With Brisbane’s housing market soaring and home ownership becoming increasingly out of reach for many buyers, townhouses have emerged as the new urban dream, offering private, low-maintenance retreats complete with pools, parklands, and lifestyle amenities.

As Brisbane faces a growing shortage of quality new residential offerings, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/honeycombes-property-group">Honeycombes Property Group</a> has released to the market Songbird Terraces, a boutique development of just 34 terrace homes in the heart of the leafy residential enclave of Oxley.

Offering a more affordable option to the white picket fence house, buyers can purchase a brand new architecturally designed three bedroom terrace home overlooking park and bushland with a communal heated pool, BBQ terrace, private parklands and an on-site café, while being just minutes from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/oxley-qld-4075">Oxley</a>’s village centre, train station, and a range of schools and amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149443 project_image_fid=5241]

Each of the spacious three bedroom plus multi purpose room or four bedroom townhomes feature premium finishes, landscaped courtyards, designer kitchens, two-car accommodation, and optional upgrades for tailored living.

Honeycombes Property Group Managing Director Peter Honeycombe said with completion anticipated in early 2027, this was an incredibly rare chance to buy a fixed-price, brand-new, off the plan home in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held and liveable suburbs, without the stress of auctions and chaotic open homes.

“With prices starting from $1.195 million, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/songbird-terraces-oxley-10-honeyeater-circuit-oxley-qld-4075">Songbird Terraces</a> are designed for owner occupiers seeking space, style and lifestyle, without the maintenance,” Honeycombe said.

“Surrounded by natural bushland and close to manicured parks, walking trails, boutique shops, cafes, cinemas and golf courses, Oxley continues to stand out as one of Brisbane’s most liveable suburbs.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149443 project_image_fid=355541]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> Residential Director Andrew Scriven said with a limited number of homes available, Songbird Terraces was attracting strong interest from families, upsizers, first home buyers and downsizers looking for quality, location and long-term value.&nbsp;

“Demand is high, supply is low, and the market is crying out for high-quality homes in established well connected areas like Oxley,” Scriven said.

“What was once seen as a compromise between a house and an apartment a townhouse has now become a lifestyle choice, more and more homebuyers are shifting their focus from traditional detached houses to modern, low-maintenance townhouses that offer greater value and convenience.

“As the city’s population grows and urban sprawl becomes less sustainable, Brisbane’s townhouse market is set to expand even further.&nbsp;

“There’s definitely a panic from buyers who’ve been pushed out of the house market but still want to stay in well-connected suburbs with great schools and amenities, they are worried they will miss out as property prices continually rise.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149443 project_image_fid=5238]

After eight years of calling Australia home, Agnes Skoraczewska and Matt Biskupski decided it was finally time to take the next step and purchase a home of their own. With property prices continuing to climb, the couple didn’t want to wait any longer and secured a three-bedroom plus multi purpose room townhouse at Songbird Terraces, locking in a fixed price ahead of their move in 2027.

“The truth is, we didn’t want to wait any longer,” Biskupski said. “Seeing what was happening in the market, we realised now was the right time to buy. It gives us peace of mind knowing we no longer have to worry about renting.”

When they discovered Songbird Terraces, the decision came easily.

“The area is lovely and quiet, yet still so close to the city, it’s the perfect balance for work and life,” Skoraczewska said. “It’s a place where we can recharge our batteries while staying connected to everything we need.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149443 project_image_fid=5237]

For Agnes and Matt, buying off the plan offered the ideal solution, the confidence of securing their dream home at today’s prices, and the excitement of planning for the future in a community that perfectly fits their lifestyle.

As the final residential precinct within the Songbird Oxley master plan, Songbird Terraces will continue to breathe new life into the area and help create a suburb destination rich in lifestyle amenity.

Colliers Residential Director Lily O'Connell said Songbird is positioned to take full advantage of elevated north and east-facing parkland views, the homes feature low-maintenance design and high energy efficiency to reduce ongoing costs while enhancing everyday comfort.

“And with an array of layouts, catering to a diverse range of lifestyles this is an offering for all,” O'Connell said.

“This is the final release in a masterplanned community that’s become one of Oxley’s most desirable addresses, offering a last chance to enter this community where opportunities are few and far between.”

The homes will be delivered by Clearcon Builders, specialists in premium townhome construction. They will commence construction before Christmas, and is aiming to complete the development in early 2027.

<h2>Songbird Terraces Snapshot</h2>

<ul>
	<li>34 architecturally designed 3 bedroom + multi-purpose room terrace homes.</li>
	<li>An array of layouts, catering to a diverse range of lifestyles.</li>
	<li>Perfectly positioned to take advantage of north and east views over park and bushland.</li>
	<li>A multi-purpose room, which can serve as a second living area, teen retreat, study or fourth bedroom.</li>
	<li>Designer kitchens featuring high quality engineered stone benchtops and European appliances.</li>
	<li>Spacious outdoor living areas and landscaped courtyards perfect for alfresco dining.</li>
	<li>Generous internal and external spaces, designed to take advantage of views overlooking park and bushland.</li>
	<li>Low maintenance, energy efficient &amp; two car accommodation.</li>
	<li>Access to a heated resort-style pool, outdoor entertaining terrace and beautifully landscaped gardens and park.</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149443]

Songbird Terraces offer 34 architect-designed townhomes in private enclave, surrounded by bushland, parks and resort style amenity

Joel Robinson

Townhouse living, Brisbane’s new affordable urban dream?

Kirra Beach has been hot property since the onset of the pandemic in early 2021.

Development sites were snapped up, projects sold out, and many of those developments are now beginning to be handed over to purchasers.

The latest entrant to Kirra, timing its arrival perfectly with little to no new off the plan apartment stock currently on the market in the area, is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pyco-group">Pyco Group</a>, which is expanding its South East Queensland footprint through projects such as Atelier in West End and Nouveau in Albion, both currently under construction and scheduled for completion next year.

They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/onde-kirra-10-churchill-street-kirra-beach-qld-4225">Ondé Kirra</a>, quietly set on Miles Street just a stone’s throw from the sand and the world-renowned surf break at Rainbow Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143621 project_image_fid=337600]

The current release focuses on a wide variety of three-bedroom configurations, from layouts starting at $1.89 million and offering nearly 130 sqm of space, to larger three-bed options approaching 160 sqm and oriented north-east to capture views over the ocean and the length of the Gold Coast skyline.

Each apartment follows a layout that prioritises light, airflow, and connection to the outdoors. Interiors are shaped by a warm, coastal-inspired palette that balances soft neutral tones with natural timbers. Kitchens feature premium finishes and flow directly into dining and living zones, framed by full-height glazing. Many apartments offer wraparound views and corner orientations to maximise natural light from multiple angles.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143621 project_image_fid=337613]

There are just 90 apartments in the 14-storey building designed by DAH Architecture.

Beyond the apartments, Ondé’s offering is rounded out by a series of resident-only amenities designed for comfort and practicality. These include a fitness studio, outdoor pool, co-working pods, and lush communal spaces on the ground floor.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143621 project_image_fid=337597]

Rawcorp kicked off construction on site just over three months ago, demolishing the two houses and two original walk-up unit blocks.

The award-winning construction firm is expecting to complete Ondé&nbsp;in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143621]

Staff Writer

Ondé Kirra times entry to booming southern Gold Coast market as apartment options shrink

The Wentworth Park Sporting Complex and its immediate surrounds will make way for new housing and sporting facilities, the latest rezoning play by the Minns Labor Government to meet Sydney's housing supply crisis.

The 3.3-hectare Wentworth Park Sporting Complex will be&nbsp;converted into community sporting fields and public green space, allowing for the rezoning of the surrounding area to support up to 2,500 additional well-located homes.

These are in addition to the 4,800 homes already planned or approved nearby, including around 2,000 homes on the old Sydney Fish Market and neighbouring sites, bringing the precinct total to as many as 7,300 new homes.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/mirvac-to-develop-over-1-400-new-homes-on-former-sydney-fish-market-site">Mirvac to develop over 1,400 new homes on former Sydney Fish Market site</a>

In addition to the new housing and sporting facilities, the Wentworth Park precinct will be immediately adjacent to transport links including a new ferry stop at Sydney Fish Markets, an upgraded light rail station at Wentworth Park, a continuous 15-kilometre coastal boardwalk from the Blackwattle Bay to Woolloomooloo, and the Pyrmont Metro station, which is set to open in 2032.

When the current greyhound lease expires in September 2027, the existing facilities will be demolished and the land transferred to the City of Sydney to be converted into community sports fields. Current estimates suggest around 20 additional sport fields are required in the city area by 2031 in order to meet the needs of the sporting community.

The new 14-hectare park will also be made available for hosting festivals and community events as a condition of the transfer to ensure the new harbourside parklands can be utilised by the whole community.

“We recognise Wentworth Park holds deep history and meaning for many people, and we know some will be disappointed by this change," NSW Premier Chris Minns said, adding however that "cities change, and we&nbsp;have a responsibility to plan for the future.

“Right in the middle of Sydney and connected by rail, light rail, ferries and the future Metro, our plan for the future of Wentworth Park will deliver much-needed new housing while also providing up to 20 new community sporting fields.

“This is more homes, more playing fields and better public spaces, alongside the infrastructure that makes neighbourhoods work. This is homes and community facilities delivered together, not one without the other.”

“This is how we build a fairer and more balanced Sydney. By creating new housing in well-serviced areas, instead of pushing growth to places without the transport and infrastructure to support it.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said&nbsp;Wentworth Park has a long and proud history.

"Today we’re securing its future for the next generation," Scully said.

"This plan keeps land in the public hands and delivers new homes, new sporting facilities and new open space for a community that is growing fast. Our city is changing, and we have a responsibility to make sure people can live near the jobs, education and transport they rely on. We’ll continue working closely with the City of Sydney to deliver this rezoning in a timely way, and we’re ready to step in with a State-led rezoning if it’s needed."

Minns Gov to demolish Wentworth Park Sporting Complex to make way for 2,500 new homes and sporting facilities

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a> has been reshaped over the past few years by an influx of migration.

What's now becoming more apparent, as new apartment developments beyond the beachfront start to take shape, is how new residents of Palm Beach will spend their days.

Take <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/villea-palm-beach-26-mawarra-street-palm-beach-qld-4221">Villea</a>, the debut Gold Coast apartment development by the now-national luxury apartment developer Abadeen. Abadeen has been delivering high-end apartments across Sydney's North Shore region for over two decades, and recently expanded into Melbourne where they are focusing on the same model that has served them so well over the last 23 years.

The developer is approaching completion of Villa,&nbsp;69 apartments on Mawarra Street. It sits&nbsp;400 metres from the northern stretch of Palm Beach, where mornings often begin before the suburb fully wakes. From upper levels, the sunrise casts across Burleigh Headland through to Snapper Rocks, a reminder of Palm Beach’s coastal orientation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=336452]

For some, the start of the day may simply be coffee on the balcony; for others, a walk to the shoreline becomes the morning reset.

By mid-morning, attention shifts to everyday convenience. Abadeen is curating a ground-floor retail offering unrivalled in the local development space. It will host café options and small-format retail at street level. This complements the wider Palm Beach strip, where Canvas Café, 600 metres north, remains a local favourite for breakfast or lunch.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=336445]

For households with school-aged children, Palm Beach State School is within a short walk, around 300 to 400 metres away, reinforcing the precinct’s appeal for families seeking proximity to daily essentials.

The suburb’s parks and waterways anchor the afternoon's activities. Tallebudgera Creek sits a 10-minute walk away, offering calm swimming spots and shaded pockets along the water’s edge. Small local parks and Melaleuca Dog Park provide low-key outdoor options, while Mallawa Sports Complex adds structured recreation with its fields and courts. These amenities capture the quieter side of Palm Beach, distinct from its busier beachfront corridor, but still central to why the suburb has become one of the Gold Coast’s most in-demand apartment locations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=336450]

Late afternoons bring the focus back to the building. As construction progresses, Emicon’s team is completing interiors where light-filled layouts, timber flooring, and full-height glazing form the backbone of the apartments’ internal experience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a resort-style pool, gym, and outdoor entertaining spaces, amenities designed for practical daily use rather than spectacle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=336442]

Evenings wind down inside the residences, where kitchens feature stone benchtops and European appliances. The outlook shifts from ocean light to the hinterland’s slower fade, closing the loop on the day.

Residents will move into Villea in early 2026, with construction firm Emicon putting the final touches to the new address.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=106840]

Life at Villea: Morning to evening at Palm Beach's newest address

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ellipse-property-group">Ellipse Property</a> is giving prospective buyers a sneak peak at the second stage of its $850 million Castle Hill masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/carrington-place-castle-hill-36-carrington-road-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Carrington Place</a>.

They aren't officially launching sales of the second stage, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lily-lane-castle-hill-32-carrington-road-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Lily Lane</a>, until February, but they are opening expressions of interests for the first 99 apartments of the release.

The one-bed units will start from $720,000, the two's from $960,000, and the three-bedroom apartments from $1.35 million. There will be just two exclusive penthouses within Lily Lane, priced from just under $3 million.

There will be just over 200 new apartments across two 12-storey buildings in Lily Lane, as well as new retail. Ellipse is expecting the stage to attract families, downsizers, and first home buyers.

&nbsp;

Lily Lane apartments, designed by PTW Architects, feature generous floorplans and clever storage with optional study and multi-purpose rooms. The Hills Showground Metro Station is just a two-minute walk away, offering fast connectivity to Sydney’s CBD, North Sydney, Chatswood, Macquarie Park and Norwest Business Park.

According to Blake Schulze, National Director – Residential at Colliers, the strong sales momentum seen in Atrium highlights the appetite for premium, oversized apartments with seamless access to transport and amenities.

“Demand for over-sized apartments in the Hills District remains exceptionally strong, and this has been reflected in Atrium’s sales to date," Schulze said.

"We’ve seen particularly high interest from families seeking spacious layouts, strong transport connections and easy access to everyday amenities. It highlights the project’s broad appeal from young professionals to downsizers, all seeking space, design quality and convenience - with some even securing two apartments within the project.”

&nbsp;

According to Nigel Farquhar, Head of Development at Ellipse Property, this new stage has been conceived as the welcoming ‘gateway’ to the broader Carrington Place precinct.&nbsp;

“Each stage of Carrington Place has been curated to create a vibrant and cohesive urban village," Farquhar said.

"Stage Two continues this vision, combining landscape-led design with striking architecture and new retail. This next release will activate the precinct and create an elevated lifestyle for residents."

Carrington Place is currently being constructed by award-winning iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/decode">Decode Group</a>. It will deliver more than 800 new homes across five stages, with the entire masterplan to complete in 2032.

The project is also integrated with the surrounding bushland and will feature over 20,000 square metres of outdoor recreational area, including a scenic one-kilometre boardwalk to the nearby Fred Caterson Reserve.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=89496]

EOIs commencing early with stage one 85 per cent sold

Ellipse unveils preview of Lily Lane, Carrington Place second stage

Lyons Architecture

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Victoria Parade's vista is due to change dramatically as the Australian Catholic University (ACU) readies for a major expansion of its Fitzroy campus.

115B Victoria Parade has reached construction tender, drawing the sizeable development closer to reality. With a construction value well in excess of $100 million, the build will invariably draw the attention of Melbourne biggest builders.

ACU's expansion intentions <a href="/news/acu-lays-out-its-future-growth-plans">were first flagged</a> on Apartments.com.au during 2016 when a comprehensive development plan was put before Yarra City Council, with architecture firm Lyons heading design duties. 115B Victoria Street, which also fronts Napier and Young Streets, encompasses the first stage of a wider campus development, and with the first phase highlighting a new multi-level building which will replace a current at-grade car park.

The new Lyons-designed building will be known as the Mother Teresa 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/image50_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level activation. 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/image50_2.jpg?itok=ZXRaECZ5" title="Ground level activation. Image: Lyons" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level activation. Image: Lyons</figcaption></figure>The Mother Teresa Building will arc over the existing campus building at 28-42 Young Street, providing it with three additional levels. It's expected that the new build will add approximately 25,000sqm of space to Australian Catholic University's campus.

The building will underpin Australian Catholic University's planned growth in student and teacher numbers, as well as increased research activities. By 2020 it's expected that 10,700 equivalent full-time students will be on campus.

An extensive 7 level, 12,700 square metre basement will accommodate parking for 244 vehicles, with below and above ground provisions for 100 bicycles.

The building contains approximately 18,400 square metres of space above ground, dedicated to an array of uses. Additionally, 3,000 square metres of landscaping is located across multiple levels of the development.

<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/image51_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Differing angles of the expanded campus. Image: Lyons"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="279" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image51_8.jpg?itok=oSnuf0ph" title="Differing angles of the expanded campus. Image: Lyons" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Differing angles of the expanded campus. Image: Lyons</figcaption></figure>ACU's pending move to build at 115B Victoria Parade will be the tallest of three separate projects effectively side by side. Immediately west of the new Mother Teresa Building, St Vincent's Hospital will also look to expand the existing multi-level car park at 93-99 Victoria Parade.

The colourful building is expected to see three new levels of parking for 185 additional cars atop the existing structure.

St Vincent's Hospital also holds approval for an 11-storey expansion of their current facility. In the corner of Victoria Parade and Brunswick Street, the new Billard Leece Partnership-designed building was slated to reach 43 metres in height.

Both the Mother Teresa Building and St Vincent's Hospital's new build would defer to a prospective development at 151-159 Victoria Parade for both bulk and height. Apartments.com.au was <a href="/news/yarra-receives-a-commercial-boost-including-plans-for-fitzroys-tallest-office-building">first to highlight</a> Angelo Property Group's plans for a 16 level commercial tower for the site.

Should all the above projects come to fruition, this particular stretch of Victoria Parade will boast multiple examples of high-quality contemporary architecture.

<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/image228_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A dated Billard Lecce Partnership render of the St Vincent's Hospital expansion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image228_0_0.jpg?itok=JBBb0RJL" title="A dated Billard Lecce Partnership render of the St Vincent's Hospital expansion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A dated Billard Lecce Partnership render of the St Vincent's Hospital expansion</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

ACU's new Lyons-designed campus goes to construction tender

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This month's announcement that University of Queensland's Sustainable Futures Building is drawing closer to reality has given cause to touch upon architecture firm Lyons' stellar design legacy across multiple Australian cities.

Lyons in association with m3architecture won the design competition for the development during late 2015, but the project has only this month received a major boost with alumni Andrew N. Liveris <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au/news/article/2018/04/historic-gift-andrew-and-paula-liveris">pledging $13.5 million</a> to take the project from design to reality. The intended 11-storey engineering, education and research hub will now be known as the Liveris Academy.

At University of Queensland's St Lucia campus, Liveris Academy is yet another project which showcases Lyons' uncommon design traits. 

<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/image20_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="University of Queensland's newest addition. Image: Lyons"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="367" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_12.jpg?itok=hFd1oZSf" title="University of Queensland's newest addition. Image: Lyons" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>University of Queensland's newest addition. Image: Lyons</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Having won a Design Competition in late 2015, Lyons and m3architecture have now commenced Schematic Design and Design Development work on the new Sustainable Futures Building, a major investment by the University of Queensland for their School of Chemical Engineering and new campus learning spaces.

The project will be UQ’s flagship platform to integrate innovative teaching with interdisciplinary and solutions focused research by incorporating a range of collaborative spaces with overlapping boundaries between learning, research and industry.

The new spaces will act as a vibrant hub for industry and interdisciplinary collaboration that will address global challenges such as energy, water and sustainable manufacturing.
<cite>Lyons</cite>
</blockquote>

Expected to be built by 2020, Liveris Academy's multicoloured facade and sandstone base are distinctive design features. Protruding design elements are very much in keeping with Lyons' design style, as evidenced by existing projects such as Melbourne's <a href="http://www.lyonsarch.com.au/la-trobe-university-institute-for-molecular-science-2/">LIMS Building</a> and Newcastle University's <a href="http://www.lyonsarch.com.au/new-space-the-university-of-newcastle/">New Space</a> project.

In terms of Liveris Academy, an open aired staircase provides the form-breaking design aspect; it along with common spaces add to the design's standpoint of being ‘outwardly open and transparent, while inwardly intense and focused’.

Liveris Academy is but one of many Lyons projects across the nation that are readily recognisable. In shape, style and especially colour, Lyons designs are exceedingly unique. This is particularly the case with their education and research-based designs, of which a sample are shown below.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image67_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lyons' not so uniform approach to design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1500" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image67_4.jpg?itok=t58HY5GO" title="Lyons' not so uniform approach to design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lyons' not so uniform approach to design</figcaption></figure>Next on Lyons' agenda is the position of design lead for University of Melbourne’s forthcoming New Student Precinct project. During March <a href="/news/design-team-for-university-of-melbournes-student-precinct-announced">it was announced</a> that University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus will play host to nine refurbished or redeveloped buildings which will amalgamate a range of services and university bodies.

The $229 million project will see Lyons head an expanded design team which includes United States-based Koning Eizenberg Architects, Aspect Studios, Breathe Architecture, NMBW Architecture Studio, Greenaway Architects, Glas Urban and Architects EAT.

<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/uom-aerial-dusk.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lyons' depiction of University of Melbourne’s new $229m student precinct"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/uom-aerial-dusk.jpg?itok=kMZmQzN6" title="Lyons' depiction of University of Melbourne’s new $229m student precinct" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lyons' depiction of University of Melbourne’s new $229m student precinct</figcaption></figure>
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Lyons expand their design legacy as Brisbane's Liveris Academy draws closer to reality

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The University of Melbourne has announced the appointment of the team of architects and designers for its $229 million New Student Precinct on the Parkville Campus.

Led by Lyons Architecture, the successful team was chosen from a shortlist of five design groups.

The New Student Precinct will be located on the corner of Grattan and Swanston Streets, and is bound by Monash Road to the north, and the Melbourne School of Engineering Precinct to the west.

Locating the centre adjacent to the University’s traditional college accommodation to the north and new purpose-built student accommodation to the south will ensure it provides a successful platform for the University’s 60,000 students to easily connect.

Additionally, the project will neighbour the University’s innovation precinct - the Carlton Connect Initiative being designed by Hayball and Woods Bagot and to be delivered by Lendlease.

<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/image32_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The New Student Precinct joins the Carlton Connect Initiative as Campus transforming projects. Image : Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="398" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image32_14.jpg?itok=3rN6H54e" title="The New Student Precinct joins the Carlton Connect Initiative as Campus transforming projects. Image : Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The New Student Precinct adjoins the Carlton Connect Initiative. Image : Hayball</figcaption></figure>The New Student Precinct is being co-created, with over 5,500 students partnering with the project as active contributors and decision-makers. The project aims to deliver a new series of student spaces that will include a diverse range of social spaces, mixed-use retail, food and beverage outlets, and increased contemporary study spaces for the whole campus community.

Encompassing nine buildings, the Precinct will bring together the University’s student unions, academic services, and the Institute for Indigenous Development, Murrup Barak for the first time; significantly reshaping and revitalising the landscape and built environment of the site. 

Much of the development will be through the adaptive re-use of existing buildings, including extensive refurbishments and façade treatments.

The New Student Precinct intends to "make a significant contribution to the transformation of the on-campus student experience at Parkville by delivering a world-class student hub for the whole campus community."

Design lead Lyons Architecture will collaborate with a team of specialists and fellow designers to create the Precinct, including Koning Eizenberg Architects from the USA (led by alumni Julie Eizenberg and Hank Koning). Aspect Studios, Breathe Architecture, NMBW Architecture Studio, Greenaway Architects, Glas Urban and Architects EAT are also present.

The design team has been tasked with creating a vibrant centre of activity that will co-locate student services and activities closer to the new heart of the campus, and to primary transport links.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
The selection process fostered and supported submissions from some of the most speculative and innovative design and spatial practitioners in Australia and overseas. The finalists each provided a unique vision for how the University of Melbourne embraces the changing role and experience of education, research and community engagement.  The winning team fulfils the ambitious goals of the New Student Precinct process to produce a lasting legacy in the new centre for the campus.

- Professor Donald Bates, Melbourne School of Design Chair of Architectural Design and member of the selection panel
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Our design team, who are all university alumni, are looking forward to working closely with students so that the design positively reflects their aspirations for a campus experience.

- Carey Lyon, Founding Director, Lyons 
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The Precinct, which will be co-created with students, will transform the cultural, social and engagement opportunities for students and set a new benchmark.

- Paul Duldig, New Student Precinct Project Sponsor and Head of University Services  
</blockquote>

Works commenced on site in January 2018 with a completion scheduled for 2021–2022.

An exhibition of the architectural Concept and Design Responses from the five shortlisted architect teams is currently on display in the Basement Foyer of the Melbourne School of Design until Friday 23 March.

The teams will also make a presentation on Friday 16 March as part of Melbourne Design Week.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/231031907" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="100%"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://vimeo.com/231031907">New Student Precinct at the University of Melbourne</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/user70233184">New Student Precinct - Uni Melb</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.
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Laurence Dragomir

Design team for University of Melbourne's Student Precinct announced

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Melbourne University and Australian Catholic University are expected to host two new buildings that will further enhance their respective academic capabilities. With both projects at planning assessment, either build is still some time from fruition.

In Carlton, The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne is planning to expand their services provided by way of a new building accommodating 136 studio apartments. Gladstone Terraces which fronts University Square at 197-235 Bouverie Street will be retained as part of the development, and remain largely in tact.

Three floors to the rear of the site will host a new cafe, administration and membership/function spaces, with the remaining floors dedicated to residential apartments. The height of the project is 37.6 metres, with a gym, laundry and 33 car parks found within a five level basement.

<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/image4_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="University Square perspective of the proposed building. Planning image: MGS"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="347" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_12.jpg?itok=ewxgkkFe" title="University Square perspective of the proposed building. Planning image: MGS" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>University Square perspective of the proposed building. Planning image: MGS</figcaption></figure>Purchasing the site during 1957, the Graduate Union have near on 60 years later chosen MGS Architects to lead the regeneration project. 

Carrying a development cost of $20 million, The Graduate Union hopes that 197-235 Bouverie Street will in due course be able to better service the expanding accommodation needs for postgraduate, alumni and visiting academics. 197-235 Bouverie Street is unique in that it becomes the first project in recent years to service this very niche requirement.

In nearby Fitzroy, Australian Catholic University is pursuing a sizeable redevelopment of its St Patrick's campus. Located at 115 Victoria Parade and 28-42 Young Street, the project's centrepiece is a planned tower at 59.45 metres in height.

Lyons Architecture have been installed as design lead, with the enhanced Development Plan set to guide future planning permit applications onsite.

<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/image1_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lyons have created a new Victoria Parade showpiece. Planning image: ACU"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="262" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_6.jpg?itok=uVcqgFMv" title="Lyons have created a new Victoria Parade showpiece. Planning image: ACU" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lyons have created a new Victoria Parade showpiece. Planning image: ACU</figcaption></figure>The tower's likely internal layout is set to include teaching and learning spaces, office accommodation and a student hub set above 7 levels of basement car parking. 

Currently an at-grade car park, 115 Victoria Parade will arc over the existing campus building at 28-42 Young Street, providing it with three additional levels. It's expected that the new build will add approximately 25,000sqm of space to Australian Catholic University's campus.

Described as a landmark mixed-use development within associated planning documents, the tower is a key plank in Australian Catholic University's planned growth in student and teacher numbers, as well as increased research activities. By 2020 it's expected that 10,700 equivalent full-time students will be on campus.
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Two tertiary institutions line up new build projects

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Another nod to the unique talents of Lyons Architecture opened its doors during the early stages of 2015. Monash University's Clayton campus is home to Green Chemical Futures, a multi-level complex dedicated toward academic and industrial research within the chemicals sector.

A culmination of a Federal Government initiative that began during 2000, Green Chemical Futures is the latest Lyons-designed building to challenge conventional design. With the main east-facing facade reminiscent of a molecular structure, Green Chemical Futures also caters for Monash University's School of Chemistry

Green Chemical Futures' lower levels contain teaching and learning spaces while the upper floors will house research and translational facilities. Still the exterior makes the building. In typical Lyons fashion a range of colours, shapes and finishes have been applied to create a world-class form, without needing to sacrifice function.

<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_6015.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Green Chemical Futures "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6015.jpg?itok=oo2YOrUT" title="Green Chemical Futures " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Green Chemical Futures</figcaption></figure><h2>Features and capabilities</h2>

<ul>
<li>9500 square metre multi-level, 5 star green rated building</li>
	<li>Budget: $79.56 million - funded by the Federal Government</li>
	<li>Location: North West Precinct at Monash University's Clayton Campus</li>
	<li>In excess of 100 chemists and engineers will work within the complex</li>
	<li>17 specialist sectors, training programmes for industry practitioners and new laboratory spaces</li>
	<li>New laboratory spaces available for over 1000 students and 100 industry partners</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
GCF will support the academic and industrial research within the chemicals sector in Australia and will provide world-class research to expand Australia's 'green workforce'.

Green Chemical Futures will house over 100 chemists and engineers and allow the growth of basic science research to targeted industry-driven research. It will have 17 specialist sectors, training programmes for industry practitioners and new laboratory spaces available for over 1000 students and 100 industry partners.

The lower levels of the building will contain teaching and learning spaces and the upper floors will house research and translational facilities, with double-height foyer and voids spaces linking the levels and collaboration spaces throughout.
<cite>Monash University</cite>
</blockquote>

Capabilities include:

<ul>
<li>Green analytical/separation/polymer chemistry</li>
	<li>Cleaner synthesis - organic, inorganic and organometallic</li>
	<li>Catalysis and bio-catalysis</li>
	<li>Green electro- and photo-chemistry</li>
	<li>Bioconversion - New materials from biomass</li>
	<li>Biomimetic devices</li>
	<li>Nanomaterials</li>
	<li>Professional education and training</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_6025.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="GCF's interior stair case"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6025.jpg?itok=B2CM8m0a" title="GCF's interior stair case" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>GCF's interior stair case</figcaption></figure>In addition to the main works which were undertaken by Lend Lease, Australian Native Landscape Constructions is in the process of rolling out landscaping and civil works for the project. The area surrounding Green Chemical Futures was designed by Outlines Landscape Architects and includes multiple lawn areas, in excess of 7,000sqm of paving, decking and 5,500sqm of soft landscaping.

The Green Chemical Futures buildings follows in the footsteps of another Lyons design close by, namely <a href="/news/a-lyons-masterclass">New Horizons</a> which was completed during 2013.

<h2>Next in line</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/image8_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Brimbank Community and Civic Centre. Image courtesy Lyons"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="317" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8_0.jpg?itok=cwnM7Qbx" title="Brimbank Community and Civic Centre. Image courtesy Lyons" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Brimbank Community and Civic Centre. Image courtesy Lyons</figcaption></figure>Melbourne won't have to wait long for the next Lyons project to take shape with their scheme for City of Brimbank's new Community and Civic Centre in its infancy. Kane Constructions are in charge of the project which will see a new 12,000sqm complex replace the former Sunshine Library site at Hampshire Road, Sunshine.

With a new library, community spaces and municipal offices included within the development, the exterior will carry a typically a-typical Lyons finish with orange/yellow highlight drawing upon the City of Brimbank logo and a sawtooth design harking upon the site's former use. Lyons were appointed to the project following an invited design competition.

<h2>Comment</h2>

The staff at Apartments.com.au have had the opportunity to meet and peruse many an architectural office in recent times and often enough the office/work environment is reflective of the firm in question. Whether it's austere, brash or minimalist, a parallel can often enough be drawn.

I haven't seen the internal workings of Lyons' office but I could guess it to be similar to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I'm an unabashed fan of their work as it hits a point on the design 'spectrum' that no other firm does.

The firm's educational, research and civic projects simply don't conform to sensibility, and that's what makes Lyons Architecture one of a kind… let's see some more!

Enjoy the image set of Monash University's Green Chemical Futures building below.
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Green Chemical Futures another Lyons marvel

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Works are about to commence on the Brimbank Community and Civic Centre, heralding another addition to architecture firm Lyons expanding civil and educational repertoire. Construction tenders are due for the complex, which is expected will deliver a first-class outcome for the local community.

<blockquote>
The design includes an exceptional new Sunshine Library set over the first two floors with a large double height reading room and areas for different user groups including children, teens, and adults.

A new customer service centre and a local history interpretive centre make up the ground floor footprint. The second floor also includes a learning centre and community rooms, the council chamber, and an exhibition space.
<cite><a href="http://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/DEVELOPMENT/Major_Council_Projects/Brimbank_Community_and_Civic_Centre">Brimbank City Council: Brimbank Community and Civic Centre</a></cite>
</blockquote>

The $52 million facility will also showcase a slice of Sunshine's history, with a heritage harvester machine relocated to the building and potentially suspended from the ceiling within the foyer. Lyons have also incorporated a saw tooth element to the facade, in recognition of the Sunshine Harvester Works which were prevalent onsite in times gone by.

When complete the Brimbank Community and Civic Centre is hoped to become a design beacon within the wider Sunshine town centre which is progressively undergoing renewal. Brimbank City Council hope the building will set a benchmark for the quality of future projects, while also facilitating additional development within the precinct which has provisions for 30m (10 level residential) buildings according to structure plans.

<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/artists_impression_of_north_east_perspective_of_brimbank_civic_and_community_centre.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artists impression of the complex. Image courtesy Brimbank City Council"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="460" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/artists_impression_of_north_east_perspective_of_brimbank_civic_and_community_centre.jpg?itok=bQcXagr6" title="Artists impression of the complex. Image courtesy Brimbank City Council" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artists impression of the complex. Image courtesy Brimbank City Council</figcaption></figure>The Brimbank Community and Civic Centre will join two existing municipal buildings designed by Lyons. Seen below, <a href="http://www.lyonsarch.com.au/hume-city-council-office-building/?b=1" target="_blank">Hume City Council's offices</a> were completed during 2007 and promptly won the National Australian Institute of Architects' Harry Seidler Award for Commercial Architecture in 2008.

More recently <a href="http://www.lyonsarch.com.au/dandenong-municipal-building/?b=1" target="_blank">The City of Greater Dandenong Municipal Building Project</a> was opened earlier in 2014. Similar to Brimbank's new domicile, the mixed-use Dandenong complex includes the city's new offices, a public library, community meeting rooms and Council Chambers. A landscaped civic square and retail shops round out the 13,000m² facility.

Many design elements are evident over all three buildings in a uniquely Lyons style, including the use of bold colours, embellished entry points and liberally applied external louvres. In a wider context Lyons have successfully delivered a swag of large municipal and tertiary projects in recent years; it seems that when a design statement is required in such a context, Lyons are the architecture firm of choice.

<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/image21lyons.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hume city Council. Images © Lyons"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21lyons.jpg?itok=zvP9nyve" title="Hume city Council. Images © Lyons" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hume City Council. Images © Lyons</figcaption></figure>The Brimbank Community and Civic Centre's construction program will see works begin next month, with the Sunshine Library and Customer Service Centre being temporarily relocated for the period of construction. All going to plan the new facility will be ready for occupancy mid-2016.
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Lyons add another civic project to their portfolio

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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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