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>

Joel Robinson

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.
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</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

Hayball

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Urban.com.au spoke with Hayball Managing Director Tom Jordan upon the practice's <a href="http://www.hayball.com.au/news/world-architecture-100-2015/">recent entry into the World Architecture top 100</a>. While exploring the factors which led to this achievement, various other topics such as current projects and future aspirations were discussed during an interview with Laurence Dragomir.

LD: The World Architecture 100 is based on data gathered via survey, ranking the biggest practices globally. What is your/the practice's view on how and why Hayball have advanced into the ranking - in terms of design strength and a purely business perspective?

TJ: I guess it's a product of our steady growth over the last few years which is ongoing and that's based on consolidating our profile in the key sectors we work in - multi-unit residential and education, but also new sectors and new markets. We've got the Sydney and Adelaide offices, we're active in Brisbane, all of which have contributed to growth. The practice has also had a number of works published and recognised by the Australian Institute of Architects which has helped build our profile and thus led to more work.

LD: Does the practice consider its inclusion in the WA100 as a matter of prestige within the industry or do you believe it will translate into an increase in job commissions?

TJ: I think the effects will be pretty subtle, but I think it doesn't hurt the profile - it's more profile building material.

LD: Looking at Woods Bagot for example, who are the top ranked Australian practice at no. 7 on the list, they have a very global network and profile. As you mentioned Hayball now have offices in Sydney and Adelaide and are undertaking work in Brisbane, do you forecast any further expansion potentially offshore in the not-too-distant future?

TJ: We're definitely open to it, but it would be opportunity driven if it were to happen. Hayball do work in South-East Asia at the moment but we do it all from here in Melbourne. In terms of opening an office in SE Asia, that's probably beyond a 5-year plan.

<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/tom_jordan_head_shot.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hayball Managing Director Tom Jordan. © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tom_jordan_head_shot.jpg?itok=LYMpD0-n" title="Hayball Managing Director Tom Jordan. © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hayball Managing Director Tom Jordan. Image courtesy Hayball</figcaption></figure>LD: Do you mind providing us with an overview of the practice's staff numbers and the number of projects in progress at any one time?

TJ: Sure, we have a current staff of around 120 with all bar four located in our Melbourne office. In terms of project numbers we have around about 50 at the moment that are currently being worked on and there are others that are dormant.

LD: Are those projects predominantly multi-residential and education?

TJ: Historically they've made up the majority of our work but we're increasingly getting a lot more urban mater planning work, interiors work and institutional work of various types. So even though education and residential make up about 80% of our work the other sectors are starting to see an increase as an overall proportion of our work. It's been our strategy to maintain a diverse project mix as much as possible.

LD: With high-rise apartments in Melbourne being largely driven by offshore developers in recent times, have you found that your clientele has changed somewhat? Obviously the practice continues to work with Lend Lease on projects such as Studio Nine.

TJ: I think site acquisition is driven by offshore investors rather than developers. We've got one or two mainland Chinese clients but the majority of our work continues to be with Australian-based developers. We're doing work with Mammoth Empire (Malaysia) and we've been working with them for about five years both locally and in Malaysia.

They are a professional developer, not a land banker and are particularly active. But we're still doing work with Lend Lease, MAB and a host of smaller developers.

LD: Would the experience and publicity gained via working on a project such as Library at the Dock, being the first CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) public building to be built in Australia reinforce that view?

TJ: The effects of that are still emerging, but we expect that it will have a profile generating result. It will be really interesting to see where CLT goes and how widely adopted it becomes.

<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/libraryexternal21080px.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Library at The Dock. © Lend Lease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/libraryexternal21080px.jpg?itok=odKhbdVy" title="Library at The Dock. © Lend Lease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Library at The Dock. © Lend Lease</figcaption></figure>LD: Do you see the practice becoming a really strong proponent for CLT or is it something that is driven by developers? 

TJ: Yes CLT is a great system but it does require quite a specific technical understanding as it's not a conventional construction system by any means. We've developed that from working on the library so I do think Hayball are a proponent of it.

We’re really pushing forward with it because of the range of benefits in terms of cost, ESD, minimal wastage, reduced embodied energy and very quick on site.

LD: The practice has recently introduced a employee share scheme, becoming the first in Australian architecture firm to do so. Can you tell us a bit more about that?

TJ: We have a small number of non-director shareholders and we recently expanded that group. It is about acknowledging the contribution people make to the practice, retaining and attracting talent which leads to growth in the business and giving key staff a connection to the financial performance of the business.

LD: Do you think it's something that will become more prevalent in the industry?

TJ: Possibly, but it will be slow. Obviously engineering practices have been doing it for a very long time with great success but they're different beasts relative to architectural practices. I don't see it as being a dramatic shift in that direction. We're undertaking it in a systematic and targeted way, steadily broadening the ownership and we see it as very positive program for our practice.

LD: And just to finish off what do you think the future holds for the practice and what do you see as being some of the major challenges facing the industry in the future?

TJ: What we have in our plan is expanding our exposure geographically particularly along the eastern seaboard including Adelaide - we've got a bit of work in Tasmania at the moment - but also getting more exposure to higher education and commercial sectors that we don't currently have a lot of. That's where Hayball's heading.

Overall the profession does face a number of challenges. I think the influence that architects have in the procurement process has diminished over the last 10-15 years and there is an opportunity to strengthen our role through the whole building delivery process, not just during the early design and planning approval phases in order to achieve high quality built outcomes for the community.

LD: Thanks again for your time, Tom.
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Laurence Dragomir

Hayball enters the ranks of the World Architecture top 100 for 2015

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A planning application of some difference finds itself in focus, as the typical glass and/or horizontal bands of many of the city's current crop of residential towers makes way for a design with unique external properties. Lodged mid-year and having been given brief credence in the mainstream media, Hayball's design for 334-344 City Road is distinguished by its teardrop form and angular, modular facade.

334 City Road may also act as a nexus between the established Southbank and the Montague Precinct within the forthcoming Fishermans Bend urban renewal; at 270 metres it sits on the border of the two slated high density zones.

<h2>Summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Currently site use: Urban Central hostel and Eve nightclub</li>
	<li>Application for development lodged July 2014</li>
	<li>82-storey building with residential apartments, hotel and cafe at 270.41 metres</li>
	<li>​578 apartments (156*1 / 407*2 / 15*3)</li>
	<li>198 hotel suites</li>
	<li>154 car parking spaces &amp; 315 bicycles</li>
	<li>GFA: 83,196sqm</li>
	<li>Retail space: Approximately 119 sqm</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image25334.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's interpretation of 334 City Road. Image courtesy Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="869" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image25334.jpg?itok=pR-hHEQ3" title="Artist's interpretation of 334 City Road. Image courtesy Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's interpretation of 334 City Road. Image courtesy Hayball</figcaption></figure><h2>Laid out</h2>

Interestingly enough the tower has been submitted with two separate residential layouts. The intended yield sees a total of 578 apartments and 198 hotel suites whilst the alternative layout provides for 482 apartments with the identical number of hotel suites. This discrepancy is explained by the difference in apartment types where the baseline layout carries 156 single and 15 three bedroom apartments whilst the alternative sees only 12 single bedroom dwellings countered by a whopping 159 three bedroom dwellings.

Hotel accommodation size varies between 27sqm and 50sqm over the allocated 11 floors. This is further broken down into 132 hotel rooms and 66 hotel suites which as seen below are more generous in size.

<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/image23334.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The expected hotel floorplan. Image courtesy Hayball planning report"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="295" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image23334.jpg?itok=4Xqs0B7w" title="The expected hotel floorplan. Image courtesy Hayball planning report" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The expected hotel floorplan. Image courtesy Hayball planning report.</figcaption></figure><h2>Designed to be different</h2>

<blockquote>
The elliptical tower form has been developed through detailed analysis of the subject site’s urban morphology, and an intelligent response to the building setback objectives of the Planning Scheme. The orientation of the tower and its aerofoil profile delivers oblique views to and from surrounding developments that are predominately rectilinear and orientated to property boundaries.

The Environmental Wind Assessment prepared by Mel Consultants in conjunction with the proposal, also demonstrates that the building form is very effective in mitigating effects of the strong winds from the southwest impacting on the exposed site, and delivering a comfortable environment for pedestrians at ground level.

The façade comprises a system of highly repetitive L-shaped precast concrete panels which interact with metal clad infill panels, and expand and contract to express different building functions. The lapped panel set-out addresses the elliptical tower form and provides further depth and interest.

A spiral motif is overlaid providing a formal mechanism to transition between façade elements associated with different programmes:

<ul>
<li>Podium green wall to apartment balconies;</li>
	<li>Hotel windows to apartment balconies; and</li>
	<li>Apartment balconies to winter garden windows</li>
</ul>
<cite>Hayball - 334 City Road planning application</cite>
</blockquote>

334 City Road's facade is similar to Hayball's awarded <a href="http://www.archdaily.com/65105/the-canada-hotel-hayball/">Canada Hotel</a> development in Carlton where a series of facade panels essentially interlock to create a repetitive pattern. Add the subtle use of coloured metal spandrel panels and a diagonal visual rhythm becomes evident over the proposed tower.

<h2>Ground zero</h2>

The planning application addresses what is a problem the length of City Road: active street level frontages or lack thereof. Hayball and Tract Consultants have jointly provided for a softening of the existing harsh street level environment by way of an indented ground level with an overhung podium.

In this way increased area is given to the public realm at ground level with bluestone paving to all frontages, public bench seats, a green feature wall, planters and scope for public sculpture artwork all envisaged. In addition the adjoining dead space under the neighbouring West Gate Freeway is also earmarked for urban revitalisation. Seen below are precedents which could be applied to the undercroft, delivering some much needed useable public space to City Road in the process.

<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/image28.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Existing undercroft and possible urban solutions. Image courtesy Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="428" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28.jpg?itok=L8FKXPAZ" title="Existing undercroft and possible urban solutions. Image courtesy Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Existing undercroft and possible urban solutions. Image courtesy Hayball</figcaption></figure><h2>A likely starter</h2>

It is worth noting that 334 City Road's urban context report does state that developer EAG Pty Ltd has had a presence on City Road for some years and has committed to delivering the project. According to a Fairfax Media <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/southbank-skyscraper-to-soar-over-city-20140715-zt8ix">report</a> site owner EAG Pty Ltd is tied to BRW rich lister Giuseppe “Joe” Catalfamo who owns the current Urban Central accommodation onsite.

Prolific builder LU Simon is also listed as a project partner within the submitted documents, suggesting that should it gain approval 334 City Road looks to have both the financial basis and building expertise in place turn the paper project into reality.

<h2>Development Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: EAG Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: Hayball</li>
	<li>Intended builder: LU Simon</li>
	<li>Planning Consultant: Urbis</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: Rinovitch Consultants</li>
	<li>Services / ESD: ALA</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Gardner Group</li>
	<li>Landscape Architect: Tract</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Fire Engineer: Thomas Nicolas</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineer: Traffix</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
</ul>
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Planning application > Hayball's 270 metre 334 City Road

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PDS Group believe it to be the only relationship of its kind and scale in existence within the Australian property development sphere. Following Malaysian developer Mammoth Empire's entrance into the local market, they promptly locked away the Melbourne-based multi-disciplinary property firm to cover all aspects of their local venture.

PDS Group Managing Director Andrew Fortey explained that all aspects literally means all aspects - from solely representing Mammoth Empire's interests in Melbourne through to determining project participants, marketing budgets and distribution, project management onto coordinating buyer settlement. In effect PDS Group offered a "One-stop shop" solution for the newly completed MY80 apartment project.

<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/melbourne-sunset-second-star.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="MY80 midway through construction. Image © benwesleyphotography.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melbourne-sunset-second-star.jpg?itok=m69Mlq_6" title="MY80 midway through construction. Image © benwesleyphotography.com" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>MY80 midway through construction. Image © benwesleyphotography.com</figcaption></figure><h2>Inside the newly completed MY80</h2>

​Designed by Southbank-based architects Hayball, the internals hold a feel synonymous with the prolific architecture firm. In line with the tower's exterior, the foyer, passages and communal areas are crisp, clean and modern without being ostentatious.

The A'Beckett Street entrance is defined by a perforated metal screen punctuated by strip lighting while the separate Elizabeth Street entrance carries the almost trademark Hayball textured/ruffled precast panel finish. MY80 Assistant Project Manager Mitesh Achari explained the dual entrances were the result of initially intending to hold a separate serviced apartment component within the tower. Ultimately further apartments were added into the podium and lower levels in lieu of the serviced apartment component.

The 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments within MY80 are supported by dual communal areas, with level 1 consisting of pool and sauna, cinema, residents lounge, external terrace and business centre. Perhaps the best feature of level 1, and a feature that should be more commonly implemented is the external terrace perched above A'Beckett Street and Elizabeth Street. The open terrace provides a point of interest back from street level while also giving the user an active muse to gaze upon.

Level 53 holds the rooftop sky lounge with impressive if not time-limited views (owing to future surrounding developments) over a 180 degree arc. Furnished by Doherty Design Studio, splashes of colour cut through the charcoal and reclaimed timber finishes throughout the sky lounge which includes a kitchen, external terrace and sizeable fireplace.

<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_0031_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Level 53 sky lounge stylings"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0031_0.jpg?itok=HyrdIpL4" title="Level 53 sky lounge stylings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Level 53 sky lounge stylings</figcaption></figure>Despite initial forecasts of roughly a thirty five month build time, MY80 was completed over a 28 month period. PDS Group in conjunction with head contractor Probuild refined the build process both pre and during construction to allow for maximum possible efficiency. Commencing in March 2012, practical completion was achieved mid-August 2014.

<h2>Continuing success</h2>

Looking ahead PDS Group will continue the fruitful relationship with Mammoth Empire as construction of the Malaysian developers second project, <a href="/buildings/empire-melbourne-398-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Empire</a> draws near. Directly opposite MY80, Empire has already notched up near in excess of 400 sales of the 474 apartments on offer within the 181 metre project.

Preliminary planning and design works have also been set in motion for Mammoth Empire's third Melbourne project located at 15-27 Wreckyn Street. PDS Group will once again act as superintendent, development and project manager for the upcoming Hayball-designed residential project which will yield in the vicinity of some 150 apartments.

Elsewhere, PDS Group have a number of high-profile projects under their guidance, with <a href="/buildings/marco-42-48-balston-street-southbank">Marco Melbourne</a>, <a href="/buildings/claremont-manor-7-claremont-street-south-yarra">Claremont Manor</a> and <a href="/buildings/560-flinders-street-melbourne">560 Flinders Street</a> approaching construction start. Also stay tuned for a pending announcement regarding one of Melbourne's more recognisable redevelopments, details of which will be announced by PDS Group shortly.

See below the set of images taken during our recent visit to MY80.
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MY80: a mammoth success for PDS Group

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<blockquote>
The first decade of Docklands was about buildings. The focus has now shifted to delivering the facilities that are the building blocks of a thriving community.
<cite>Gregory Anderson, CEO of Places Victoria.</cite>
</blockquote>

Located on the Collins Street Wharf along the Victoria Harbour waterfront, the Docklands Family Services &amp; Boating Hub (DFSBH) is the second community facility to be delivered through a unique tripartite model between Places Victoria, Lend Lease and the City of Melbourne - the other being the adjacent <a href="/news/talking-up-docklands-newest-showpiece">Library at the Dock</a>. Together these two buildings will form the civic heart of Victoria Harbour and combined with Buluk Park will provide over 8,000 square metres of public space.

The existing Shed 4 which occupies a portion of the site will be partially demolished to allow for construction of the new facility before being completely demolished as future buildings are proposed.

<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/dfsbh_siteplan.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Location of new Family Services &amp; Boating Hub building. © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="399" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/dfsbh_siteplan.jpg?itok=di-QQ3VC" title="Location of new Family Services &amp; Boating Hub building. © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Location of new Family Services &amp; Boating Hub building. © Hayball</figcaption></figure>Designed by Hayball, the two-storey building draws on the the vernacular of the existing marine buildings of the wharves at Docklands in terms of both scale and materiality. The Collins Street frontage features an undercover pedestrian walkway at ground level with framed glazed windows to allow views into the boating activities and through to the water.

On the eastern side, addressing Buluk Park, the building's roof extends beyond the building line to from a veranda. Materials and finishes proposed externally including feature timber blades, in-situ concrete, folded metal, exterior grade plywood, steel balustrades, and large glazed elements in the form of tilt doors to the north.

The ground floor Boating Hub is planned to accommodate Docklands’ current boating clubs - Victorian Dragon Boat Association, Docklands Yacht Club and Melbourne Outrigger Canoe Club in an approximately 712sqm open plan arrangement, consisting boating storage and associated office and amenities. The layout provides flexibility in the configuration of storage for water craft and equipment and also features a double height space for the provision of masted yachts allowing for views from the upper level.

Access into the building is via a double height common lobby accessed from the corner of Sailmaker Way and Collins Street.

<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/dfsbh_gf_plan.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground Floor Plan showing boating activities. © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="391" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/dfsbh_gf_plan.png?itok=ISkjcyL-" title="Ground Floor Plan showing boating activities. © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground Floor Plan showing boating activities. © Hayball</figcaption></figure>The Family Services Centre to be located on the first floor and comprises a 229sqm multi-purpose/function space to accommodate approximately 120 people, a 540sqm family services hub comprising a reception area, consulting rooms, play-group room, program room and outdoor playground.

The function space is open plan and provides direct access to a 30sqm viewing terrace. Amenities are located centrally within the plan and serve both the function space and the family services hub.

<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/dfsbh_ff_plan.png" rel="gallery-all" title="First Floor Plan illustrating programmatic arrangements of Family Services centre. © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/dfsbh_ff_plan.png?itok=AY7NQpID" title="First Floor Plan illustrating programmatic arrangements of Family Services centre. © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>First Floor Plan illustrating programmatic arrangements of Family Services centre. © Hayball</figcaption></figure>Additionally the interim public realm design response includes a number of improvements proposed to the public realm over two stages:

<ul>
<li>The completion of Sailmaker Way to the eastern building line in bluestone pavement.</li>
	<li>The construction of the Collins Street footpath up to and adjacent to the entrance of the building.</li>
	<li>The construction of timber edge and seating to the edge of the Promenade.</li>
	<li>The provision of street lighting and bins on the northern side of Collins Street in accordance with City of Melbourne’s standards for Docklands.</li>
	<li>The construction of Collins Street within the bounds of the subject site including the construction of the bluestone pavements and car park bays to the north and south side of Collins Street.</li>
	<li>The provision of street furniture including lighting, bins, seats and bike hoops along Collins Street in accordance with City of Melbourne’s standards for Docklands.</li>
	<li>The provision of street trees along the south side of Collins Street.</li>
</ul>
Buildings such as the DFSBH and Library at the Dock are critical community infrastructure projects as they provide the waterfront with a much more human scale experience whilst also ensuring that larger public spaces such as Buluk Park are afforded access to adequate sunlight and remain desirable spaces to visit and engage. The injection of a diverse programme which differ from the largely retail focused tenancies at ground level add a further dimension to the docks.

The inspired choices of materials and building forms which respond to the waterfront context and built history of the area provide a softer and warmer contrast to the glazed concrete and steel office and residential towers. Further community focused buildings are planned for the waterfront along the northern edge of the peninsula.

The $8.5m facility is due to get underway in October with an anticipated completion date of September 2015.

<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/2719868_1_o.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Docklands Family Services &amp; Boating Hub from Collins Street. © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="317" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2719868_1_o.jpg?itok=aOom8x8E" title="Docklands Family Services &amp; Boating Hub from Collins Street. © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Docklands Family Services &amp; Boating Hub from Collins Street. © Hayball</figcaption></figure>
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Building a Community: Docklands Family Services & Boating Hub

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What better place to start than with a glimpse of Elenberg Fraser's most recent planning application at 248-280 Sturt Street, Southbank as seen above. Designed for property stalwart Hudson Conway, <q>The building form consists of two dominant floor plates that are connected by a transitional twist in the building.</q>
With its incredible form and monochromatic adaptive lighting, the 120 metre residential tower is more at home in a sci fi landscape rather than Southbank. Silver reflective glazing and polished stainless steel define its exterior - the tower smacks of cutting edge quality!
<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/Image2spy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Cottee Parker"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2spy.jpg?itok=svYPJyS_" title="Image © Cottee Parker" width="580"></a>
Above is the first public viewing of Cottee Parker's newest Melbourne tower, 605-613 Lonsdale Street. Adjacent to Upper West Side, this is Cottee Parker's fifth tower for the block with four more in planning directly opposite at 250 Spencer Street - all for Far East Consortium.
The 160 metre tower holds 399 apartments and carries some interesting design features such as exposed 'ribs' similar to those of Tower 5 in Docklands.
<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/Image3spy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © dKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3spy.jpg?itok=4Ky0CP_6" title="Image © dKO Architecture" width="580"></a>
dKO Architecture also feature with their redefined scheme at 6-22 Pearl River Road, Docklands. Under the auspices of Singaporean developer Hiap Hoe, dKO have produced <q>A well designed mixed use village that is lively and interesting, has a coherent urban character and provides a signature building for the NewQuay Central Precinct.</q>
Gone is the precast northern tower, in its place a sleek 56 metre hotel tower. Carrying shades of Crown Metropol through the design, the reincarnation is of a high quality and inline with the slightly altered adjoining residential tower.
<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/Image1spy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="324" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1spy.jpg?itok=fBp4efg9" title="Image © Hayball" width="580"></a>
Last but not least is Hayball's Fishermans Bend quad tower proposal on behalf of Goodman Group. 850 Lorimer Street will feature four residential towers containing 1354 apartments, with two towers expected to peak at 145 metres.
Wedged between Mirvac's Yarra's Edge and the proposed <a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">351 Ingles Street</a> development, the scheme represents a departure from the humble precast concrete panel which visually define so many Hayball projects.
Watch for detailed articles outlining each of the planning applications in the weeks to come.
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I Spy... new planning applications

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With <a href="/news">MY80</a> currently steaming ahead through construction, Malaysian-based property developer <a href="http://www.meh.com.my/flash">Mammoth Empire Holdings</a> has wasted no time in capitalising on the success of their first foray into the Melbourne property market. Following their purchase of an adjoining site late last year, a planning application was recently submitted for a new residential tower at 398 Elizabeth Street, adding to a burgeoning list of residential developments over the northern stretch of Melbourne's CBD.

Located directly opposite MY80, early reports noted Mammoth Empire's director Sean Ng as stating the idea of a sister tower on the site was appealing, a notion that has been borne out through the planning application which sees a tower that while seemingly different, hold many complementary features to MY80.

398 Elizabeth Street's site below is seen within the anticipated urban context, although the rate of change through the area can render any image essentially obsolete within a short period of time. It was revealed last week for instance that ICD Property have submitted plans for a 196m residential tower at <a href="/news">127-141 A'Beckett Street</a>; this tower along with a number of others do not appear in the graphic below.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image1398.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="398 Elizabeth within the areas of urban context."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1398.jpg?itok=q40gNLAZ" title="398 Elizabeth within the areas of urban context." typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>398 Elizabeth within the areas of urban context.</figcaption></figure>At 55 levels and reaching a height of 177m, 398 Elizabeth Street is slightly taller than its counterpart, incorporating 465 apartments and 418sqm of commercial space. 1004sqm of retail space will also be available within the building, monopolising the first two levels of the complex. Car parking is quite limited, totalling only 96 spaces through podium levels 2-8, while 194 bicycle spaces catered for.

As per MY80, architecture practice <a href="http://www.hayball.com.au/">Hayball</a> have once again offered their design expertise on the project, creating a visually stimulating tower which plays on the horizontal design features of MY80 by incorporating a contrasting vertical facade. Large vertical fins will adorn the building and much like the changing form of MY80, Hayball have designed 398 Elizabeth Street in a way which follows three separate elements, those being the ‘base’, ‘middle’ and ‘upper’ sections of the tower.

The ‘base’ includes two levels of retail incorporated within the nine level podium while the ‘middle’ includes mid-rise apartments spanning levels 10-24 while ‘upper’ levels involve apartments from level 26 to 55. Over these three elements, a transition in building form takes place with the most noticeable change at level nine, where the building shifts steps in to create a 5 metre setback while simultaneously protruding over a new laneway which will be located at the east of the site, creating a cantilevered effect.

The buildings facade will include flush vision glazing, solid panels and a rhythm of pre-cast fins which are designed to provide shading, while allowing for solar benefit during the winter months. At the north-west corner of the building, the fins are broken up in a bid to reduce the mass of the building, as well as helping to provide additional visual interest where the fins peel back to reveal more of the building behind. Much likeMY80, pre-cast concrete and dark glass is externally dominant, with extensive glazing given to the lower retail floors with frameless doors apparent.

<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/Image13987.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="398 Elizabeth Street renders flank the comparative planning application image"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13987.jpg?itok=Z-okcp7d" title="398 Elizabeth Street renders flank the comparative planning application image" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>398 Elizabeth Street renders flank the comparative planning application image</figcaption></figure>While Mammoth Empire aim to bring an international style of retail to Melbourne via the dual retail levels facing Elizabeth Street, another interesting feature of the building are six distinct office pods which vary in size from 36sqm to 114sqm. Located around the perimeter of levels 3-7, the pods help to activate the towers lower levels by hiding the car parking areas behind while also providing space for start-up businesses or design studios.

A major feature for future residents will be an amenities area accessible on level 25 and comprising two function rooms, a gymnasium, pool, change/bath rooms as well as outdoor terraces which will face both east and west. As mentioned above, a new laneway will also be developed within the project, which will be used to provide access to the already established Literature Lane from A’Beckett Street.

The new lane is said to provide a dramatic experience for those passing through, with the building cantilevered over the street creating an interesting spectacle in conjunction with vertical and horizontal landscaping which will contribute to the experience. The area will be further enhanced by activation from the first level retail store which will help provide passive surveillance over the area. In addition to the new laneway, footpath widening and public realm improvements for both Elizabeth Street and A’Beckett Streets will take place, including an elevated wooden plinth fronting A'Beckett Street.

<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/Image13980.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground floor plan with laneway incorporated"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13980.jpg?itok=ec08kjhA" title="Ground floor plan with laneway incorporated" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Ground floor plan with laneway incorporated</figcaption></figure>It is expected that once approval is granted for 398 Elizabeth Street a sales campaign will follow shortly after, with construction expected to commence sometime next year if all goes to plan.

All images © Hayball.
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