<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/capital-corporation">Capital Corporation</a> has announced that its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lovedale-farm-1054-1184-wine-country-drive-lovedale-nsw-2325">Lovedale Farm</a> residential, resort and golf project has secured $24.6 million in sales in just three weeks since the opening of its display home, underscoring the appetite for premium lifestyle property in the Hunter Valley countryside.

The sales milestone has been driven by a diverse mix of buyers, including owner-occupiers and investors from Sydney, Newcastle and the local Hunter region, purchasing both land-only lots and house and land packages across the development.

<img alt="Lovedale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e173edc9-e60e-4f19-a060-9dc4421a3233" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/LovedaleFarm_20250215-1.jpg?VersionId=1LY6CvOaD.Dzrt8tWpWxXtPyfchixNIo" />

&nbsp;

The result builds on the momentum generated at the display home opening on 22 March, which attracted more than 460 attendees.

With house and land pricing from $1.14 million, Lovedale Farm continues to attract strong interest from buyers seeking a premium lifestyle offering at a compelling price point. The development’s vision, a championship golf course, future epicurean village and access to the Hunter Valley’s celebrated wine country, has resonated with a broad buyer profile, from first-time investors to those looking to make the move and call the Hunter Valley home.

<img alt="Lovedale Farm records $21.4 million in sales in three weeks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b358e789-e1eb-40ed-8105-ed5c8297136f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/20260321LovedaleFarmDisplayHomeOpening--6.jpg?VersionId=6GUO8TNnxuELONrsM6n9imDB6oc82Bor" />

Jim Hunter, Managing Director of Capital Corporation said the response since opening the display home has been encouraging.

"To reach $24.6 million in sales in just three weeks speaks to the genuine demand for a lifestyle community of this calibre in the Hunter Valley," Hunter says.

"We’re seeing buyers from across the region and beyond, including investors who recognise the long-term value, and owner-occupiers who simply want to live somewhere truly special.

“Lovedale Farm is two decades in the making, and the market’s response is everything we hoped for. We’re excited to see these first buyers become part of the Lovedale Farm story from the very beginning."

<img alt="Lovedale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="54d985cf-2ac2-400b-ac02-4401f3421ac7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/20260321LovedaleFarmDisplayHomeOpening--5.jpg?VersionId=3866bPoqpLZsm.3ACg9EafAr1W3miC_f" />

&nbsp;

Spanning 240 hectares on Wine Country Drive in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/lovedale-nsw-2325">Lovedale</a>, the $1 billion development is expected to deliver around 1,250 jobs during construction and inject more than $300 million into the local economy. The first 200 homes and championship 18-hole golf course are anticipated for completion in late 2027.

Capital Corporation has also lodged development plans for the Lovedale Farm clubhouse, set to become a vibrant hub for residents and the wider Hunter Valley community. Further releases are planned for later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=14476]

Joel Robinson

Lovedale Farm display home opening triggers $24.6 million in sales in three weeks

Prominent Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a> has unveiled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aura-at-melbourne-square-7-hoff-boulevard-southbank-vic-3006">Aura</a>, the next stage of its $3.5 billion Melbourne Square precinct in Southbank, continuing its push into wellness-led, amenity-rich apartment living.

The $800 million tower, planned for 7 Hoff Boulevard, will rise 67 storeys and deliver 673 apartments, with COX Architecture drawing on both Japanese design principles and Australia’s natural landscape to shape the building’s identity. A rectangular grid aesthetic defines the building’s exterior, with COX drawing design cues from New York high-rises and Tokyo’s skyline.

Aura builds on a growing trend in high-density living, where wellness is no longer an add-on but central to the product. The development is structured around four key pillars, combining calm, minimalist residences with layered communal spaces, landscaped gardens, and a suite of wellness amenities designed to support both physical and mental wellbeing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367465]

At the core of the project is what OSK describes as a vertical wellness ecosystem, a multi-level approach to amenity that integrates health, lifestyle, and social spaces throughout the building rather than confining them to a single level.

The main resident hub, the Aura Club on level seven, will include a pool, cold plunge, spa, gym, Pilates and yoga studios, alongside more lifestyle-driven inclusions like a golf simulator, music rooms, library, and work-from-home spaces. Above, a series of higher-level amenity zones, including the Meridian Club and Cumulus Club, introduce more refined, social and retreat-style environments, with private dining, lounges, and premium wellness spaces positioned to take advantage of city views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367467]

The residences themselves will largely include balconies, a key design move in a market increasingly focused on natural light, airflow, and connection to the outdoors. Views will extend across the CBD, the Arts Precinct, Royal Botanic Gardens, and beyond.

Aura also introduces approximately 1,600 sqm of retail across the lower levels, further activating the Melbourne Square precinct, which already includes Kennedy Park, a Woolworths, childcare, and a growing mix of hospitality operators.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367474]

“Aura stands tall as an exemplar of holistic wellness – its focus on social, physical and mental health culminate in a building that is calming, restorative and relaxing, where residents will have their own sanctuary within the well-connected and sought-after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>," says&nbsp;OSK Property CEO Chong Boon Woon.

“We have been very encouraged by the market’s response to the BLVD offering, and we know there is a strong demand for the level of amenity, service and design that the Melbourne Square precinct is known for.

“Complemented by work-from-home lounges for professionals, family friendly outdoor garden spaces, and state-of-the-art fitness and wellness facilities, Aura will continue our focus on maximising physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing,” he said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367475]

The project follows the strong performance of BLVD, which is now around 80 per cent sold, and reinforces OSK Property’s long-term commitment to Melbourne Square as a fully integrated, mixed-use precinct.

Construction is expected to commence in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151921]

OSK unveils AURA, the latest stage in Southbank's $3.5 billion Melbourne Square precinct

National developer Time &amp; Place appears to have settled on a design for its long-anticipated Potts Point project.

After several years of back and forth with local council and the NSW Government, the developer, which has spent seven years targeting the former The Chimes site on Macleay Street, has now progressed its plans.

Following a concept design submission last year by SJB, Time &amp; Place has lodged a full State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government, this time for a scheme designed by Kerry Hill Architects.

<img alt="Time &amp; Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="504d2a27-d65f-4227-8189-1e35e3376e62" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-20%20at%209.38.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_XqFKATYHF30KnVByPxhaI9UBzmkmfn7" />

The 16-storey proposal includes 44 apartments, 21 of which will be build-to-sell. These will comprise 19 three-bedroom apartments and two four-bedroom units.

More than 50 per cent of the development will be dedicated to affordable housing, with 23 studio apartments to be delivered in line with the NSW Government’s Housing SEPP.

Kerry Hill Architects said the proposal is driven by a strong response to place.

“Our proposal for a new residential building for Potts Point in Sydney is driven by a deep consideration of place,” the practice said in its submission.

“This operates on multiple levels, including a landscape approach that reinstates endemic flora of the Sydney peninsula and provides a ground-floor garden for residents, reconnecting the site to its pre-European history. A brick podium further strengthens this relationship to context, integrating planting and fine bronze detailing that references the predominant material language of Macleay Street.”

The three-level podium will be topped by a communal resident space, featuring a covered pool designed to receive direct afternoon sun in winter, a neighbouring reflection pool, dining and event areas oriented to maximise sunset views, and an outdoor exercise zone.

<img alt="Time &amp; Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d3eedc1-babb-44a3-bd96-d8a42f3adf1f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-20%20at%209.37.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Ii7.4dvqNatu5GQi6bhqNjAswrMB998." />

The design also incorporates highly crafted shopfronts and a clearly defined residential entry to activate the street. Juliette balconies to the podium residences will provide passive surveillance and a strong sense of habitation.

Above, the larger apartments are housed within a light-coloured masonry and bronze tower.

“The tower steps back in a series of gently curved volumes that reference the rich Art Deco context of Macleay Street,” the architects said. “Carefully calibrated vertical fins frame the views while providing privacy and a sense of refuge.”

<img alt="Time &amp; Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6fab60f4-3140-4469-b47a-48c781e0a30b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-20%20at%209.28.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=e5XxrM3kzdASdKlcIACHAHbOSZhSKC9O" />

Time &amp; Place has been one of the most active developers nationally in the last 12 to 24 months. Late last year they completed&nbsp;The Queensbridge in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>, a mixed-use tower with 353 apartments and a hotel. They are currently selling Park Modern, 246 apartments near the famous Botanic Gardens in South Melbourne.

The developer has approval for The Burke, a mixed-use project in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>&nbsp;being delivered in partnership with Woolworths. The 60 apartments, positioned above a new Woolworths supermarket, are expected to launch in the coming months. Time &amp; Place is also progressing plans for the redevelopment of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/northcote-vic-3070">Northcote</a>&nbsp;Plaza, and have recently submitted plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/time-place-unveils-plans-22-storey-south-melbourne-tower">22-storey tower</a>, another in South Melbourne.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/sydney-nsw">Sydney</a>, the developer has two projects in Manly: Two Tides, which is currently under construction, and an ultra high-end building on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/shoreline-manly-beach-89-90-north-steyne-manly">North Steyne</a>, fronting the beach. It is also continuing to work through the redevelopment of The Chimes building on Macleay Street in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/potts-point-nsw-2011">Potts Point</a>, as well as Marlborough House, the redevelopment of the original David Jones warehouse building in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/surry-hills-nsw-2010">Surry Hills</a>.

First look: Time & Place settles on design for The Chimes, Potts Point redevelopment

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/develotek">Develotek</a> is joining the likes of TOGA, Deicorp, and One Global Capital, betting on a boom in Five Dock ahead of the 2032 mooted opening of the Five Dock Metro Station.

Develotek, which is currently developing Bianca on the Drummoyne waterfront and has plans approved for a tower in Chatswood, has filed a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">two-building project in the evolving Kings Bay precinct</a>.

The buildings, one more boutique just five storeys and the other 26 storeys, will rise from an 3,158 sqm site across&nbsp;79–81 Queens Road and 2–8 Spencer Street, will home 134 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, above ground-floor retail and five basement levels of parking.

A key component of the proposal is the inclusion of 15 per cent of residential floor space as in-fill affordable housing, unlocking additional height and density under the Housing SEPP.

<img alt="First Look: Develotek lodges State Significant shop top housing project in Five Dock precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ee31bf7-75ba-4bc5-b190-49885193219f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium_2.png?VersionId=730UbrduuwK3C1sO28RHjiLPUPqXqjkh" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, the scheme adopts a podium-and-tower configuration, with a five-storey street wall along Queens Road transitioning to a 26-storey tower set deeper into the site. The ground plane prioritises activation and permeability, with retail frontages and a new through-site link connecting Queens Road to Spencer Street.

At the upper levels, the tower façade has been conceived using a modular system to support prefabrication and reduce construction waste, while improving build efficiency. The splayed form draws on the geometry of surrounding industrial rooftops, reinterpreting the area’s heritage in a contemporary expression while also helping to reduce solar heat gain to east and west-facing apartments.

“This project aspires to transform a former industrial site into a connected, resilient and people-focused urban community, grounded in Country, shaped by history, and designed to enrich everyday life within the evolving Kings Bay Precinct,” said John Walsh, Principal at Plus Studio.

The proposal reflects the broader transformation of the Kings Bay Precinct under the Parramatta Road Corridor Urban Transformation Strategy, marking a shift from its industrial past to a higher-density, mixed-use urban neighbourhood.

<img alt="First Look: Develotek lodges State Significant shop top housing project in Five Dock precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abde734c-1e31-4a97-a1d2-fa9bcf31c380" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/building%20podium.png?VersionId=fNUupP6u146yEytQT31kKVRxwtACgPpP" />

Develotek is emerging as an active participant in the state’s affordable housing-led uplift pathway. The developer recently secured approval for a 34-storey mixed-use tower in Chatswood, where it similarly leveraged the in-fill affordable housing provisions to increase scale and deliver a 101-unit scheme with dedicated affordable apartments.

Their entry into Five Dock places them alongside a growing list of developers targeting the suburb ahead of its anticipated transport uplift, with Sydney Metro set to extend into the area. Major players including TOGA, Deicorp, and One Global Capital are all progressing large-scale precinct-style developments nearby, collectively reshaping the low-rise industrial fabric into a higher-density mixed-use corridor.

The Five Dock site sits within the Kings Bay Precinct, a key renewal area under the Parramatta Road Corridor Urban Transformation Strategy, where planning controls support significant uplift tied to affordable housing delivery. The consolidated 3,158 sqm site is currently occupied by low-rise industrial uses, including warehouses and vehicle workshops, earmarked for transition.

First Look: Develotek joins in Five Dock apartment boom

Ascot’s Racecourse Road continues to be a hive of activity for Brisbane developers.

Following Fortis and GRAYA, which are both preparing new projects along the key strip connecting Kingsford Smith Drive and Eagle Farm Racecourse, local developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skyhold">Skyhold</a> is the latest to lodge plans for its own development.

The group is proposing One One Two Residences, a boutique project comprising just seven apartments, named after its address at 112 Racecourse Road.

The proposal outlines a five-storey building on an 810 sqm site. The built form slightly exceeds the four-storey expectation under the neighbourhood plan, aligning instead with the emerging character of the strip. As the planning report notes, “the locality is characterised by a transition toward medium-rise residential development, with a number of recent developments… above the stipulated height limits.”

<img alt="First Look: Skyhold lodges plans for boutique Ascot apartments as Racecourse Road revival gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec577631-8c51-4163-960e-e7b3a77d655b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Ascot.png?VersionId=iAzQ46D4Uu1UqiS0mVnlcy9jeFKBpJIj" />

Designed by 111 with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/paul-bangay-garden-design">Paul Bangay Studio</a>, the scheme adopts a layered architectural approach with strong articulation and a subtropical response. Deep balconies, integrated planters, and a mix of masonry and textured finishes define the façade, while upper-level setbacks reduce perceived bulk. The architectural statement describes “a series of horizontally expressed layers, defined by deep balconies and a consistent robust material palette,” aimed at delivering a refined streetscape presence.

Apartments are configured as large-format residences, including multiple three-bedroom layouts and a full-floor penthouse, supported by ground-level parking. A rooftop terrace will provide communal amenities including a pool and landscaped recreation areas. The design prioritises privacy, natural ventilation, and greenery, with planting integrated across all levels to soften the building form and contribute to the public realm.

<img alt="First Look: Skyhold lodges plans for boutique Ascot apartments as Racecourse Road revival gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1e1219bd-b45a-4d7f-bbc7-7207d7b2fc94" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Ascot%20entry.png?VersionId=JIoUOLMgQ5xWpEF0etEI3ffIoIVjD7gO" />

The proposal sits within the Racecourse Road precinct, a key mixed-use spine in Ascot that continues to attract renewed development interest.

Later this year national developer Fortis will launch its own boutique development, which, pending council approvals, will be 16 apartments designed by Koichi Takada Architects, just down the street.

“Racecourse Road is going through a massive revitalisation and we’re proud to be a part of that transformation,” said Fortis's QLD General Manager, Dan Boman.

Nearby, GRAYA is advancing its larger-scale The Gallery, a mixed-use shop-top housing project designed to act as a “catalytic project for Racecourse Road.”

First Look: Racecourse Road, Hamilton revitalization to continue as Skyhold joins the party

Mammoth Empire

<html><body>
Another of the squadron of tall residential towers dotting the CBD's northern expanses has topped out. Empire Melbourne is a predominantly precast monolith highlighted by vertical gold fins set at different angles.

Head contractor Probuild last week took Empire Melbourne to its high point, topping out the tower with the final level completed. The rapid work of Caelli in erecting the concrete structure coupled with the Probuild Construction Systems program has allowed the 62-storey tower to reach structural completion well ahead of schedule.

Empire Melbourne now stands on the south-east corner of A'Beckett and Elizabeth Streets, directly opposite MY80, which was the first collaboration between Probuild, Malaysian-based developer Mammoth Empire, PDS Group and architecture firm Hayball.

Combined, MY80 and Empire Melbourne have added 968 apartments to the intersection.

<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_9562.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gold the order of the day, as seen from A'Beckett Street"><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_9562.jpg?itok=Tg4DHk3n" title="Gold the order of the day, as seen from A'Beckett Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gold the order of the day, as seen from A'Beckett Street</figcaption></figure>Delivered under a design and construct contract, Probuild's accelerated delivery of Empire Melbourne has the project on course to be delivered months ahead of its intended completion.

<blockquote>
The innovation at Empire has accelerated usual fitout timelines achieved with traditional building techniques. By implementing Probuild Construction Systems we’ve been able to make the most of every opportunity and exceed our client’s expectations.

I’m extremely proud of our people working at Empire. At Probuild we hire the industry’s best and they’ve delivered the best for our client, Mammoth Empire.
<cite>Probuild Managing Director Luke Stambolis</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We’re delighted to have reached this milestone and thank our partners, particularly Probuild, for getting us to this stage 3 months ahead of schedule. Mammoth and PDS Group have partnered successfully in the past, with MY80 (across the road) finishing in 2014 and we look forward to Empire receiving its first residents later this year.

Mammoth and PDS Group wish to thank our partners for their innovation and hard work to date.
<cite>CEO of PDS Group, Andrew Fortey</cite>
</blockquote>

348 apartments with Empire Melbourne along with all common areas are scheduled to be handed over on 31 July 2017. Thereafter settlements will take place, with the balance of apartments nominated for a September 2017 handover; well in advance of the initially nominated completion date of December 2017.

In addition to the 487 apartments in total, Empire Melbourne also includes 2 retail spaces, 8 motorbike and 173 bicycle spaces. Project amenities include a gym, yoga/multi-purpose room, pool, sauna, lounge and dining spaces.

<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/image79_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Empire Melbourne. Image: Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="570" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_6.jpg?itok=xTbNmOTs" title="Empire Melbourne. Image: Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Empire Melbourne. Image: Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>Project specifics aside, Empire Melbourne joins a growing cast of towers along Elizabeth Street's eastern flank that present as vertical 'walls' from street level, with only token podiums and/or setbacks.

A product of previous planning laws, the flourish of tall towers in this stretch defined by their sheer vertical form has markedly changed the Elizabeth Street streetscape. Five of six substantial residential towers facing Elizabeth Street have either been or are close to completion.

In discussion with one of Melbourne's leading architects last week, comment was passed on this new stretch of towers along Elizabeth Street; "What will we make of these towers in 20 years time? What sort of legacy will they leave?"
</body></html>

silvermb

Empire Melbourne tops out, but is it Melbourne's Empire rose?

<html><body>
The successful relationship between developer, architect and development/project manager rolls on with the emergence of plans for 15-27 Wreckyn Street.

With Mammoth Empire Holdings securing the site post an expression of interest campaign dating back to July 2014 which was handled by CBRE City Sales, plans for the North Melbourne site have been lodged two years later. Called for over the 2,271sqm are 191 dwellings, by way of apartments and a solitary townhouse.

Hayball are once more the architect of choice with PDS Group returning as project manager. Wreckyn Street shapes as Mammoth Empire Holdings' third Melbourne apartment development.

Formerly owned by Lort Smith veterinarian hospital, the T-shaped land holding maintains 130m of frontage to four separate street addresses.

<h2>15-27 Wreckyn Street aplication summary</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/image18_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Wreckyn Street perspective. Planning image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="416" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_10.jpg?itok=WZxTHOFz" title="Wreckyn Street perspective. Planning image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Wreckyn Street perspective. Planning image: Hayball</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged July 2016</li>
	<li>Current use: vacant site post demolition </li>
	<li>Proposed: 11 level residential building at 33.9m in height</li>
	<li>191 dwellings: 1 x 2BR townhouse, 104 x 1BR, 85 x 2BR, 1 x 3BR</li>
	<li>71sqm retail space to Wreckyn and Vale intersection</li>
	<li>115 vehicle bays and 1119 bicycle bays within 3 basement levels</li>
	<li>Level 4 communal terrace at 151sqm &amp; level 8 communal lounge/terrace at 255sqm</li>
</ul>
With immediate buildings ranging between 5-6 levels, 15-27 Wreckyn Street is larger, although in the wider precinct context there are height precedents including the recently completed 33 Flemington Road at 18 levels.

The project's Urban Context Analysis report has identified the balance of the Lort Smith Animal Hospital as a prime development capable of handling multiple development outcomes on a similar scale to 15-27 Wreckyn Street. On the same block AZX Group are in control of <a href="/new-apartments/68-courtney-street-north-melbourne">68-74 Courtney Place</a> which involves another Hayball-designed apartment complex of 74 dwellings over 5 levels, raising the propects of the block bound by Wreckyn and Villers becoming a predominantly high density enclave.

15-27 Wreckyn Street itself will be finished off in a variety of brick patterned finishes with the hit and miss format prominent. Perforated metal screens, zinc cladding and brick snap precast panels will also be present over the project's exterior.

<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_7659.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Empire continues to make rapid progression at the top end of Elizabeth Street"><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_7659.jpg?itok=mxzJUYTw" title="Empire continues to make rapid progression at the top end of Elizabeth Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Empire continues to make rapid progression at the top end of Elizabeth Street</figcaption></figure>Should Mammoth Empire's Wreckyn Street proposal proceed as planned, the Malaysian-based developer would take its Melbourne development catalogue to in excess of 1,150 dwellings.

One of the early high-profile Asian-based entrants into Melbourne's property scene over recent years, Mammoth Empire has mirrored a number of its competitors by seeking a smaller development opportunities post a big entrance within Melbourne's CBD. That came by way of MY80 on Elizabeth and A'Beckett which produced 487 apartments.

Second in line was Empire on the corresponding corner to MY80, which involves 474 apartments. At the hand of head contractor Probuild, Empire is rapidly taking its place in the crowded northern CBD area, leaving Wreckyn Street as Mammoth Empire's next Melbourne play.
</body></html>

Mammoth Empire seeks approval for a third Melbourne development

<html><body>
It's not often a developer scopes out Melbourne, likes what they see and not only develops projects in the city, but becomes inspired by Melbourne's urban renaissance of the last decade; particularly the successful transformation of streets, the refashioning of laneways, alleys and other spaces into attractive public places.

Mammoth Empire have sought to transpose some of these successful place making qualities, cultural engagement and diversity. Having engaged local architects <a href="http://www.hayball.com.au/">Hayball</a> on their sister tower projects, MY80 and Empire, they have sought to inject a touch of Melbourne into their Empire City development in Kuala Lumpur.

<blockquote>
Having added a number of Melbourne projects to its portfolio, Mammoth Empire Holdings recognised the city's success from an urban and development point of view, and that's what they sought for Empire City.

The fact that the masterplan and Architectural intent we prescribed have been upheld throughout the development process is a testament to the integrity of the design and its ability to evoke a true sense of place that is distinctive to Empire City.
<cite>Tom Jordan, Managing Director, Hayball</cite>
</blockquote>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d6517.569708038471!2d101.61695982725861!3d3.160921136728303!2m3!1f5.812499999999927!2f7.324288722307653!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f20!3m3!1m2!1s0x31cc48cb531bb3b5%3A0x411f6b42c8237025!2sEmpire+City!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sau!4v1440027741251" style="border:0" width="100%"></iframe>

Located in Kuala Lumpur's Damansara and approximately 1km from one of the new and presently under construction <a href="http://www.mymrt.com.my/en/sbk/the-mrt-sungai-buloh-kajang-line">Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit stations</a>, Empire City is the flagship project from the Malaysian developer, for which Hayball was recruited to develop the master plan. Due for completion next year, construction of the greenfield site is valued at over AUD $1.2 billion. Mammoth's vision for developing the vibrant and cosmopolitan precinct, relied on Hayball's understanding of 'place making' and its importance in creating livable, dynamic and sustainable places, having been active in place making and precinct master planning for more than 30 years.

With 12 towers and medium-rise accommodation, Empire City will cater to the diversity of Kuala Lumpur's population and the market need for typologies to suit their varying preferences. From Studio apartments to luxury residences, Hayball's architectural principles have been adhered to throughout the development. Which is even more amazing when you consider Hayball had no ground presence in Kuala Lumpur during the project which was first conceived five years ago.

<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/empire_city.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Empire City hotel closeup. Courtesy Mammoth Empire Holdings."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="501" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/empire_city.jpg?itok=-jUsUh9E" title="Empire City hotel closeup. Courtesy Mammoth Empire Holdings." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Empire City hotel closeup. Courtesy Mammoth Empire Holdings.</figcaption></figure>Premium tenants including 5-star hotel chains, Marriott and Ritz Carlton have signed lease agreements for Empire City, which is seen as a retail and entertainment destination in its own right with 200,000sqm dedicated to high end fashion brands, lifestyle facilities including an Olympic-sized ice skating rink, 4D cinemas, swimming pool, gym, and hospitality venues.

The project required Hayball to design a mix of housing typologies which responded to cultural preferences and an appreciation and understanding of the differences and expectations in the local market. This meant having an understanding of the financial metrics and rethinking the apartment layouts the firm was traditionally accustomed to designing. To ensure Empire City's success and viability the project was benchmarked against precedent projects in Melbourne and internationally.

<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/b54bffcb-811b-4844-892c-a6e2428d253c_zpstr35patm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Empire City construction progress. Photo courtesy of forum member D_Y2k.2^, Skyscrapercity."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/b54bffcb-811b-4844-892c-a6e2428d253c_zpstr35patm.jpg?itok=S8nClR0K" title="Empire City construction progress. Photo courtesy of forum member D_Y2k.2^, Skyscrapercity." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Empire City construction progress. Photo courtesy of forum member D_Y2k.2^, Skyscrapercity.</figcaption></figure>More locally, Hayball and Mammoth Empire are working together on a third project with Mammoth interested in developing future sites on the CBD fringe moving forward. Their strategy in Melbourne is to secure sites and build a brand.

Meanwhile Hayball is finalising plans for a "big CBD student housing tower" with projects such as the Lyric Theatre redevelopment in Fitzroy, South Melbourne Vertical School on Ferrars Street and 25 Trent St Glen Iris underpinning the offices strong and diverse portfolio.
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

A hint of Melbourne in Malaysia: Hayball's Empire City

<html><body>
PDS Group believe it to be the only relationship of its kind and scale in existence within the Australian property development sphere. Following Malaysian developer Mammoth Empire's entrance into the local market, they promptly locked away the Melbourne-based multi-disciplinary property firm to cover all aspects of their local venture.

PDS Group Managing Director Andrew Fortey explained that all aspects literally means all aspects - from solely representing Mammoth Empire's interests in Melbourne through to determining project participants, marketing budgets and distribution, project management onto coordinating buyer settlement. In effect PDS Group offered a "One-stop shop" solution for the newly completed MY80 apartment project.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/melbourne-sunset-second-star.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="MY80 midway through construction. Image © benwesleyphotography.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melbourne-sunset-second-star.jpg?itok=m69Mlq_6" title="MY80 midway through construction. Image © benwesleyphotography.com" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>MY80 midway through construction. Image © benwesleyphotography.com</figcaption></figure><h2>Inside the newly completed MY80</h2>

​Designed by Southbank-based architects Hayball, the internals hold a feel synonymous with the prolific architecture firm. In line with the tower's exterior, the foyer, passages and communal areas are crisp, clean and modern without being ostentatious.

The A'Beckett Street entrance is defined by a perforated metal screen punctuated by strip lighting while the separate Elizabeth Street entrance carries the almost trademark Hayball textured/ruffled precast panel finish. MY80 Assistant Project Manager Mitesh Achari explained the dual entrances were the result of initially intending to hold a separate serviced apartment component within the tower. Ultimately further apartments were added into the podium and lower levels in lieu of the serviced apartment component.

The 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments within MY80 are supported by dual communal areas, with level 1 consisting of pool and sauna, cinema, residents lounge, external terrace and business centre. Perhaps the best feature of level 1, and a feature that should be more commonly implemented is the external terrace perched above A'Beckett Street and Elizabeth Street. The open terrace provides a point of interest back from street level while also giving the user an active muse to gaze upon.

Level 53 holds the rooftop sky lounge with impressive if not time-limited views (owing to future surrounding developments) over a 180 degree arc. Furnished by Doherty Design Studio, splashes of colour cut through the charcoal and reclaimed timber finishes throughout the sky lounge which includes a kitchen, external terrace and sizeable fireplace.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_0031_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Level 53 sky lounge stylings"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0031_0.jpg?itok=HyrdIpL4" title="Level 53 sky lounge stylings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Level 53 sky lounge stylings</figcaption></figure>Despite initial forecasts of roughly a thirty five month build time, MY80 was completed over a 28 month period. PDS Group in conjunction with head contractor Probuild refined the build process both pre and during construction to allow for maximum possible efficiency. Commencing in March 2012, practical completion was achieved mid-August 2014.

<h2>Continuing success</h2>

Looking ahead PDS Group will continue the fruitful relationship with Mammoth Empire as construction of the Malaysian developers second project, <a href="/buildings/empire-melbourne-398-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Empire</a> draws near. Directly opposite MY80, Empire has already notched up near in excess of 400 sales of the 474 apartments on offer within the 181 metre project.

Preliminary planning and design works have also been set in motion for Mammoth Empire's third Melbourne project located at 15-27 Wreckyn Street. PDS Group will once again act as superintendent, development and project manager for the upcoming Hayball-designed residential project which will yield in the vicinity of some 150 apartments.

Elsewhere, PDS Group have a number of high-profile projects under their guidance, with <a href="/buildings/marco-42-48-balston-street-southbank">Marco Melbourne</a>, <a href="/buildings/claremont-manor-7-claremont-street-south-yarra">Claremont Manor</a> and <a href="/buildings/560-flinders-street-melbourne">560 Flinders Street</a> approaching construction start. Also stay tuned for a pending announcement regarding one of Melbourne's more recognisable redevelopments, details of which will be announced by PDS Group shortly.

See below the set of images taken during our recent visit to MY80.
</body></html>

Mammoth Empire

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Mammoth Empire

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News