Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Fender Katsalidis

<html><body>
Malaysian-based Mitraland Group has flagged its intention to enter the Melbourne apartment sector with plans currently on display with City of Stonnington for a 20 level residential tower within South Yarra's Forrest Hill Precinct. Lodged with council during December 2014, the Fender Katsalidis-designed tower is nominated to have an end value of approximately $50 million.

Long earmarked unsuccessfully for development and surrounded by larger forthcoming towers such as <a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra">661 Chapel Street</a> and LK Property's <a href="/buildings/capitol-grand-241-toorak-road-south-yarra">Capitol Grand</a>, Mitraland are no doubt hoping the current planning application will find a favourable outcome in due course.

<h2>649 Chapel 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/image7_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 649 Chapel Street. Image courtesy FK Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="960" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_3.jpg?itok=uj6_M5oz" title="Artist's impression of 649 Chapel Street. Image courtesy FK Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 649 Chapel Street. Image courtesy FK Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current use: two storey commercial/retail building over a roughly 500sqm site</li>
	<li>Proposed: 20 level residential development at 61 metres in height</li>
	<li>72 apartments: all with two bedrooms</li>
	<li>71sqm retail outlet at ground level</li>
	<li>44 car parking and 21 bicycle spaces located within three basement levels</li>
	<li>GFA: 8,794sqm</li>
	<li>​Communal rooftop space: dining/BBQ area and open-air roof garden</li>
</ul>
The site in question has been to VCAT in recent years, unsuccessfully, with the then proponent trying to gain approval for a 17 level residential building holding 82 apartments. Urbis state within the current planning application that any proposal put forward for the site:

<blockquote>
Must demonstrate design excellence that will result in an outstanding building for the precinct. It is also imperative that any new proposal responds positively to the previous VCAT determinations
<cite>Urbis, 649 Chapel Street Planning Submission</cite>
</blockquote>

Issues VCAT raised for the site during the previous proposal's hearing include that the northern facade be well articulated given the adjoining and substantially lower Quest apartment complex is unlikely to be redeveloped, and that there be a clear differentiation between podium and tower. The latter point was further articulated at the time where VCAT stated they don't necessarily consider a setback pivotal, rather that there be a visible difference in treatment between lower and upper levels.

Project architect Fender Katsalidis have employed metal fins over lower levels with a red ochre-like finish to provide contrast.

<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_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A previously unsuccessful proposal for 649 Chapel Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_2.jpg?itok=lYyd-8N7" title="A previously unsuccessful proposal for 649 Chapel Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The previously unsuccessful proposal for 649 Chapel Street</figcaption></figure>Generally the exterior is dominated by precast walls to the north and south with an embossed pattern and applied colour designed to break its bulk. The northern facade has a considerable light court running the height of the tower included within the floorplan, accounting for roughly 42sqm of a typical floor's area.

Separated by the light court and the abutting lift, habitable areas within the proposal are essentially split into east and west wings. A generic plan covers levels 5-18, where each wing consists of two apartments with four per floor the norm. While all the apartments carry two bedrooms, the average internal area per apartment is approximately 75sqm with 66sqm and 83sqm the extremities.

<blockquote>
Within its context, the proposed building contributes significantly through a well-designed and dynamic piece of architecture. Its form is sleek and slender, while being both sensitive and striking. A suited mix of glass and concrete fold into one another, and an otherwise continuous form is interjected by central voids and light courts that allow light to filter through the centre of the building.

The slender vertical tower element provides a distinct separation between podium and tower forms through varied materials and visible recesses.
<cite>Urbis, 649 Chapel Street Planning Submission</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/16ban_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="16 Quartz as per the Mitraland website"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="232" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/16ban_01.jpg?itok=YPfAoeFb" title="16 Quartz as per the Mitraland website" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>16 Quartz development as per the Mitraland website</figcaption></figure>Incorporated during February 2014, Mitraland Australia is the Australian affiliate of Petaling Jaya-based Mitraland Group. Formed during 1998, Mitraland Group has completed a host of medium and high-density residential projects predominantly in and around Kuala Lumpur.

Mitraland Australia is the latest Malaysian developer to enter the local market, following in the footsteps of well established players such as SP Setia and Mammoth Empire. Another Malaysian developer soon to make an impression upon Melbourne is PJ Development Holdings which holds a 20,000sqm land parcel at 93-119 Kavanagh Street, Southbank. Speculation is that a tower of up to 300 metres is in the offing for the site, in a development value at approximately $1 billion.

<h2>649 Chapel Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Urban Context Report: Fender Katsalidis Architects</li>
	<li>Architectural plans: Fender Katsalidis Architects</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Sustainable Management Plan: Ark Resources</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering: Cardno</li>
	<li>​Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

silvermb

Malaysia's Mitraland looks to enter the Melbourne apartment market

<html><body>
Today we look at an application which seeks to address some of the recent concerns surrounding housing diversity in apartment living and resident amenity. Z66, to be located at 66 Lygon St in Carlton would see the current building occupied by the <a href="http://www.downtowner.com.au/">DownTowner</a> demolished to make way for a 14-storey, <a href="http://www.fkaustralia.com/">Fender</a> <a href="http://www.fkaustralia.com/">Katsalidis</a>-designed apartment building.

<blockquote>
The proposal aims to create a new character for the precinct through a dramatic interpretation of the traditional stepped approach of the tower and podium massing. Instead there is an integrated tower and podium, where the "U" shaped form of the podium clasps the tower from below.

As an overarching design philosophy, the proposal aims to stack the mass that would have been available by developing the whole site, into a smaller building footprint to provide all apartments with views out and eliminate south facing or internally overlooking apartments.

This results in a higher form, however we feel this is appropriate given the significant nature of the corner site on main roads; the height has no additional detriment to neighbours through overshadowing or overlooking; and we feel this height is an appropriate transition from the tall city towers to the finer grain of Lygon Street to the north.
<cite>Fender Katsalidis, design philosophy extract</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Building layout</h2>

Z66 has been designed to maximise solar access with all apartments benefiting from a 'great outlook' that has resulted from no apartments overlooking one another, and no south facing orientation.

The impacts of any future neighbouring developments have also been considered with a considerable setback employed from the western boundary above the ground floor area, and to the east above level four. This doesn't just safeguard the amenity of residents in Z66 but also any future neighbours.

The ground floor consists of a wrap of retail to Lygon and Queensberry Streets with all ancillary programme relegated to the shared accessway to the south. The retail to the north is setback from the boundary to form a sheltered colonnade to Queensberry Street and a landscaped outdoor area is located to the south-east and north-east corners of the site. Apartments facing the landscaped area feature a 'balcony buffer' which in turn acts a buffer between the development and the adjoining Romanian Orthodox Church.

<blockquote>
Habitable rooms, such as bedrooms and living rooms in each apartments have access to direct light and air. Living rooms and bedrooms are oriented to face balconies or the external edge of the building, and provided with operable windows for access to natural ventilation. 'Borrowing' of light is avoided.

The setback from the East boundary results in a relatively small building footprint, which enables internally overlooking apartments to be eliminated in the development. The open landscaped area to the East also improves the amenity to the Romanian Orthodox Church garden next door. The development receives abundant daylighting to the East and West and south facing apartments are avoided.

On podium levels of the development (levels 1 to 6) larger balconies are incorporated to the apartments on the West side. These balconies also function as a buffer to the busy Lygon Street
<cite>Z66 town planning 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/z66_ground_floor.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground floor plan. © FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="376" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/z66_ground_floor.jpg?itok=JOoITcZA" title="Ground floor plan. © FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground floor plan. © FKA</figcaption></figure><h2>Z66 facade</h2>

The building's facade is articulated via a series of concrete panels and glazed fenestrations. To the north and south the building presents as quite a solid, ordered structure whereby the concrete panels are double height and arranged with a strong emphasis on horizontal movement; the positioning of the panels in a staggered formation give the impression of a shifting in form.

The other visual effect is one of ambiguity of scale: though a 16-storey building the impression is one of only eight or so, at least to the north and south. The eastern and western elevations on the other hand appear far more permeable with glazing taking precedent over concrete, with an almost adhoc approach as to how the facades are presented; the emphasis shifting to a much more vertical movement visually.

<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/z66_elevations.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East and South Elevations. © FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="371" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/z66_elevations.jpg?itok=OYiCojzj" title="East and South Elevations. © FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East and South Elevations. © FKA</figcaption></figure><h2>Dwelling diversity</h2>

In their response to "Objective 5.1 - Dwelling Diversity" as gazetted in the Design Guidelines for Higher Density Residential Development, FKA have sought to provide a diverse and balanced mix of apartment types which cater for the needs of a wider target market. Extracted from the planning application, the break up of apartments is illustrated below:

<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/z66_apartment_types.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dwelling diversity. © FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="344" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/z66_apartment_types.jpg?itok=wNLdD9Ij" title="Dwelling diversity. © FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Dwelling diversity. © FKA</figcaption></figure><h3>Apartment mix and amenities</h3>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 50%;">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">Apartments</th>
			<th scope="col">Quantity</th>
			<th scope="col">Area</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>One Bedroom</td>
			<td>100 apts</td>
			<td>42-59m²</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Two Bedroom</td>
			<td>118 apts</td>
			<td>59-75m²</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The development is also comprised of a residential amenity space at ground level that can be used by residents for dining, lounging, meetings as well as appreciating the landscaped area fronting Queensberry Street.

<h3>Apartment types</h3>

Within each apartment category (one bedroom or two bedrooms), there are different layouts to suit different living arrangements. Within the one bed apartment units, there are two types, which are the one bed plus study and the one bed. The one bed plus study layout could suit a couple where 1 person works from home or requires a separate study space. The one bed will be a more affordable option for single person or couple where the study space can be part of the bedroom.

Within the two bed apartment units, there are also two types. One type is an option for two people sharing the same unit, and another type is suited for a couple who require an extra room for guests / older children or even study space.

<h2>Z66 in a nutshell</h2>

<ul>
<li>Projected project cost of $47 million.</li>
	<li>218 apartments over 16-storeys.</li>
	<li>428sqm landscaped area addressing Queensberry Street and the Romanian Orthodox Church.</li>
	<li>103 + 2 tandem car spaces and 99 bike spaces across two basement floors./li&gt;</li>
	<li>Allocation of 30 visitor bike spaces.</li>
	<li>213sqm of resident amenities.</li>
	<li>Height: 57.10m.</li>
	<li>Mixture of one and two bedroom apartments.</li>
	<li>361sqm of retail on ground floor.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Comment</h2>

The proposal while not ground breaking in terms of its architecture sets itself apart from other similar developments; while it employs a built form almost twice that which is called for in the Design Development Overlay it does not seek to occupy the entirety of the site. In doing so it achieves a quality outcome for the residents who would call it home and provides saperation between itself and the Romanian Orthodox Church rather than suffocating it by developing to its site boundaries but a lower height.

The design team have conceived what can be best described as a thoughful proposal, one that assesses any potential impacts in the short-term but also long term future. Similar to Piccolo Developments' Upper House nearby, Z66 would command a corner site and as such greater height is appropriate to address its position.

This particular stretch of Queensberry Street will continue to see significant development and growth with medium to higher density slowly creeping from the confines of the traditional CBD.

<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Architecture: Fender Katsalidis.</li>
	<li>Proponent: Zagames Corporation.</li>
	<li>Planning: Tixxis Consulting.</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design.</li>
	<li>ESD: Cundall.</li>
	<li>Traffic: Cardno.</li>
	<li>Heritage: Bryce Raworth.</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

A rather unorthodox approach: 66 Lygon Street, Carlton

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Last week it was announced <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's</a> tallest skyscraper was set to be released for sale domestically in February with the remainder of apartments expected to be snapped up after the project's successful launch in Asia. Developed by World Class Land Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of Singapore-based <a href="/developers/world-class-global">Aspial</a>, Australia 108 is expected to carry an end value of $1 billion.

With the initial hype and comment over the public launch subsiding, now presents an opportune time to pour over the figures that define Melbourne's next landmark structure.

<h2>From the ground up</h2>

<ul>
<li>Located at <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">70 Southbank Boulevard</a> in busy <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>
</li>
	<li>100 levels and 319 metres in height</li>
	<li>Designed by <a href="/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis Architects</a> as an accompaniment to their earlier Southbank project, the 297 metre Eureka Tower</li>
	<li>Retail and lobby/concierge located at ground floor plus porte cochere access</li>
	<li>10 levels of podium car parking: 558 car parks and 310 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Level 11 lap pool, sauna, steam room and private theatre as well as indoor and outdoor entertaining areas and external deck</li>
	<li>944 apartments below the starburst including:</li>
	<li>Three studio apartments ranging in size from 53.6 to 57.8 square metres
	<ul>
<li>418 one bedroom, one bathroom apartments ranging in size from 47.1 to 65.7 square metres</li>
		<li>105 two bedroom, one bathroom apartments ranging in size from 57.8 to 66.3 square metres</li>
		<li>418 two bedroom, two bathroom apartments ranging in size from 59.6 to 128.2 square metres</li>
		<li>​Level 70/71 starburst with dual level residential facilities</li>
	</ul>
</li>
	<li>161 Sky residences above the starburst which include:
	<ul>
<li>Three bedroom apartments with either two or three bathrooms. Size ranges from 120.6 to 211.4 square metres</li>
		<li>Penthouses (they are also 3 bed 3 bath) – range from 355.4 to 391.6 square metres</li>
		<li>Penthouse 100 (top floor) – the tallest residence in the southern hemisphere. Customisable, it is 797.4 square metres</li>
	</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2>Exterior</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/tpa8467_australia_108_e01_hero_elevated-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of the Southbank behemoth. Image supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="878" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tpa8467_australia_108_e01_hero_elevated-2.jpg?itok=znmOAPJ6" title="Hero perspective of the Southbank behemoth. Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of the Southbank behemoth. Image supplied</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Deep blue facade with white stripes enveloping the facade, and which have integrated LED lighting at visible outside daylight hours</li>
	<li>Starburst feature located 210 metres above ground, inspired by the Federation Star on the Australian Flag</li>
	<li>Similar design impetus to the neighbouring Eureka Tower whose exterior drew inspiration from the Eureka Stockade</li>
	<li>11-level podium features large glazed planter boxes and heavy with greenery providing contrast to City Road's drab frontage</li>
</ul>
<h2>Apartment interior design</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/resisences_06.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Interior of a typical apartment. Image courtesy australia108.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/resisences_06.jpg?itok=D7erNq20" title="Interior of a typical apartment. Image courtesy australia108.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Interior of a typical apartment. Image courtesy australia108.com.au</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Floor to ceiling windows over all apartments</li>
	<li>Apartments interiors delivered by <a href="/architects/carr-design">Carr Design Group</a>
</li>
	<li>Two colour palettes on offer - Starlight &amp; Sunlight</li>
	<li>Starlight (light scheme) comprise a white palette and strong geometric lines. Kitchen design incorporates a slender benchtop and island breakfast bar, which is finished in a grey porcelain slab. Bathrooms feature custom-designed wall-hung basins with integrated storage, finished in a finely-crafted solid surface material</li>
	<li>Sunlight (warm scheme) follows the same architectural line of the concept, but encompasses an off-white porcelain benchtop and splashback, complemented by timber effect laminate cabinetry</li>
	<li>Residents above the Star Club with find Carrara marble and limestone options, bespoke joinery and stone bathtubs as standard</li>
	<li>Miele appliances as standard, with premium Miele in upper level apartments</li>
	<li>Flooring in premium apartments comprise engineered timber flooring throughout, with woven carpet or wool carpet in bedrooms</li>
</ul>
<h2>Communal facilities</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/star70_06_l.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lounge area within Australia 108. Image courtesy australia108.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/star70_06_l.jpg?itok=fIdAin2D" title="Lounge area within Australia 108. Image courtesy australia108.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lounge area within Australia 108. Image courtesy australia108.com.au</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Three levels of communal facilities with a total of 3000 square metres available for use</li>
	<li>Level 11 includes pool, sauna, steam room, golf simulator, theatrette plus an outdoor entertaining space and external deck</li>
	<li>Star Club over levels 70 and 71 provides two separate communal facilities, with one reserved exclusively for use residents living above the starburst</li>
	<li>Differing finishes define the two levels with HBA designing the premium zone for upper level residents</li>
	<li>Premium zone includes an infinity pool in a double height space with floor-to-ceiling views, private dining room, club rooms and lounges</li>
	<li>Carr Design Group has designed the other zone for lower level residents, comprising an infinity pool with Port Phillip Bay views</li>
	<li>Dining rooms, private theatrettes and bars are common to both communal levels</li>
</ul>
As foreshadowed by Apartments.com.au last year construction giant Brookfield Multiplex holds the upper hand with contractual negotiations between developer and builder reported as in progress last week. With commencement of works a few short months away Australia 108 is due for staged completion through to 2019.
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Facts and figures that define Australia 108

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Melbourne-based Ubertas Group are waiting upon final planning approval for their latest project located at 360 William Street.  The tower is their fourth in Melbourne and would serve as a sister building to the neighbouring 350 William Street which is better known as Art on the Park/Oaks on William.

The fruitful relationship between Ubertas and Fender Katsalidis Architects continues with the latter having designed all of Ubertas Group's projects to date.  360 William Street is no exception with the project set to capitalise upon the strong demand within the hotel/serviced apartment sector at the moment.

<h2>360 William Street planning application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://urban.melbourne/sites/urban.melbourne/files/pictures/article-images/image246.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="360 William Street as of mid 2014. Image courtesy Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="554" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image246.jpg?itok=uJXHrn07" title="360 William Street as of mid 2014. Image courtesy Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>360 William Street as of mid 2014. Image courtesy Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>1,203sqm site current use: partly demolished two storey office building</li>
	<li>Planning application submitted June 2014</li>
	<li>Proposed: 22 level residential tower at 66.31 metres</li>
	<li>​Total GFA: 25,658sqm.</li>
	<li>239 apartments: 199*1BR / 40*2BR</li>
	<li>6 basement levels catering for 142 car parking spaces and 114 bicycles</li>
	<li>103.1 sqm &amp; 64.4sqm retail space fronting William Street</li>
	<li>Gym, conference, function and meeting rooms included over levels 1 &amp; 2</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design rationale</h2>

<blockquote>
The proposed development aims to enhance the vitality of the Flagstaff gardens precinct by contributing a well-designed, simple and robust piece of architecture.  It strives to achieve this through the provision of livable high amenity apartments maximising north and garden views.

The building form accommodates apartments within faceted glass balustrades. These balustrades take their cues from the changing foliage of Flagstaff gardens across the road.  Furthermore, the contrasting characteristic of concrete used in the development compliments the neighbouring building in both form and materiality.
<cite>Fender Katsalidis - Town Planning Document</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>The third coming</h2>

The current planning application follows on from two separate designs put forward for this site with an initial mixed-use tower of some 177 metres never progressing past planning approval.  The 'statement' tower covering 350-360 William Street would have consisted primarily of glass, aluminium louvres, stone, concrete or metal panels.  Commercial and hotel components plus 636 apartments were to have consumed most of the available space.

History will show that the site was split in order to generate two separate towers, with the initial 35 level 350 William Street reaching completion mid 2013.  A 12 level residential tower for 360 William Street had also gained approval, seemingly in recent times given  the completed 350 William Street is present to its right in the render below right.  It in turn has been replaced by the subject design of today's article.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://urban.melbourne/sites/urban.melbourne/files/pictures/article-images/image244_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Previous site proposals as sourced from planning material"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="272" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image244_0.jpg?itok=a9MVhyn_" title="Previous site proposals as sourced from planning material" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Previous site proposals as sourced from planning material</figcaption></figure><h2>Serviced apartments anyone?</h2>

360 William Street's planning application has been with DTPLI for some time; barring any substantial design changes the project should be nearing a final planning decision soon enough.

More interesting is the internal layout of the tower with levels 3-21 generic and where 83% of apartments are single bedroom and on average slightly above 50sqm in size. Further 360 William Street's proposed amenities are essentially corporate in nature - conference, function and meeting rooms; not necessarily tailored toward owner-occupiers.

The bulk if not all of 360 William Street's rooms look likely to become serviced apartments, akin to the neighbouring 350 William Street where Ubertas installed Oaks Hotels and Resorts in order to manage the 220 4.5 star serviced apartments post planning approval.  

<h2>360 William Street planning team </h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Ubertas Group</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Architects: Fender Katsalidis Architects</li>
	<li>Building Services: Simpson Kotzman </li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: Webber Design </li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering: Ratio Consultants </li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: PLP Consultants </li>
	<li>Waste Management: Wastech Services</li>
	<li>Environmental Wind: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>ESD: Ark Resources</li>
</ul>
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The third coming > 360 William Street, Melbourne

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In excess of 100 guests gathered earlier this week at the Fulton Lane construction site to witness the project's topping out ceremony. In a sign of Malaysian-based developer SP Setia's propensity to be seen to be proactive, the sizeable crowd amassed for what is generally only a builders tradition which sees a juvenile tree placed atop of the newly completed concrete structure.

But on this occasion in a very public ceremony three separate trees of Australian, Malaysian and Greek origins were hoisted by tower crane to meet waiting key members of the developer/build team while guests were treated to a hawker-style market arrangement at ground level. The Australian eucalypt reflects Fulton Lane's location, while Malaysian and Greek trees provided a nod to the heritage of both developer and head contractor, Hickory Group.

<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/img_1573.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The obligatory cutting of the ribbon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="437" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1573.jpg?itok=-p0t1iCn" title="The obligatory cutting of the ribbon" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The obligatory cutting of the ribbon</figcaption></figure>On show during the event was the rudimentary ground floor layout; while many finishes have yet to be applied the basic premise of the space was evident. Sitting at the base of the dual towers containing 816 residential apartments, retail will take centre stage once complete, encouraging activity to Franklin Street in particular which is best described as ancillary to Melbourne's streetscape at best.

Currently the largest residential project under construction in Melbourne and with a construction value of $221 million, the design is the work of architecture firm Fender Katsalidis. Perhaps Fulton Lane's highlight is the rapidly emerging exterior façade which is a contrast of black glazing accentuated by angular aluminium composite panel clad that changes colour from green to yellow to silver depending upon the viewer's angle.

Closer to street level podium to both residential towers are heavy with timber and a green arbor façades, providing a more engaging interface with the streetscape.

According to Hickory Group highlights of the Fulton Lane build include:

<ul>
<li>Extensive value management including reworking B3 basement size to reduce piling and excavation, two stage construction programme starting with public areas in Stage 1</li>
	<li>Environmental efficiencies to achieve a 4 star rating including energy efficient lighting, use of recycled materials, recycling rainwater for common toilets and irrigation</li>
	<li>At Level 41, one third of the floor plate is a ‘skydeck’ which will be exclusively available to residents as an interactive community area.</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_1536.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fulton Lane as seen from QVM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1536.jpg?itok=1lKm_V3r" title="Fulton Lane as seen from QVM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Fulton Lane as seen from QVM</figcaption></figure>While Apartments.com.au hopes to tour Fulton Lane when complete - which is expected during June 2015 - SP Setia have just signed off on a construction contract for their latest Melbourne development titled Parque Melbourne at 555 St Kilda Road. Hickory Group have snared the build once more for the curvaceous tower which is also designed by Fender Katsalidis.

In complete contrast to Fulton Lane's angular design, the flowing lines of Parque signifies a step-up in presence for SP Setia in Melbourne, with the St. Kilda Road development billed as one of Melbourne most prestigious.

But as for SP Setia's entry project into Australia, no doubt the 1500 future residents of Fulton Lane will like what they see.

<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/image15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ceremonial trees are hoisted and the exterior facade at its best angle"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="434" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15.jpg?itok=fDJ6tXtE" title="Ceremonial trees are hoisted and the exterior facade at its best angle" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ceremonial trees are hoisted and the exterior facade at its best angle</figcaption></figure>
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Fulton Lane on show during its topping out ceremony

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Editor's note: all images and information included below were extracted from a pre-application submission lodged in March 2013.

The subject of today's article is a proposal for a residential tower on a prominent Docklands site. Acquired by <a href="http://www.salta.com.au/">Salta Properties</a> back in December 2008, the site sits on the corner of Harbour Esplanade and provides an opportunity for a major contribution to the Esplanade and as an entry statement for Docklands.

Engaging <a href="http://www.fkaustralia.com/">Fender Katsalidis</a> during 2010, the team initially produced a 36-storey mixed-use scheme that had a number of features recognizable in previous FKA-designed projects. A glazed residential tower with a tiered envelope that sat upon a commercial wrap around a carpark podium - providing a bookend to Victoria Point to the south. The proposal was lodged and was to be Salta's signature Docklands project but ultimately never saw the light of day.

An article from The Age briefly touching on the proposal can be seen below:

<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/695_article.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Commercial property article. © Fairfax"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="640" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/695_article.png?itok=a-Is2WGY" title="Commercial property article. © Fairfax" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Commercial property article. © Fairfax</figcaption></figure>Fast forward three years and a shorter design has been put on the table that has significantly deviated from the language of the previous proposal. Expressed as a series of staggered volumes the new scheme looks to limit the amount of overshadowing across the Etihad Stadium playing turf. Changes between the two designs are described below:

<h2>Previous vs Current Scheme</h2>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th>Aspect</th>
			<th class="rtecenter">Previous</th>
			<th class="rtecenter">Current</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Height</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">124.3m</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">Stepped from 78.05m</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>No. floors</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">36 storeys</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">Stepped from 23 storeys</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Apartments</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">336</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">Approx. 303</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Parking</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">338</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">Approx. 309</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Commercial</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">3,896m2</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">Approx. 2,114m2</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Retail</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">598m2</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">Approx. 674m2</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>GFA</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">49,669m2</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">Approx. 41,941m2</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The submission focuses heavily on the merits of the proposal's ground plane condition with retail tenancies located to the north and south, interspersed with lobbies for the commercial and residential components. Featuring strong vertical timber column and blade elements, the design provides a contrast to the otherwise concrete and glazed structure.

Vehicular entries to the car park and loading dock are located along the eastern boundary while a public thoroughfare separates the proposal from the existing Channel 7 digital broadcast centre.

<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/ground_plane.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Rendered ground plane. © FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ground_plane.png?itok=mEOOM01D" title="Rendered ground plane. © FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rendered ground plane. © FKA</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

One suspects that Salta will most likely follow the lead of <a href="https://charterhall.com.au/">Charter Hall</a> and <a href="http://premiercapitaldevelopments.com.au/">Flagship Property Holdings</a> and look to offload the site. At time of writing the site next door at 685 La Trobe Street is currently under contract.

The potential for a far more ambitious scheme would be most welcome for a site that demands something special. I'm of the opinion that an amalgamation of the two sites would offer the best outcome for the site and allow for a more successful interface and relationship between potentially multiple buildings.

If the scheme as detailed above is to proceed then I believe a further level of design refinement is required.
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The 4 Step > 695-699 La Trobe Street

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A solid year for development proposals fronting Albert Park Lake continues with the much anticipated 77 Queens Road with City of Port Phillip for assessment. Likewise for site proponent Southlink Developments who add 77 Queens Road to their <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Sovereign Blackburn</a> and <a href="/buildings/claremont-manor-7-claremont-street-south-yarra">Claremont Manor</a> apartment developments, both of which are currently at sales.

Contrary to varying media reports that suggested an Elenberg Fraser scheme associated with the site's sale during 2013 would proceed to sales, Southlink have instead chosen Fender Katsalidis to create a new tower for their next Melbourne foray.

<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/image3277q.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Old and new. Images courtesy elenberg Fraser and Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="201" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3277q.jpg?itok=YNWdmQUc" title="Old and new. Images courtesy elenberg Fraser and Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Old and new. Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser and Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><h2>77 Queens Road Summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>2,329 sqm site</li>
	<li>Currently a low-rise, 1960's apartment block of 36 apartments</li>
	<li>15 metre setback to Queens Road at ground level</li>
	<li>Proposed 13 level complex @ 41.9 metres</li>
	<li>160 apartments</li>
	<li>178 car parking spaces and 181 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>GFA 12, 364.44sqm</li>
</ul>
<h2>An unmistakable imprint</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/image34w_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy Fender Katsalidis and Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="464" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34w_0.jpg?itok=ZzkvsH2W" title="Images courtesy Fender Katsalidis and Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images courtesy Fender Katsalidis and Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>The casual observer wouldn't be mistaken for assuming Fender Katsalidis have merely melded two of their successful recent projects together in creating 77 Queens Road. Straight lines and funny angles are alive and well as this application draws upon the best of both <a href="/news">108 Flinders Street</a> and Canberra's NewActon Nishi (above left and right).

Perhaps Fender Katsalidis have stumbled upon a winning formula of confluence which yields both commercial and aesthetic returns? Regardless external finished will see blue/grey vision and spandrel glazing, clear balustrades, coloured precast panels in addition to dark window frames and louvres.

<h2>Internal arrangement</h2>

The majority of apartments are arranged in a herringbone pattern where possible to take in an Albert Park Lake and Bay aspects, with the remainder toward Queens Lane presented in a more conventional format. Single bedroom apartments will be centralised along the Queens Lane frontage while dual bedroom apartments run through the mid levels, with all three bedroom abodes holding frontage to Albert Park Lake along the buildings western flank.

Apartment breakdown will see the following numbers: 20 one-bedroom, 24 one-bedroom + study, 76 two-bedroom, 26 one-bedroom + study, 14 three-bedroom.

<h2>Ground plane</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/img_8739.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level. Image courtesy Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="249" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_8739.jpg?itok=QcDJUjZn" title="Ground level. Image courtesy Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level. Image courtesy Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>As with many buildings fronting Queens Road, generous setbacks are the norm which allow for an expansive usable space if so desired. A porte-cochere layout addressing Queens Road is included, similar to many developments nearby, including the neighbouring Monarc apartment project.

A central passage will bisect 77 Queens Road at ground with a host of communal facilities holding sway, whilst services are clustered to the most innocuous quadrant. Oculus have devised the landscape solution which will feature outdoor terraces, bluestone paving, outdoor dining/seating and green privacy screens over ground and the level 9 setback.

<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Southlink</li>
	<li>Architect: Frender Katsalidis</li>
	<li>Planning: URBIS</li>
	<li>Project Management: PDS Group</li>
	<li>Services: WSP Group</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: Robert Bird Group</li>
	<li>Traffic: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: BSGM Consulting Building Surveyors</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Landscape: Oculus</li>
	<li>ESD: Ark Resources</li>
</ul>
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