One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

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fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

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FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

Joel Robinson

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

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.

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

Flemington

If you want to live in the heart of Melbourne but not right in the CBD, then just 4 kilometres north-west, you'll find the perfect suburb, Flemington.

Situated right between the Melbourne Zoo and the racecourse, this family-friendly suburb surrounded by parks is only a 9-minute drive to the city – or a 26-minute tram ride.&nbsp;

One of our exciting new listings in Flemington is The Ascot. Take a look at our apartment spotlight video:

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<h2>THE ASCOT AT A GLANCE</h2>

Developer: Blue Earth Group 
Architect: CHT Architects 
Builder: Hamilton Marino 
Address:&nbsp;72 Ascot Vale Road, Flemington VIC 3031

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=4739]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4739 project_image_fid=169155]

Delivered by renowned developer Blue Earth Group, The Ascot follows its predecessors Ivanhoe Gardens and Anthem, which have become Urban best-sellers thanks to their incredible on-site amenity offering and competitively low strata fees.

The Ascot is a boutique development with just 146 residences, with a small number of premium apartments remaining. All apartments feature three bedrooms, two bathrooms and two carparks, with a selection of generous floorplans available.

In the video, we took a look&nbsp;at the floorplans of apartments 501a and 502a. Both boast expansive decks over 100 square metres in size – far greater than that of your average townhome. Property 501a offers expansive south western views of the city skyline, while 502a has a northerly outlook, meaning all day sun.

The property has been designed by CHT Architects in collaboration with Sora Interior Design, with celebrity chef Adam D'Sylva providing expertise for the kitchen layout and functionality.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4739 project_image_fid=169151]

With The Ascot residences starting at $1.1 million, these homes are $200K - 300K below the suburb median, with the added benefit of luxury amenities including state-of-the-art gym technology, a gold class cinema, golf simulator and games room.

The Ascot also features stunning gardens designed by Jack Merlo Landscape Architects, featuring a tranquil meditation retreat, barbeque and outdoor dining areas and a children's garden.&nbsp;

On days where you want to work from home, The Ascot's co-working lounge is the perfect place to work and overlooks beautiful gardens.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4739 project_image_fid=169158]

To add to the exceptional convenience of this development, we love that The Ascot allows for easy integration of technological advancements in future. You've got electric car charging bays, fingerprint access and phone operated appliances.

There's also a building app where you can manage post, grocery deliveries, make bookings and more. Plus, you'll have access to keyless click and collect, a dog washing bay and a vehicle cleaning station. All these extra details prove that Blue Earth Group has really taken into account how they can best accommodate each resident's lifestyle.&nbsp;

We've seen buyers take to Blue Earth Groups developments and expect The Ascot to sell out quickly as well. Already 1 &amp; 2 bedroom configurations have completely sold out -&nbsp;giving you a final opportunity to make The Ascot home.

A limited release of 3 bedroom homes are now available. This is a fantastic opportunity to secure exceptional value for money in a great suburb of Melbourne.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=4739]

Olivia Round

APARTMENT SPOTLIGHT: The Ascot by Blue Earth Group in Flemington, Melbourne

Developers have seen an increased demand in residential and mixed-use developments that feature a unique offering that buyers may not find elsewhere.

There&#39;s a wave of new developments which border some of Australia&#39;s most popular racetracks. The residences, all part of a wider mini-masterplan community on the undeveloped land, deliver an amenity-rich lifestyle for owner-occupiers, and have discerning investors interested in the potential windfall rental income due to its location.

Urban takes a look at five projects located close-by or on some of the country&rsquo;s most well-known horse racing tracks.

1. Thomas Street, Moonee Ponds 
Developer: Hamton 
Two-bedroom apartments from $645,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=103179 project_image_fid=167493]

Thomas Street residents will have access to a resort-like rooftop pool and deck that will overlook the city skyline and Moonee Valley Racecourse.

Situated in Moonee Ponds, the project unifies contemporary forms with a distinct design with timeless interiors by Mim Design and a natural palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=103179 project_image_fid=167471]

Designed by Rothelowman, other amenities on offer include a wellness sanctuary with outdoor deck and grassed area, Stonepine Square, an idyllic gathering place surrounded by shady pergolas and a dog wash station. &nbsp;

2. Feehan Row, Moonee Ponds 
Developer: Hamton 
Three-bedroom townhouses from $1,195,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102580 project_image_fid=167439]

Botanical green spaces form the cornerstone of Hamton&rsquo;s Feehan Row, with walking trails, sporting fields and green community spaces.

The development, part of the masterplan which also includes Thomas St,&nbsp;was inspired by the historic nature of the site, originally Feehan&rsquo;s Farm leased by W.S. Cox in 1992 for use as a racecourse.

Each home has an individualised entry that makes a statement, delivering a modern interpretation of a Victorian terrace, designed by Rothelowman and Tract Landscape Architects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102580 project_image_fid=167425]

&ldquo;We believe that residents will love living at Feehan Row because in addition to the timeless design of these homes, they can access a rich environment of amenities and parkland&rdquo;, said Rothelowman principal Chris Hayton.

3. Newmarket Residences, Randwick 
Developer: Cbus Property 
Floorplan available upon request

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7591 project_image_fid=77904]

At the centre of Sydney&rsquo;s horse racing culture, Newmarket Residences boasts two eight-storey apartment buildings that will sit above a vibrant retail plaza in Randwick.

Located at the site of the racing&rsquo;s Inglis family&rsquo;s Newmarket Stables, purchased in 1917, the development provides a direct pedestrian connection to the heritage stables.

Designed by Bates Smart, the homes and apartments boast considered details, indoor and outdoor living, classic tones and handcrafted finishes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7591 project_image_fid=77908]

The five-hectare site will include a playground, 5,000sqm of parkland, 2,300sqm of retail and 642 apartments and terraces.

4. The Ascot, Flemington 
Developer: Blue Earth Group 
Two-bedroom apartments from $639,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4739 project_image_fid=169154]

Just a short walk from the fabled Flemington Racecourse, the Ascot is a brand-new residence boasting 146 apartments across two buildings.

Boasting the best of a vibrant inner-city neighbourhood, the CHT Architects-designed project is full of historic charm and an array of high-quality amenities and services.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4739 project_image_fid=169155]

The development features landscaped multi-purpose gardens, curated by Jack Merlo, and is located just four-kilometres away from the Melbourne CBD.

5. Ascot Green, Eagle Farm 
Developer: Mirvac 
[smartcode_project:default project_id=27556 project_image_fid=71309]

Having sold out the first two residential stages of their Ascot Green development flanking the Eagle Park Racecourse in Brisbane, the ASX-listed developer&nbsp;Mirvac&nbsp;has lodged plans for its third stage.

The third, subtropical-inspired apartment block will rise 14 levels with 111 apartments and a rooftop with panoramic city and track views. That will also feature a private dining room and lounge areas.

It will home the community&#39;s first four-bedroom apartments, as well as four integrated terraces with direct access to green open space fronting the racecourse.

Overlooking some of Australia’s best-known racecourses, these residences deliver an amenity-rich lifestyle for owner-occupiers and, for investors, the potential for holiday rentals.

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Five apartments and townhouses being built alongside Australia’s best-known racecourses

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A Flemington milkbar, known in a previous life as the Macca’s Milk Bar, is set to go under the hammer June 15. 
Held for the last 30 years, 31 Dover Street, in Melbourne's north west is up for auction with a price guide of $800,000 to $880,000.
Set on 183 sqm, the one story home features the original facade.
The vendors say the property dates back to 1894 and had been a grocery store.
It was also once famous for its annual football tipping competition, however it stopped operating as a business in 1999. 
Jerome Feery and Simon Mason of Jellis Craig are marketing the property.
The shopfront facade has been preserved while the interior was reconfigured into a private three bedroom two bathroom residence in 2000.
Featuring a large kitchen and leafy courtyard, records show it last sold for $107,000 in May 1988.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Flemington milkbar home listed for auction

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The announcement that Sydney Markets will move from Flemington to the Aerotropolis in Western Sydney means the existing Flemington site could become a new type of development.
Sydney’s markets were originally in Haymarket close to Darling Harbour but as the city grew they moved west to Flemington closer to the then centre of Sydney at Parramatta.
With Sydney now planned to have three city centres the announcement that the markets will move further west to be part of the third city at the Aerotropolis completes their move to the areas of growth.
This will leave a large site at Flemington ripe for redevelopment.
The Urban Taskforce has asked Sydney architect Tony Owen to develop an exciting vision for the redevelopment of the Flemington site in a manner that retains a number of market uses.
Tony Owen’s proposal (pictured above and below) sets a new standard for urban renewal by incorporating greenery throughout the new built form.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/19/Greenery.JPG" alt="">
Buildings are dripping in greenery and lower height buildings have green roofs that are used for agriculture that could include cows grazing and free range chickens.
There is another great benefit of the proposal in that all the greenery will reduce the heat build up on the site and manage water run off better as well as cleaning the air.
Flemington 2036 is a glimpse into how urban development will occur in the future. The main residential accommodation is in green towers that overlook the shared facilities and markets in the middle of the site.
Tony Owen has cleverly located the tall buildings nearest the highway and commercial areas with lower buildings near existing residential areas.
The amazing potential of the Flemington site is that a whole community can live and work there with 10,000 residents and 4,000 workers all coming together in a park like environment.
What Tony Owen's vision demonstrates is that urban environments can be green and connected to Urban Agriculture. The whole Flemington village will be self sustainable with the food grown on the site.
The Flemington site is well located between the Sydney CBD and the growing city of Parramatta and it has its own railway station.
There is the option of providing a new station on the proposed Metro West line to further connect the site to jobs in Parramatta and in the Sydney CBD.
Redevelopment of a large site like the Flemington Markets must be a leading example of a new approach to urban living.
CHRIS JOHNSON is the CEO of Urban Taskforce
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cjohnson-8xfqfuuCSq

When Flemington Markets relocate to the Aerotropolis the site can become a new green urban village: Chris Johnson

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Melbourne based developer, Pace Development Group, has been announced as the Victoria Racing Club’s preferred purchaser of its recently rezoned site at 550 Epsom Road, Flemington. 
Pace was awarded the contract of sale for the 10,600 square-metre parcel of land at the famed Flemington Racecourse, following a competitive tender. 
The land, which sits atop the racecourse’s 1,200 metre main straight known as the ‘Straight Six’, received approval for rezoning earlier this year under a planning scheme for 300 residential dwellings, and has undergone vigorous community consultation to ensure the future development protects the existing character and historic significance of the site. 
VRC Chairman Amanda Elliott said Pace and the VRC have agreed to collaborate throughout the design process. 
Shane Wilkinson, Managing Director of Pace Development Group, the design will be publicly revealed in early 2018.
The project’s first apartments are expected to be on the market from late 2018. 
The sales campaign for the land was managed by Peter Bremner, Trent Hobart and Hamish Burgess from Colliers International and transaction management was handled by Peter Hutchins and Tom Byrnes from Charter Keck Cramer.
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Epsom is a key development site sitting adjacent to the Flemington Racecourse and has been designated for high density residential development. The site is approximately 1ha in size and includes the heritage listed former Jockey’s Convalescent Lodge. 
Greenland was a prior envisaged developer but did not proceed.
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</div>
</div>
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Pace wins VRC 550 Epsom Road, Flemington residential redevelopment tender

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Flemington and Kensington are the fastest selling localities in Melbourne for houses, according to a recent Investar report.
The property data firm says that houses in Flemington and Kensington takes 41 days to sell.
This is followed by Moonee Ponds with 52 days and Avondale Heights with 53 days.
<table style="width: 424px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="89">
Days on market
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">
Flemington
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3031
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="89">
41
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$870,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">
Kensington
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3031
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="89">
41
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$800,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">
Moonee Ponds
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3039
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="89">
52
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$780,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">
Avondale Heights
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3034
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="89">
53
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$720,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">
Jacana
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3047
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="89">
54
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$485,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-flemington-126170326" target="_blank">37 Waltham Street</a>, Flemington (above) recently sold for $1.225 million after spending 10 days on the market.
Built in 1890, the 150 square metre house last sold for $686,000 in 2010.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-flemington-126167510" target="_blank">127 Princes Street</a>, Flemington (below) was recently sold for $885,000 after spending 25 days on the market.
The 185 square metre house last sold in 2011 for $599,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/09/15/127%20Princes%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-kensington-126119614" target="_blank">2/57 Bayswater Road</a>, Kensington (below) was recently sold for $960,000 after spending 15 days on the market.
Built in 1995 it last sold in 2001 for $340,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/09/15/2_57%20Bayswater%20Road.jpg" alt="">
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-kensington-125553186" target="_blank">18 Altona Street</a>, Kensington (below) was sold for $1.07 million this year after spending 18 days on the market.
The 283 square metre property last sold for $460,000 in 2006.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/09/15/18%20Altona%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Flemington and Kensington, Victoria houses takes 41 days to sell: Investar

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Flemington is the most affordable suburb in Melbourne, according to Secret Agent’s latest report.
Tables 3 to 6 list the most and least affordable suburbs for both terraces and townhouses, in terms of average prices as well as average price per square metre of internal space.
If a suburb had less than 5 sales it was excluded from the data pool.
Even the most affordable suburbs for terraces in inner Melbourne start at an average of over $1 million ($300,000 more than townhouses) as shown in Table 3.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/Table%203.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/Table%203.jpg" alt="">
Buyers would be hard pressed to find terraces anywhere near the CBD for less than $10,000/m2 of internal space.
Brunswick and Brunswick East's affordable terraces have an average price per square metre of $10,400/m2 and $11,400/m2 respectively.
Both of these suburbs also make the list of top 5 most affordable townhouses.
Collingwood terraces, which had the lowest average prices in our sampled region over the last year, sold for $11,800/m2 on average.
Terraces in Flemington were more affordable than terraces in any other inner suburb in our study.
The most expensive terraces in inner Melbourne sold for nearly twice as much on average as the most expensive townhouses, and are valued about $5,000/m2 more.
Table 4 shows the least affordable terraces and is dominated by Middle Park and Albert Park, which are highest per square metre and only beaten by Parkville in terms of average sale price.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/Table%204.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/Table%204.jpg" alt="">
Parkville terrace prices fell just short of making the list at $14,500/m2, edged out by its neighbour Carlton North ($14,800/m2).
"Despite being close on a price per square metre basis, if we only looked at average prices we would get a completely different impression, with average prices in Carlton North at $1.58 million, well below Parkville’s 2016 sample average of $2.44 million," the report stated.
Kensington in the inner West, as well as Brunswick, Brunswick East and Northcote in the inner North are in the top 5 most affordable suburbs for townhouses, both in terms of average prices and average price per square metre, shown in Table 5.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/Table%205.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/Table%205.jpg" alt="">
This comes at no real surprise to people who have been following inner Melbourne’s property market trends.
The same can be said about the lack of any affordable suburbs from the inner South on the list.
Abbotsford is the only suburb from the inner East that made the top 5 in 2016, coming in 4th when ranked by average price.
While not in the top 5 most affordable by price per square metre, the suburb is still relatively affordable at just over $8,000/m2.
The most deceptive suburb is West Melbourne, where townhouses in our sample were sold for nearly $1.1 million on average over the past year, which is well above the other suburbs in the top 5 list.
However, at only $7,100/m2, West Melbourne was the number one most affordable inner suburb per square metre of internal space.
Table 6 shows the least affordable suburbs for townhouses in 2016.
Only suburbs from the inner South and East appear in the top 5 when looking at average prices.
South Yarra is the most expensive suburb by both metrics, with Prahran, Port Melbourne and Richmond also making both lists.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/Table%206.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/Table%206.jpg" alt="">
Collingwood nearly made the most affordable list with an average townhouse sale price of only $870,000 in 2016.
However, when accounting for size, buyers of Collingwood townhouses spent nearly $9,300/m2 on average, the 5th highest of all suburbs we sampled.
While Hawthorn only made the top 5 when comparing average prices, at an average of $9,088/m2 it is also still relatively expensive on a price per square metre basis.
Property Observer found this three bedroom townhouse, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-flemington-124556042" target="_blank">4/3 Tunbridge Street Flemington</a> (pictured above), on the market for between $660,000-$720,000.
 A two bedroom townhouse, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-maribyrnong-122451902" target="_blank">1 Gatehouse Place Maribyrnong</a> (below), is going o auction March 4.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-13%20at%2010.01.54%20AM.png" alt="">
The three bedroom townhouse at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-ascot+vale-124554422" target="_blank" style="font-size: 12.16px;">36 Archer Avenue Ascot Vale is on the market for between $830,000 and $870,000.</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-13%20at%2010.04.19%20AM.png" alt="" width="555" height="323" style="font-size: 12.16px;">
For more information from Secret Agent, <a href="https://secretagent.com.au/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Flemington offers Melbourne's most affordable terraces: Secret Agent

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Located less than six kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, Flemington Racecourse occupies a 125ha site in an area undergoing significant transformation and growth. Managed by the Victoria Racing Club (VRC), a long-term master plan was developed for the facility during 2009, with the aim of maximising revenue opportunities for the ongoing investment in facilities for the racecourse and significant capital expenditure undertakings such as replacement of the Member's Old Grandstand.

Part of this master plan involved the sale of non-core land to generate the funds for investment in new facilities.

Enter Greenland Group, China's largest real estate developer which acquired two sites covering a combined 40,000sqm. Known as Flemington Green and Epsom Road, these land holdings were surplus to the needs of the VRC and were offloaded to Greenland Group with the expectation of large-scale development.

The revenue from their sale would then be invested towards the development of the new Club Stand 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/829.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Club Stand. Image courtesy of Bates Smart."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="287" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/829.jpg?itok=kjfb93Bn" title="The Club Stand. Image courtesy of Bates Smart." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Club Stand is expected to be built shortly. Image courtesy of Bates Smart.</figcaption></figure>Flemington Green occupies 30,000sqm of land, situated between Fisher Parade and Leonard Crescent. The site is located at the high point of the promontory above the Racecourse and the Maribyrnong River. The site's existing uses consist primarily of open lot car parks and three dwellings along Fisher Parade.

Epsom Road on the other hand occupies approximately 10,000sqm of land and is adjacent to the intersection of Epsom, Racecourse and Ascot Vale Roads, at the end of the Racecourse Road Activity Centre. The site is currently undeveloped with the exception of a single level building: the heritage listed Former Jockeys’ Convalescent Lodge which will be retained as part of any future development onsite.

Greenland's plans for the sites were revealed late last year when - together with the VRC - it submitted a Planning Scheme Amendment Request with the Minister for Planning, which sought to change the planning controls for both sites. This would allow for the developer to move forward with plans for its 'Flemington Life' development, consisting of four towers ranging in height from 14-storeys (AHD 73.7m) to 31-storeys (AHD 123.9m), supported by medium-density dwellings across a further six buildings.

<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/flemington_life_dwelling_types.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Flemington Green height and dwelling types. Image courtesy Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flemington_life_dwelling_types.jpg?itok=xdP57VOE" title="Flemington Green height and dwelling types. Image courtesy Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Flemington Green height and dwelling types. Image courtesy Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>An Indicative Development Concept (IDC) has been prepared for both sites which provides extensive details on the type of development that could be accommodated across the two sites. These do not represent the final form of any development on the site, but rather reflect the type, scale and siting of built form that maybe be permitted within the parameters proposed under the new planning controls.

The building envelopes shown in the proposed Comprehensive Development Zone for the low-rise component only allow for variations in height and setbacks.

The IDC for the Flemington Green site, as prepared by <a href="http://www.woodsbagot.com/">Woods Bagot</a>, seeks the development of 736 dwellings, based on a built form that comprises three residential towers, two street level podia and a lower density precinct containing townhouse and apartment buildings up to 4-storeys. The proposal also includes scope for a small amount of ancillary retail, commercial space and community facilities that will provide local services for residents.

<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_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Flemington Green as rendered from Fischer Parade. Image courtesy Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="370" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_1.jpg?itok=WVtqZp8H" title="Flemington Green as rendered from Fischer Parade. Image courtesy Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Flemington Green as rendered from Fischer Parade. Image courtesy Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The architectural design response adopts a rectilinear architectural language at the perimeter of the master plan and transforms this language to a curved formal language in the centre. This curved formal language continues into the tower geometry, referencing Flemington Racecourse’s distinctive curvilinear shape.
<cite>Woods Bagot</cite>
</blockquote>

The three towers which are expected to form Flemington Green are all distinguished by individual responses to articulation of facades, which draw on the characteristics of the racecourse. These are summarised 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/flemington_green_facades.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Facade reference images. Image courtesy Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="228" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flemington_green_facades.jpg?itok=49qo4s3A" title="Facade reference images. Image courtesy Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Facade reference images. Image courtesy Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>
Tower 1, 25-storeys - The Veil: The design concept for the new facade expresses the Flemington’s fascination with fashion.The entire building is enclosed by a skeletal metal frame, which like a veil conveys a mysterious and ambiguous definition by discreetly revealing what is behind. The veil creates a dynamic gesture and form.</li>
	<li>
Tower 2, 20-storeys - The Farrier: The facade design concept is derived from the materiality and tectonic nature of the farriers tools. This is represented by the curvaceous external balconies forms which are asymmetrically offset to create a sculptural form.</li>
	<li>
Tower 3, 14-storeys - Silks: The facade design concept references the silky shiny colours of the jockeys outfit. The smooth curved form of the floor plan is emphasised by glassy exterior treatment, this is contrasted by the striking colours which highlight the recessed balconies.</li>
</ul>
The IDC for the Epsom Road seeks to deliver a high quality, high-density residential development at the apex of the Racecourse Road Activity Centre and Flemington Racecourse, providing a gateway to the precinct. The IDC allows for a 31-storey proposal with a total of 398 dwellings, based on a built form that comprises of a typical tower and podium format.

<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/flemington_life_epsom_rd.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Epsom Road Indicative Development Concept. Image courtesy Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flemington_life_epsom_rd.jpg?itok=zpBcHn5c" title="Epsom Road Indicative Development Concept. Image courtesy Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Epsom Road Indicative Development Concept. Image courtesy Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>While heavy with detail, it is worth noting that the above designs and images still designated as development concepts created to provide an indication of the planning controls that Greenland Group and Woods Bagot are seeking push through. Whether the development team largely retain the above designs once each land parcel is subject to individual planning submissions remains to be seen.
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Laurence Dragomir

Horses for courses: Greenland Group's Flemington Life in detail

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News broke yesterday of Victoria Racing Club's new premium 18,000 square metre members stand to be situated on the site of what is now the Members' Old Grandstand.
Dubbed The Club Stand, the facility is expected to be operational by November 2017 and further boost VRC's member count beyond the current 30,000.  Whilst VRC has done a mighty job promoting the new venue, we thought we'd highlight architect Bates Smart's take on The Club stand.
<blockquote>
	"In contrast to traditional sports stadia, the Club Stand presents itself in the round.  In doing so it captures the spirit of the promenading which enhances enjoyment of a day at the races.  The sweeping curvilinear forms promote this unique movement and energy.
</blockquote>
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image5_22.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Eastern curves of The Club stand. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_22.jpg?itok=nHJa6A1g" title="Eastern curves of The Club stand. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>
<blockquote>
	The design acknowledges site context in which the theatre of horse racing is played out on all sides - mounting yard, track and members’ lawn to the south; parade ring and day stalls to the east; betting ring to the north; existing grandstands and winning post to the west. 
	The spaces inside the building are to be imbued with a sense of history without feeling beholden to it - featuring elements of the past, but interpreted with clean and sophisticated lines in a modern style, using warm materials. The story of Flemington Racecourse and the VRC is to be woven into the fabric of the building through material, pattern, pictorial and artefact reference and displays.
	The Club Stand is designed to build on the existing heritage at Flemington, and in turn to be an iconic part of the heritage of Flemington’s future."
</blockquote>
<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_23.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Anticipated timeline. Image © VRC"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="187" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image7_23.jpg?itok=bLOhUEWP" title="Anticipated timeline. Image © VRC" width="580"></a>
Whilst the existing stand is heritage listed, the VRC is confident that the new facility will proceed.  Should it do so, owing to its shape "The five-level Club Stand offers sweeping 360-degree views of the Mounting Yard, race track and Members’ Lawn to the south; Parade Ring and raceday horse stalls to the east; Betting Ring to the north; and existing grandstands and Winning Post to the west."  Let's not neglect the CBD, Dandenongs and Bay views as well.
Given the VRC sold near on 3 hectares of unused land fronting Epsom Road to Chinese developer Greenland Group in order to part finance the new Club Stand, one wonders whether the image below will be framed by residential towers in the not too distant future?
<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/Image9_16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Frontal exposure. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="230" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image9_16.jpg?itok=TRWzF5WT" title="Frontal exposure. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>
Further reading:
<ul>
<li>
		http://media.melbournecup.com/site_media/uploads/vrc-new-club-stand-brochure-2014.pdf</li>
	<li>
		http://www.batessmart.com.au/uploads/projects/03_Hospitality/victoria-racing-club/VRC_2pp.pdf</li>
</ul>
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