Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374394]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374399]

Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152069]

Joel Robinson

Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Walker doubles down on Maroochydore with 29-storey Celeste apartment tower

Hiap Hoe

<html><body>
<blockquote>
We get really obsessed with height - we can have great towers and bad towers, we need to shift the discussion more toward the quality of development.
<cite>Leanne Hodyl, <a href="/news/public-forum-city-in-crisis">IMPA's 'City in Crisis?' forum</a></cite>
</blockquote>

This interesting quote appeared in <a href="/expert-insights/buying/25-000sqm-threshold-yes-it-is-time-to-review-it">Alastair's article</a> on Monday, which delved into who should maintain planning authority over Melbourne. The notion of shifting focus more toward quality of development rather than height is a noble one, but it's simply not that straight forward.

A counter argument could be found in comments made during the recent Meinhardt tall towers seminar in which Meinhardt's Jon Brock essentially stated that people don't really care how tall a tower is beyond a certain point, tall is tall but what matters most is what occurs at street level. A vibrant, user friendly, interesting and varied street frontage is in fact the key to a development's quality.

A prime example of this has surfaced with PDS Group recently releasing a handful of high resolution images for 380 Lonsdale Street for which they will act as Project Manager and Superintendent.

<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/229.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's perspective from Lonsdale Street. Image courtesy PDS Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="909" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/229.jpg?itok=hCsmuD6b" title="Artist's perspective from Lonsdale Street. Image courtesy PDS Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's perspective from Lonsdale Street. Image courtesy PDS Group</figcaption></figure>So which is it? Height or quality? 380 Lonsdale Street proves in its most recent version you can have both. The Elenberg Fraser-designed tower may well stand at 217 metres when realised which is approximately 55 metres higher than the initial Spowers design.

Below is a comparison between the two designs highlighting the all-important ground level which shows the current Elenberg Fraser design to hold a higher level of interest, activity and greenery. Active glass frontages and green planters seek to replace uniform composite panels; both shroud above ground car parking yet one does so in a more aesthetically pleasing fashion.

There's no intended slight against Spowers, their version after all gained approval via the State Government, but there's little doubt that Elenberg Fraser's provides a heightened quality to the public domain.

<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/image4380.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy PDS Group and spowers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="590" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4380.jpg?itok=HdyQcqKp" title="Images courtesy PDS Group and spowers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images courtesy PDS Group and Spowers</figcaption></figure>380 Lonsdale Street in its current form goes to show that the questions of height and quality aren't bound together in an inverse relationship. They are separate issues and should be treated as such.

Railing against buildings purely for their height serves no purpose to my way of thinking. Asking for alterations and/or rejecting planning applications based more so upon what they deliver or fail to deliver to the streetscape, or indeed what they replace is of more relevance than any question over height.
</body></html>

silvermb

Quality development begins at street level

<html><body>
Hiap Hoe have reinforced the trend of Asian-based developers proposing large-scale mixed-use developments within the City of Melbourne. Having <a href="/news/hiap-hoe-lets-go" target="_blank">purchased 380 Lonsdale Street during 2013</a>, the developer has turned to the ubiquitous Elenberg Fraser to deliver a new scheme.

Superseding an approved single 47 storey tower design delivered by Spowers for the previous owner, Elenberg Fraser have increased height, apartment yield, included a hotel and maintained the initial designs width, albeit over two towers rather than one. It's the tremendous width of the proposal (running from Lonsdale to Little Lonsdale) which has enabled Elenberg Fraser to apply an architectural facade treatment which sees ripples emanating from a low slung nexus between towers and podium.

<blockquote>
The revised proposal represents a landmark building of high architectural quality located in a prominent site within the city. It has been designed in a manner to be respectful of the character of the area and surrounding properties while making a notable contribution to the urban renewal and evolving character of this part of the CBD and will also support the various roles of the City Centre.
<cite>Urbis Planning Permit Amendment Application</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>380 Lonsdale Street at a glance</h2>

<ul>
<li>Existing use: 6 storey commercial car park</li>
	<li>3,165sqm site</li>
	<li>South (Lonsdale) tower: 51 levels @ 166.5 metres</li>
	<li>North (Little Lonsdale) tower: 67 levels @ 217.5 metres</li>
	<li>728 apartments &amp; 312 suite hotel component: increased from initial 627 apartments</li>
	<li>Retail, function, office space and car parking through the 7-level podium</li>
	<li>Timothy Lane to become a connected arcade/thoroughfare</li>
	<li>Activation of adjoining Heape Court</li>
	<li>469 car parking spaces: reduced from 774</li>
	<li>822 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Total GFA: 109,448sqm</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news">&gt;&gt; See the revised 380 Lonsdale images within the dedicated forum thread</a>

<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/image5380.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The initial and revised 380 Lonsdale Street designs. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="512" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5380.jpg?itok=1VmIBlpw" title="The initial and revised 380 Lonsdale Street designs. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elenberg Fraser's initial and current 380 Lonsdale Street designs. Images © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><h2>Apartment divide</h2>

A graphic within the planning amendment application shows apartments have been categorised according to the dwellers status. 112 Residential Type 1 (owner occupier) apartments are located within the southern tower over levels 34-49 and are expected to consist of 64*1-Bed, 32*2-Bed and 16*2-Bed/2-Bath apartments.

Residential Type 2 (renter occupied) dwellings are limited to the taller northern tower with 616 apartments included. 224*1-Bed, 112*2-Bed and 280*2-Bed/2-Bath options constitute the apartment breakdown. Dividing the project into two towers categories by whether the occupant owns or rents the apartment isn't standard practice, although in this instance we assume the distinction is made due to the four star hotel within the southern tower and associated communal facilities use etc.

As part of the revised scheme no bedrooms will rely on borrowed light, improving upon the original design which town planner Urbis states would have been the case for many single bedroom apartments.

<h2>What's in a podium?</h2>

Elenberg Fraser have loosely maintained the form of the approved Spowers-designed podium structure, thus taking a step back from the unadorned uniform glass lines that have defined a number of their recent planning applications.

Two distinct volumes are kept in order to allow pedestrian access via a rejuvenated Timothy Lane, with a podium-top hotel swimming pool seemingly 'resting' across both built volumes. Transparent from beneath, the hotel pool will join mirrored cladding, pocket gardens, stone soffits, varied podium depths and active pedestrian frontages in bringing visual interest to the lower levels of the structure.

<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/image1380.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © Spowers &amp; Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="253" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1380.jpg?itok=77cSuNn0" title="Images © Spowers &amp; Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images © Spowers &amp; Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>As it stands Starwood Hotels &amp; Resorts have signed on to operate the southern Lonsdale tower hotel component under their Aloft brand, as was <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property/starwood-hotels-in-deal-with-singapore-real-estate-group/story-fn9656lz-1226800998921" target="_blank">reported</a> earlier this year. With essentially three quarts of the Lonsdale tower dedicated to hotel use alongside a relatively light 112 private apartments, Hiap Hoe could advance the initial tower to construction briskly post approval.

In addition Hiap Hoe and Melbourne-based Probuild currently have a partnership in place whereby the the latter will undertake the builds on both Hiap Hoe's current Melbourne projects, the other being <a href="/buildings/marina-tower-6-pearl-river-road-docklands" target="_blank">Marina Tower.</a>

<h2>380 Lonsdale Street project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Client: Meteorite Development (Lonsdale Street) P/L on behalf of Hiap Hoe Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: Elenberg Fraser</li>
	<li>Project Manager: PDS Group</li>
	<li>Town Planner: Urbis</li>
	<li>Landscape Architect: Oculus</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: ARK Resources</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: Cardno Gorgan Richards.</li>
	<li>Wind Consultant: MEL Consulting</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Reeds Consulting</li>
	<li>Structural Consultant: Winward Group</li>
	<li>Services Consultant: Murchie Consulting</li>
	<li>Quantity Surveyor: Slattery Australia</li>
</ul>
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Hiap Hoe supersize their 380 Lonsdale Street development

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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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News reports have flowed thick and fast of late detailing Melbourne's robust hotel sector. Recent <a href="http://www.afr.com/" target="_blank">AFR</a> articles show hotel occupancy rates have increased near 4% year on year, investors and operators hold bullish sentiments for the future while Melbourne maintains the lowest national major city room rate averaging $182 which ties in with affordability.

Via <a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/hotel_demand_to_push_up_occupancies_kdQRdwJg9mlKSCZ9GH2HfL" target="_blank">this article</a> Deloitte suggests "In Melbourne, demand for rooms is forecast to outstrip new supply by 1.7 per cent over the next three years, pushing occupancies up to 85.7 per cent and room rates up to $209."

But what of the actual buildings which will deliver solely, or as part of a larger mixed-use development, the throng of new hotel suites destined for Melbourne? <a href="/news/5000-new-hotel-rooms-for-melbourne-continued">Continuing into tomorrow</a>, Apartments.com.au highlights 20 upcoming hotel developments located within the City of Melbourne.

<h2>Hiap Hoe the benchmark</h2>

<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/Image3_271.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hiap Hoe's intended projects at Docklands and 380 Lonsdale Street. Images © DKO &amp; Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3_271.jpg?itok=2bvm8B_h" title="Hiap Hoe's intended projects at Docklands and 380 Lonsdale Street. Images © DKO &amp; Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

If one firm epitomises the faith in Melbourne's hotel sector, it's Hiap Hoe. Shortly after acquiring three development sites late last year worth $177 million, the Singaporean firm revealed a letter of intent was penned with Starwood's Asia Pacific Hotels &amp; Resorts to manage two of their Melbourne properties.

Four Points by Sheraton are slated to take naming rights over 6-22 Pearl River Road, located within Melbourne's Docklands while 380 Lonsdale Street (above right) will be home to Aloft Hotels once the project has been completed. A third property at 206 Bourke Street is currently subject to a preliminary design process, with concept renders depicting what looks to be a typically sleek Elenberg Fraser complex.

Together these developments will deliver near 1000 hotel rooms to Melbourne's inner core - impressive in both scale and speed of progression.

<h2>Top of the town</h2>

<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/Image4_23.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Windsor, 101 Flinders Lane and 27 Little Collins. Images © DCM &amp; Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="293" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_23.jpg?itok=QynI7Zz2" title="Windsor, 101 Flinders Lane and 27 Little Collins. Images © DCM &amp; Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

The grandeur of Melbourne CBD's east end is well documented so it's no surprise that many hotel operators are seeking a slice of the acation close to Spring Street. The trials and tribulations of the Windsor Hotel are well documented, although last week it was announced the 152 room expansion of the grand complex would proceed to construction late this year.

Nearby Sheraton at 27 Little Collins Street is well advanced into construction, yielding 175 rooms while other projects in the area include the expected redevelopment of Rosati's at 95-101 Flinders Lane into a 195 room hotel, QIC's redevelopment of Nauru House with plans including a 252 room hotel and of course the Palace Theatre redevelopment seeking 200 suites under the W Hotel brand.

<h2>Elsewhere in the CBD</h2>

<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/Image8_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="William Street, The Forum and 180 Russell. Images © EF, Forum &amp; Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="498" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image8_12.jpg?itok=zgKytTL6" title="William Street, The Forum and 180 Russell. Images © EF, Forum &amp; Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

There's no shortage of developers vying to land a hotel operator elsewhere in the CBD with 1500 additional rooms currently on the cards. Aside from Wyndham on William with 87 dwellings under construction as part of Hengyi's 199 William Street, six other aspirants have yet to solidify their intentions.

Biggest of all is Far East Consortium's intended redevelopment of 250 Spencer Street highlighted by 488 hotel suites over two towers. Elsewhere 131-141 Russell Street holds approval for 182 suites as does 110-112 Franklin Street with 129 rooms over a modest eight levels. Currently seeking approval is 386-412 William Street with 210 suites available as part of the mixed-use development. Ace Hotel Group have put themselves forward as a potential operator.

The two remaining proposals are also controversial given their sensitive locations. As part of a larger mixed use development AXF Group seek to add 200 hotel suites to their 280 metre replacement of the Total Car Park which has been <a href="/news/new-proposals-seek-to-join-the-200m-club" target="_blank">touched upon</a> by Apartments.com.au. Nearby Marriner Group have submitted plans for a 32 level hotel development behind a restored Forum Theatre. Both projects are still under planning consideration.

<a href="/news/5000-new-hotel-rooms-for-melbourne-continued">To be continued...</a>
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5000 new hotel rooms for Melbourne

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Melbourne finds itself in the midst of a development site buy-up unlike any the city has has experienced in the past.  Last week, news came to light about Singaporean developer, Hiap Hoe, purchasing not one but two strategic properties in Melbourne’s CBD which adds to their recent purchase of MAB’s development site located at 6-22 Pearl River Road in NewQuay only two months ago.

Last week initial announcement specified that Hiap Hoe purchased 380 Lonsdale Street in Melbourne which currently operates as a commercial car park, office and retail complex.  With a sale price of $43.8 million it's widely regarded as a premium 3,165 square metre CBD site which spans an entire city block near the corner of Lonsdale and Elizabeth Streets.  The site has been recently issued with a planning permit for a 46 storey mixed use tower designed by the prominent architecture firm Spowers which will incorporate a combination of residential, commercial and retail components valued at approximately $480 million. 

Following 380 Lonsdale Street's purchase, Executive Chairman and CEO of Hiap Hoe, Mr Teo Ho Beng was delighted with the company’s purchase.  “The opportunity to acquire a substantial core Melbourne CBD development site with an approved permit represents a strategic acquisition for our group.  We are delighted to not only have secured the site for future development but also to be able to acquire a holding such as this with an income that represents an income yield close to 6%, well suited to our future plans.” said Mr Teo Ho Beng.

Tracey Wun, the Executive Director of Hiap Hoe echoed the CEO’s sentiments and commented on the future development of the site.  “Active development for the 380 Lonsdale Street is a further 12 – 24 months away and will incorporate 627 apartments, 740 commercial and residential car parks with dynamic ground level retail to activate the street to encourage pedestrian thoroughfare into the building.”

<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/Hiap%20Hoe.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="380 Lonsdale Street. Image © Spowers. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Hiap%20Hoe.jpeg?itok=uP5LEHnH" title="380 Lonsdale Street. Image © Spowers. " typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Testament to Hiap Hoe’s ambitious and enthusiastic approach to their Australian expansion plan, a second announcement was made the very next day outlining Hiap Hoe's purchase of the established retail and commercial complex at <a href="http://206bourke.com.au/">206 Bourke Street.</a> Located close to Melbourne’s ever expanding retail core, three CBD train stations and well connected with trams along Bourke Street and Swanston Street, 206 Bourke Street will continue to be a central hub for locals and visitors. 

Speaking about their third acquisition, Mr Teo Ho Beng said “This acquisition of 206 Bourke Street has everything we were looking for in a long-term investment project in Melbourne – attractive yield in excess of 7%, high leasing rate at 98% in Melbourne’s Chinatown precinct, and the opportunity to expand with the interests of Melbourne to generate a high net return for all parties involved. 

Hiap Hoe believed the time was right to ‘green light’ the acquisitions because of two major contributing factors.  Firstly, the falling value of the Australian Dollar, which filliped the decision to take advantage of the better value by the movement in currency.  Secondly, and notably, the enormous injection of capital occurring in the immediate vicinity of 380 Lonsdale Street spearheaded by the $1.3 billion re-development of the former Melbourne Myer Department store soon to be opened and known as ‘Emporium Melbourne’ with an expected completion of March 2014.

The latest 380 Lonsdale Street acquisition is part of a highly tactical and well thought out campaign which has taken years in the making and is only now coming to fruition. The first move was in July 2013 when Hiap Hoe purchased their maiden property in Melbourne, a 3,795 square metre approved development site at 6-22 Pearl River Road in NewQuay.  The approved tower designed by <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO architecture</a> has real potential to become an iconic tower for Docklands and Melbourne, making it to No. 2 on our recent <a href="/news/urban-com-aus-top-5-picks-approved-september-2013">Top 5 list of approved projects</a>.

<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/lbou6053v01village-206-bourke-street.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="206 Bourke Street. Image © Floodslicer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/lbou6053v01village-206-bourke-street.jpg?itok=GEMMhGby" title="206 Bourke Street. Image © Floodslicer" typeof="Image"></a>

Given the city's ranking as the world’s most livable city for the third year in a row, Hiap Hoe is enthusiastic about the development and growth potential Melbourne has to offer.  “Melbourne’s CBD receives more than 1 million international visitors per year and the number of weekday local visitors to the area is estimated to be approximately 825,000 visitors per day.  With the growing visitor numbers and no centrally located major developments in the vicinity, 380 Lonsdale Street is well placed to meet the needs of the ever-growing local population, business community, shoppers and visitors.”

Many recent property acquisitions have come via Asian property developers specifically from Malaysia, Singapore and China that are cashed up and ready to try their hand at Melbourne’s burgeoning property development scene. This is certainly very encouraging for our local economy and construction industry when vast flows of investment are being directed squarely at Melbourne. All we have to say is there is more to come, and you can bet that UrbanMelbourne.info will be here so you will be up to date with all the latest in Melbourne’s urban development progression.
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