands outlet to begin construction in the new year. Flagship Property Holdings have begun works on a new 331-room hotel at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, while Riverlee is eyeing a new hotel an North Wharf as part of its <a href="/news/a-reborn-north-wharf-adds-to-melbournes-swelling-hotel-numbers">pending redevelopment</a>.

The only project that has yet to materialise is Altus Tower; itself a stone's throw from 695-699 La Trobe. PARKROYAL has been signed to Altus Tower, but post its <a href="http://www.hotelmanagement.com.au/2014/10/08/construction-starts-parkroyal-docklands/">official breaking of ground</a> during October 2014, precious little has occurred onsite since.

<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/image112_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Altus as rendered, but not in reality. Image: thelatus.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="364" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image112_1.jpg?itok=2sL-199A" title="The Altus as rendered, but not in reality. Image: thelatus.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Altus as rendered, but not in reality. Image: thealtus.com.au</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne's hotel boom draws Salta Properties into the mix

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<h2>Comment</h2>

The humble podium can be a tough task to master.

There are plenty of misses, in both old and new builds, scattered around the inner city… as there are exemplary podium design outcomes. The latest project to put itself forward as a shining example of what an authentic, interactive and aesthetically excellent podium can be is 308 Exhibition Street.

<a href="/news/sp-setias-northern-statement-308-exhibition-street">Recently covered by Urban.com.au</a>, 308 Exhibition Street is the joint work of COX Architecture and Fender Katsalidis Architects for developer SP Setia. As interesting as the tower form is, the intended project's podium is worthy of individual praise.

It acts as the main conduit between the development and street level, and provides the opportunity to introduce a human scale to the site which for many years has been devoid of activity, given its use as an annex to one of Telstra's main Melbourne major data centres/telephone exchanges.

<blockquote>
At ground, the proposal integrates and strengthens the existing public realm and through site connections, maximizing opportunities to activate and enliven street edges and then inviting pedestrian movement into and through the heart of the site.

A verdant public forecourt extends the greenery of the gardens into the development; an urban sanctuary at the gateway of the CBD.
<cite>308 Exhibition Street urban context report</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/image18_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="308 Exhibition Street's podium. Planning image: Cox/FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_14.jpg?itok=doRvdYgC" title="308 Exhibition Street's podium. Planning image: Cox/FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>308 Exhibition Street's podium. Planning image: COX/FKA</figcaption></figure>At street level, 308 Exhibition Street's podium is split between lower ground and ground levels, owing to the site's slope. A plaza, hotel lobby, bike share space and childcare lobby are the main activating areas across lower ground, whereas ground itself is a mixture of retails spaces, lobbies and an upper landscaped plaza.

In the true sense of a mixed-use project, 308 Exhibition Street's podium also encapsulates an indoor/outdoor childcare centre, bike station, apartments, hotel suites, a lounge and restaurant, sky lobby, pre-function spaces, a ballroom, terrace, various resident/hotel amenities and car parking shrouded by the podium structure itself.

Externally the podium is clad with pre-fabricated composite steel panels in a ceramic finish. The underside of the panels features strip LED lighting. Watertight removable planter boxes are most prominent over the podium, and diminish as the podium morphs into the towers proper; this is a nod to the Carlton Gardens directly opposite.

<blockquote>
The development of 308 Exhibition Street creates a unique opportunity to provide a high quality address to the northern entry to Melbourne’s CBD, link to the adjacent parkland precinct and add to the network of iconic streets and laneways throughout the CBD.

The proposal includes: a generous entry plaza, activated building edges, new laneway, animated landscapes comprising plantings, art and water elements as well as ‘greened’ buildings with extensive podium level landscapes.

The internal laneway is located on the southern boundary and links from Exhibition Street in an east west direction to Burton Street. This legible and generous link is animated by a dynamic digital screen to provide a themed and dynamic illuminated experience to the public and residents guests and visitors.
<cite>T.C.L Landscape Design</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/image19_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cutaway podium diagram. Planning image: COX/FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_12.jpg?itok=vZ4cP1Wl" title="Cutaway podium diagram. Planning image: COX/FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cutaway podium diagram. Planning image: COX/FKA</figcaption></figure>308 Exhibition Street is not the only prospective podium of great merit in Melbourne at the moment.

Other noteworthy pending builds with inviting and aesthetically pleasing podiums include <a href="/buildings/queens-place-157-a-beckett-street-and-370-queen-street-melbourne">Queens Place</a>, <a href="/buildings/conservatory-9-23-mackenzie-street-melbourne">Conservatory</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/elysium-54-clarke-street-southbank">54 Clarke Street</a>, Box Hill's <a href="/new-apartments/sky-one-box-hill-545-563-station-street-box-hill">Sky One</a>, <a href="/buildings/capitol-grand-241-toorak-road-south-yarra">Capitol Grand</a> South Yarra and of course the freshly approved Jean Nouvel inspired <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">383 La Trobe Street</a> with its mesmerisingly multi-coloured arcade. Another podium of great design merit is Fridcorp's prospective <a href="/developments/south-yarra-vic-3141">627 Chapel Street</a> tower which is understood to be under appeal.

It could be argued that all of the above projects will create a demonstrably better public realm outcome/interface when they are realised.

Conversely, there are some podium failures in recent times, with the finger being pointed toward at clutch of towers lining the northern end of Elizabeth Street. With recent changes to planning laws enacted, the hope and expectation is that the above examples will become the norm, rather than the exception.

<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/image79_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podiums with intent: 54 Clarke Street, Queens Place and 383 La Trobe Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="374" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_3.jpg?itok=beBRcbmp" title="Podiums with intent: 54 Clarke Street, Queens Place and 383 La Trobe Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Podiums with intent: 54 Clarke Street, Queens Place and 383 La Trobe Street</figcaption></figure>
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When the podium works... it really works

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The wider public now has a chance to see what developer SP Setia has in store for its prime development site on the northern edge of the CBD fronting Carlton Gardens.

These are the first images made available of the proposed application that carries a nominal development cost of $250 million, with the total value of the project much higher. Having secured the site earlier in the year, SP Setia now hopes to gain approval for the twin towers which are greater in height than Rialto.

After teaming up to devise the similarly scaled <a href="/buildings/queens-place-157-a-beckett-street-and-370-queen-street-melbourne">Queens Place</a> development at 350 Queen Street, firms Cox Architecture and Fender Katsalidis have united once more to create the mixed-use scheme for the Exhibition Street plot which Telstra offloaded following the telco's decision to not develop the site.

<h2>308 Exhibition Street application summary</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/image4_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 308 Exhibition. Planning image: COX/FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1267" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_11.jpg?itok=vohudetd" title="Artist's impression of 308 Exhibition. Planning image: COX/FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 308 Exhibition. Planning image: COX/FKA</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site acquired by SP Setia for $101 million earlier in 2016</li>
	<li>Site area: 4,140sqm covering 288-308 Exhibition Street</li>
	<li>Planned 70 storeys towers measuring 254m from La Trobe Street</li>
	<li>504 hotel rooms and 16 hotel residences</li>
	<li>500 plus apartments</li>
	<li>330 vehicle bays and 254 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>3 retail tenancies combining for 437sqm</li>
	<li>Estimated cost of development: $250 million</li>
</ul>
Billed by CBRE City Sales during the site's marketing campaign as a "generational opportunity to activate and redefine a CBD precinct, offering the potential for a world-class mixed-use tower", SP Setia have lived up the hype surrounding the site.

Planned are dual towers set above a green podium; one tower containing 5-star hotel suites for an intended international hotel operator and the other private luxury apartments. Documents lodged for the development emphasise SP Setia's intent "to provide a development of the highest quality incorporating the best quality architecture, landscape design and environmental sustainability."

Lodged as a master plan permit application, the development team will provide a heightened degree of design detail as conditions to any permit, should the project receive the green light from the Planning Minister.

Across the development, a host of public and private facilities have been included. Retail spaces, a 1,370sqm child care centre, restaurants, lounge/bars, a 548sqm ballroom and 1,333sqm of pre-function and function space headline the project's lower level offerings.

Scattered across the tower are also a yoga studio, gym, pool and sauna, residents wine cellar, cigar lounge and library and outdoor garden spaces.

<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/map-excellence.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Home of SP Setia's development aspirations. Image: 308exhibition.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="229" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/map-excellence.jpg?itok=JHSu-bKJ" title="Home of SP Setia's development aspirations. Image: 308exhibition.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Home of SP Setia's development aspirations. Image: 308exhibition.com.au</figcaption></figure>Arguably the project's main design feature, a curving sky bridge will link the towers across levels 49 and 50, with the structure slated to include communal spaces among other features.

According to the lodged Urban Context Report, "The Client and the Design Team (FKA and Cox in association) have developed the preliminary concepts in close consultation with DELWP and MCC. Over a series of presentations and meetings the tower forms, setbacks, building separation and ground floor activation have been refined."

In further addressing potential development obstacles, an aviation statement has been included within the lodged documents. It outlines 308 Exhibition Street's incursion into the prescribed OLS area by 55.75m, whilst falling 35.75m short of the PANS‐OPS barrier.

OLS breaches have become somewhat common in recent times, and may not necessarily present an issue for the soaring application as its moves through the approvals process.

<h2>308 Exhibition Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Urban Context and Design Response: Cox Architecture &amp; Fender Katsalidis</li>
	<li>Landscape plans: TCL Landscape Architects</li>
	<li>Traffic and Transport Assessment: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Wind Statement: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Environmentally Sustainability Design Strategy: Aurecon</li>
	<li>Structural Engineering Statement: Irwinconsult Engineering Consultants</li>
	<li>Aviation Statement: Thompson GCS</li>
	<li>Heritage Advice: Lovell Chen Heritage Consultants</li>
</ul>
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