Nature Based Cities (NBC), the not-for-profit organisation focused on improving biodiversity and nature outcomes in urban development, has launched its latest industry design guidelines and accreditation framework, this time targeting precinct-scale residential communities.

The move extends NBC’s influence beyond its initial focus on medium and high-density residential developments. Several projects have already achieved NBC accreditation since the launch of its Medium &amp; High-Density Residential Guidelines in early 2025.

The expansion into masterplanned communities and new residential precincts reflects the growing need for stronger nature-positive benchmarks as Australia’s outer suburban growth corridors continue to expand at pace.

Paul Hameister OAM, NBC Founder and the Executive Chairman of Melbourne developer Hamton who itself leans heavily into nature and biodiversity in its developments, says the&nbsp;nature-first approach to mitigate the effects of climate change has become standard in other parts of the world such as the UK, but Australia is lagging.&nbsp;Australia’s environmentally sustainable design (ESD) rating tools have no minimum mandatory requirements for living landscapes.

“We’ve always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren’t there,” Hameister says. “In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that’s concrete and glass with not a blade of grass. 
 
“The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn’t been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities.”

He says that having now&nbsp;made good progress in supporting developers of medium and high-density residential projects, NBC is now looking to bolster better nature-based decision-making and recognise developers of greenfield projects in the outer ring and large inner-ring brownfield precincts, who want to champion nature and living landscape as a defining feature.

Since 2022, the not-for-profit has sought to remove the roadblocks preventing developers from incorporating nature and living landscapes into their projects, shifting the conversation from the reduction of emissions and grey infrastructure, toward recognising nature as an essential infrastructure.

The New Communities Design Guidelines and Scorecard arm developers with the tools needed to deliver a nature positive outcome for their new communities. Intended to be adopted at the outset of the planning process, the guidelines are designed to help create communities that are cooler, healthier and more resilient while also enhancing social wellbeing and long-term economic value.&nbsp;

New Communities developers seeking accreditation will be independently assessed across a range of key criteria including ecology, tree canopy, biodiversity, and walkability. Once the masterplan is complete and submitted for approval, the scorecard is formalised based on proposed outcomes. Projects that meet the NBC criteria will receive either Commended or Exemplary accreditation outcomes, creating a clear benchmark for nature-positive new communities in Australia.&nbsp;

Janis Fischer, Director at Tract and NBC Advisory Council member, said the development of new communities in our suburbs can have a substantial impact on nature and biodiversity.

"By incorporating nature-based design principles at the inception of a project, developers and their design teams can achieve nature positive outcomes that are good for both people and the planet.’’&nbsp;

NBC accredited New Community projects will gain access to NBC branding and marketing tools to help communicate their nature-based credentials to purchasers and the broader market.&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Nature Based Cities: A new Australian benchmark for developing nature-positive new communities

Apartment buildings are increasingly being designed around how people actually live day to day, not just how they want a building to look.

For buyers, that shift is showing up in practical inclusions that respond to changing habits. Work-from-home spaces, EV charging, wellness amenities, secure bike storage and parcel management are becoming part of the broader apartment conversation, reflecting a move toward buildings that reduce friction in everyday life.

Online shopping has become one of the clearest examples of that change.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online. That has made parcel delivery a regular part of apartment living, rather than an occasional inconvenience.

For apartment residents, however, the delivery process can be less straightforward than it is for detached homes. Parcels may be left in lobbies, redirected to Post Offices, missed entirely, or placed under the responsibility of building managers and concierge teams.

That is why secure parcel infrastructure is increasingly being considered alongside more familiar apartment amenities.

<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/-VjjLwoViX0?si=A3k7ws9NX35Uac7_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post Parcel Lockers offer one way to address the issue. When a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS, then collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN. The parcel is kept secure, accessible and removed from common areas.

The broader Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations across Australia, positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and other accessible locations.

For new apartment projects, the relevance is clear. A building’s amenity offering is no longer only about lifestyle spaces, but also about convenience, security and functionality.

As buyer expectations evolve, secure parcel delivery is becoming part of the same design conversation as flexible working, sustainable transport and resident wellbeing.

It is one less thing for residents to worry about, and another example of apartment design adapting to the way Australians now live.

Apartment design is adapting to the way Australians shop

While school holidays and trips to Europe tend to define the winter property market, there's been no cold snap at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> in North Sydney.

Developer-builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a> sold more than $35 million worth of apartments throughout June, including a $6.8 million apartment that now ranks among the highest apartment sales ever recorded in North Sydney.

SRM Residential agent Ben Stewart said buyer demand throughout June reflected a mix of improving market confidence and longer-term thinking from owner-occupiers.

"We're seeing strong demand from owner-occupiers who are taking a longer-term view," Stewart said.

"Many recognise the opportunity to secure an apartment in an iconic building and premium location while values remain attractive. They may initially lease the property, but the intention is to eventually move in themselves, rather than purchasing purely as an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=367129]

Located at 177 Walker Street, The Walden will deliver 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across a 30-storey tower designed by Rothelowman. Every apartment occupies a corner position, maximising natural light, cross ventilation and views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Heads and the northern districts.

Rather than a traditional balcony, the residences feature winter gardens that seamlessly extend the open plan living areas, creating versatile spaces for relaxing or entertaining throughout the year. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws in natural light while showcasing sweeping views from the building's elevated Walker Street position.

Every apartment features high-end Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, and fully integrated appliances.

The larger residences have been planned with distinct entertaining and private zones, with many master suites positioned on corners to capture natural light and harbour views. Walk-in dressing rooms, freestanding baths and refined stone finishes reinforce the house-like feel that has resonated with downsizers and owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6393]

Rothelowman Principal Ben Pomroy said the project was designed to make the most of its unique position overlooking the harbour.

"The Walden is a celebration of all things beautiful, curated for those who expect nothing less than exceptional," Pomroy says.

"Meticulously designed entertaining spaces and light-filled living areas that capitalise on capturing the natural beauty of Sydney's iconic harbour."

Residents will also have exclusive access to The Pavilion, a dedicated amenity building featuring a rooftop pool, wellness studio, gymnasium, sauna, concierge service, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and work-from-home facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6402]

The project marks ALAND's first major luxury apartment development in Sydney's inner-city market after more than two decades delivering residential communities across Greater Sydney.

Founder and CEO Andrew Hrsto previously said the rarity of the Walker Street site made it an opportunity the company could not overlook.

"This is a rare opportunity to bring a truly exceptional project to life in one of Sydney's most iconic locations, and to showcase our craftsmanship and design expertise at a world-class level," Hrsto said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6383]

The Walden has been introduced to the market at a time when demand for living in North Sydney is at an all-time high. Billions of dollars have been invested in infrastructure, including the recently opened Victoria Cross Metro station, located just 300 metres from The Walden, providing residents with direct access to the Sydney CBD in just minutes.

Private investment has also transformed the area through the arrival of new retail and dining destinations, elevating the lifestyle offering in what was once considered primarily a commercial precinct rather than an aspirational residential address.

The Walden is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

First look: ‘Far more than replacing a shopping centre’ as Conquest unveils 736-home Eastlakes redevelopment

Abadeen has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for one of Mosman's largest apartment developments in recent years, seeking approval to transform the former Honeysuckle Garden and Midas site on Military Road into a 100-apartment mixed-use development.

The SSDA, lodged with investment partner Phoenix Property Investors, proposes around $230 million worth of new housing on the prominent <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/494-516-military-road-mosman-nsw-2088">494-516 Military Road</a> site.

The proposal comes as Mosman Council continues to progress its recently endorsed Masterplan, which identifies the precinct for increased housing density while maintaining the suburb's established character.

Designed by DKO Architecture, the development would comprise 100 apartments above ground-floor retail, with a rooftop wellness precinct including a gym, sauna, entertaining areas and landscaped communal spaces.

Rather than pushing to the full 12-storey height identified in Council's Masterplan, the proposal ranges between five and nine storeys, stepping down towards Hale Road. A tenth level would accommodate resident amenities rather than additional apartments.

The project has been designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and young professionals through to families and local downsizers looking to remain on the Lower North Shore.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5dada03f-5b4c-43ba-ba62-2868add31440" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.57.55%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7LBy0B.Jo8_iWAFJsClcV7Q3UnXrv49r" />

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock.

"The apartments have been designed as genuine long-term homes, with efficient floorplans that maximise usable living areas, generous storage, natural light and strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces," Brown says."

"We've focused on creating homes for a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and growing families through to downsizers who want to remain in Mosman."

The rooftop wellness offering forms a key part of the proposal, with residents set to have access to a gym, sauna, outdoor entertaining spaces, communal dining areas, landscaped gardens and a multi-use recreation court overlooking Sydney Harbour.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d37c2d6b-583a-4a0f-b7a9-9f46b893d2f4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.58.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=FPoa5FCm2RtzjhAh2w5FTWJbV6GHfY8D" />

DKO drew heavily on the site's natural and cultural history, undertaking a Connecting with Country process with local Aboriginal Elders to inform the architectural and landscape design.

Senior Associate Matthew Ritchard said the design sought to create a building that responded to both the site's landscape and its cultural significance.

"The architectural language of the project is a deep expression of Connecting with Country, where the materiality and colour palette serve as a bridge between the site's geological history and its future as a residential sanctuary."

The proposal also retains the site's established blue gum tree as the centrepiece of the communal landscaped gardens, while introducing activated retail fronting Military Road to strengthen the connection between Mosman and Cremorne villages.

If approved, the project would deliver 100 new homes within walking distance of shops, public transport, schools and local amenities, adding to the limited pipeline of new apartments on the Lower North Shore.

<h2>Project Snapshot</h2>

Project: Honeysuckle Garden Redevelopment

Address: 494-516 Military Road, Mosman

Developer: Abadeen and Phoenix Property Investors

Architect: DKO Architecture

Lead Architect: Matthew Ritchard

Value: $230 million

Residences: 100 apartments

Key features:

<ul>
	<li>
	Ground-floor retail
	</li>
	<li>
	Rooftop wellness precinct
	</li>
	<li>
	Gym and sauna
	</li>
	<li>
	Outdoor entertaining and BBQ areas
	</li>
	<li>
	Landscaped communal gardens
	</li>
	<li>
	Multi-use recreation court
	</li>
	<li>
	Retained mature blue gum tree
	</li>
	<li>
	Connecting with Country design process
	</li>
	<li>
	Harbour, CBD and Balmoral views from upper-level apartments
	</li>
</ul>

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock

First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman

Future Estate

The recently completed One Coburg Quarter is one of the most striking residential components&nbsp;within the&nbsp;landmark $1 billion masterplan by Rothelowman.

Developed by Future Estate, the building connects Melbourne&rsquo;s northern hub to the future.

Its location at 11 Urquhart Street&nbsp;puts it within eight kilometres of the Melbourne CBD, and within walking distance of Brunswick.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=188151]

The thriving cosmopolitan part of inner Melbourne already boasts a number of eateries, parks and entertainment hubs, cementing itself as a place not only rich with history but also with the potential for great expansion.

Ideally located between bustling Sydney Road and the expanses of Coburg Lake, and incorporating heritage bluestone remnants of the 19th century Pentridge buildings, Coburg Quarter will be much more than a new place to live.

Public transport is easy to find in the area, with links taking only 15-minutes to get you to the CBD. Schools and the University of Melbourne are all within close proximity to the unique space, while also being complemented by a new high street, offering a range of restaurants, caf&eacute;s, bars, retailers and spaces to engage with the wider neighbourhood.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=188150]

Coburg is where famous Australian musician, Tex Perkins, with leading publican Danial Caneva restored The Post Office Hotel a few years ago, with the venue now regularly packing in crowds to see gigs in the old pub and enjoy top nosh in the dining hall.

That&rsquo;s just the beginning though - with the traditional Lebanese flavours of Zaatar to the Latin-American infused cuisine of True North all within a stones throw of One Coburg, there are more than enough local flavours and eateries to not only draw people to the area but to keep every foodie here well and truly satisfied.

The communal spaces within One Coburg Quarter include an indoor lounge and dining areas that open seamlessly to an outdoor rooftop terrace with landscaping, outdoor seating and a barbecue for a more private entertaining option.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=3783]

The thriving cosmopolitan part of inner Melbourne already boasts a number of eateries, parks and entertainment hubs, cementing itself as a place not only rich with history but also with potential for great expansion.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

How One Coburg Quarter fits into Melbourne's Coburg

One Coburg Quarter,&nbsp;the first building within the&nbsp;new Coburg masterplanned community, has been designed as a cultural focal point for the north of the precinct.

Comprising 125 one and two-bedroom apartments, the development sits within Future Estate&#39;s&nbsp;$1 billion project on Urquhart Street.

Masterplanned by Rothelowman, the design response references the colourful industrial past of Coburg, taking shape around the old Pentridge prison and its signature bluestone.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=144842]

<div>
&ldquo;Inspired by its context, the strong horizontal manifestation of the&nbsp;bluestone and mortar courses is reflected in the articulation and&nbsp;expression of the new fa&ccedil;ades&rdquo;, the architects said.

Remnants of the 19th century Pentridge buildings, the bluestone borders the site on three sides and harmonises the old and the new.

&ldquo;Drawing inspiration from the iconic boroughs of New York City and London, our vision for Coburg Quarter is of a new urban com​munity with soul, creativity and a genuine sense of neighbourly spirit&rdquo;, Future Estate managing director, Ben Anderson, noted.

Though while it has a reverence for the mixed-use precincts that help to define these international cities, Coburg Quarter&rsquo;s identity is truly &ldquo;Northside,&rdquo; a natural extension of Brunswick, Northcote and Fitzroy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=180411]

Passing through the heritage walls, residents will entire a landscaped courtyard into a living lobby, designed to be synonymous with a&nbsp;luxury hotel.

Communal and garden spaces on ground level, and a sky garden on level eight complements the European-style central square aimed to engage with the broader community.

The project will integrate residential and commercial aspects, with future development plans for a new hospital and aged care.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=144844]

Spacious floorplans characterise the One Coburg Quarter homes, capturing incredible views and maximising light through full-height windows and clever design.

Its sculptural form extends from its fa&ccedil;ade into its communal areas, with the rooftop space featuring sculptural forms that contrast the robustness of the older heritage fabric.
</div>

Offering 148 apartments, the multi-unit development boasts enviable amenity, including residents bar, lounge, library and roof garden.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=180409]

Buyers can feel at ease knowing their home is soon to be a part of the comprehensive Coburg Quarter masterplan, connecting Melbourne&rsquo;s northern hub to the future.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=3783]

Masterplanned by Rothelowman, the design response references the colourful industrial past of Coburg

max.kwok_55688

Design brief: How the Rothelowman-designed One Coburg Quarter came together 

If you're looking for a home situated in a neighbourhood where you're spoilt for choice of amenities, you have views spanning the city skyline and a generous floorplan, then you'll love <a href="/buildings/one-coburg-quarter-11-urquhart-street-coburg">One Coburg Quarter</a>. The Future Estate development is currently under construction, bringing that move-in date even closer. Watch our&nbsp;tour of the display suite to get a feel for the homes available for sale.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0z_7QbhjTho" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>ONE COBURG QUARTER AT A GLANCE</h2>

Developer:&nbsp;<a href="/developers/future-estate" target="_blank">Future Estate</a>

Architect:&nbsp;<a href="/architects/rothelowman" target="_blank">Rothelowman</a>

Builder:&nbsp;<a href="/builders/arc3" target="_blank">ARC3</a>

Homes from:&nbsp;$351,000

Location: 11 Urquhart Street, Coburg VIC 3058

Number of residences:&nbsp;125 residences

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783]

Architecturally designed by Rothelowman, One Coburg Quarter offers a striking facade, standing 8 stories tall.

On offer are a selection of one and two-bedroom floorplans, each with state-of-the-art kitchens. Mirrored splashbacks, integrated appliances and 4-burner gas hobs can be found in all kitchens. Matte black tapware and minimalist sinks, add a sense of timeless modernity.

<a href="/buildings/one-coburg-quarter-11-urquhart-street-coburg"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="600" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/one-coburg-quarter-11-urquhart-street-coburg-80812c9fd96217070c5fbc6f479154d8.jpg" width="1286" /></a>

The living areas feature pale timber flooring and are filled with plenty of natural light. The open plan layout gives you the flexibility to customise the space to your liking and entertain with ease.

The bathrooms also exude style – with matte black fittings, integrated vanity storage and LED lighting.

Apartment bedrooms feel cosy, with soft carpet underfoot and floor-to-ceiling glazing, letting in beautiful natural light. Plus, the wall-width wardrobe storage is a great use of space.

The material palette is high quality, timeless and provides the perfect canvas to make your new home truly unique.&nbsp;

<a href="/buildings/one-coburg-quarter-11-urquhart-street-coburg"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1140" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/one-coburg-quarter-11-urquhart-street-coburg-3612fe07eb986076c74fca4a31e47e39.jpg" width="1880" /></a>

One Coburg Quarter has a 9/10 walk score, with a fantastic selection of shops, cafes, parks and public transport at your doorstep.

Love the look of One Coburg Quarter? Secure your new home in Melbourne's north today by <a href="/buildings/one-coburg-quarter-11-urquhart-street-coburg">enquiring via Urban</a>. Construction has now commenced and the remaining homes won't be on the market long!

Olivia Round

Display Tour: One Coburg Quarter by Future Estate in Coburg, VIC

<html><body>
After years of inactivity and stalled projects, Pentridge's rebirth is gathering momentum, headlined by a proposed all-silver tower put forward by Shayher Group and Cox Architecture. 

After Shayher Group's announcement last year that <a href="/news/adina-hotel-adds-to-shayher-groups-pentridge-vision">TFE Hotels was secured as operator of an onsite Adina Apartment Hotel complex</a>, the intended redevelopment has since been lodged with planning authorities, with the expected outcome a new 18 storey tower.

Partly set within the walls of the former B Division Building, Cox Architecture's design will see the tower sited for the most part on vacant land adjacent to the heritage building.

Bouncing between Heritage Victoria and Moreland City Council, the application includes hotel suites for Adina across levels 2-10, with levels 11-17 dedicated toward apartment living.

<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/image49_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Planning image: Cox Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="255" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_6.jpg?itok=4mlZbgFA" title="Planning image: Cox Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Planning image: Cox Architecture</figcaption></figure>The tapering tower is finished in silver tinted glazing, silver cladding and clear glass balustrades. B Division Building and the associated annexe building will be reworked into the balance of Adina's hotel component, with a cafe, retail facilities, conference room, restaurant, spa, pool and gym all present over lower levels.

Moreland City Council also recently fielded another application for an adjoining lot that will encompass a new low-rise commercial building. Buchan Group have designed the complex that will be dominated by a supermarket, cinema and smaller format retail tenancies.

Shayher Group's advancement of pending stages of Pentridge comes as the developer realises completion of their first project onsite. Horizon Coburg which includes 53 two and three bedroom apartments is also the first projects to be completed within the Pentridge precinct for some 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/img_5071.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Horizon Coburg is now complete"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_5071.jpg?itok=-8wtX9rZ" title="Horizon Coburg is now complete" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Horizon Coburg is now complete</figcaption></figure>With Shayher Group pushing ahead with their slice of Pentridge, fellow developer Future Estate has also been busy with their portion of the undeveloped Pentridge site.

Future Estate's first release, One Coburg Quarter, is headed for construction whilst The Terraces will be the developer's next release. Soft marketing has commenced for the 38-townhouse project facing Urquhart Street, with the project's website showing all 2 bedroom townhouses have all <a href="http://info.futureestate.com.au/theterraces/">ready been accounted for</a>.

Future Estate have also introduced a third developer to Pentridge recently, by way of selling a permitted site to Golden Sunrise Developments. With approval for 294 apartments, Golden Sunrise Developments now has a foothold in the precinct that is just beginning to blossom from a development perspective.

<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/image3fe.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One Coburg Quarter and The Terraces. Images: Future Estate"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="227" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3fe.jpg?itok=4ZG1_lvk" title="One Coburg Quarter and The Terraces. Images: Future Estate" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One Coburg Quarter and The Terraces. Images: Future Estate</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Pentridge's silver tower heralds further change within the historic precinct

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Signifying the rebirth of one of Melbourne’s most expansive regeneration sites, developer <a href="http://www.futureestate.com.au/">Future Estate</a> is pressing ahead with plans for the former Pentridge Prison, soon to be known as <a href="http://www.coburgquarter.com.au/">Coburg Quarter</a>.

The $1 billion Pentridge masterplan received approval from the Victorian Government and local Council late last year. With the approved masterplan also came the expectation that Future Estate could deliver a higher calibre of public space apartment living relative to that which has been completed onsite in recent years.

First to reach sales will be One Coburg Quarter, consisting of 150 apartments and set to be launched officially next month. Created by <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a>, the design references the colourful industrial past of Coburg, particularly the old Pentridge prison and its signature bluestone edifice.

<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/12705561_1115088325192632_5634902824801960387_n.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A refashioned bluestone entrance. Image courtesy Future Estate"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="725" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/12705561_1115088325192632_5634902824801960387_n.jpg?itok=AXTYxZx8" title="A refashioned bluestone entrance. Image courtesy Future Estate" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A refashioned bluestone entrance. Image courtesy Future Estate</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au recently sat down with Future Estate Founder and Managing Director, Ben Anderson to chat about the Coburg Quarter masterplan and vision, acknowledging the shortcomings of the previous owners' plans for the site and the opportunities presented by the site.

<blockquote>
Coburg Quarter will have a village feel in an urban context. It will be a natural extension of Melbourne's celebrated northern suburbs such as Brunswick, Northcote and Fitzroy. Its identity will be truly Northside, yet proudly and distinctly Coburg.

Civic quarters around the world are known for their unique character. Coburg Quarter will follow this tradition, as an exciting urban community that will enhance the area by bringing together people, art, design commerce and culture.
<cite>Ben Anderson, Founder and Managing Director, Future Estate</cite>
</blockquote>

Anderson explained to Apartments.com.au that Future Estate bought the Pentridge land holding out of receivership, a similar strategy previously employed by the developer. He says part of what Future Estate does best is "buying things that are broken and fixing them" where others may struggle to see the potential.

The 4.2ha site has approval in place for over 1,400 apartments and townhouses that will accommodate 3000-4000 residents, with a development schedule stretched over a 10 year period and with an estimated project value of more than $1 billion. This ranks Coburg Quarter as one of the largest urban infill sites in Melbourne.

Future Estate are considering opportunities to re-skin some of the built form which was developed on site by the previous owners, which Anderson describes as "underwhelming" as he does the existing outdoor communal spaces onsite. Working with largely the same envelopes as the previously approved master plan and seeking to improve rather than beginning from scratch, one of the biggest changes revolves around creating a village centre for the development, drawing inspiration from the great squares in Europe, essentially forming a heart for the development.

This would act as a drawcard to the site, not just for residents but the community at large.

Another opportunity being explored is a Farmer's Market which would include a significant amount of micro retail, by locally-based boutique operators who can't necessarily afford to lease a large retail space. These would be based around food, craft and even furniture, and would spill out onto the new community square.

<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/image137.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Technē's new interpretation of Pentridge"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="204" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image137.jpg?itok=px4cKGM_" title="Technē's new interpretation of Pentridge" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Technē's new interpretation of Pentridge</figcaption></figure>Anderson acknowledges the community's frustration with the site's lack of progress thus far:

<blockquote>
We understand the community is frustrated, which is why we believe actions speak louder than words. We have already commissioned the transformation the old laundry building into a micro-brewery and bar, with work commencing on this and the proposed Coburg Public Square later this year.
<cite>Ben Anderson, Founder and Managing Director, Future Estate</cite>
</blockquote>

As part of Coburg Quarter, Future Estate are also investigating potential uses for the former D Division prison block, while architects Techne are incorporating key heritage features including the bluestone walls, solitary confinement cells and historic laundry equipment into the micro-brewery design. Coburg Brewing Co. will be headed by Danial Caneva, owner of the nearby Post Office Hotel, with the launch date currently slated for July this year.

In addition Future Estate plans to have the café and dining precinct open and operational before the end of 2016.

Of the living options, One Coburg Quarter will be launched next month and consist of 150 apartments. Created by <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a>, the design references the colourful industrial past of Coburg, particularly the old Pentridge prison and its signature bluestone edifice.

<blockquote>
Announcing entry into Coburg Quarter from the wider precinct defined by Sydney Road and Bell Street, One Coburg Quarter sits proudly above the historic walls with a strong yet respectful presence. Seen in the round the building presents at the civic scale as a singular and sculptural form, its curved and modulated facades establishing a sophisticated dialogue with the robust and linear nature of the old heritage fabric.

Inspired by its context, the strong horizontal manifestation of the bluestone and mortar courses is reflected in the articulation and expression of the new facades. The primary expression of One Coburg Quarter is of a composition of larger horizontal elements, orchestrated in a way which alludes to the stack bonding of the bluestone walls.
<cite>Shane Rothe, Director, ROTHELOWMAN</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/v03_exterior_hover_reduced.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One Coburg Quarter, hero perspective. Image courtesy of Future Estate"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="846" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v03_exterior_hover_reduced.jpg?itok=vPJSigQF" title="One Coburg Quarter, hero perspective. Image courtesy of Future Estate" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One Coburg Quarter, hero perspective. Image courtesy of Future Estate</figcaption></figure>Future Estate asked ROTHELOWMAN to conceive a building that made a strong unique statement, distinguishing it from the earlier buildings on site. Anderson says that in response, Future Estate has made a commitment to not compromising on the quality of the facade, estimated to cost in the vicinity of approximately $1000 per square metre. This is in keeping with the company's ethos of developing buildings which look just as they are depicted in the marketing material, if not better.

One Coburg Quarter will feature a 'living lobby' entered via a courtyard, which gives the impression of entering a home, rather than a commercial type foyer that other developments provide. Also included is a library, free wi-fi plus a residents' bar and communal kitchen with Future Estate looking to encourage Friday night drinks by the owner's corporation to promote and facilitate the idea of a community within the building.
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Laurence Dragomir

Pentridge reborn: what Coburg Quarter holds for the public

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It was reported last week that developer Future Estate is the successful new owner of a vast tract of development land within Pentridge Village. Expected to fetch $30 million via a sales campaign held by CBRE, the final price tag was a <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/commercial/developer-buys-last-pentridge-prison-sites-20150408-1mgkw9">reported</a> $27 million.

And for that price Future Estate now holds land reserves totalling approximately 41,000sqm, located 7.5 kilometres from the CBD. Covering twelve separate sites with the largest at 5,591sqm, the purchase allows Future Estate the opportunity to deliver multiple buildings over an elongated timeframe.

Included within the 41,000sqm plot are a handful existing/semi-completed retail spaces. The retail offerings are expected to be expanded within the development, in line with existing masterplan which seeks mixed-use outcomes for the land involved.

Pentridge Village hasn't been the only success for Future Estate of late with their current Melbourne apartment project selling strongly. <a href="/buildings/parc-vue-1091-plenty-road-bundoora">Parc Vue</a> at Bundoora Park has sold in excess of 85% of apartments within the first stage of the development, which will see 138 one and two bedroom apartments delivered over eight levels.

<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/141112parcvueextb-1024x719.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Parc Vue Bundoora. Image courtesy MAP Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/141112parcvueextb-1024x719.jpg?itok=-RbWRIHn" title="Parc Vue Bundoora. Image courtesy MAP Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Parc Vue Bundoora. Image courtesy MAP Architecture</figcaption></figure>Designed by MAP Architecture, the project will upon completion see six buildings and 361 apartments built in middle-ring Bundoora, with ancillary commercial space totalling 1,100sqm included.

Gazing upon Pentridge Village once more, Future Estate's purchase joins a recently released apartment development in bolstering the until recently languishing precinct. Horizon Coburg is the first apartment release of any note for the precinct since the ill-fated <a href="http://architizer.com/projects/air-pentridge/">AIR Pentridge</a> tower the best part of five years ago which would have injected hundreds of apartments into the area.

<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/coburg-high-rise-apartments-01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Horizons Coburg. Image courtesy PRO_ARK"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/coburg-high-rise-apartments-01.jpg?itok=n74dV2nH" title="Horizons Coburg. Image courtesy PRO_ARK" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Horizons Coburg. Image courtesy PRO_ARK</figcaption></figure>Covered on Apartments.com.au at the turn of 2014, the then application on behalf of Taiwanese-backed Shayher Group sought to <a href="/news/h-division-likely-to-go-as-pentridges-rebirth-gathers-momentum">demolish the infamous H Division</a> within the prison grounds. With demolition now complete, civil works have commenced with the construction commencement on the radar.

Horizon Coburg seeks to add two and three bedroom apartments within two buildings.

On a wider note the stirring of Pentridge is in line with a general increase in planning activity throughout Coburg. Epworth Hospital are seeking to deliver <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north/epworth-healthcare-launches-private-hospital-bid-on-moreland-council-land-bordered-by-bell-drummond-and-urquhart-streets/story-fnglenug-1227020120310">a new facility</a> fronting Bell Street, the long vacant <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">81 Bell Street</a> is subject to a new 391 apartment project whilst <a href="/new-apartments/coburg-vic-3058">Major Anderson Apartments</a>' site demolition is complete with SP Projects poised to begin construction.
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