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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

First Look: Develotek joins in Five Dock apartment boom

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

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

Twenty-five years after launching one of Australia’s most visionary and successful masterplanned beach communities - Casuarina on the Northern NSW Tweed Coast - developer Consolidated Properties Group has unveiled plans for an $800 million sister project located 10 kilometres south, at Cudgera Creek near the coastal town of Pottsville.

CPG has taken the wraps off Caldera, a 78-hectare masterplanned village that builds on the legacy of Casuarina and aims to help address Northern NSW’s coastal housing shortage via the delivery of 550 homes built in a sustainable manner and addressing affordability and housing diversity, while also focusing on architectural and ecological merit.

Caldera is being brought to life by the same creative team that delivered Casuarina, led by Consolidated Properties CEO and chairman Don O’Rorke, Hutchinson Builders chairman Scott Hutchinson and renowned urban designer Brian Toyota, of architectural practice Bureau Proberts.

CPG has lodged a rezoning application with Tweed Shire Council for the Caldera site, which has been designated since 1991 as the Dunloe Park Urban Release Area, the final land release area within the Pottsville locality and one of only four remaining growth areas along the entire Tweed coastal strip. Preliminary plans for Caldera feature a 13-hectare retail and commercial precinct at the core of the village, surrounded by meticulously planned residential areas comprising around 550 homesites.

The retail hub will be anchored by a Coles Supermarket and will offer 7000 sqm of retail and 23 commercial lots designed to serve the local community and bring together curated shopping, dining, gym, wellness, childcare, medical and other essential services.

<img alt="Cons prop" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fca7dc71-4b71-45b1-bb04-5a60bd7158d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-20%20at%208.34.04%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=vAKwIvLuwmTKj6blHJRYIEeXS_8lCgUx" />

The project will create more than 1500 jobs over its development cycle, according to its economic modelling, and significantly address the shortage of employment land in the Tweed.

The residential areas will encourage a sense of community via a cohesive urban design that encourages walking, cycling, enhanced resident connectivity and reduced reliance on cars via bike paths and pedestrian-friendly streets.

Homesites will include a range of options from premium ridge-top homes to affordable housing options, ensuring a community that is inclusive of different income levels and designed to appeal to a wide demographic from baby boomers to families, singles and professionals. Architectural and planting covenants on home building will support the village’s built form and protect its character.

O’Rorke says CPG intends Caldera to be a model project delivered efficiently in a dedicated urban release area and ‘very much for this region and for this time’.

“Our vision for Caldera is to create a modern coastal village with its own unique northern NSW identity,” he said.

“Building on our legacy of Casuarina, 25 years on, this new village is designed to stand apart, offering the future of modern living, balancing the natural beauty of the region with contemporary amenities and convenience.

“Caldera will be more than just a place to live - it will be a welcoming, inclusive coastal village neighbouring Pottsville that invites visitors and embraces new residents. With its strong ties to the land, vibrant lifestyle and sense of place, Caldera will set a new standard for village living in Northern NSW.”

<img alt="CPG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a5a7cf4-5f76-4ddf-bd05-c8fb77d0a787" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-20%20at%208.33.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=J1CzCGD7kE7fcAMd41V4pKAf_sI4L5Jv" />

The project’s centrepiece is environmental sustainability, with comprehensive wetlands protection measures and planting of native trees, parklands, village greens and communal grounds to enhance the natural beauty of the area.

CPG will also deliver a developer-funded wastewater treatment plant to ensure zero ocean outflows and provide high quality long-term infrastructure for Tweed Shire.

A key focus is wildlife management planning, including extensive conservation controls for the West Pottsville koala population, aligned with Tweed Shire Council’s Koala Plan of Management and designed to enhance koala habitat connectivity and future population growth.

Caldera will extend the existing koala corridor by connecting koala precincts west of the Pacific Highway with populations in the north and east precincts. A koala underpass will be created under Pottsville Road to complete the connection of this important corridor. Native tree plantings will expand essential koala food sources, while approximately eight kilometres of exclusion fencing will be constructed to safeguard the koalas from urban threats.

The Caldera site is nestled in the hills of Cudgera Creek and benefits from its rich natural surroundings including the Pottsville Wetland, Cudgera Creek Nature Reserve and nearby Pottsville Beach.

It takes its name from the surrounding Tweed Shield Volcano and Caldera, the vast bowl-shaped depression stretching from Byron Bay to the Queensland border that 20 million years ago was the world’s largest shield volcano and which has shaped the region’s striking landscape, with Mount Warning standing as one of its most iconic features.

The development is a joint venture between CPG and Pottsville Development Corporation, which made its first investment in Pottsville more than 45 years ago and is the developer of Black Rocks By the Sea, a masterplanned community now part of the fabric of Pottsville and which was the catalyst for the construction of a bridge across the Pottsville Estuary, providing direct access to the beach.

CPG’s $1.5 billion Casuarina Beach township, 10 kilometres to the north of Caldera, commenced construction in 2000 and has become the model for modern Australian, eco-sensitive beachside development.

Consolidated Properties unveils $800m coastal village Caldera in Casuarina

Multiplex

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Opulent in finish and enviable in location, these Chelsea Avenue residences capture breathtaking uninterrupted views including due North to the Surfers Paradise skyline and over the majestic blue waters of the South Pacific Ocean.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/southbank-place-60-kavanagh-street-southbank?utm_source=sms&amp;utm_medium=sms" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbank-place-60-kavanagh-street-southbank-e313aead709db5634e88bb71dfcffbca.jpg?itok=U9FhXY_q" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></a></figure>Superb appointments and contemporary elegance are features of these exclusive residences that take centre stage in the heart of Broadbeach.

Epicureans will appreciate the Smeg appliances and quality fixtures and fittings in the crafted stone kitchens, while ample bench space and generous storage perfectly marry style with function.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/southbank-place-60-kavanagh-street-southbank?utm_source=sms&amp;utm_medium=sms" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbank-place-60-kavanagh-street-southbank-64762f301894b1b18545e53300203852.jpg?itok=iqGNFp_D" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></a></figure>Intelligent architecture, custom joinery and superior finishes go further to create the perfect open plan living environment.

Enjoy the extension to your apartment in the tranquil two-level recreation deck. This is a residents-only haven that stitches together architecture and nature to create a leafy green backdrop to the enchanting apartments above.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/southbank-place-60-kavanagh-street-southbank?utm_source=sms&amp;utm_medium=sms" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbank-place-60-kavanagh-street-southbank-6d69daaa6df7545ad269a5b9347d91dc.jpg?itok=eGnUc4tu" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></a></figure>Resort inspired, Opus’ open-air pool presents a dazzling blue diversion set against a beautifully landscaped yoga lawn while the many green areas offer a variety of indulgent options like contemporary sun lounges or a casual dining experience in the BBQ area. Keep fit all year round in the fully equipped gymnasium or relax in the exclusive residents lounge. This truly is an address that provides endless amenity all at your doorstep.
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urban.com.au

Enjoy the tranquil and vibrant beach lifestyle in the heart of Broadbeach

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Construction firm Multiplex have recently reached a significant milestone on Central Equity's latest tower <a href="/buildings/melbourne-grand-560-lonsdale-street-melbourne">Melbourne Grand</a> – topping out today at an impressive 58 levels, towering 200 metres above street level. 

The $470 million Melbourne highrise is situated on a prominent site, at 560 Lonsdale Street, and will be home to 646 residential apartments.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/melbourne_grand_2020.05_002_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melbourne_grand_2020.05_002_final.jpg?itok=RW0sVLxa" title="Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied.</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/melgrand_city_2020.05_001_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1020" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melgrand_city_2020.05_001_final.jpg?itok=Oc_R94Xt" title="Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied.</figcaption></figure>Designed by renowned architects Guilford Bell + Graham Fisher, Melbourne Grand features a glittering facade, with a wave-like joinery motif, giving the tower a striking point of difference. 

The Level 10 Lonsdale Club offers stunning views of the city and includes a wide selection of resident amenities such as:

<ul>
<li>A lounge and coffee bar</li>
	<li>Banquet room</li>
	<li>Luxe theatre</li>
	<li>Indoor pool, sauna, gymnasium and yoga studio</li>
	<li>Outdoor seating areas and barbeque facilities</li>
</ul>
A heritage building on the Lonsdale site will also be restored as part of the project and will see one of Melbourne's oldest buildings preserved for years to come. 

<blockquote>
"We are proud to have reached this major construction milestone and continue our on-going collaboration with Central Equity. Melbourne Grand will not only house a vibrant new vertical community, it will also help preserve more of Melbourne's history with the restoration of 556 Lonsdale Street." 
</blockquote>

Graham Cottam, Regional Managing Director of Multiplex Victoria

The milestone is an achievement thanks to a dedicated effort from the team of 2200 Multiplex construction workers. Melbourne Grand is Multiplex's 18th project to be delivered for Central Equity. 

<h2>THE MELBOURNE GRAND APARTMENTS</h2>

Melbourne Grand homes are currently available for sale with a selection of one, two and three-bedroom homes on offer. The luxurious design of each apartment features high ceilings and double glazed floor-to-ceiling joinery. Kitchens include quality Miele appliances, stone benchtops, soft-close cabinetry and a spacious open-plan layout. 
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Olivia Round

Another Multiplex milestone: Central Equity's Melbourne Grand tops out at 58-storeys

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Premier global construction company, Multiplex, has completed Hengyi’s $350 million high-rise residential development, Swanston Central, delivering a new addition to Melbourne’s inner-city skyline.
Located on the former Carlton United Brewery site at 160 Victoria Street in Carlton, the 71-level Swanston Central was designed by architects Elenberg Fraser. It comprises 1,045 residential apartments, 2,500 square metres of retail space over podium levels and a 345 square metre office space on Level 22.
With its highest point at 257 metres above street level, Swanston Central offers residents panoramic views across Melbourne.
Multiplex Regional Managing Director Graham Cottam said the contractor was delighted to complete the landmark high-rise development for Hengyi.
“With a rich history dating back to the mid-1800s, the delivery of Swanston Central has seen the original Carlton Brewing site reborn into a vibrant vertical village,” said Mr Cottam.
“Supported by our extensive experience in high-rise construction, we’re proud to have delivered Swanston Central on time and to an exceptional standard for residents.”
Work on the Swanston Central project spanned 3.5 years commencing on August 23rd 2016 and according to Multiplex over 1,000 people worked on site throughout construction.
A range of innovative construction techniques have been used by Multiplex including the use of precast formwork to build outriggers on the face of Levels 22, 47 and 48 and the installation of the entire curtain wall behind screens to improve safety. Swivel arm technology was used to install curtain wall glass to free-standing hero columns without the need for tower cranes or mobile cranes.
ESD features include a 50,000 litre rainwater tank for irrigation, pool top-up and filter backwash.
Swanston Central features a landscaped common area plaza providing access from Victoria Street right through to Queensberry Street, with a mixture of retail and shops at Ground and Level 1.
Resident facilities include a lap pool, two spas, sauna, steam room and four cabana areas.
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Level 47 features private dining rooms, golf simulators, games rooms, a library and two cinema media rooms. An exclusive sky lounge on Level 69 provides an open plan common area that can be booked for events and parties.
A signature element of Swanston Central’s design is its striking interlocking glass panels that change colour from green to silver and pink. The heritage-listed two-level Carlton United Brewery building at the front of the site has been refurbished and will be leased out to future retail or commercial tenants. It incorporates a refurbished heritage board room from the 1800’s.
The site operated as a brewery for over 100 years from 1864 until 1987 when it was demolished. It was then vacant until Hengyi acquired it in 2016 and commenced construction on Swanston Central.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Multiplex completes $350 million Melbourne residential development 

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Global construction company Multiplex has topped out South Tower, the new 41-level office building in Melbourne’s CBD.
South Tower at 80 Collins Street is QIC’s $800 million mixed-use project. 
The 80 Collins precinct is owned by Dexus and Dexus Wholesale Property Fund following QIC’s divestment of the asset in May 2019.
The development project is being delivered by QIC GRE until completion.
The development is located at the 'Paris end', of Collins Street and is one of the largest in Melbourne.
The precinct comprises the new South Tower which will provide office space across circa 43,000 square metres, as well as major refurbishments to the North Tower, an existing 47 level A-grade office building, and construction of a 255-room boutique hotel.
The base building design has been undertaken by local architects Woods Bagot, with collaboration from Dutch firm UN Studio on the South Tower and hotel façades.
A 5,000 square metre retail precinct over a ground and podium level will link the hotel to the North and South Towers.
It will also connect three surrounding streets through a series of laneways to become a new prestigious Collins Street shopping destination.
The new South Tower features a faceted glass exterior cantilevering towards Collins Street, and the interior will feature flexible floor plates with the ability to create inter-floor links to allow occupants to engineer their space for collaboration and enhanced connectivity.
At 216 metres tall, 80 Collins boasts panoramic views across Melbourne.
“80 Collins is also one of the most complex builds we are currently delivering in Melbourne, with the new South Tower constructed to cantilever 12 metres over existing buildings on Collins Street,” said Graham Cottam, Regional Managing Director at Multiplex.
Around 550 workers are on-site every day and around 6,000 tonnes of structural steel and 50,000 cubic metres of concrete have been used to date.
Innovative construction methods include the introduction of a double-deck lifting system with a destination control system.
This system allows the development to achieve a Premium building rating and minimises the size of the core to maximise the net lettable area.
The new South Tower has a 6-star Green Star design rating and is targeting a 5 star NABERS Energy rating.
The building is also WELL ready to allow tenants to pursue further fitout certification.
ESD features include a chilled beam mechanical system to allow for passive temperature control as well as the inclusion of intuitive lighting control.
80 Collins is on track for completion in 2020.
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Multiplex tops out QIC's Collins Street tower

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Roborigger, an innovative lifting device that allows riggers and dogmen to control loads wirelessly from a safe distance, is now being used by construction giant Multiplex.
The innovative automated product, developed by TENSA Equipment, is currently being used on Mutliplex's latest project, the New Museum for Western Australia.
The Roborigger device, the first of its kind to be used on a commercial construction site, uses inertial forces to accurately rotate and orient crane loads, eliminating the need for workers to use taglines or to be in close proximity to the load during the lifting and lowering phases.
It features an in-built camera and load cell and incorporates a tracking system so every piece of data on a lift, including an image of the load, weight, location, time and date, and the unit states, can be viewed online in real-time.
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Multiplex is the first commercial construction contractor to use this wireless load bearing technology. 
Multiplex CEO John Flecker said it's exciting to see the Roborigger technology in action.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/29/Robo1.jpg" alt="">
“At Multiplex, we are always looking to find ways of making our sites and day-to-day operations safer, so it’s been a great opportunity to partner with TENSA in the research and development of Roborigger,” Flecker said.
"The overwhelming potential safety outcomes are what sparked our interest in Roborigger.
"The device perfectly aligns with our overarching strategy to be safer by design and focus on critical risks, removing the need for workers to be in the proximity of a high risk activity.”
TENSA has been developing the Roborigger technology since 2016 and Multiplex has supported this as an industry partner since 2017, coordinating Roborigger trials on commercial sites and providing user feedback.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/29/Robo1.jpg" alt="">
“It’s exciting to see Roborigger successfully in action with the initial trial meeting all of our expectations. We’ve already expanded the trial to other sites in WA, with plans to roll out Roborigger on a number of Multiplex sites nationally,” Flecker added.
TENSA mnaging director Derick Markwell said TENSA initially developed the technology to address the challenging task of installing wind turbine blades when the wind was greater than the current limit of 12 knots.
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“As we spoke to more people in the industry we realised that safety was the key concern,” Markwell said. 
“We have also recently realised that data captured from load lifts is as valuable as the hardware itself, so we are now looking at leveraging this.” 
Roborigger has been a completely local Western Australian innovation with the key research, development and trial phases all carried out locally and supported by local stakeholders such as Multiplex. 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

New lifting device Roborigger to improve crane safety 

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

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Following a nine-year development period, the five-tower ‘Collins Square’ development in Melbourne's Docklands, has claimed the title of the highest concentration of environmentally sustainable buildings in the Southern Hemisphere.

The development has been awarded a Green Star Design, As Built v3 Rating and NABERS Energy 5 rating due to the use of eco-conscious technology including a Tri-Generation system, rainwater harvesting as well as energy efficient fixtures and fittings.

Walker Corporation’s $2.5 billion project features 250,000 sqm of commercial space across five towers; 10,000 sqm of retail and dining; childcare facilities; a supermarket and a health and wellbeing centre. The development also included the refurbishment of the 120-year-old Goods Shed South.

Spanning an entire city block, Collins Square was designed to fit seamlessly into the urban landscape, providing a transition in scale from the CBD down to Docklands Park and limiting overshadowing to surrounding public spaces and the Southbank of the Yarra.

<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/collins_square_2018.09_068.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Collins Square's 5th development. Credit: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/collins_square_2018.09_068.jpg?itok=RInGCvfH" title="Collins Square's 5th development. Credit: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Collins Square's 5th development. Credit: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>The fifth and final tower - aptly named Tower 5 and first covered on<a href="/news/and-then-there-were-five-tower-5-collins-square"> </a><a href="/news/and-then-there-were-five-tower-5-collins-square">Urban.com.au first reported on in 2014</a> - spans a total of 33-storeys and 117m. Designed by Woods Bagot and built by Multuiplex, the tower features a curved form with a tapered roof at its summit and provides spacious, light-filled workspaces, supported by ample carparking and end of trip facilities for its tenants which include Transurban.

The tower is interconnected within the precinct for easy access to the neighbouring towers. Bluetooth activated lifts also allow workers and visitors to reach their destination using their smartphone.

<blockquote>
“The smooth delivery of this major project is a reflection of our on-going collaboration with Walker Corporation, which has seen Multiplex deliver the last four towers at Collins Square.”

- Graham Cottam, Regional Managing Director of Multiplex Victoria
</blockquote>

In addition to Tower 5, <a href="/builders/multiplex">Multiplex</a> has completed a number of other commercial projects in Docklands in recent years, including Cbus Property’s Medibank office (720 Bourke Street) and National Australia Bank building (700 Bourke Street), and 727 Collins Street.

Lead image: Woods Bagot
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Collins Square reaches highest level of sustainable building density in Southern Hemisphere

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It's officially spring and so it would also appear, ground breaking season. Apartments.com.au was onsite along with Lord Mayor Sally Capp and representatives from S P Setia, Multiplex, Fender Katsalidis, Cox Architecture and Shangri-La to celebrate the ground breaking of Sapphire By The Gardens and the official appointment of Multiplex as head contractor.

S P Setia’s 62-storey, $565 million development mixed-use development will feature Melbourne’s first 5-star Shangri-La hotel of 500 suites, in addition to 300 apartments with 95% sales achieved at time of writing. With Multiplex on board as the builder, a 3 year construction programme  is expected with Shangri-La Melbourne due to open in 2022.

<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/breaking_ground_at_sapphire_by_the_gardens.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lord Mayor Sally Capp with representatives from the development team"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/breaking_ground_at_sapphire_by_the_gardens.jpeg?itok=Jan7PJI7" title="Lord Mayor Sally Capp with representatives from the development team" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lord Mayor Sally Capp with representatives from the development team. Image: Nate Moir</figcaption></figure>Located at 308 Exhibition Street opposite the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Carlton Gardens, the design of Sapphire By The Gardens draws on and celebrates its garden location with a podium and urban realm characterised by lush greenery. The dual tower development's signature feature however, is its two-storey sky bridge linking the towers 50-storeys up in the air, and providing unique panoramic views across Melbourne to Carlton Gardens and beyond.

Speaking at the event to mark the occasion, Architect and Founding Director of Fender Katsalidis (FK), Karl Fender joked that if not for FK and Cox competing against each other, either firm would have won the competition outright. Instead because S P Setia couldn't split them they formed a partnership combining ideas from their respective concepts to produce Sapphire By The Gardens - "two architects for the price of one" said Fender with a wry smile.

<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/sapphire_by_the_gardens_overlooking_carlton_gardens.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sapphire By The Gardens, draws on its location opposite the Carlton Gardens. Image: S P Setia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sapphire_by_the_gardens_overlooking_carlton_gardens.jpg?itok=brZYCgza" title="Sapphire By The Gardens, draws on its location opposite the Carlton Gardens. Image: S P Setia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sapphire By The Gardens, draws on its location opposite the Carlton Gardens. Image: S P Setia</figcaption></figure><h2>What the say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Today's ground breaking ceremony marks an extremely significant milestone not just for Setia, but for Melbourne and so we are deeply honoured to have the Lord Mayor present to celebrate this auspicious occasion. We are here of course to mark the commencement of the construction works of this visionary twin tower project comprising Victoria's first Shangri-La hotel and Sapphire By The Gardens residences.

S P Setia with our A-team consultants and our giant builder Multiplex, has been working tirelessly to bring this project to reality. And now here we stand, proud that this has been achieved, and accordingly we would like to thank the City of Melbourne, in particular for the support it provided during the formative stages of the project.

Effort in each of our projects, both large and small to sensitively contribute to their context but perhaps none moreso than Sapphire By The Gardens. With its Shangri-La hotel, these striking twin towers mark the north-eastern gateway into the city through the stunning World Heritage Carlton Gardens and this has inspired a richly landscaped podium and forecourt presence to the public realm. On the other hand floating high above, the Skybridge - also open of course to the public and a first in Australia - will provide never-before-seen views of Melbourne and the Gardens.

The Shangri-La is one of the finest hotels in the world, it is fitting that it enjoys the primacy of this location  which is one of the finest in Melbourne. We are extremely proud to deliver this project to Melbourne and extremely privileged to share this moment with our Mayor, Sally Capp.

- Mr Choong Kai Wai, CEO of S P Setia’s Australian operations
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
On this very spot a significant architectural project is soon to rise above the streets of Melbourne. We will have our oldest iconic building, the Royal Exhibition Building looking on as our newest iconic building with its Skybridge is built right here. Congratulations to everyone involved.

I want to acknowledge that ambition is indeed at home right here in Melbourne. Melbourne's booming economic performance shows no sign of slowing down and projects such as this with its enormous scale is all important in terms of the investments and development happening right here in our city.

We expect our residential population to rise by over 50% over the next decade and so the investment in the much needed housing and accommodation that will happen through Sapphire By The Gardens is very welcome. I also note the thoughtfulness of what will happen at a street level as part of this project and the fact that this environment will add to Melbourne's reputation for engaging in distinctive experiences, you are also delivering that.

- Lord Mayor, Sally Capp 
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Today is made very auspicious by this ground breaking ceremony, yet to come. It's ground breaking on a very, very special site in Melbourne, possibly, I would argue, the best site in Melbourne. It's on the gateway into Melbourne from the east, through the stunning World heritage gardens of the Carlton Gardens so it's appropriate that this gateway, this entry into Melbourne, is celebrated in the right way and makes all the right announcements.

Announcements such as 'great design comes first'. Our city is based on great design, past and present and going forward. On that note I really would like to make a special mention to Phillip Rowe and his team at Cox, who are our co-architects, co-designers on this project.

It will also sign Melbourne, the garden city, with this incredible garden entry way, in the design process we thought about bringing the Carlton Gardens across LaTrobe Street and into the building, through a beautiful plaza  meant for the public, and also up the face of the building, particularly the podium.

The futuristic Skybridge - another first for Melbourne - will be fantastic, it will provide new views over Melbourne for everybody whilst you sip your gin martini.

- Karl Fender, Founding Director Fender Katsalidis
</blockquote>

 
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Laurence Dragomir

S P Setia and Shangri-La break ground on Sapphire By The Gardens

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Urban.com.au was on hand as Beulah International along with its project partners broke ground on their $200 million Paragon residential development. Located at 318 Queen Street, on the site of the Celtic Club, Paragon will comprise 227 apartments across 48 levels and feature Australia's first  indoor urban forest.

Designed by landscaper, Paul Bangay, the forest will encompass three storeys providing a natural respire from city life, with a carefully composed selection of mature trees, leafy canopies, climbing gardens and grassy spaces.

In attendance were representatives from Beulah International, Multiplex Constructions and Fender Katsdalidis, as well as Minister for Industry and Employment, Ben Carroll, amongst others. As the photos indicate, demolition has been underway for sometime with the site now ready to begin ground works.

<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/paragon_breaks_ground_ld.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The project team onsite for the groundbreaking ceremony."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/paragon_breaks_ground_ld.jpg?itok=T8z7h5O3" title="The project team onsite for the groundbreaking ceremony." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The project team onsite for the groundbreaking ceremony.</figcaption></figure>Joining a host of other towers designed by Fender Katsalidis including Republic Tower, The Argus Centre and the under construction Queens Place across the road, Paragon will see the retention and restoration of the former Celtic Club facade by Multiplex Constructions. Once complete it will accommodate a contemporary bar, restaurant, lounge and outdoor terraces

Paragon has already been awarded the Best Residential High-Rise Development for Australia at the 2018-19 Asian Pacific Property Awards. It has also achieved almost 90% in sales and is due for completion in 2020.

The commencement of construction at 318 Queen Street caps off a busy few months for Beulah International, which also included the announcement of the <a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-the-winning-design-for-australias-tallest-tower-revealed">winning design for the Southbank by Beulah</a> competition at 118 City Road.

Other notable projects for Beulah in the pipeline include Habitus in what will become the Montague precinct of Fishermans Bend, Fawkner House and the Grounds of Kew, where they are once again collaborating with Fender Katsalidis.

<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/20181001_092910.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Behind the historic facade of the Celtic Club. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20181001_092910.jpg?itok=D_EV7HaH" title="Behind the historic facade of the Celtic Club. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Behind the historic facade of the Celtic Club.</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Today is a day of celebration as we celebrate the commencement of construction of Paragon. For the past 10 years many have tried to acquire and develop this site, but have failed for many various reasons, and we are very proud today and grateful and humbled that the Celtic Club have voted and have chosen us to develop this site, to deliver the vision of the Celtic Club. 

Two years ago when we bought this site it came with a permit for 280 apartments. We've reduced this to 227 apartments. Beulah International's vision is to create spaces that elevate the quality of living of our residents but also to add value to the urban fabric. 

- Jiaheng Chan, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Beulah International
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We always look to push the boundaries, and working with both Paul Bangay and Fender Katsalidis has allowed us to do this, with both the indoor forest, and limited density per floor giving almost all residents a prized corner vista.

- Adelene Teh, Executive Director, Beulah International 
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Today's groundbreaking marks the addition of another jewel in the crown of Melbourne, a city that we all love so much and a city that has come so far in terms of bringing residential and people into the city.

I think 150,000 now live in the city and those people are now very sophisticated purchasers, they love living in the city and their expectations are high and there's no doubt this project exceeds all their expectations, it's a fabulous project.

- Karl Fender, Founding Partner and Managing Director, Fender Katsalidis
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Beulah and Multiplex break ground at Paragon

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Brisbane’s largest integrated CBD development continues to take shape at 300 George Street.

Backed by Shayher Group and being built by Multiplex, the development consists of three towers containing residential apartments, commercial office space and what is now the first 5-star hotel to open in Queensland’s capital in more than 20 years. Overseen by parent company Marriott International, W Brisbane Hotel is open for business and includes 312 guest rooms.

The importance of the chic hotel brand's arrival in Brisbane was not lost on the development team. Along with project architects ZENX International and DBI Architects, Melbourne-based Studio Ongarato were enlisted to provide W Brisbane with a unique, and arguably quirky identity.

Having already worked on other W branded hotels such as W Shanghai, Studio Ongarato was already in the position of understanding and delivering on W’s unique brand of playful luxury.

<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/image94_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="W Brisbane's reception area. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image94_5.jpg?itok=0EH40kEJ" title="W Brisbane's reception area. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>W Brisbane's reception area. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>Co-founder Fabio Ongarato explains "Our first narrative-led hotel was for the W Hong Kong back in 2010. Using narrative at that time was uncommon. It successfully injected greater vibrancy into the brand and rewrote the rulebook for narrative-led hotel design.

It also successfully set the tone for all the W hotels since."

In this regard four Brisbane-inspired sub-narratives were created for W Brisbane by Studio Ongarato. The implementation of bold and immersive environmental design narratives is an emerging trend in the hotel and hospitality space, but taken to the enth degree within W Brisbane.

On the wider aspect of providing a story or direction for hotel guests, Ongarato says "It’s important for design to tell meaningful stories that customers, users and guests can respond to. Defining and building a thematic framework is the first step for holistic and narrative-driven design to take shape.

A brand foundation enhances a guest’s experience by encouraging them to become more aware and engaged with their environment. It offers a world within a world for experience hunters but ultimately it aims to engage, delight and transport.”

<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/image92_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pool area backdrop. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image92_7.jpg?itok=t3QQHdSb" title="Pool area backdrop. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pool area backdrop. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>Also playing a hand in W Brisbane's interior expression was Ronnen Goren, who alongside Ongarato has been at the forefront of the studio for the past 25 years. The long standing partnership with W Hotels flows from the ability to marry unique design outcomes with commercial objectives.

“Studio Ongarato’s engagement with W Brisbane strengthens the design studio’s relationship with a truly international brand, showcasing our ability to interpret myriad social and cultural contexts as design outcomes, imbuing the W brand with a sense of place and personality” says Goren. Guest rooms aside, areas that received the Studio Ongarato touch included communal zones such as the dining room, bar, pool, spa and yoga facility.

The main narrative within W Brisbane centres around A River Dreaming, a theme developed by Nic Graham and Associates. This is a nod to the indigenous Turrbal people which sees the (Brisbane) river as the giver of life.

Thereafter Studio Ongarato conceived four sub-narratives: Native Allure, Tropical Eden, Brisvegas and Dark Paradise. How they manifest themselves via W Brisbane's interiors is a subjective matter, but Studio Ongarato hope the interplay of ideas creates a "tribal meets pop hybrid personality that electrifies in its many incarnations."

<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/image95_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Typical bedroom design feature. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image95_6.jpg?itok=ut4WyYW2" title="Typical bedroom design feature. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Typical bedroom design feature. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>Fabio Ongarato says “For W Brisbane we looked at the W brand DNA, which is bold, witty and shows a lust for life. And we studied the context of the site – its physical, social and historical parameters.

We looked carefully at many aspects of the Brisbane identity to create our themes. Taking ownership of that originally derogative nickname Brisvegas, Brisbanites are celebrating their tongue-in-cheek persona. From giant fruit landmarks to slogans, slang, stubby shorts and caftans, we deeply absorbed the Queensland vernacular to create our design narratives.”

Whilst W Brisbane remains the nation's sole W branded outlet for now, construction continues on both new Sydney and Melbourne locations. Sydney's The Ribbon will host 402 hotel rooms upon its completion next year whilst <a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne">Collins Arch will see 294 rooms</a> under the W Melbourne banner.

<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/image96_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Common area hallway. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image96_2.jpg?itok=Y1qI2nA6" title="Common area hallway. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Common area hallway. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>
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