National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Monash University

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Although some student apartment markets are currently impacted by a lack of demand due to the fall in international students, investors can still secure a strong performing long-term investment.

Apartments in student markets more affordable than ever, and according to the Demographics Group’s Simon Kuestenmacher, international students will likely drive a correction in prices for student-focused apartments in the longer term.

“Sooner or later, international students will come back to Melbourne because the demand for a high quality, English-speaking, in-person university experience is not going to shrink while we’ve got those growth economies in Asia,” Kuestenmacher told Domain.

As one of Victoria’s best performing universities, Monash hosts more than 85,000 students at its various campuses around Melbourne.

Urban takes a look at five apartments perfect for students nearby Monash, ideal for scholars and academics, high-income postgraduates and investors.

<h2>Apartments close to the Monash Parkville Campus</h2>

Home to the university’s Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, the Parkville campus is made up of five buildings on Royal Parade and is close-by Monash Law’s city campus.

Property investors with investments in the surrounding suburbs benefit from the campus, which enrols around 1,100 undergrad and postgrad students, which attracts international students, part-time students and professional researchers.

1. Melbourne Grand, Melbourne 
Address: 560 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 
One-bedroom apartments from $498,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3490]

Winner of the HIA ‘Victorian apartment complex of the year 2020,’ Central Equity’s Melbourne Grant provides an outstanding living experience.

Less than a kilometre away from Monash University’s Parkville campus, postgraduate students and investors alike will enjoy the residence’s ideal location.

The residence features various amenities, including resort-style facilities, residents’ lounge, 17-seat theatre and coffee bar.

2. Parkhill Apartments, West Melbourne 
Address: 408 Spencer Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003 
One-bedroom apartments from $479,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27406]

Although a bit further from the campus, three kilometres south, the well-connected Parkhill Apartments offers stylish residences on the fringe of the Melbourne CBD.

Delivered by Central Equity, the project benefits from bright apartments with up to 2.7-metre-high ceilings, spacious balconies and seven-day concierge service.

Located minutes from Queen Victoria Market, transport links and Flagstaff Gardens, this project is one to consider.

<h2>Apartments close to the Monash Clayton Campus</h2>

Clayton campus, the university’s main campus, boasts a student population exceeding 41,000.

The 1.1 sqkm site also hosts the majority of Monash’s 9,000 academic staff, as well as visiting researchers, scholars and doctoral students.

1. Aster Apartments, Clayton South 
Address: 456 Haughton Road, Clayton South VIC 3169 
One-bedroom apartments from $396,800

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4124]

Delivered by Cedar Woods and designed by DKO Architecture, Aster Apartments boasts affordable apartments in the award-winning masterplanned community, Jackson Green.

With over 4,700 sqm of public open space, residents at Aster can enjoy plenty of social spaces to connect with neighbours, just 1.8 kilometres from Monash’s main campus.

Clayton’s South is a hub for healthcare and education, connecting residents to employment opportunities, countless amenities and developed infrastructure.

2. M-City, Clayton 
Address: 2107 Dandenong Road, Clayton VIC 3168 
One-bedroom apartments from $371,300

[smartcode_project:default project_id=528]

Just 700 metres from the Clayton campus, M-City provides a sophisticated ‘mini-city’ in Clayton, within walking distance to grocery stores, restaurants, bars and more.

Shiavello’s development is situated in the lively Clayton, which has had an average annual growth of 12 per cent over the last three years.

Each apartment contains floor-to-ceiling glazing, spacious, private balconies and luxury resort-style facilities, including a heated pool, landscaped gardens and barbeque zones.

<h2>Apartments close to the Monash Caulfield Campus</h2>

Comprising over 13,000 students, the Monash Caulfield campus is the university’s second-largest.

Located within the Glen Eira City Council, Caulfield boasts good infrastructure, an excellent community feel and great schools.

1. 1060 Carnegie 
Address: 1060 Dandenong Road, Carnegie VIC 3163 
One-bedroom apartments from $459,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2882]

Located only 1.3 kilometres from the Caulfield campus, 1060 Carnegie enjoys the convenience of two train stations, four train lines and a dedicated tram route.

Beautiful parks, gardens and sport facilities provide vast amenity to students, homeowners and visiting scholars.

Delivered by Fortune Property Group and designed by Peddle Thorp Architects, the apartments feature landscaped lawns, rooftop garden and integrated storage space.

2. Equus, Glen Huntly 
Address: 28 Watson Grove, Glen Huntly VIC 3163 
One-bedroom apartments from $470,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28063]

Placed in the intimate suburb of Glen Huntly, Equus affords a superior quality of life in an exceptional location, just 11 kilometres south-east of the CBD and 1.2 kilometres from the Caulfield campus.

Owner-occupiers and investors will enjoy the area’s relaxed energy and family-friendly neighbourhood.

Equus comprises 39 apartments and offers outdoor entertaining areas, considered space and bright open space.
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According to the Demographics Group’s Simon Kuestenmacher, international students will likely drive a correction in prices for student-focused apartments in the longer term

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Student apartments for under $500k close to Monash University campuses

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Following the launch of Monash Peninsula's sustainable student accommodation, <a href="/developments/frankston-vic-3199">Gillies Hall</a> – Urban.com.au caught up with <a href="/builders/multiplex">Multiplex </a>Project Manager Danielle Savio regarding the use of cross-laminated timber, building material choices and how the team went about meeting construction deadlines for the project. 

Urban.com.au: Given the size of Monash Peninsula’s student accommodation building, were there any challenges associated with using Cross Laminated Timber for a building of this size as opposed to concrete or steel?

Danielle Savio: The new highly sustainable student accommodation complex, Gillies Hall, located at Monash University’s Peninsula Campus was Multiplex’s first foray into cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction, and it was a huge success. The use of CLT has the capacity to halve the embodied carbon in the building in comparison to a concrete structure.

Cross Laminated Timber performs very well structurally and it is growing increasingly more common with several medium-rise buildings now popping up all around the world, including here in Australia. Timber is undoubtedly making a comeback as a building material due to its sustainability and aesthetic.

In terms of structure, building in CLT was simple and efficient. A CLT building is lighter so the foundations and concrete ground slab are simpler and smaller. There are less contractors and labour on site making for a safer working area, and since the material comes to site pre-cut (CLT goes together like a giant 3D timber puzzle), the site is cleaner and much easier to navigate.

There is a lot involved logistically in getting the CLT panels to site in the correct order for installation, however our sophisticated suppliers know how to execute this easily and efficiently. Essentially when it comes to CLT, it is more of an assemble rather than a build. 

<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/monashpeninsula_handover_009_a3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Monash Peninsula Student Accommodation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monashpeninsula_handover_009_a3.jpg?itok=VhREcW-r" title="Monash Peninsula Student Accommodation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Monash Peninsula Student Accommodation</figcaption></figure>U: What was the reason for sourcing the CLT from Italy rather than Australia?

DS: What was a challenge, particularly in what is a fairly immature supply chain in Australia, was getting the CLT in time for the project and at the speeds were going to be building at. As the Australian market gets more suppliers of CLT on line, supply will steady and large projects won’t be an issue, but at the time we were engaged to deliver the CLT, we really needed to look to Europe for supply.

Our Italian supplier Xlam Dolomiti worked with us to design and deliver the student accommodation. They have a real ‘hands-on’ approach and were heavily involved with our architect and engineering teams and were happy to educate us along the way.

Xlam Dolomiti also has a great relationship with Rothoblaas who supplied all the timber connecting plates and fixings for the project, so there was a seamless delivery of CLT and fixings.

U: How did you manage the logistics of building to such a tight deadline? What would be your plan of action if there was a delay in delivery of the CLT?

DS: While we were building to a tight deadline, we were extremely confident in our supply chain and all parties were very committed to the delivery program. At Multiplex, we believe it’s important to visit the supply at the source – one visit to a factory will immediately tell you whether there is capacity to produce the intended supply. We also build solid relationships with suppliers.

When it comes to potential complications in sourcing the material overseas, one major risk factor is the material’s access into Australia - unfortunately customs aren’t always predictable. There were, however, contingency plans in place in the event of any delays. Monash University was also very understanding of what delays would mean for the project.

Thankfully, intricate planning and collaboration between all parties made for a successful, on-time delivery.

<div class="rtecenter">RELATED ARTICLES</div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/monash-university-refreshes-its-20-year-campus-master-plans">MONASH UNIVERSITY REFRESHES ITS 20 YEAR MASTERPLAN</a></div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/monash-peninsula-opens-passivhaus-accredited-student-housing">MONASH PENINSULA OPENS PASSIV-HAUS ACCREDITED STUDENT HOUSING</a></div>

<div class="rtecenter"> </div>

U: Do you believe CLT will be used to construct taller buildings in future – such as skyscrapers like The W350 Project in Tokyo?

DS: Yes, I believe CLT will be used to construct taller buildings in the future as CLT has amazing capabilities. The material has already been utilised on many existing taller buildings where the old foundations could only take so much concrete and steel weight.

In my opinion, the potential of timber is endless as it is sustainable, sturdy and architects love it for its character. As engineers and developers become more familiar with CLT, I’m sure it will become extremely common in construction, in particular for high-rise buildings.  

U: Japan passed a bill to ensure all government buildings up to three-stories tall should be constructed with wood or utilising wood. Do you believe this is a rule Australia could adopt in future to achieve sustainability and build efficiency?

At this stage it would be a hard rule to adopt in Australia given our limited supply chain, however a progressive movement could create the demand necessary to encourage Australia to produce more mass timber products.

Monash Peninsula was built using CLT in line with Monash University’s net zero carbon emissions strategy. The University was driven to use innovative and highly sustainable construction methods as it wanted the accommodation to be built to the most efficient and highest performance criteria possible.

For this project, we adopted a German Passive House standard for our build, which is a performance standard which sets the bar extremely high in terms of thermal performance and building envelope. The building has just been awarded Passive House certification and is now the largest Passive House building in the Southern Hemisphere.

I would love to see more large-scale Passive House projects here in Australia and I’m sure CLT will be a really big part of that.

<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/gillies_hall_monash_certification_seal.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The Passiv-haus accredited building."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gillies_hall_monash_certification_seal.png?itok=wUpp6iVp" title="The Passiv-haus accredited building." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Passiv-haus accredited building.</figcaption></figure>U: The building features multiple solar panels, which is great for the planet and for the campus’ energy-efficiency credentials. How many Multiplex buildings have recently requested solar panel installation?

DS: Many of our projects at Multiplex, particularly our institutional work, feature large solar arrays and many others have the capacity to link future solar electrical supply. It’s great to see such significant projects adopt such a positive initiative, however as always it ultimately comes down to client objectives.  

U: Does Multiplex have a lot of say when it comes to choosing materials used?

DS: Multiplex and other builders are increasingly being engaged early in projects to influence and assist with best building practices and building outcomes for a project. In that capacity we often think outside of the box with regards to how projects will come together and this often helps a client or architect realise a design or functional outcome. And it often leads to a better financial outcome.

In this capacity, yes, we often influence what materials or construction methods will be used to deliver a project. I think this is great for a client who wants to get the best out of our expertise and the best bang for their buck.

This could include using steel or CLT in lieu of traditional construction methods or prefabricated methodologies instead of ‘build on site’.

<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/monashpeninsula_handover_003_a3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Communal student areas"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monashpeninsula_handover_003_a3.jpg?itok=6UveytFJ" title="Communal student areas" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Communal student areas</figcaption></figure>U: Which Monash building are you most proud of and why?

DS: So far, Gillies Hall is the only project we have worked on at Monash Peninsula campus, however Multiplex has completed many projects for the University including various student accommodation complexes, innovative new learning spaces, and contemporary art facilities. Recent projects include the prestigious new $81 million Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building.

I believe the new student accommodation at Monash Peninsula has set a new benchmark for student accommodation, particularly receiving Passive House certification on such a large scale. Designed by high-profile architects <a href="/architects/jackson-clements-burrows-architects">Jackson Clements Burrows</a>, Gillies Hall includes communal kitchens, games rooms and principle apartments with a total floor area of 6,000 square metres.

The building is innovative and beautifully detailed and is a statement piece for the Peninsula Campus. We are thrilled to be a part of such progressive and highly-sustainable student accommodation and together, with Monash University, we have set a new industry standard for environmentally sustainable and economic construction.
</body></html>

Olivia Round

Multiplex's Danielle Savio gives insight into the benefits of using cross laminated timber

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Over the course of its tenure, a university building is required to withstand a great deal of wear and tear. With this in mind, Monash University has embarked on a <a href="/news/monash-university-refreshes-its-20-year-campus-master-plans">20-year construction project</a> – with state-of-the-art new buildings designed for longevity, world-class campus amenity and net zero carbon emission.

Monash Peninsula’s Jackson Clements Burrows-designed <a href="/developments/frankston-vic-3199">student accommodation</a> utilises Cross-laminated timber (CLT) imported from Italy. CLT is a cost-effective material which is hard-wearing and requires significantly less labour than regular construction materials such as steel or concrete and is estimated to halve embodied carbon in the building as opposed to a concrete structure.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/monashpeninsula_handover_017_a3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Interior use of cross-laminated timber. Credit: Jackson Clements Burrows"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monashpeninsula_handover_017_a3.jpg?itok=PRbgv5lv" title="Interior use of cross-laminated timber. Credit: Jackson Clements Burrows" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Interior use of cross-laminated timber. Credit: Jackson Clements Burrows</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
"We are thrilled with the innovative building and architectural technologies that are being applied to the student Halls of Residence at the Peninsula campus. The design and build processes have been accompanied by a determination to get every detail correct for the Peninsula Campus to have a landmark architectural initiative with unparalleled sustainability goals."

- Professor David Copolov, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Monash University
</blockquote>

Multiplex began construction in March last year, and within 12 months the building was completed and now features 150 single-occupancy units across six levels, including communal kitchens and games rooms for student use. Multiplex has extensive experience constructing progressive student accommodation and a long partnership with Monash University – completing their $145 million student accommodation precinct in 2016, the new $206 million Learning and Teaching Building and recently the $81 million Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building in Clayton.

<blockquote>
"We are thrilled to deliver this innovative student accommodation and continue our collaboration with Monash University. Student accommodation combines our skills in delivering quality residential developments with our experience in working in busy, live education environments.”

- Graham Cottam, Regional Managing Director Multiplex Victoria
</blockquote>

ESD consultants were employed to ensure the building reached a world-recognised Passivhaus sustainable building certification. The Passivhaus certification focuses on health and performance-based buildings to ensure resident comfort, as well as maintaining ultra-low energy use. The reduction of energy cost also makes the accommodation option more financially viable for students.

Other sustainability measures taken include the installation of solar panels which line the building’s roof, rainwater harvesting systems and the creation of a dry creek bed to manage stormwater flows and to connect the natural waterways of the campus.

The design is entirely electric, which again is in line with the University’s net zero carbon emission strategy.

Monash Peninsula's vision:

<blockquote>
“Peninsula campus will evolve as a vibrant ‘hillside’ university town, defined by the unique relationship between its compelling native landscape and topography, and its world-leading, next generation learning environments. 

Monash Peninsula will continue to be an industry leader in education and research, with a focus on Allied Health. The campus will build strong partnerships with the Hospital precinct and positive connections with the wider Frankston community. 

Easily accessed by public transport, the campus will support a diverse student population, day and night, and become a unique educational and cultural destination for the surrounding regions and the greater Monash family of campuses. Urban resilience and adaptability are core principles of the Masterplan, demonstrating the University’s commitment to sustainability and net zero emissions.”
</blockquote>

Learn more about the <a href="/news/monash-university-refreshes-its-20-year-campus-master-plans">Monash Masterplan</a>.
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Monash Peninsula opens Passivhaus-accredited student housing

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Universities across Australia are seeing a rapid increase in student enrolments, with Australia maintaining 18 ‘top-10 departments’ year-on-year in the <a href="https://www.universityworldnews.com/post.php?story=20190227163050382">QS World University Rankings</a>. The current number of international student enrolments alone <a href="https://www.austrade.gov.au/Australian/Education/Services/Australian-International-Education-2025/growth-and-opportunity">has been forecast to grow from 650,000 to 940,000 by 2025</a>, with a collective total of <a href="https://www.universitiesaustralia.edu.au/australias-universities/key-facts-and-data#.XJF65y2B21s">over 1.5 million domestic and international students nationwide</a> this year. This prolific growth has encouraged universities such as Monash to put an infrastructure plan in place to cope with future demand. 

The Monash University Master Plan has been commissioned to prevent a range of disjointed projects taking place, and instead provide a sense of order and cohesion, while a streamlined build schedule aims to mitigate disruption to students and faculty.

Jocelyn Chiew was appointed the position of Manager of Campus Design, Quality and Planning at Monash in 2012 and has been in charge of devising the masterplan and design of the campuses.

<blockquote>
“[Monash’s] main campus at Clayton was infected with a particularly bad case of “carpark-itis,” a legacy brought about by its outer-suburban location and lack of public transport connections. Its other major campus, at Caulfield, while better connected to public transport, was a hodgepodge of streets and disconnected buildings that had been either acquired or developed with little attention given to the spaces in between.”

- Jocelyn Chiew via <a href="https://landscapeaustralia.com/articles/jocelyn-chiew-shaping-the-future-campus/">Landscape Australia</a>
</blockquote>

Construction is now underway at Clayton, Caulfield, Parkville and Peninsula Campuses, with a future goal to provide a light rail service to link the outer suburban campuses.

A partnership with ClimateWorks Australia will also see Monash attain net zero carbon emissions by 2030.

The Monash Net Zero Initiative consists of 5 key pillars:

1. Energy Efficiency

2. Campus Electrification

3. Addressing residual emissions through offsetting

4. Deployment of on-site and off-site renewable energy

5. Sustainable microgrid

Check out what’s been happening at all four Monash campuses since Urban's <a href="/news/monash-university-refreshes-its-caulfield-master-plan-for-2017-2030">previous Masterplan update last year</a>. 

<h2>Clayton Campus</h2>

VISION:

<blockquote>
“In 2030, Clayton campus will be connected and central to the Monash National Employment and Innovation Cluster, a dynamic world leading hub of enterprise, research and innovation. 

Clayton campus will be a showcase campus: a leader in education and research, distinguished by world-class environmentally sustainable infrastructure, design and landscapes. 

The campus’ success will be built on vibrant learning and research neighbourhoods with distinct identities, integrated with iconic campus landscapes and linked to surrounding communities.”
</blockquote>

THE DETAILS:

<ul>
<li>Bush Projects and Kennedy Nolan on board to design a new Maths Learning Centre</li>
	<li>New Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building by DCM</li>
	<li>The construction of Monash University’s largest solar array, situated above the campus carpark with a capacity of 740 kilowatts peak (enough to power 430 houses per year)</li>
	<li>Peter Elliott’s 130-seat Sound Gallery and 200-seat Jazz Club and Café is nearing completion at Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts </li>
	<li>New tram route connecting Clayton campus to Chadstone</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/monash3.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash3.jpg?itok=HeSry_tY" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Monash University’s largest solar array. Credit: Instagram/@monashmasterplan</figcaption></figure><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/monash5.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="724" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash5.jpg?itok=2lu7lkY4" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sound Gallery and 200-seat Jazz Club and Café. Credit: Instagram/@monashmasterplan</figcaption></figure><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/monash6.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="725" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash6.jpg?itok=Vl7Irj1r" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building by DCM. Credit: Instagram/@monashmasterplan</figcaption></figure><h2>Caulfield Campus</h2>

VISION

<blockquote>
“In 2030, Caulfield campus will be a well-connected, multi-disciplinary hub of excellence and innovation. 

The campus will connect students, educators and the wider community to generate knowledge, inspiration, and collaboration in all aspects of learning, teaching and research. 

The Campus Green, as part of a network of high quality public spaces, will promote a collegiate environment that welcomes visitors into the campus. Built form will be integrated to that context, resulting in a vibrant, compelling and highly accessible campus experience.”
</blockquote>

THE DETAILS:

<ul>
<li>Construction of a lecture theatre and the rebuild of Mamaduke Cafe (now Sable Drop)</li>
	<li>Caulfield Library designed by John Wardle Architects was awarded best in academic libraries category at the 2019 Australian Library Design Awards. The judges described the refurbishment as, “visually and physically connected with the campus... a light, safe and secure focal point for campus users, day and night.” </li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/monash9.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="725" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash9.jpg?itok=24Q5YZkM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction of lecture theatre/rebuild of Mamaduke Cafe. Credit: Instagram/@monashmasterplan</figcaption></figure><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/monash7.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash7.jpg?itok=-dgEfEiD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Caulfield Library, by John Wardle Architects and TCL Studio. Credit: Instagram/@monashmasterplan</figcaption></figure><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/monash4.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="724" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash4.jpg?itok=EUl4OziS" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Caulfield Library. Credit: Instagram/@monashmasterplan</figcaption></figure><h2>Parkville Campus</h2>

VISION

<blockquote>
“Monash Parkville will be a beacon for academic excellence and pioneering research – unique to, and integrated with, the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct and its parkland context. 

Campus environments will embody and foster world-leading innovation, collaboration and partnership, in pharmacy and pharmaceutical science.”
</blockquote>

THE DETAILS:

<ul>
<li>An impressive transformation of a disused space has created an inviting and revitalised environment</li>
	<li>The refurbishment of the Lecturer Theatre Block tutorial rooms</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/monash10.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash10.jpg?itok=M932B__R" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Parkville Courtyard designed by BKK Architects. Credit: Instagram/@monashmasterplan</figcaption></figure><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/monash11.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="580" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash11.jpg?itok=MjxZ6RdA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Refurbishment of the Lecturer Theatre Block tutorial rooms. Credit: Instagram/@monashpharm</figcaption></figure><h2>Peninsula Campus</h2>

VISION

<blockquote>
“Peninsula campus will evolve as a vibrant ‘hillside’ university town, defined by the unique relationship between its compelling native landscape and topography, and its world-leading, next generation learning environments. 

Monash Peninsula will continue to be an industry leader in education and research, with a focus on Allied Health. The campus will build strong partnerships with the Hospital precinct and positive connections with the wider Frankston community. 

Easily accessed by public transport, the campus will support a diverse student population, day and night, and become a unique educational and cultural destination for the surrounding regions and the greater Monash family of campuses. Urban resilience and adaptability are core principles of the Masterplan, demonstrating the University’s commitment to sustainability and net zero emissions.”
</blockquote>

THE DETAILS:

<ul>
<li>Upper Deck Cafe and Lounge by Sibling Architecture</li>
	<li>Refurbishment of the Nursing and Midwifery School</li>
	<li>Highly sustainable student accommodation has been created using cross-laminated timber</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/monash8.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="434" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash8.jpg?itok=2gbcOVF6" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Upper Deck Cafe and Lounge by Sibling Architecture. Credit: Instagram/@monashmasterplan</figcaption></figure><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/monash2.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="434" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash2.jpg?itok=ji4Um-LC" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Refurbishment of the Nursing and Midwifery School. Credit: Instagram/@monashmasterplan</figcaption></figure><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/monash1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="434" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash1.jpg?itok=ydCWVcdQ" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>New student accommodation at Peninsula campus. Credit: Instagram/@monashmasterplan</figcaption></figure>Stay tuned for more Monash University updates throughout 2019.
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Monash University refreshes its 20-year Campus Master Plans

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Following the completion of a recent spate of major capital works projects, Monash University has taken the opportunity to revisit the 2011-2030 Master Plan for its Caulfield Campus. To this end, the University engaged, a team of consultants comprising designers and engineers, in December 2016, to deliver the Caulfield Campus Masterplan Update. 

The need to revisit and refresh the Master Plan arose largely due to the significant changes which have occurred in the precinct since the adoption of the Caulfield Campus Masterplan 2011-2030, requiring the University to reassess its strategies and priorities, allowing it to better adapt to new trends and challenges which the Campus faces. 

The Caulfield Campus Masterplan Update provides a vision and framework for the physical development of the campus over the next twenty years. It outlines how the University will be improving its education facilities, offering students better services and more transport options, creating higher quality green spaces, and improving the sustainability and adaptability of our campuses.

<blockquote>
In 2030, Caulfield campus will be a well-connected, multi-disciplinary hub of excellence and innovation. The campus will connect students, educators and the wider community to generate knowledge, inspiration, and collaboration in all aspects of learning, teaching and research. The Campus Green, as part of a network of high quality public spaces, will promote a collegiate environment that welcomes visitors into the campus. Built form will be integrated to that context resulting in a vibrant, compelling and highly accessible campus experience.

- Caulfield Campus Vision
</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/caulfield_campus_green_tcl.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The now completed Caulfield Campus Green - a key project of the 2011-2030 Master Plan. Image: Taylor Cullity Lethlean"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="398" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/caulfield_campus_green_tcl.jpg?itok=LxQdKhOG" title="The now completed Caulfield Campus Green - a key project of the 2011-2030 Master Plan. Image: Taylor Cullity Lethlean" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The now completed Caulfield Campus Green - a key project of the 2011-2030 Master Plan. Image: Taylor Cullity Lethlean</figcaption></figure>The Master Plan will assist the University in the planning, design and physical development of the Caulfield Campus towards delivering high-quality environments which benefit students, staff, visitors and the greater community.

It aims to create a vibrant, welcoming and sustainable campus at Caulfield, and to achieve this development needs to be carefully curated. The Master Plan also provides a 20-year vision and framework for the physical development of Monash University's Caulfield Campus.

The Master Plan ensures that Monash University is creating the highest quality environments that support and stimulate education and research, and increase connectivity with the broader community.

<h2>Core Principles of the Master Plan:</h2>

<ol>
<li>Connecting with students, educators and the wider economy, enterprise and community</li>
	<li>Internationally focused </li>
	<li>Maximising development for core learning and teaching spaces</li>
	<li>A sustainable and resilient Campus</li>
	<li>Creating a Campus 'heart'</li>
	<li>A safe and vibrant night time experience which supports extended hours</li>
	<li>A unifying, porous and active public realm</li>
	<li>New types of informal learning, teaching and gathering space </li>
</ol>
To support the vision of the Master Plan and deliver on the ambitions of creating "a well-connected, multi-disciplinary hub of excellence and innovation"  a number of key projects and moves are proposed including;

<ul>
<li>A new landmark building (B1)</li>
	<li>Enhanced links to Derby Road and surrounding community</li>
	<li>A new station gateway - Station Plaza</li>
	<li>A new sheltered western hub</li>
	<li>Integrated sustainable infrastructure</li>
	<li>A network of informal learning and gathering spaces (B3)</li>
	<li>An integrated public realm</li>
	<li>A pedestrian oriented Sir John Monash Drive</li>
	<li>A new southern concourse</li>
	<li>Adaptation of the existing concourse structure</li>
</ul>
The Univeristy has identified a number of major external developments which are either underway or in different stages of planning, including Caulfield Village and the possible future development of Melbourne Racing Club

Additionally, Caulfield Station will be redeveloped and with the potential to extend to accommodate longer high-capacity metro trains as part of the Cranbourne- Pakenham Line upgrade.

<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/monash_caulfield_plan.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Monash's Master Plan guiding development 2017-2030. Image : NH Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash_caulfield_plan.png?itok=5hR4ulhD" title="Monash's Master Plan guiding development 2017-2030. Image : NH Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Monash's Master Plan - guiding development 2017-2030. Image : NH Architecture</figcaption></figure>Major redevelopment work is set to commence on the western precinct once Coles supermarket’s lease in Caulfield Plaza expires in August 2020. In the intervening period, the University will undertake the necessary planning processes, stakeholder engagement and feasibility studies in preparation for commencement of works once the current lease expires, facilitating redevelopment of the site for Building B1.

<h2>CONSULTANT TEAM</h2>

<ul>
<li>Lead Consultant: NH ARCHITECTURE</li>
	<li>Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Structural, ESD, Facilities, Wind &amp; Thermal Comfort, Fire Protection, Hydraulics: AECOM</li>
	<li>Landscape Architects: Aspect Studios</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineers: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Community Consultants: Capire</li>
	<li>Geotechnical Investigation: NSP Geotechnics</li>
	<li>Heritage Consultants: GJM Heritage</li>
</ul>
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Laurence Dragomir

Monash University Refreshes its Caulfield Master Plan for 2017-2030

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Multiplex has completed the new $225 million Learning and Teaching Building at Monash University, delivering a new education space to the Clayton campus.
The project includes a new regional transport interchange and a state of the art four-level building with innovative learning spaces, providing a new front door experience for all visitors.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/3/14/Monash_LTB_INTERIOR_FINAL_18_WEB_preview.jpeg" alt="">
Designed by architects John Wardle Architects, the Learning and Teaching Building provides a total of 29,227 square metres of formal and informal learning space as well as contemporary staff workspace.
It aims to facilitate learning across all disciplines and will also be home to the Faculty of Education and the Office of Learning and Teaching.
An innovative design element is a revolutionary learning space known as 'The Kiln' which features a series of large brick-clad areas suspended above ground level so students can occupy them underneath, imitating an amplified conversation pit.
Construction was completed ahead of schedule with the building ready to be utilised by students for the 2018 academic year.
Last year Multiplex completed Monash University’s $145 million student accommodation precinct comprising four new residential buildings and providing a combined total of more than 1,000 studio apartments, with associated retail and student informal learning spaces. 
The contractor has also been responsible for delivering some of the most high-profile and technically advanced education facilities in Victoria including the $200 million Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), Swanston Academic Building in Melbourne’s CBD and the $100 million Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning Building (FABP) in Parkville. 
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/3/14/Monash_LTB_INTERIOR_FINAL_33_WEB_preview.jpeg" alt="">
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Multiplex finish construction of $225 million building at Monash University

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Multiplex will build the $81 million Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building for Monash University at its Clayton campus.
Designed by architects Denton Corker Marshall, the new building will provide a total of 11,400 square metres of learning space for Biomedical Science students.
Graham Cottam, Regional Managing Director Multiplex Victoria. said the are delighted to continue our ongoing collaboration with Monash University and play a pivotal role in its vision for higher education through delivering revolutionary learning spaces,” said 
Laboratories are built around a central area with smaller-scale labs for 60 to 120 students. The four laboratories can also be combined to provide a space for up to 240 students.
The Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building will also feature a 1,200 square metre informal hub that can accommodate 400 students.
Some labs will be built to Physical Containment Level 2 (PC2) and the façade will be pressure tested.
A hanging steel staircase that will be suspended from a skylight truss and connect the various levels of the facility.
Construction of the Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building is set to commence immediately. The project is scheduled for completion in November, 2018.
 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Multiplex to build Monash University $81 million Biomedical Learning Building

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Monash University's Clayton campus will receive yet another noteworthy academic building, this time by way of the new Monash Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building (BLTB)

Joining a string of highly meritorious contemporary designs across the campus, BLTB is another design feather in the cap of Monash's Clayton campus which has undergone intensive redevelopment over the past five years. Denton Corker Marshall has created the new building which is valued in excess of $100 million.

Research Way's old Pharmacology building has been demolished as the process to select a builder continues. Eventually, BLTB will cater for undergraduate students studying biomedical sciences. 

<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/image168_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The new Monash Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building. Images: DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="255" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image168_0.jpg?itok=tE0OSf3S" title="The new Monash Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building. Images: DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The new Monash Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building. Images: DCM</figcaption></figure>Spanning 10,000sqm of new built form, BLTB's facade will carry a distinctive glazing to its eastern and western flanks.

<blockquote>
The new building incorporates an innovative pedagogical solution in four Flexi Labs.  The ‘L’ shaped labs wrap around a central glazed satellite prep area providing smaller scaled, more personable lab space for cohorts of 60, 120 or interlinked space for up to 240 students, visually connected as one. 

This enables teaching and learning of multiple subjects concurrently and independently in a uniquely Monash solution.

The facility also includes a 1,200sqm informal Learning Hub accommodating 440 students.  With an average of 90 informal learning seats per floor, the Hub provides spaces for quiet, self-directed learning as well as, larger, more active group settings.
<cite>Denton Corker Marshall</cite>
</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/plaza-1_low-res.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Monash Learning and Teaching Building. Image: Multiplex"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/plaza-1_low-res.jpg?itok=i_qDFCO1" title="The Monash Learning and Teaching Building. Image: Multiplex" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Monash Learning and Teaching Building. Image: Multiplex</figcaption></figure>BLTB is the latest in Monash University's capital expenditure program that has seen vast swathes of the Clayton campus redeveloped in recent years. Major builds delivered include six separate student housing buildings, New Horizons, the Green Chemical Futures building, The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts and the Learning and Teaching Building.

The latter duo is currently under construction, with the Learning and Teaching Building targeting a Green Building Council of Australia’s ‘5-star As-Built’ rating.

Designed by John Wardle Architects, it includes more than 60 formal and informal learning and teaching spaces set above an extensive basement car park and also delivers a new transport interchange and frontage to Wellington Road.

Likely to grace the Clayton campus next is a new Technology Education Building, with Grimshaw Architects reportedly involved with the design.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image169_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Chemical futures, student residences &amp; New Horizons. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="545" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image169_0.jpg?itok=rnLLvdgT" title="Chemical futures, student residences &amp; New Horizons. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Green Chemical Futures, student residences &amp; New Horizons.</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Monash Clayton facilitates another grand design gesture

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Multiplex has been appointed to deliver the $206 million Learning and Teaching Building for Monash University.
It includes a large underground carpark and regional transport interchange in the multi-story 30,000 square metre facility.
The brief was undertaken by architect John Wardle to feature a new front door experience for all visitors arriving at the University through a new transport interchange.
Construction of the new facility is underway and is scheduled for completion in February, 2018.
Multiplex also recently completed Monash University’s $145 million student accommodation precinct, comprising four new residential buildings providing a combined total of more than 1,000 studio apartments, with associated retail and student informal learning spaces.
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Multiplex appointed to build visionary Monash University building

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Monash University's Clayton Campus has had cause to become a regular on Apartments.com.au owing to the volume of new buildings delivered across the sprawling campus over the past five years, and the calibre of design associated with these recent additions.

The latest addition was revealed yesterday with $45 million seeded to create a new performance centre. Dubbed the The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts, major funding contributions for the project will see $5 million from The Ian Potter Foundation and $10 million from the Victorian Government.

Included within the project is a revamped 586-seat Alexander Theatre, a 130-seat Sound Gallery, 200-seat Jazz Club and extensive surrounding landscaping. The Jazz Club will be a multipurpose facility, acting as a cafe during daytime hours.

<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/image72_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cafe by day, club by night. Image: Monash University"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="298" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image72_1.jpg?itok=Nnf7VOGb" title="Cafe by day, club by night. Image: Monash University" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cafe by day, club by night. Image: Monash University</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The investment by the Victorian Government aids in transforming the Alexander Theatre into a versatile and truly contemporary performance space, strengthening its historical and cultural significance in the Greater Melbourne region. The Ian Potter Foundation has shown us such extraordinary support, not just for our current and ongoing projects, but for our vision and has allowed us to pursue our ambition with our new performing arts precinct.

The Minister for Training and Skills the Hon Steve Herbert MLC said the redevelopment will ensure the campus will remain an exciting community destination for arts and cultural activity in Melbourne’s south-east. This redevelopment isn’t just a win for the staff and students of Monash University; it’s a win for the local community who will also have access to the state-of-the-art facilities.
<cite>Professor Margaret Gardner AO, President and Vice-Chancellor, Monash University</cite>
</blockquote>

The project is the work of Peter Elliott Architecture and Urban Design, and continues Monash University's path toward improved design and greater campus diversification. According to the institution, 600,000 non-student visitors utilised the University's facilities last year.

Slated to open during early 2018, The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts joins a number of current and recently completed projects across the Clayton campus. Peter Elliott Architecture is also behind the redesign of <a href="http://peterelliott.com.au/projects/urban-design/the-forum">The Forum</a> which runs through the heart of the campus, while John Wardle Architects have created <a href="http://www.johnwardlearchitects.com/projects/project/96-learning-teaching-building">The Learning &amp; Teaching Building</a>, which is currently under construction and abuts the new performing arts centre.

<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/image71_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Learning &amp; Teaching Building. Image: John Wardle Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image71_3.jpg?itok=C7S26Mt4" title="The Learning &amp; Teaching Building. Image: John Wardle Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Learning &amp; Teaching Building. Image: John Wardle Architects</figcaption></figure>Designated as the new gateway to the University, The Learning &amp; Teaching Building will host a number of faculties and act as the University's main teaching facility.

<blockquote>
The Learning &amp; Teaching Building demonstrates a shift away from the modernist stand-alone tower, instead incorporating a horizontal field of spaces set within a broad, low rise building. The learning activities of the interior are, in this way, made visible and accessible to the wider campus and community, rather than removed from the ground in a vertical structure.

Streets, courtyards, bridges, balconies and stairs are transformed into ravines, clearings, strands, perches, escarpments and amphitheatres that are choreographed to invent a new landscape of the interior.
<cite>John Wardle Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

Over recent years, Apartments.com.au has had cause to highlight the impressive and diverse architecture on show at Monash University Clayton. <a href="/news/a-lyons-masterclass">New Horizons</a> began the ball rolling, and was followed by the <a href="/news/green-chemical-futures-another-lyons-marvel">Green Chemical Futures Building</a>. Thereafter <a href="/news/monash-clayton-continues-to-evolve-with-another-new-construction-program">multiple student accommodation buildings</a> were built, effectively remodelling a large section of the campus and creating a new urban walk in the process.

The latter follow on from the BVN Architecture-designed Briggs &amp; Jackomos student housing halls which collected multiple awards, both locally 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/image79_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Assorted recent additions to Monash University Clayton "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_2.jpg?itok=PqiOHFav" title="Assorted recent additions to Monash University Clayton " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assorted recent additions to Monash University Clayton</figcaption></figure>
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