Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils signature penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Melbourne CBD

<html><body>
Australia on Collins has taken on a different complexion of late as tenants continue to move out in preparation for the centre's <a href="/news/st-collins-lane-vies-for-a-piece-of-the-luxury-market" target="_blank">considerable redevelopment</a> and ultimate rebirth as St. Collins Lane.

Capitalising on a gaggle of lease expiries while negotiating early lease terminations with others, centre operator LaSalle Investment Management finds itself with a unique asset that now resembles more of a ghost town than retail hub.

<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_6201_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Australia on Collins in its final days"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_6201_0.jpg?itok=uKhoWDwp" style="height:387px; width:580px" title="Australia on Collins in its final days"></a>

The centre's hiatus is temporary however, as leading national contractor <a href="http://www.built.com.au/" target="_blank">Built</a> are due to take site control soon enough, enabling the demolition of existing interiors to begin. With the majority of construction staged from Little Collins Street, the complex will be significantly and structurally refurbished according to management.

<blockquote>
St. Collins Lane will be transformed into a 9000 SQM home to highly desirable, international and local designer brands, offering 60 exclusive tenancies in a light-drenched, sophisticated and urbane shopping environment. Rising from the lower ground, with two levels atop, St. Collins Lane aims to become Melbourneʼs new retail ʻpasseggiataʼ in the tradition of Melbourneʼs historic shopping thoroughfares such as The Royal Arcade.

Located at 260 Collins Street, St. Collins Lane is Melbourneʼs new $200M luxury shopping destination, which is expected to bring the European sophistication of the ʻParis end of Collins Streetʼ down the hill, directly into the city centre.
</blockquote>

Triumphing over fellow architecture firms Buchan and NH Architecture, project lead ARM Architecture has conceived a design that draws upon the success of their previous retail experience. While a laneway strategy has been implemented once more akin to nearby ARM project Melbourne Central, the architect has incorporated a high degree of sophistication into St. Collins Lane with the intent of setting it apart from all-comers.

Chosen to convey an understated quality, 'champagne' is considered the dominant colour both internally and externally as the Collins Street frontage will be remodelled extensively to deliver a grand and glamorous yet practical entrance. The generous foyer coupled with terrace/dining options above constitutes a welcoming exterior, far from what is currently presented to street level.

<blockquote>
St. Collins Lane will now provide a direct linkage and clear sightlines from Collins Street to Little Collins Street. Gone are the days when customers were ʻtrappedʼ in shopping malls. St. Collins Lane has been conceived as a series of boutiques for the 21st century. It is not a traditional shopping centre. It is part arcade and part lane. An intimate experience at the centre of St. Collins Lane, integrated with the urban fabric of the city.
</blockquote>

<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/Image268.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The stylings of ARM are evident. Image courtesy ARM Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image268.jpg?itok=a_KiJuQP" style="height:372px; width:580px" title="The stylings of ARM are evident. Image courtesy ARM Architecture"></a>

In discussing the project with LaSalle Investment Management's National Director of Development, Matthew Bailey, he conveyed LaSalle's desire to create a showpiece for St. Collins Lane. This will be by way of the 'lighscape' seen above which will not only act as a focal point but also cast a dynamic shadow pattern through the complex as natural light permeates through the transparent ceiling above.

<blockquote>
An enormous vaulted roof provides natural light throughout. The crowing glory is an undulating and sculptural ʻlightscapeʼ comprised of neon pendants that will cascade down. A dining terrace on level two will be defined by this lightscape, which is reminiscent of an illuminated canopy of leaves, a reflective place to sit and enjoy a meal.
</blockquote>

While Apartments.com.au will tour St. Collins Lane both during and post construction, tomorrow Laurence will highlight a recent <a href="/news/neil-masterton-talks-st-collins-lane" target="_blank">interview with ARM Architecture design director Neil Masterton</a>. Neil will offer first hand knowledge on the design ethos and guiding principles behind St. Collins Lane.
</body></html>

silvermb

St. Collins Lane nears construction

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<blockquote>
Through thoughtful analysis of the existing, under construction, approved and proposed developments, a unique and sensitive development is proposed. In this way the proposal is respectful of its current and future neighbours.
<cite><a href="http://www.hassellstudio.com/">Hassell</a>'s planning application for 97 Franklin Street</cite>
</blockquote>

The quote above demonstrates Hassell's determination to design a mixed-use tower with a "point of difference". The proposed development which <a href="/news/97-franklin-street-simply-mind-boggling">first appeared two months ago</a>, would see a two-storey rendered brick building - currently home to Hertz car hire outlet and Eckersley's Art &amp; Craft - demolished and replaced with a 62-storey tower rising to a height of 212.5m.

97 Franklin joins an increasing number of 200m+ giants on the northern tip of the CBD, including <a href="/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Lighthouse</a> next door and <a href="/buildings/victoria-one-452-472-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Victoria One</a> diagonally opposite.

<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/97%20franklin%20talls.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Land of the giants! © Laurence Dragomir"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="428" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/97%20franklin%20talls.jpg?itok=OawrIHol" title="Land of the giants! © Laurence Dragomir" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Land of the giants! © Laurence Dragomir</figcaption></figure>The proposal marks Artemis Hotel Group's first foray into the Australian market and architects Hassell have certainly delivered a remarkable first impression. Upon initial viewing, the building appears as a series of precariously balanced office blocks but in reality they house 144 serviced apartments, 356 residential apartments and 11 penthouses across the top four floors.

A retail tenancy occupies the north-west corner of the ground floor helping to activate the public realm, whilst a food and beverage dining area occupies level 01 looking out onto Franklin Street. 490sq.m of office space is included as are shared recreational facilities through level 07, bordered by an outdoor landscaped terrace. Resident only facilities splitting a north and south outdoor terrace are found on level 32.

The project caters for 440 bicycle spaces within the basement with only 160 car spaces located in the southern portion of the podium.

<h2>Architecture</h2>

The tower presents as three large volumes stacked atop one another and rotated 90 degrees: podium, low-rise and high-rise. Each responds to a particular set of parameters and conditions:

<blockquote>
The space between the low-rise component and the surrounding developments enables equitable solar access. The north facing high-rise component maximises its solar access and the orientation for the city grid enables morning and evening sunlight onto the southerly face. The rotation gives the low-rise component a greater setbacks and amenity, as well as corridor views. Whilst the high-rise is afforded a large northern city vistas as well as southern CBD views.
</blockquote>

<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/97F%20design%20process%20diagram.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design process diagram. © Hassell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="131" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/97F%20design%20process%20diagram.jpg?itok=k9hQjgx5" title="Design process diagram. © Hassell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design process diagram. © Hassell</figcaption></figure>As a result the development works on a macro and micro scale by virtue of developing a set of principles for the three volumes which are designed to respond to adjacencies in context, in turn providing a high degree of amenity to apartments and the public domain.

The golden facade consists of a fine, slender grid which responds to the human scale of the rooms, visually reducing the monumental appearance of the three volumes.

<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/97F%20montage_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Grid. © Hassell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="494" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/97F%20montage_0.jpg?itok=NYFxGUr1" title="The Grid. © Hassell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Grid. © Hassell</figcaption></figure><h2>Setbacks</h2>

The low-rise volume employs the following setbacks from relevant boundaries:

<ul>
<li>5m from Southern Boundary</li>
	<li>8.2m from Eastern Boundary​</li>
	<li>0m from Franklin Street</li>
	<li>13.2m from Western Boundary</li>
</ul>
High-rise setbacks to relevant boundaries:

<ul>
<li>22.2m from Southern Boundary</li>
	<li>0m from Eastern Boundary</li>
	<li>10m from Franklin Street</li>
	<li>5m from Western Boundary</li>
</ul>
<h2>Public Realm</h2>

The proposal looks to provide a positive and meaningful contribution to the public realm by way a new north facing "urban forest" at ground level, running along the 40m frontage to Franklin Street. This is achieved by employing a 10m setback to the street with a 5m setback from the western boundary allowing for a new north-south laneway between the site and 450 Elizabeth Street.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/97F_GF.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground floor + public realm. © Hassell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="474" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/97F_GF.jpg?itok=7fUmaZ8c" title="Ground floor + public realm. © Hassell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground floor + public realm. © Hassell</figcaption></figure>I thought I might conclude with this list of objectives which Hassell set out to achieve. I think it's fair to say the design team have done an excellent job in producing an architectural response which certainly provides a "point of difference amongst the typical developer driven projects prevalent in the precinct."

<h2>Objectives</h2>

The main development objectives are:

<ul>
<li>To create a quality, considered architectural response that addresses the varying site conditions.</li>
	<li>To increase the public amenity along Franklin Street, offering a greater urban integration with shared and functional spaces.</li>
	<li>To infuse mixed use principles that will help create an active and engaging street interface.</li>
	<li>To create a landmark development that truly responds to its context, resulting in a equitable development for both the client and the city.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Project Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: <a href="http://www.mingdegrandhotel.com/en/groupinfo">Artemis Hotel Group</a>
</li>
	<li>Project Manager: <a href="http://www.equisent.com.au/">Equisent</a>
</li>
	<li>Architecture: <a href="http://www.hassellstudio.com/">Hassell</a>
</li>
	<li>Town Planner: <a href="http://www.urbis.com.au/">Urbis</a>
</li>
	<li>Landscape Architecture: Urbis</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: <a href="http://www.mltraffic.com.au/">ML Traffic</a>
</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: <a href="http://www.ark-resources.com.au/">Ark Resources</a>
</li>
	<li>Structural Consultant: <a href="http://www.arup.com/">Arup</a>
</li>
	<li>Wind Assessment Consultant: <a href="http://www.vipac.com.au/">Vipac</a>
</li>
	<li>Waste Management Consultant: <a href="http://www.wastech.com.au/">Wastech</a>
</li>
</ul>
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Laurence Dragomir

A Point of Difference > 97 Franklin Street, Melbourne

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In a retail 'arms race' of sorts to be left behind is to be vulnerable at present, so with that in mind interests controlling Australia on Collins announced last week that the venerable Melbourne address will be vacated next month in preparation for a new retail experience.

Whilst fellow CBD retail venues such as GPO, Emporium and The Strand have progressively unveiled new redevelopments of late, Australia on Collins will rebirth as <a href="http://www.stcollinslane.com/" target="_blank">St. Collins Lane</a> following a transformation valued at $200 million.

Seeking to usurp all-comers as Collins Street's premier retail destination, the redevelopment will be defined by a new internal laneway running between Collins Street and Little Collins Street. When complete St. Collins Lane will be topped by a large vaulted roof allowing natural light to penetrate throughout while the projects showpiece is "An undulating and sculptural lightscape comprised of neon pendants that will cascade down. A dining terrace on level two will be defined by this lightscape, which is reminiscent of an illuminated canopy of leaves."

<h2>Project Summary</h2>

<h3>260 Collins Street - St. Collins Lane</h3>

<ul>
<li>Architect: ARM Architecture</li>
	<li>Client: <a href="http://www.lasalle.com/AU/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">LaSalle Investment Management</a>
</li>
	<li>Cost: $200 million</li>
	<li>60 tenancies over three levels and 9,000 square metres</li>
</ul>
<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_53.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artists impression of the Collins Street frontage. Image © Cornwell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_53.jpg?itok=TekWSjGf" style="height:310px; width:580px" title="Artists impression of the Collins Street frontage. Image © Cornwell"></a>

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Geographically, St. Collins Lane will complete the north-to-south pedestrian path through the city with both entrances attracting a dramatically increased footfall as commuters flood into the city centre.
<cite>Matthew Bailey, National Director of Development LaSalle Investment Management</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
St. Collins Lane will now provide a direct linkage and clear sightlines from Collins Street to Little Collins Street. Gone are the days when customers were ʻtrappedʼ in shopping malls. St. Collins Lane has been conceived as a series of boutiques for the 21st century. It is not a traditional shopping centre. It is part arcade and part lane. An intimate experience at the centre of St. Collins Lane, integrated with the urban fabric of the city.
<cite>Neil Masterton, Design Director of ARM Architecture</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We commenced our selective and targeted leasing campaign early 2014, with a strong focus on luxury and international retailers. With Melbourne being one of the hottest markets across the globe for these luxury and international brands the interest has been extremely strong. These brands have confirmed a strong desire for a Collins St address and with limited availability in only 60 retail shops. We are confident of securing a globally recognized tenancy mix.
<cite>Alistair Palmer, National Director - CBRE Retail Services Group Australia</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>ARM Draws on Experience</h2>

ARM are no novices when remodeling existing large-scale retail structures, with Melbourne Central the prime example. A light drenched north-south internal laneway, retail spaces over multiple levels and the introduction of glass ceilings are all elements that both retail centres will hold in common, although St. Collins Square fit-outs are expected to be far more decadent given the target tenant profile.

<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/Image5arm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A template of sorts for St. Collins Lane? Image © ARM Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5arm.jpg?itok=A-konLXs" style="height:497px; width:580px" title="A template of sorts for St. Collins Lane? Image © ARM Architects"></a>

With works due to commence during 2014, St. Collins Lane is expected to open after an 18 month construction period.
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St. Collins Lane vies for a piece of the luxury market

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Days after being submitted for approval to state planning body DTPLI, the first image of what is believed to be the current design for 97 Franklin Street within Melbourne's northern CBD has surfaced. <a href="http://www.trafficonsulting.com/index" target="_blank">ML Traffic Engineers</a> have recently added the below render of the mind boggling, almost whimsical mixed-use tower of near 200 metres to their website.

ML Traffic Engineers also anticipate a construction cost of approximately $200 million for the 60 level complex which is slated to hold a mixture of apartments, serviced apartments, retail and office space according to the state planning register.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_half_width_290px" height="620" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_half_width_290px/public/pictures/article-images/97franklin_2.jpg?itok=CTHHzqTH" title="Image courtesy Traffic Consulting" width="290"><figcaption>Image courtesy Traffic Consulting</figcaption></figure>The site itself was sold by then land holder <a href="http://www.bancogroup.com.au/" target="_blank">Banco Group</a> to an unknown purchaser during mid 2013 according an article published online via the Sydney Morning Herald. Subsequently consulting firm <a href="http://www.urbis.com.au/" target="_blank">Urbis</a> has handled the pre-approval process, submitting an application last Friday on behalf of Artemis Hotel Group (Australia) Pty Ltd.

An online search shows Artemis Hotel Group (Australia) Pty Ltd to be based in Doncaster, with Artemis International Hotel the likely operating name for the serviced apartment component.

Working on the strong likelihood that the above image is in fact the submitted version of 97 Franklin Street, the design is unique to Melbourne and stupendously impressive. Atop the seven level podium sits a perpendicular mid-rise section, only for the high-rise section to once more shift 90 degrees in a fashion that seems to defy engineering common sense and gravity for that matter.

While the architect is unknown at this stage, Apartments.com.au will soon enough <a href="/news/a-point-of-difference-97-franklin-street-melbourne" target="_blank">cover this planning application in detail</a> and I for one hope the incredible design (assuming it is the design submitted for approval) sees the light of day.

See our piece from May 2014: <a href="/news/a-point-of-difference-97-franklin-street-melbourne">A Point of Difference &gt; 97 Franklin Street</a>.
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97 Franklin Street simply mind boggling

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Many readers would recall an article published early December titled '<a href="/news/are-200-metre-residential-towers-the-new-norm-for-melbourne" target="_blank">Are 200m residential towers the new norm for Melbourne?</a>' in which Apartments.com.au touched upon fourteen towers aiming to take their place in the city's burgeoning skyline.  From planning assessment to construction fourteen is a sizeable number, yet such is the dynamic state of Melbourne's apartment market coupled with the willingness of Asian-backed developers, Apartments.com.au can today unveil further proposals that would have a profound presence on Melbourne's silhouette if realised.

<a href="http://www.metier3.com.au/" target="_blank">Metier 3</a> architects design generally atypical buildings and 25-35 Power Street Southbank is no exception.  The firms first large-scale design will see the now vacant block transformed into a unique Melbourne built form landmark.  With a concave form accentuated by a swept wing facing Power Street, the 70 storey, 274 metre mixed-use complex has been conceived for recent site purchaser Freshwater No 6 Pty Ltd.

Another behemoth is also seeking approval with <a href="http://www.axfproperty.com.au/" target="_blank">AXF Group</a> championing the redevelopment of their plot at 180 Russell Street, seen below right.  Seeking to replace the 1965 Total Car Park complex, <a href="http://buchan.com.au/" target="_blank">Buchan Group</a> architects have created a shimmering 70 level, 271 metre mixed-use complex.  With impressive street frontages and a chameleon-like facade this development may encounter opposition from heritage groups expecting the retention of the existing Japanese Burtalist-style complex, which <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/BuildingandPlanning/Planning/heritageplanning/Pages/iHeritagesearchresults.aspx?heritageid=1829" target="_blank">carries a B grading in terms of heritage</a> according to Melbourne City council.

<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_26.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © Metier 3 &amp; Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="354" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_26.jpg?itok=gHFUYPBX" title="Images © Metier 3 &amp; Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

No article could be written at the moment without the presence of <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/">Elenberg Fraser</a>, with three additional entries complementing their existing 200 metre + designs &gt; <a href="/new-apartments/150-queen-street-melbourne">Tower Melbourne</a>, <a href="/news">Victoria Tower</a> and <a href="/buildings/eq-tower-127-abeckett-street-melbourne" target="_blank">127-141 A'Beckett Street</a>.  

Below left is the current version of 450 Elizabeth Street which at 61 levels and 197 metres is now subject to a revised planning application which would boost the floor count to 67 levels and height comfortably beyond 200 metres.  The jungle drums say site owner Sixth Grange Pty Ltd has formed a joint venture with an Asian-backed developer currently active within Melbourne's CBD and that a sales campaign will commence within months.

Inset sees the only image currently available of 250 La Trobe Street, directly opposite Melbourne Central.  The 50 and 78 level tower at approximately 250 metres in height is set to feature 500 plus residential apartments in a star shaped complex with opulent finishes. According to Elenberg Fraser principal Callum Fraser, “This development will offer one of the most generous provision of communal facilities to the residents and this will set the project apart from the rest in the market.” 

Last but not least is Elenberg Fraser's revised scheme for 380 Lonsdale Street. At the behest of bullish Singaporean developer Hiap Hoe, Elenberg Fraser have delivered a 50 and 60 level mixed-use complex with the taller northern tower nigh on if not over the 200 metre mark.  With Aloft Hotels waiting in the wings to operate the hotel component, 380 Lonsdale like the previous two is looking for a 2014 public sales launch.

<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/Image5_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="551" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_18.jpg?itok=CJLfaaAH" title="Images © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

So, a Melbourne Cup-sized field of 200 metre plus residential towers looms on Melbourne's horizon.

As outlined in December's piece, Asian developers operate beyond the stringent conditions that local developers face in financing their projects.  Additionally the majority of Asian developers are generally robust, well established, well financed property development firms overseas prior to inserting themselves in the local market.

Consequently the likelihood of most of the now 19 proposals of 200 metres or more coming to fruition is quite high.  With this in mind it's plausible to suggest this is a watershed time for Melbourne.  The size, character and feel of Melbourne will change markedly, along with its skyline, most likely triggering debate once the scope and size of these proposal in their entirety are realised by the wider public - although this is a topic for another day.  

Detailed articles on the above proposals/planning applications will follow in due course, beginning with 25-35 Power Street later this week.
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New proposals seek to join the 200m club

<html><body>
It has of late almost become the <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/">Elenberg Fraser</a> show on Apartments.com.au, such is the quantity and quality of designs the ubiquitous architecture firm have produced during 2013. With a multitude of projects spearheaded by Elenberg Fraser either approved or before the relevant body seeking approval, none may be quite as impressive as 386-412 William Street, a project which 'talks' to its surrounds in a diverse manner that few other contemporary Melbourne developments could.

Client <a href="http://www.mitgh.com/index">MIT Australia</a> has pressed ahead to facilitate "A mixed use development comprising of two towers above a podium base. One tower houses only multi-unit residential apartments over 50 levels and the other houses both a hotel and multi-unit residential apartments over 30 levels." Identified as a gateway site to Melbourne's northern CBD, Elenberg Fraser have endeavoured to design an iconic building befitting of the location.

<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/Image7_20.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Leading the charge, 386-412 William Street will hold a prime position. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image7_20.jpg?itok=uALqypAW" title="Leading the charge, 386-412 William Street will hold a prime position. Image © Elenberg Fraser" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

So how does this project 'talk' to its surrounds? Location plays a major role as seldom few sites around Melbourne hold such a quality, open position; Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and multiple transport options all metres away. With the 'iconic gateway' theme envoked, 386-412 William Street has been designed to maximise interaction within the immediate environment and no better example than the intended public bicycle hub facility that will front Franklin Street.

Recognising the worth of such a prime location, a staggering total of 988 bicycle bays will be accommodated with 372 of those for public use with shower, gym and locker facilities available. Potentially run as another Melbourne City Council <a href="https://www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/general/bikes-and-riding/93690/">Parkiteer</a> facility, it's envisaged the facility will run jointly with a car sharing service and be defined by a public artwork marking its entrance akin to artist Ai WeiWei's work below right.

Five sub levels are dedicated to car parking and services with two levels available as a public car park. While most readers will agree that fewer cars within Melbourne's CBD would result in a more liveable CBD, 386-412 William Street along with the sinking of Queen Victoria Market's at grade car park as part of its overhaul, would lead to fewer cars clogging Queen Victoria Market and surrounds with more scope for urban realm enhancement and enjoyment. Sitting above the car park and within the retained existing facade facing both William Street and Franklin Street will be substantial retail/commercial space by way of a sizeable cafe and multiple tenancies including terraced double height retail offerings facing Flagstaff Gardens.

The notion of opening the existing building up to its surrounds is evident throughout the planning application, providing the opportunity to capture diversified pedestrian traffic. Compare 386-412 William Street to the rash of contemporary apartment buildings nearby, particularly along A'Beckett Street, which are quite insular in their relationship to the streetscape and it becomes evident this particular planning application seeks to 'talk' (insert embrace, involve or interact) with its immediate surrounds.

<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/Image12_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Catering for all, including a possible Parkiteer facility. 386-412 William Street. Image © Elenberg Fraser &amp; bikerumor.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image12_7.jpg?itok=oio1pk6Z" title="Catering for all, including a possible Parkiteer facility. 386-412 William Street. Image © Elenberg Fraser &amp; bikerumor.com" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

One of the main catalysts of such a large and varied podium is the anticipated inclusion of a 12 level hotel within the shorter eastern tower. Provisionally involving 210 rooms, the "Boutique hotel is proposed for the development as a major state tourism attractor that also provides an ongoing employment base for the site. The hotel recognises and contributes to the nationally significant tourist attraction that is the Queen Victoria Market, one of Melbourne and Victoria’s true icons." Such is the upwards demand for new hotel accommodation in Melbourne, the planning application also includes an expression of interest on behalf of the <a href="http://www.acehotel.com/">Ace Hotel Group</a> indicating their willingness to anchor the hotel component as their first southern hemisphere venture.

Continuing a trend whereby architects cite valuable stones or gems as inspiration for their designs, according to Elenberg Fraser the two towers:

<blockquote>
Yet another jewel in the crown of Melbourne’s city skyline. The crystalline structure of this precious jewel is created through its fragmented façade articulation. It brings alive Melbourne’s skyline from this northern gateway by reflecting and refracting the golden hues of the afternoon sun back through the Market precinct and Flagstaff Gardens with kaleidoscopic effect. Like the changing lighting of the Capitol Theatre ceiling, this new urban sculpture is ever changing as it picks up &amp; re-radiates the sun’s rays throughout the day, and through the changing seasons year round.
<cite>Elenberg Fraser</cite>
</blockquote>

Fractured, repetitive and modular in nature, the external facade is typical Elenberg Fraser in that it does what is practically required (sunshading, wind dispersion, maximised privacy, shadow minimisation) while doing it in an efficient and aesthetically pleasing nature.

Vital statstics for the project sees the taller tower at 161 metres house 493 apartments, while the 98 metre eastern tower carries 116 apartments in addition to the aforementioned 210 hotel suites, bringing the total to 819 habitable dwellings over a site of 3916 square metres. Of the 609 private apartments, 219 will be one bedroom, 373 are slated to hold dual bedrooms while 17 will involve three bedrooms. Supporting these apartments will be private 223 car spaces and 616 private bicycle bays in additional the the car/bike faclities made available to the public.

<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/Image11_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero image of 386-412 William Street. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_8.jpg?itok=29xr66Br" title="Hero image of 386-412 William Street. Image © Elenberg Fraser" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

The podium rooftop will see a pool hug the Franklin Street boundary whilst accompanying landscaping will likely include outdoor barbecue area, raised and sunken timer decking, a sun deck and various plantings. The podium will also flow into both towers with residential facilities and dining spaces maintaining direct access to the outdoor area. Planting will also appear along the podium perimeter, in effect cascading down toward an enhanced street level which will feature bluestone paving, a realigned bus stop and street furniture.

ESD principles also feature heavily with <a href="http://www.ark-resources.com.au/">Ark Resources</a> preparing a report which:

<blockquote>
Demonstrates that the proposed development achieves a Best Practice environmental design standard and is consistent with the City of Melbourne’s Eco City goals... A combination of sustainable design initiatives, fixtures, systems and appliances will be integrated into the building in order to achieve a 5 star Green Star Multi-Residential rating.
<cite>Ark Resources</cite>
</blockquote>

Amongst 386-412 William Street's ESD features are rainwater harvesting, a cogeneration plant and a solar photovoltaic system at roof level.

With 386-412 William Street submitted late October, and final decision via state planning body DTPLI is likely to be announced into 2014.

<h2>Project Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Client: MIT Australia</li>
	<li>Architect: Elenberg Fraser</li>
	<li>Town Planner: Urbis</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Landscape Consultant: Urbis</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: Ark Resources</li>
	<li>Shadow Analyst: Orbit Solutions</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer: VIPAC</li>
	<li>Heritage Consultant: Bryce Raworth</li>
</ul>
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Talking the talk > 386-412 William Street, Melbourne 

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One of the best things about working at an insurance company in the city was how close it was to Southern Cross Station - about 60 seconds. As my train trip was only 2 stops away, it meant I could get to work in less than 1/2 hour - door to door. I thought that was pretty good - there's nothing like an extra 30 minutes sleep on a cold, dark winter morning. My colleague whom I sat next to would regularly turn up late, cursing and blaming the traffic and the up to 90 minute car trip into the city. "Where do you live?" I asked her once, feeling sorry that she had to commute from some far flung outer suburb.

 

"Oh, in Caulfield"

 

"What? But its only 10km away! Why don't you just catch the train"?

 

"Nah, work pays my my parking. So why bother"?

 

Its an excuse I hear often.  Melbourne introduced a parking levy back in 2006, but it has done little to curb congestion.  This year, that levy was increased by 130%.  Whilst this is a step in the right direction, it's unlikely to make a huge difference.  Why?  As in my example above, most people don't pay for their parking spot - its paid for by their employer.  So in spite of the high cost of petrol, registration, insurance and vehicle maintenance, it is far outweighed by the price of a yearly car space (roughly worth $7-8K a year) plus the now $1300 levy.  It's clear we need to take a different tact if we are to pry people out of their cars.

 

In a recent UrbanMelbourne article titled <a href="/expert-insights/buying/will-the-party-of-urbanism-please-stand-up">'Will the party of urbanism please stand up'</a>, it was suggested that we we could help pay for urban infrastructure by introducing a levy or raise the GST.  A great idea, and one that warrants further exploration.  However there is some things we can do in addition.  To quote Tony Abbott*, "Why not introduce a simple tax?" - i.e. a congestion charge for driving into the CBD.

*Tony Abbott was of course infamously referring to the carbon tax here, a position we would later totally back flip on.  The author of this article promises to 'never ever' quote Tony Abbott again...

 

Now the idea of a congestion charge is not a new one.  <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_congestion_charge">London</a> has had one since 2003, with claims of a 30% reduction in vehicles entering the charge zone, and a 20% drop in CO2 emissions.  Melbourne Mayor Robert Doyle has floated the idea in the past, but didn't quite have the balls to introduce it when talk turned to re-election time.  At the federal level, Infrastructure Australia floated the idea again just a few days ago (read more <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/london-style-congestion-tax-could-be-introduced-to-cut-melbourne-cbd-traffic-after-infrastructure-australia-report/story-fni0fit3-1226673439352#">here</a>).  So maybe its time that the state government ran with it instead - but with a slight twist.

 

Much of the criticism directed toward a congestion tax is derived from the fact that traders think their businesses will suffer. Its no revelation that commuters make up the majority of the traffic in the CBD, with peak hour levels especially horrendous. Shoppers generally don't drive in during peak hour and stay all day - so why don't we just exempt them from the charge?  Business owners would of course, be exempt as well.

 

Enforcement of the charge in London is done by a series of cameras using ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), much like Citylink, allowing a differential payment scale.  In Melbourne, if this can be extended to record the time the vehicle enters/exits the charge zone, then we have an easy way of differentiating the commuters from the shoppers.  A 4 hour window can be designated, giving shoppers plenty of time to do their shopping and exit the zone, and therefore, no charge.  Commuters who stay parked inside the zone all day, will be charged. Simple.

 

<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/cameracongestioncharge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Camera technology. Image courtesy cchargelondon.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/cameracongestioncharge.jpg?itok=vHSWYQuU" title="Camera technology. Image courtesy cchargelondon.com" typeof="Image"></a>

 

Several other people/groups would also need to be exempt.  Such as (but not limited to):

<ul>
<li>Owners with businesses in the CBD</li>
	<li>Police/Ambulance/Fire</li>
	<li>Breakdown services - i.e. tow trucks, RACV roadside assistance etc</li>
	<li>Cyclists</li>
	<li>Residents</li>
</ul>
 

Residents are the most contentious group here.  Living in the city is meant to negate the need for having a car, and so technically, charging them at the normal rate could act as a further disincentive to having a vehicle.  However as they are unlikely to significantly contribute to the problem (after all, they can walk to work!), giving them an exemption is probably academic.

 

One other point of contention are the off peak exemptions.  In London, the charge is only applicable 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, with public holidays and weekends not applicable.  The 7am - 6pm rule makes sense - if people still insist on driving, they are at least encouraged to do so outside of peak congestion times.  I'm not sure about making weekends free though - Melbourne can still get very busy on weekends - especially if there is a sporting/major event on.  I would suggest a 50% discount, as there are usually extra trains to cover these events. 

 

<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/CCZ_Melb_Map.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Central City Zone with congestion tax boundaries"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/CCZ_Melb_Map.png?itok=moExSWwO" title="Central City Zone with congestion tax boundaries" typeof="Image"></a>

 

And that brings us to the boundaries of the charge zone itself (see above), which inevitably, will be the subject of much debate.  Note my suggestion has 2 noticeable additions - Docklands and the Jolimont sporting precinct.  This is quite deliberate - both these areas are served quite well my multiple modes of public transport, leaving no real reason why people need to drive to the footy, or other events.  One further area which could be added is Southbank, discouraging people from driving in and parking at Crown Casino.

 

That leaves one final detail - the price.  London charges £10($16.70) if you pay by midnight on the day you travel, £12($20.09) if you pay by the next day, or £9($15.07) if you are registered for Autopay.  Fines for non payment range from £60($100.44) to £187($313.03), depending on how late you pay.  These may seem high, but it is meant to act as a deterrent.  There are a few other incentives the government could create - offering employers discounted yearly MYKI passes for their employees, and removing any associated FBT for doing so; these are seemingly plausible.  Add the price of existing Citylink tolls, and you have some serious reasons to get on the train.  

 

Judging by the results in London, a congestion charge could result in some major reductions in traffic numbers and pollution.  It would require some upgrades to the PT system, but it would also raise some serious revenue, helping fund these upgrades as well as other urban infrastructure as mentioned earlier.  And as an added bonus, it would reduce the number of parking lots needed in the CBD, thus freeing up sites for further residential and commercial development.  With more people living within the CBD's boundaries, it would result in even fewer people having to drive to work.  The benefits seem immense, but of course with any new tax/levy/charge, the political risks are high too - hence the standoff we now have between council, state and federal governments.

 

Robert Doyle, Dennis Napthine, Kevin Rudd - who will blink first?

 
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