The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

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

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

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

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

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

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Franze Developments

Investors have been flocking to Ryrie Home, Franz&eacute; Developments&rsquo; latest mixed-use development that forms part of the new Geelong Quarter.

Located at 44 Ryrie Street, Ryrie Home sits in the heart of the regional city&rsquo;s art precinct, pitching its proximity to Melbourne and cheaper housing prices as a drawcard for investors and owner-occupiers alike.

The project was listed as Urban&#39;s most popular investor project for Q1 2021 thanks to Geelong&rsquo;s low vacancy rate of 1.7 per cent and the 10 per cent per annum growth in apartments over the last three years.

And the transport improvements in Geelong, including the $100 million fast rail and the&nbsp;$6.7 billion Westgate Tunnel which will shave 20 minutes off any commute, has investors keen on securing a property in the growing area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88241]

Population growth is always a key driver for increased demand in the residential market, especially in regional areas.

With Geelong&rsquo;s population growth forecast at 3.14 per cent per annum, the demand for housing tends to&nbsp;yield consistent returns.

Geelong supports over 100,000 jobs, with Greater Geelong&#39;s output of economic development pegged at over $31 billion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=168395]

The previously industrial city on the western edge of Port Phillip Bay is changing into one driven by services, as a range of major businesses shift head offices to Geelong.

Among these include Qantas, KFC, WorkSafe, Jetstar and the NDIA federal government agency administering the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

There&#39;s further development of new buildings, including the $174 million Geelong Convention Centre on the waterfront which will have 1000 seats and an exhibition centre.

There will be a new $91 million HQ for the Geelong council with 10,000 sqm of office space. Nearly $175 of increased tourism expenditure will come from the Spirit of Tasmania, which will relocate to the Geelong Port by 2029.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88246]

Property investors are also being drawn to the region with the Bellarine Village Shopping centre selling for $38 million, and investment giant Brookfield looking to sell their 50 per cent stake in Geelong Port, which some investors say has a $1.8 billion value.

Ryrie Home is a short walk from the train station, shopping, dining, and the foreshore, as well as educational offerings, including Deakin University, which has over 60,000 students.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88248]

The ground floor of the development will be activated with a curated selection of retail stores for buyers&rsquo; convenience.

The new development is a contemporary residential space in a well-connected village.

Designed by Architectus, the project boasts an authoritative and restrained grid fa&ccedil;ade, pedestrian laneways, commercial retail, and F&amp;B spaces, as well as hotel and residential lobbies.

Each residence has been cleverly planned to deliver great amenity, comfort and abundant storage, including a dedicated laundry room.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5559]

Investors have been flocking to Ryrie Home, Franzé Developments’ latest mixed-use development that forms part of the new Geelong Quarter

max.kwok_55688

Why Ryrie Home, Geelong apartments have been a hit with investors

If you&#39;re looking for an affordably priced home, without compromising on quality or style, Geelong Quarter&#39;s latest addition,&nbsp;Ryrie Home, is a truly unique find.

With exceptional design by&nbsp;Architectus&nbsp;and delivered by the innovative team at&nbsp;Franz&eacute; Developments, these apartments won&#39;t be on the market long.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88242]

Offering a collection of one, two and three-bedroom residences, Ryrie Home puts the focus on what really matters, and joy in the simplest pleasures.

We recently spoke with Franz&eacute; Developments&rsquo; director Paul Franz&eacute; to discuss the project&rsquo;s high-quality apartments.

MK: What are the highlights of Ryrie Home and what is attracting buyers to the project?&nbsp;

PF: There&#39;s a number of features that have been attracting buyers to Ryrie Home and helping it stand out in the marketplace.

Firstly, the central location in the arts precinct of Geelong CBD has&nbsp;even very appealing, as has the Residents Rooftop and&nbsp;private dining room with views over the&nbsp;city and bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88243]

The interior design of the apartments by&nbsp;Architectus, 2.85m high ceilings and the high-quality&nbsp;finishes and fixtures have also been a big drawcard.

MK: What was the design brief for Architectus?&nbsp;

PF: To create high quality, liveable apartments that will stand the test of time.&nbsp;

MK: Where have buyers come from, and who is the development appealing to?&nbsp;

PF: A lot of our buyers have come locally from Geelong. Ryrie Home is appealing to&nbsp;first home buyers and young&nbsp;professionals as well as investors, some of whom are planning to downsize into their apartment at a later date.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88246]

MK: What else does the Geelong Quarter community offer residents?&nbsp;

PF: The Ryrie Home residents have access to a Residents Rooftop with BBQ&rsquo;s, generous gardens and lots of seating, and of course the Northern bay views.

There is also an internal dining room that can be booked by the residents to host larger dinners or parties. On the ground plane, there is an abundance of retail offerings which will include restaurants, cafes, wine bars and a&nbsp;Gelateria.&nbsp;

MK: Why did you choose Geelong? Does this area offer strong investment opportunities?&nbsp;

PF: Geelong is the fastest growing regional city in Australia and it&#39;s truly a city on the rise. It&rsquo;s the perfect place to invest.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88249]

MK: Where is the current buyer enquiry coming from?&nbsp;

PF: The majority of our enquiry is from local buyers in Geelong and the surrounding region. We have also had a spike of enquiry lately from Melbourne residents looking for a sea change.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5559]

Offering a collection of one, two and three-bedroom residences, Ryrie Home puts the focus on what really matters, and joy in the simplest pleasures

Everything a buyer needs to know about Ryrie Home at Geelong: Five minutes with Franzé Developments

Victorian developer Franz&eacute; Developments has officially broken ground at their Geelong Quarter development, set to deliver Geelong&rsquo;s first major hotel and apartment project in 20 years.

The development, which broke ground on Wednesday, will deliver a landmark Holiday Inn tower, 16 luxury apartments at Ryrie Residences, and a separate 11-storey tower, Ryrie Home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559]

Designed by Architectus, Ryrie Home encapsulates timeless style, giving you the perfect canvas to make your new home your own in Geelong.

Geelong is the fastest growing regional city in Australia, driven by employment opportunities, education, infrastructure and its coastal lifestyle.

&ldquo;Life is simpler in Geelong&rdquo;, the project marketing reads. &ldquo;You can take your time, and have everything you need for the way you want to live.&rdquo;

All homes at Ryrie Home feature a private balcony where you can enjoy the panoramic bay views and alfresco dining year-round.

<a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong"><img alt="" height="5529" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/geelong-quarter-44-ryrie-street-geelong-39bfcf2a4e4c879d068aec6f67c34916_0.jpg" width="5026" /></a>

The project features exposed concrete ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, merging a minimalist aesthetic with a sense of modern luxury in the bayside location.

The median sale price for apartments in Geelong has grown significantly, on average 10 per cent per annum over three years, suggesting strong capital growth returns for investors and owner-occupiers alike.

Boasting the perfect balance of lifestyle and opportunity, the development is located within walking distance to a selection of eateries and is situated nearby the Geelong train station.

<a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong"><img alt="" height="4784" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/geelong-quarter-44-ryrie-street-geelong-7a2d09ff003d91982e5f40427c457856.jpg" width="8210" /></a>

Ryrie Home offers a unique opportunity to enter a developing market, with an entry price at just $375,000 for a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment.

The project is expected to be completed in 2022.

The Victorian developer has officially broken ground at their Geelong Quarter development on Wednesday, set to deliver Geelong’s first major hotel and apartment project in 20 years

Franzé Developments break ground at mixed-use Geelong project, Ryrie Home

If you&#39;re looking for an affordably priced home, without compromising on quality or style, Geelong Quarter&#39;s latest addition, <a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong">Ryrie Home</a>, is a truly unique find. With exceptional design by Architectus and delivered by the innovative team at&nbsp;Franz&eacute; Developments, these apartments won&#39;t be on the market long.

Check out our video tour:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C6-kjIF3XfQ" width="660"></iframe>

RYRIE HOME&nbsp;AT A GLANCE

Developer:&nbsp;<a href="/developers/franze-developments">Franz&eacute; Developments</a>

Architect:&nbsp;<a href="/architects/architectus">Architectus</a>

Location: 44 Ryrie Street, Geelong VIC 3220

Number of residences: 109

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong" rel="gallery-all" target="_blank" title="Ryrie Home. Image supplied. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="908" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ryriehome-urban_2.jpg?itok=8cWOKpNU" title="Ryrie Home. Image supplied. " width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Ryrie Home. Image supplied.</figcaption>
</figure>

The minimalist aesthetic of each property features exposed concrete ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows bringing a sense of modern luxury.&nbsp;All homes feature a private balcony where you can enjoy the panoramic bay views and alfresco dining year-round.

<figure><a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="497" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/geelong-quarter-44-ryrie-street-geelong-08f4d1601c99a1f02cf738ed60234039.jpg?itok=AgJJ3pag" title="Ryrie Home. Image supplied. " width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Ryrie Home. Image supplied.</figcaption>
</figure>

<figure><a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="381" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/geelong-quarter-44-ryrie-street-geelong-47ce5c5e6acc5dd4f56565391fc135e5.jpg?itok=oChMGo76" title="Ryrie Home. Image supplied. " width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Ryrie Home. Image supplied.</figcaption>
</figure>

Each kitchen has been designed with spacious island breakfast bars and includes state-of-the-art Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, and if you don&#39;t feel like cooking one night, Geelong Quarter has a superb selection of eateries within walking distance or if you&#39;d like to travel further afield, the Geelong Train Station provides a direct route to Melbourne CBD.

<figure><a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="678" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/geelong-quarter-44-ryrie-street-geelong-8b9bf1ee905f2b81c4ea7acbc665b1ba.jpg?itok=bxygf9_4" title="Ryrie Home. Image supplied. " width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Ryrie Home. Image supplied.</figcaption>
</figure>

The bathrooms feature large-format floor and wall tiles with floating vanities and brushed nickel tapware - every detail has been considered.&nbsp;

Ryrie Home&#39;s material palette encapsulates timeless style, with stunning wooden flooring, and your choice of a light or dark design scheme, giving you the perfect canvas to make your new home your own.

If you&#39;d like to enjoy year-round holiday living at Ryrie Home, then <a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong">request a call from a Ryrie Home sales consultant</a> today via Urban.&nbsp;

Olivia Round

Urban's tour of the Ryrie Home display suite

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Geelong stands to gain the nation's first Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites outlet as part of a freshly approved mixed-use development.

44 Ryrie Street is backed by Franzé Developments and consists of a commercial tower alongside the Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites outlet. Owing to its overall size, the $150 million project was granted approval via the Planning Minisiter's office.

The Ryrie Street development shapes as the region's largest pending development and further adds to Geelong's growing impetus as a urban renewal hot spot. The 2,700 square metre corner site is located within the Geelong Activity Centre Zone.

Architectus handled design duties for the project, which sees an integrated and permeable street level link a multitude of uses. Approximately 1,000 square metres of ground floor retail space will tie the ground plane together, with the corner tower dedicated toward hotel needs.

The commercial tower is approved to include 7,400 square metres office space.

InterContinental Group will operate the Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites outlet on a 20-year agreement; the agreement between developer and hotel operator was reached during late 2017. Valued at $75 million, the hotel component represents the largest new hotel project in the region for near on 20 years. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image114_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective. Image: Franze Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="513" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114_6.jpg?itok=ynEVLYbm" title="Street level perspective. Image: Franze Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective. Image: Franze Developments</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Our vision for the Ryrie Street site is to deliver a truly mixed-use project that responds to the Central Geelong Action Plan which will see Geelong evolve from its manufacturing roots to a city of culture and innovation. Geelong is now one of Australia’s fastest growing regional cities, with population expected to grow by more than 150,000 people in the next 20 years, and the urban environment and amenity needs to respond accordingly.

Geelong has a diverse and strong economy with over 17,000 businesses and a highly skilled labour force. It continues to attract new residents and investment due to its livability and proximity to Melbourne, combined with increasing employment opportunities and affordability.
<cite>Paul Franzé, Founder and Managing Director of Franzé Developments</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The design of 44 Ryrie Street draws upon the history of both the city and the site. The materiality, rhythm and scaling of the buildings reference the iconic wool stores of Geelong, and the grain of the city’s rich heritage fabric.

Creating an active mixed use development that incorporates hotel, residences, office and a vibrant retail ground plane, the project stitches seamlessly into the adjacent cultural precinct and builds on the investment in the area to become a gateway to Geelong's city centre.
<cite>Matthew Smith, Managing Principal at Architectus</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/image112_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Envisaged terrace views over Geelong. Image: Franze Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image112_2.jpg?itok=1fiMmBTF" title="Envisaged terrace views over Geelong. Image: Franze Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Envisaged terrace views over Geelong. Image: Franze Developments</figcaption></figure>Franze Developments made its move on the site during 2017, purchasing the site for $7 million. Shortly after the purchase<a href="/news/geelong-poised-to-score-a-new-hotel-as-franze-developments-heads-down-the-highway"> intentions were flagged for the delivery of a mixed-use project</a> which was expected to include the city's first new hotel in a generation.

Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites amenities will include an all-day dining restaurant and bar, swimming pool, gym, meeting facilities and a function room for 250 people.

The site's 90 metre frontage to Ryrie Street includes a new public thoroughfare linking Ryrie Street and Cuzens Place. The offices and apartments are linked to communal outdoor space under approved plans, with a vertical green wall facing Ryrie Street set to frame a new plaza.

Demolition across the site has begun with construction to start later this year. Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites has a nominated opening date during 2020.

<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/44_ryrie_street_-_public_spaces_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Public space tied in with the development. Image: Franze Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="544" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/44_ryrie_street_-_public_spaces_1.jpg?itok=j8lyARIl" title="Public space tied in with the development. Image: Franze Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Public space tied in with the development. Image: Franze Developments</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Approval granted for a major $150 million Geelong development

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Further change to Chapel Street's streetscape could be on the way should a new development application lodged with Stonnington City council from joint venture proponents Franzé developments and Sampieri Group gain approval.

Located across addresses 430-438 Chapel Street and adjacent to the Temperance Hotel, Franzé and Sampieri have proposed a 7 level mixed-use building that would see retail, commercial/office and residential spaces. Located in South Yarra's Activity Centre Zone 1, the site is covered by a heritage overlay.

The retention of the heritage facade 'has provided an opportunity to distinguish two unique retail tenancies' according to the proponents. At 800 square metres, the site was purchased on the market late in 2017 with Jackson Clement Burrows installed as the proposal's design lead.

22 one, two and three bedroom apartments are included. The ground floor retail spaces weighs in at 550 square metres with 1,000 square metres of commercial office space across two levels.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
This project will form an important part of the ongoing development of the Chapel Street precinct which is going through vital progression and change with the recent announcements regarding the redevelopment of the Jam Factory and former Spotlight sites.

“The site has the benefits of two significantly different streetscapes which make it a really exciting project. The Chapel Street interface will provide a more traditional retail and food and beverage offering, aiming to attract premium tenants which will help improve the overall quality of the pedestrian experience and promote further patronage
<cite>Paul Franzé, Managing Director of Franzé Developments</cite>
</blockquote>

The proposal seeks to have two active frontages, one to Chapel Street and one to Bray Street running parallel to Chapel on the eastern aspect of the site.

The Bray Street frontage includes a pocket park that has been designed by Aspect Studios and is intended to be a flexible, functional public space that includes seating, green infrastructure incorporating water sensitive design that according to the proponents will be 'ideal for community and potential food and beverage use'.

Podium heights will differ depending on the street - on Chapel Street the podium is 3 levels and designed to fit comfortably with the scale of neighbouring structures and to Bray Street the podium will be 5 levels in height.

<blockquote>
The three-level frontage to Chapel Street sits comfortably with the scale of the neighbouring structures and the tower form above is generously set back.

A five-level podium to Bray Street hugs the tower form, creating the illusion of three interlocking components and the soft and monochromatic façade is a considered and sensitive transition between the neighbouring contemporary and traditional structures.
</blockquote>

The development application was lodged with Stonnington City Council late last year, and joins additional current project in both Melbourne and Geelong.

<h2>430-438 Chapel Street Project Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: joint venture of Franzé Developments and Sampieri Group</li>
	<li>Architect: Jackson Clement Burrows</li>
	<li>Planning: proUrban</li>
	<li>Landscape Design: Aspect Studios</li>
</ul>
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Alastair Taylor

Franzé Developments & Sampieri Group eye off Chapel Street

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After years of stagnation in the Geelong hotel sector, Victoria's second city will soon welcome a new hotel as Franzé Developments unveils its intentions to turn a Geelong CBD site into new short stay accommodation.

Acquired for $7 million and spanning 2,700sqm, the site located at 44 Ryrie Street was purchased off market. The development is expected to respond to strong demand for serviced apartments, hotel rooms and high quality office space within Geelong; the city is currently experiencing a boon in office development with a string of commercial projects either proposed or at construction. 

With 44 Ryrie Street in its keeping, Franzé Developments is now in discussions with both local and state authorities with an eye toward submitting plans by August of this year.

The envisaged result is a substantial $200 million mixed-use development consisting of 1,000sqm of ground floor retail, 5,000sqm of office space, 90 serviced apartments and a 200 suite hotel.

<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/image62_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A commercial development previously proposed for 44 Ryrie Street. Image: 44ryrie.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image62_2.jpg?itok=FmmxZUrR" title="A commercial development previously proposed for 44 Ryrie Street. Image: 44ryrie.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A commercial development previously proposed for 44 Ryrie Street. Image: 44ryrie.com.au</figcaption></figure>The new 44 Ryrie Street will supersede previous plans for the site which revolved around an environmentally sustainable commercial development of 13,466sqm which would have counted itself as being one of the nation’s first WELL rated buildings, whilst also carrying a 6 Star Green Star and 5 Star Base Building NABERS Energy Rating.

Statistics garnered via the Greater Geelong and The Bellarine Tourism Development Plan Summary 2016 indicate a need of between 1,400 and 2,500 guest rooms required to support Geelong’s projected growth over the next 15 years.

According to the developer, several major hotel groups are in discussions in order to account for both the serviced apartment and hotel component. The latter can expect to be a in the 4 to 4.5 star range and will go some way to absorbing future anticipated needs for short term accommodation in Geelong.

<blockquote>
We are committed to delivering exceptional projects across a variety of sectors and we are looking forward to creating a genuine mixed-use project in Geelong, which is a new market for us.

Geelong continues to grow and evolve and currently attracts 2.2 million overnight visitors annually, which means there is a gap between supply and demand across the region. Our Ryrie Street project will be the coastal city’s first hotel in almost 20 years, since Four Points Sheraton Geelong in 2011, rebranded the Novotel Geelong in 2014.
<cite>Paul Franzé, Founder and Managing Director of Franzé Developments</cite>
</blockquote>

Franzé Developments have chosen Architectus to deliver the building's design, with a view toward commencing construction late next year.

 

Lead image: Google maps
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