Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Kane Constructions

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The first stage of Marcellin College's 10-year master plan - the $20 million Hermitage Project is now complete.

Comprising the refurbishment of the iconic Hermitage building and the construction of a three-level extension, the project delivers on the Catholic Marist boys’ school's vision of creating new educational possibilities for the 1400 students.

<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/7665-031n3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Old meets new at Marcellin College. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/7665-031n3.jpg?itok=6swMVRwW" title="Old meets new at Marcellin College. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Old meets new at Marcellin College. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>The Hermitage project, designed by COX Architecture and built by Kane Constructions, is the first part of a major 10-year Master Plan for the College. The Master Plan has been designed to unlock the school’s potential by developing clearly defined precincts and creating next-generation learning and social spaces.

Additionally, the Master Plan identified a preferred development strategy to enable Marcellin College to deliver its facilities in the most strategic, cost-effective and efficient manner. The work completed to date, as well as that outlined in the ongoing Master Plan, reflects wider developments in education.

During the Hermitage refurbishment and into the future, the master plan also reduces disruption by ensuring the maximum number of classrooms remain operational and the overall construction period is minimised for each project phase.

The redevelopment provides for an additional 3,000 sqm of new education space, encouraging collaboration, socialisation and self-direction among the students. It allows for a range of pedagogical approaches that just weren’t possible with the outdated and constrained classrooms of the original building, which was built when Marcellin opened in 1950.

<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/7665-073n3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new central atrium links the new teaching wing with the Hermitage building. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/7665-073n3.jpg?itok=53KM08Ka" title="A new central atrium links the new teaching wing with the Hermitage building. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new central atrium links the new teaching wing with the Hermitage building. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>The project included a new central atrium linking the Hermitage building to an adjoining teaching wing with a diverse range of learning environments, staff zones, and social spaces, and a dedicated Wurundjeri indigenous garden.

A new front of house and office spaces for the Marcellin leadership team was constructed in the adjacent Marist House including a linkage between the two spaces, a new car park adjacent on the existing tennis courts - replacing the existing car parking spaces that were lost as a result of the Hermitage extension. 
The project was completed on schedule for the beginning of the 2018 school year.

<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/7665-054n3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The project includes a dedicated Wurundjeri indigenous garden. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/7665-054n3.jpg?itok=S5YCQbr4" title="The project includes a dedicated Wurundjeri indigenous garden. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The project includes a dedicated Wurundjeri indigenous garden. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
At Marcellin we are about developing flexible, independent, resilient and collaborative learners. Young men who not afraid to take risks in their learning, who are not afraid to fail, and who are creative and innovative in their approach. Our new facilities stimulate and encourage these traits through creative architecture and the innovative use of materials, colour, shape, angle and space. Our students appreciate the maturity of the new spaces they are engaging with and present themselves in kind.

The learning that is encouraged at Marcellin is as varied as the students themselves. Project based, team-oriented and self-directed learning is encouraged, and often the teacher is the facilitator rather than just someone who provides information. The development of the Hermitage project has transformed a restrictive, traditional classroom block into a vibrant, interactive, flexible and mature learning and community space that is sympathetic to the needs of contemporary learners.

- Mark Murphy, Marcellin College Principal
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The new three-level annex and the refurbishment of the school’s existing foundation building provide spaces and places that prioritise student activity, movement and interaction. These will afford all students a much deeper learning experience and reflect developments in other educational institutions, including TAFE colleges and universities. In this way, they assist students to make the transition to further and higher education programs.

- John Hayball, Project Associate,COX Architecture
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The process aligned the school’s vision, goals and objectives with the built form, providing the school community with a comprehensive document that will guide development through to 2025 and beyond. We undertook extensive staging planning to maximise available classrooms and reduce disruption for students and staff, minimising the effects of working in a live environment.

- Emelie Watkinson, Senior Project Manager, Montlaur
</blockquote>
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Laurence Dragomir

First stage of Marcellin College's 10 year Master Plan complete

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Likened in some quarters as a miniature Federation Square, construction works began last week on a Prahran project that will rank as one of 2018's most progressive and important.

Kane Constructions has the job of transforming 30-40 Izett Street under a $60+ million urban renewal initiative prompted by Stonnington City Council. On the outer is the surface car park; it will be replaced by 10,000 square metres of multifunctional urban parkland.

Similar to what is intended for the Queen Victoria Market car park, all vehicles will be directed underground in order to create a more environmentally and pedestrian friendly outcome. 500 plus vehicles will be accommodated over the project's underground levels.

Council states that "When completed in 2019, Cato Square as it has been dubbed will create urgently needed open space for recreation, events, festivals and markets and a 20 per cent increase on the current car park for shoppers and retailers in the surrounding Chapel Street and Greville Street precincts. Cato Square will become an iconic cultural and recreational destination for residents, businesses, shoppers and visitors to Stonnington, with spaces for quiet contemplation or vibrant community events."

<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/image48_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cato Square internal open space. Image: Lyons"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="368" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_9.jpg?itok=MeRP61po" title="Cato Square internal open space. Image: Lyons" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cato Square internal open space. Image: Lyons</figcaption></figure>In a press release earlier this month City of Stonnington Mayor Cr Steve Stefanopoulos stated “We want to continue to enhance the vibrancy of our iconic Chapel Street precinct. Our vision is for this site to be recognised as a world-class public space that can be enjoyed by everyone.

We will achieve this by transforming the existing car park into an active, vibrant, safe and exciting public open space. Cato Square is a working name, and next year we’ll engage with our community about what to call the site once constructed, and also how to activate it with events and activities."

Lyons is the architectural force behind the project with ASPECT Studios accounting for Cato Square's landscape design.

<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/image47_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Active spaces feature to all frontages. Image: Lyons"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="347" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47_6.jpg?itok=SqqEmqzF" title="Active spaces feature to all frontages. Image: Lyons" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Active spaces feature to all frontages. Image: Lyons</figcaption></figure>Bound by Cato Street, Izett Street, Wattle Street and Chatham Street, the project is slated for a staged completion over 2019. By mid next year two levels of underground car parking will be available for public use with Cato Square set to open fully by October 2019.

Cato Square's major features include:

<ul>
<li>A central square with water feature</li>
	<li>Feature seating including terraced seating</li>
	<li>Themed green zones with different shading and landscaping, incorporating ESD features</li>
	<li>Free public WiFi</li>
	<li>Ability to hold events such as festivals, live performances and outdoor cinema</li>
	<li>Safe and improved pedestrian environment around the site</li>
	<li>Recognition of the site’s history</li>
	<li>Two retail/hospitality opportunity spaces</li>
	<li>Integrated public art</li>
</ul>
Invariably Stonnington City Council will hope that Cato Square will in time mirror the successful nature of Federation Square in attracting major crowds and significant public events.
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silvermb

Construction commences on one of 2018's most significant projects

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It's not just apartment developments which are presently enjoying heightened levels of construction. A large number of education-driven projects are also under construction throughout Melbourne, with Apartments.com.au nominating five of the more significant builds below.

Impressively one builder has collected four of the highlighted five, with Kane Constructions currently enjoying a rich vein of projects in the sector; the combined value of Kane Construction's four projects on the go is in excess of $100 million.

In terms of location the five nominated projects are skewed toward Melbourne's inner suburbs and follow on from two recently completed projects of a similar nature, namely <a href="http://www.architectus.com.au/en/projects/mandeville-centre-loreto-mandeville-hall">The Mandeville Centre</a> and the architecturally intriguing McBride Charles Ryan-designed <a href="http://www.mcbridecharlesryan.com.au/#/projects/pegs-middle-girls-school/">PEGS Middle Girls School</a>.

Here are five education-based projects currently under construction.

<h2>Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science</h2>

<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/morrison_street1_view_low_resolution.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science's Morrison Street aspect. Image courtesy Scotch College"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/morrison_street1_view_low_resolution.jpeg?itok=DESPVgFp" title="The Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science's Morrison Street aspect. Image courtesy Scotch College" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science's Morrison Street aspect. Image courtesy Scotch College</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Location: Hawthorn</li>
	<li>Builder: Kane Constructions</li>
	<li>Value: $30 million</li>
	<li>Client: Scotch College</li>
	<li>Architects: Cox Architecture</li>
	<li>Development team members: Taylor Thomson Whitting &amp; Norman Disney Young</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Our conversational teaching approach is most powerful and effective in facilities designed to encourage student and teacher interactions. Each level of the new centre will be a unique learning landscape bringing together formal teaching labs, staff offices and facilities and a central learning hub.

The new Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science will be the showcase of environmental sustainability on the campus. We will be targeting a Green Star rating to validate the environmental credentials of the building, placing Scotch College at the leading edge of sustainable teaching environments.
<cite>engagingcuriousminds.net.au</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>The Artemis Project</h2>

<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/pph_ko.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Artemis Project. Image courtesy MGG"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/pph_ko.jpg?itok=eUZZTYxd" title="The Artemis Project. Image courtesy MGG" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Artemis Project. Image courtesy MGG</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Location: South Yarra</li>
	<li>Builder: Kane Constructions</li>
	<li>Value: $23 million</li>
	<li>Client: Melbourne Girls Grammar</li>
	<li>Architects: BVN</li>
	<li>Development team members: Taylor Thomson Whitting, Umow Lai, WT Partnership &amp; Case Meallin &amp; Associates</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Kane Constructions has been appointed preferred contractor for the Artemis project at Melbourne Girls Grammar. The Artemis Project comprises the construction of a health and wellbeing centre located on the Senior School campus at Anderson Street South Yarra.

The new facility includes an indoor pool, indoor multipurpose courts, gymnasium, break out spaces and extensive landscaping. Works will be completed ahead of the 2017 school year.
<cite>Kane Constructions</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Southern Gateway Building</h2>

<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/trinity_college_web_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Gateway Building. Image courtesy Kane Constructions"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="334" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/trinity_college_web_1.jpg?itok=tRaNXt3F" title="The Gateway Building. Image courtesy Kane Constructions" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Gateway Building. Image courtesy Kane Constructions</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Location: Parkville</li>
	<li>Builder: Cane Constructions</li>
	<li>Value: $24 million</li>
	<li>Client: Trinity College University of Melbourne</li>
	<li>Architects: McIldowie Partners</li>
	<li>Development team members: Trevor Main &amp; Associates, VanDeMeer and Waterman AHW</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
This landmark building will exemplify the commitment that the University of Melbourne and Trinity College share in furthering the education of all our students.

Construction of the building represents the long-term realisation of this important academic centre that all of our students deserve. The College anticipates that this academic centre will be ready for use in the 2016 academic year.
<cite>Trinity College</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>PLC Performing Arts Centre</h2>

<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/767-plc-perf-arts-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="PLC Performing Arts Centre. Image courtesy Root Projects Australia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/767-plc-perf-arts-2.jpg?itok=zEU0WXac" title="PLC Performing Arts Centre. Image courtesy Root Projects Australia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>PLC Performing Arts Centre. Image courtesy Root Projects Australia</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Location: Burwood</li>
	<li>Builder: Kane Constructions</li>
	<li>Client: Presbyterian Ladies College</li>
	<li>Architects: Cox Architecture</li>
	<li>Development team members: Wood &amp; Grieve, Wilde &amp; Woolard and Root Projects Australia</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
The project brings together the key education functions at PLC in a performance environment. Within a gross floor area of 6,500 square metres it includes: a 550 seat auditorium tailored to the specific needs of the school’s noted music program; the music school including two major performance studios and 12 rehearsal studios; a ‘black box’ studio for both drama classes and performances.
<cite>Root Projects Australia</cite>
</blockquote>

PLC's Performing Arts Centre is expected to be completed during mid 2017.

<h2>The Commons</h2>

<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/ma-edu-st_michaels_the_commons_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Commons is well into construction. Image courtesy Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="309" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ma-edu-st_michaels_the_commons_01.jpg?itok=dCl7XhQP" title="The Commons is well into construction. Image courtesy Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Commons is well into construction. Image courtesy Architectus</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Location: St Kilda</li>
	<li>Builder: Contract Control</li>
	<li>Value: $15.4 million</li>
	<li>Client: St Michael’s Grammar School</li>
	<li>Architects: Architectus</li>
	<li>Development team members: Gallagher Jeffs</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Rising over three levels the Commons includes spaces for Knowledge, Science, Food Technology and School Café within an urban context of adjacent apartments, townhouses and individual residences amid a busy road. The street facade is composed as a working green wall that enables a new type of interaction with landscape for students in a site that yearns for green space as well as promoting a ‘learn from life’ approach to Science.
<cite>Architectus</cite>
</blockquote>

Contract Control are well advanced in delivering The Commons which is scheduled to be completed at the turn of 2016. This follows on from Contract Control's recently completed project <a href="http://www.architectus.com.au/en/projects/mandeville-centre-loreto-mandeville-hall">The Mandeville Centre</a> which also featured Architectus as project design lead. Completed on behalf of Loreto Mandeville Hall, the education facility carried a development value of $12 million.
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Five noteworthy education projects flying under the radar

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Initially dubbed the La Trobe Melbourne Building Project, the now Sylvia Walton Building at La Trobe University's Bundoora campus stands as a beacon for eclectic design and cutting edge student facilities. Having been completed early in the year, the complex is named after former Chancellor of La Trobe University, Dr Sylvia Walton AO.

Construction commenced during 2012 and upon completion the facility opened its doors during April, providing a hub for prospective international and domestic students to expedite their tertiary studies. According to La Trobe University "The exciting new 7,500 square metre building has been designed by Lyons Architects and includes a range of teaching, collaborative, administrative and office spaces which will house both La Trobe Melbourne and also La Trobe International."

<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_4626.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sylvia Walton Building"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/IMG_4626.jpg?itok=OTDtFJBb" title="Sylvia Walton Building" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sylvia Walton Building</figcaption></figure><h2>Project highlights</h2>

<ul>
<li>6 levels with 7,500 sq.m of available space</li>
	<li>Project budget of $45 million, internally funded and completed under budget</li>
	<li>Teaching, collaborative, break out spaces, administrative and office space included</li>
	<li>Non-potable water drawn from adjoining moat, roof-harvesting system included</li>
	<li>Targeted 5 Star Green Star rating</li>
</ul>
<h2>Lyons to a T</h2>

The design is quintessential Lyons; edgy, challenging, uncomfortable and altogether unusual! The architecture firm employed 200 precast panels to constitute an almost herringbone facade pattern, punctuated by large, irregularly shaped ans sized glazed voids.

Avoiding a darker palette typical of many contemporary Melbourne edifices, Sylvia Walton Building's light precast facade is accentuated by Sandune, Wattle, Terracotta and Cinnamon aluminium trim. Whilst discerning itself with an 'outrageous' facade relative to its dated neighbouring buildings, the use of similar colours still provides a sympathetic interface of sorts with the existing cream brick Education and Humanities wings. This is further aided by a new landscaped area tying Sylvia Walton Building in with its neighbours.

<blockquote>
The firm designs projects which are responsive to and expressive of a contemporary experience of local and global culture - a world of ideas, new media, technologies and rapidly changing urbanism. Lyons work is committed to and interested in the history and culture of ideas and how ideas can be used to create meaningful contemporary architecture.
<cite><a href="http://www.lyonsarch.com.au/what-we-do/">Lyons: What We Do</a></cite>
</blockquote>

Take from that what you will but I for one believe Lyons have indeed created meaningful contemporary architecture via the Sylvia Walton Building.

<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/SetWidth780-130725_lims_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The La Trobe University Institute for Molecular Science at dusk. Images © Lyons"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="595" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/SetWidth780-130725_lims_14.jpg?itok=5EABiiU2" title="The La Trobe University Institute for Molecular Science at dusk. Images © Lyons" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The La Trobe University Institute for Molecular Science at dusk. Images © Lyons</figcaption></figure><h2>The La Trobe - Lyons collaboration</h2>

Not for the first time I mention the Lyons legacy; the firm has produced a rich vein of unique and intriguing projects in recent years that command attention. Sylvia Walton Building is not the only example of Lyons work at La Trobe University's Bundoora campus.

Completed late summer, the La Trobe University Institute for Molecular Science complex seen above is another stand out Lyons creation. Disciplines such as biochemistry, chemistry and genetics collaborate with one another and guide students within the six level complex that concerns itself with three areas - research, teaching and learning.

Both are highly impressive seen in the flesh, but for now enjoy the set of images below highlighting La Trobe University's newest addition, Sylvia Walton Building.

<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Briefing Architect: Spowers</li>
	<li>Quantity Surveyor: WT Partnership</li>
	<li>Architect: Lyons</li>
	<li>Service &amp; ESD: Norman Disney Young</li>
	<li>Structural &amp; Civil: Bonacci</li>
	<li>Landscaping: Outlines</li>
	<li>Hydraulics: C.J. Arms</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: PLP Building Surveyors &amp; Consultants</li>
	<li>Acoustics: AECOM</li>
	<li>Contractor: Kane Constructions</li>
</ul>
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