A wave of investment, renewal and precinct growth continues to shape the northern edge of Macquarie Park, where daily life is supported by a rare combination of university activity, corporate employment, major retail, and expansive green corridors. It’s this convergence of amenity and connectivity underpins the setting for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a>, which has now topped out and is tracking toward completion in mid-2026.

Within this pocket of the precinct, residents move easily between the area’s key anchors. Macquarie Centre, home to more than 360 retailers, fresh food offerings, dining and entertainment, sits at the heart of local convenience and functions as a major transport interchange. The Metro, T1 rail line and extensive bus network place much of Sydney within quick reach, while surrounding arterial links support direct access to neighbouring districts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=5829]

Green space remains a defining feature of the immediate environment. Lane Cove National Park stretches along the northern boundary of the precinct, offering bushland trails, cycling routes and quiet riverfront pockets. Shrimptons Creek and the campus grounds of Macquarie University extend these recreational networks, softening the urban setting and creating a daily connection to nature that informs the project’s architectural response.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> have shaped La Vera around these contrasts. The building’s northern elevation adopts an organic, curvilinear form that mirrors the natural topography of the national park. Three sculpted forms soften the tower’s profile and encourage a stronger transition between indoor living areas, balconies and the broader landscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=223737]

Cox Director Felipe Miranda says the building’s outlook played a central role in the design process.

“The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park… The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies,” Felipe Miranda of Cox Architecture said.

Toward the city-facing side, the design shifts to a more urban expression. A gridded facade and extensive glazing capture CBD views, creating a dual strategy that blends ecological outlooks with metropolitan orientation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=5827]

La Vera delivers 169 residences across one- to four-bedroom layouts, reflecting the needs of young families, downsizers, first-home buyers and investors seeking long-term certainty within a high-amenity location. From the project, residents can walk to Macquarie University, Macquarie Hospital and nearby corporate offices, reach national park trails within minutes, and enjoy retail and dining without relying on a car.

The project is delivered by Urban Property Group, a 4.5-star iCIRT-rated developer-builder with more than three decades of experience. The company has become a leader in adopting 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), first introduced on its Parq Bexley development and now embedded into its pipeline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=223727]

La Vera is the first development in Macquarie Park approved to offer this 10-year LDI policy, adding another layer of protection for purchasers and reinforcing the transparency of the construction process.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias says this assurance has become increasingly important for buyers navigating the off-the-plan market.

“Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been… Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share,” Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said.

Urban Property Group's in-house construction team is forecasting a mid-2026 completion, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/home789">HOME789</a> appointed as the project marketer.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

Staff Writer

La Vera delivers a nature-connected address within Macquarie Park’s core

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA</a>&nbsp;doesn’t just rise over North Sydney, it redefines it. Now in its final release, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>’s $1 billion architectural statement is not just complete, but already reshaping the way people live, connect and dine in this rapidly evolving harbourside CBD.

Positioned beside the new Victoria Cross Metro Station and boasting panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, Aura’s 386 residences crown a mixed-use precinct designed with unapologetic ambition. The curvaceous sandstone-inspired form by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, paired with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richard Stanisich</a>’s understated interiors, sets a design tone that’s both monumental and intimate.

At its peak, literally, the two penthouses so spectacular they command their own names; La Davina and Il Magnate. The residents are spread across the&nbsp;entire top floor, offering what many consider the most refined residences ever built in North Sydney. Designed by Richard and Kirsten Stanisich, each four-bedroom home is meticulously crafted to evoke calm, space, and permanence.&nbsp;

<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/VB70993aG-I?si=adRBlXQliYmYvaSz" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The kitchens are fully wrapped in natural stone, with integrated Gaggenau appliances, Sub-Zero fridges, concealed sculleries, and even a zip hydro tap delivering boiling, chilled and sparkling water on demand. A linear stone fireplace anchors the open-plan living space, dividing lounge and dining zones with quiet sophistication.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292861]

The master suite, meanwhile, feels more like a private retreat, complete with a custom stone makeup vanity, walk-through dressing area, and spa-inspired ensuite with heated stone floors, a freestanding Villeroy &amp; Boch tub, and timber veneer joinery throughout.

Kirsten Stanisich, Director of Richards Stanisich, said the penthouses offer incredible scale reflective of a single residence.&nbsp;

“We sought inspiration for these remarkable residences from the classic top-floor Parisian apartment," Stanisich said.

"We looked at what made these French apartments so elegant and found it really came down to their scale. It was ultimately this generosity of space that we used for the AURA penthouses, where we’ve designed considered rooms with deep large-scale proportions."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

Everyday living at Aura feels no less elevated. A dedicated 24-hour concierge, Technogym fitness centre, sky dining terraces, and a resort-style pool serve a lifestyle designed to rival luxury hotels.

At street level, Aqualand’s own hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, curates a precinct of LA-style bistros, Japanese fine dining, and local wine bars, all seamlessly integrated into the building’s sculptural podium.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

This final chapter, aptly dubbed The Finale, is more than a sales phase, it’s an invitation to two of the most exclusive apartments ever to be built in North Sydney.

With limited residences remaining, buyers can access curated incentives including stamp duty rebates, rental guarantees, legal fee coverage, and even $20,000 towards dining within the precinct.

From generous one-bedders to The Icons, two singular penthouses priced well into prestige territory, Aura’s offerings reflect a scale and calibre rarely seen in urban Sydney. And with move-in now immediate, this is no longer a promise of future luxury. It’s happening.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Aqualand unveils penthouse collection at AURA By Aqualand in North Sydney

There’s no sign of the development wave that began several years ago slowing along Old Burleigh Road.

Around 10 new apartment developments are either underway or preparing to launch along the 800-metre strip stretching from the southern edge of Surfers Paradise towards the heart of Broadbeach, collectively adding just shy of 1,000 new apartments to the beachfront corridor.

The latest plans propose a further 30 apartments to replace an original six-unit walk-up on a 658 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/20a-old-burleigh-road-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">20A Old Burleigh Road</a>. The 14-storey building has been designed by Ferro Chow Architecture, which recently joined the Elevation Architecture Group.

The developer behind the project is Geoffrey Booth, whose Future Liv In has focused on delivering rental accommodation across regional Australia.

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99d393e7-d404-43bc-80cb-6255c39b83d6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ZFT8F3mOny4M4ut.kFF3woC9WH9oR5gT" />

The Old Burleigh Road development will comprise 18 two-bedroom apartments, 10 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom residence occupying the entirety of level 12. Above, the building will be crowned by a two-storey penthouse with its own private lift, several multi-purpose rooms, and two rooftop terraces — one featuring a puppy lawn and spa, the other offering a private swimming pool, sunset deck, and built-in barbecue.

Resident amenities will be located on the second level and include a pool with adjoining spa, cabana, and pool deck, along with an indoor residents’ lounge featuring a bar and an alfresco barbecue kitchen.

In the architectural statement submitted by Elevation Architecture, the project is referred to as “UMI”, which the firm says has been “inspired by the majestic hinterlands and shaped by the coastal climate”.

“It is an exemplar of how community living can still feel at one with nature, breathable, and deeply connected in place,” the architects noted.

They added that the site benefits from established building separation to adjoining towers, helping to maintain privacy, sunlight, and residential amenity, while still offering direct beach access within an urban setting.

“Drawing inspiration from the Gold Coast hinterlands and the region’s natural landscape, the podium and tower detail highlights the contrasting elements of treetop green and cliff-face peach. The vibrant texture and materiality shaped by time has a richness in depth and character.”

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3d6c923-a0ab-4d74-86da-177313447e8e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.38%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=i2fygmoVQM6hWpbATTAW_yTitoMTrnI1" />

Old Burleigh Road has become a hotspot for developers, with the three-tower Jewel development kickstarting a wave of projects up and down the strip when it was completed in 2020.

Currently under construction and approaching completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/faro-broadbeach-123-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">FARO Broadbeach</a> by 5Point and Bottega, 21 large-scale half- and full-floor apartments. 5Point is also behind the recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumara-108-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Lumara</a>, another 37 apartments to add to the pipeline.

Luxury builder GRAYA is progressing construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/enclave-by-graya-118-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Enclave</a>, its first Gold Coast tower, while Polycell remains the most active developer on the street. They are preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sandpiper-broadbeach-155-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Sandpiper</a>, a 50-storey redevelopment of the former Sandpiper Holiday Resort that will deliver around 200 apartments alongside extensive resident amenity. The group also has another 130-apartment project approved nearby, as does <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/dvb-approved-for-second-broadbeach-apartment-development">Dean Gallagher’s DVB Projects</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Old Burleigh Road apartment development wave continues

Sunshine Coast developer Habitat Development Group continues to position itself as one of the region’s largest new apartment developers.

Its latest project is in Maroochydore, where it is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-millwell-2-millwell-road-east-maroochydore-qld-4558">The Millwell</a>. Adjacent to the new 53-hectare Maroochydore City Centre project, Habitat is planning a further 180 apartments on a 3,468 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/132-136-aerodrome-road-maroochydore-qld-4558">132–136 Aerodrome Road</a>. The site was purchased with approval for a smaller 13-storey, 103-unit building.

Habitat will demolish the two existing retail centres, currently home to the Salvation Army Family Store and Neighbours Aid, and replace them with an 18-storey building featuring the significant rooftop amenities that have become a hallmark of Habitat developments in recent years. The rooftop will include both indoor and outdoor spaces, anchored by an infinity swimming pool.

<img alt="Maroochydore" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad434d07-666b-4614-b33e-530ad6a2d261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.33%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7pyLsPWKQuwv0us3_v.9DmbzEc2VZe9Z" />

There will be a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments.

The Development Assessment Report, submitted to the Sunshine Coast Council, says the proposal&nbsp;is not speculative, but a response to both zoning intent and demonstrated housing need.

“The proposed development represents an appropriate and logical intensification of the site, consistent with the planning framework and the intended urban outcomes for the locality.”

Across the Sunshine Coast, councils are increasingly scrutinising not just height or yield, but whether new projects genuinely align with the long-term structure plans underpinning growth corridors. The&nbsp;ASTP Planning Report&nbsp;reinforces the approach, noting that the project has been shaped around site responsiveness rather than generic typology.

“The development has been designed to respond to the physical constraints and opportunities of the site, while delivering a high-quality residential outcome that integrates with the existing and emerging urban context.”

<img alt="Habitat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a03fc54-4ca5-4868-88d0-eeced70604e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.28%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=1pkK3lJrrZjkghTLBReM2zatcas4Nc4B" />

In mid-2025, Habitat, a developer that also builds its own projects, commenced construction on The Millwell, located just over one kilometre from the new proposal. The Millwell will comprise more than 200 apartments across two eight-storey buildings.

Habitat also has two projects on Lake Kawana in Birtinya: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-clair-birtinya-930-931-waterside-retreat-birtinya-qld-4575">St Clair</a>, a 200-unit, two-building development launched last year and set to welcome buyers this year; and Esperance, a 175-apartment project currently progressing through the development approval process.

First look: Habitat continues to bolster Sunshine Coast apartment pipeline with Maroochydore development plans

John Camilleri, the breeder of legendary racehorse Winx, is set to deliver a landmark two-tower beachfront development that would redefine the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Camilleri, who spent around $100 million acquiring development sites across the Gold Coast in 2025, has lodged plans for two new towers on the dress-circle stretch of Garfield Terrace, just two days before Christmas.

In assembling the site, Camilleri's Celestino Developments has effectively acquired the 71 Garfield project by Iris Capital and AALTO by Weiya Holdings, creating an unrivalled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">4,000 sqm beachfront holding along Garfield Terrace</a>.

The proposal comprises two residential towers of 55 and 48 storeys, linked by a dramatic skybridge which will home “exclusive VIP and wellness amenities.”

In total, the development would deliver 275 two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments across the two towers, rising above a shared landscaped podium that incorporates a central green space and a beachfront swimming pool stretching more than 90 metres.

<img alt="DBI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="097900f3-6bef-4919-b168-b08f2f762876" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.37.58%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=et0SpmcvaPPVrexI_zWi46BVFtZBxAzx" />

Architecture firm DBI, in documents submitted to Gold Coast City Council, said the project at 63–79 Garfield Terrace would “establish a new benchmark for beachfront residential living on the Gold Coast.”

"The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience. Together, the 48-storey North Tower and 55-storey South Tower form a distinctive twin-tower composition whose dynamic silhouette will make a significant contribution to the Surfers Paradise skyline."

DBI said the architectural language draws inspiration from the fluidity and movement of the coastal landscape.

"Each tower is defined by organic, curving forms and continuous balcony ribbons that wrap the buildings, providing deep shading, enhancing environmental performance, and reinforcing the rhythmic, sculptural expression of the façade. These balcony forms also reduce the apparent mass of the towers while maintaining strong visual continuity from podium to summit. Sculpted reflective downturns run along the western spine of both towers, shifting and lifting as they extend upwards to frame service zones and open eastward to maximise ocean views."

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2a00ce3-a0e9-45d6-b4b5-b7baed592ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.40%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=DnruWV1dhLrtXOeElwekyd7vPq2gw55t" />

The project’s most striking feature is the skybridge at level 45, which will house executive lounges, formal dining spaces, wellness facilities and panoramic ocean-facing views.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI added.

The podium will host an extensive suite of recreational amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a large open green lawn, and the signature 90-metre pool stretching along the beachfront. The pool is divided into lap, lounge and children’s zones.

The southern end of the podium will accommodate additional wellness facilities, including a gymnasium, plunge pools, treatment rooms and a dedicated yoga lawn.

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee1b4f25-231f-4804-83b1-a573a1481962" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.55.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zObzIA3D5w7EwqPsHjr2pKrA4vbB28zL" />

There will be 127 apartments in the North Tower and 148 in the South Tower, including multiple penthouses, while the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages will be activated by a series of food and beverage tenancies.

Camilleri emerged as the most active site acquirer on the Gold Coast in 2025. He spent just over $30 million acquiring Pacific Point, a 10-level Surfers Paradise apartment block and an adjoining three-level duplex, from fellow racing identity and Aquis billionaire Tony Fung. Plans are now underway for a 93-apartment, 40-storey tower on the 1,682 sqm site.

He also paid $53.65 million for the 1,500 sqm Garfield Terrace site previously marketed as AALTO by Weiya Holdings, before acquiring the adjoining parcel from hotel billionaire Sam Arnaout’s Iris Capital, the developer behind V&amp;A Broadbeach.

First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge

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

max.kwok_55688

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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