Perth’s new apartment market recorded its strongest quarter of sales since Q4 2021, with 412 apartments sold in Q1 2026 and a record quarterly sold value of $537 million, according to Urbis’ latest Apartment Essentials results.

Urbis said the March quarter result reflects strong, highly product‑specific demand across both ends of the market, from more attainable projects delivering at scale, through to premium stock being absorbed by equity‑rich downsizers.&nbsp;

David Cresp, Partner at Urbis, said the key story in Perth is not demand, it is the market’s ability to convert demand into delivered housing.&nbsp;

“This is the strongest sales quarter since Q4 2021, and it reinforces that demand in Perth is real and it’s local,” David Cresp said. “But the task now is delivery, turning that demand into projects that can actually be built and completed.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=302785]

<h2>Affordable product leads, premium demand remains resilient</h2>

Sales in Q1 were led by more affordable projects, with The Boulevard (SKS Group) recording 115 sales in the quarter, the presentation noting this is only the second time a single project has surpassed 100 quarterly sales. The project was able to offer more affordable housing product right next to a train station.&nbsp;

Palmyra West (Finbar) also delivered strong results with 28 sales in Q1, following 84 sales in Q4, with an average price of under $800,000, underscoring depth of demand for well‑located, attainable new stock.&nbsp;

At the premium end, Urbis said downsizer demand is continuing, with the results highlighting Romeo (Applecross, Finbar) recording 75 sales and reaching almost 50% sold in one quarter.

Jual (Shenton Park, Celsius Property) also posted a strong quarter with 28 sales, reaching 39% sold in one quarter.

Urbis noted that Perth apartment demand is not speculative, not investor‑led, and not uniform, describing it as localised, often equity‑driven and highly product‑specific, a pattern reflected in the polarisation between strong “attainable” performers and premium downsizer product.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364102]

<h2>Prices underpinned by costs, and the delivery risk is growing</h2>

Urbis said pricing pressure is cost not demand‑driven: construction costs and delivery risk are now a central constraint, with the results noting build costs remain elevated and volatile, and that energy, fuel and labour uncertainty weigh on feasibility.

David Cresp said a growing challenge for private Build‑to‑Sell developers is simply securing a builder in the current environment.

“Developers are really feeling the pressure from a building market that was operating at capacity and securing a builder is challenging,” David Cresp said, adding that even where a builder can be secured, “trying to get to the price that makes the development financially viable is incredibly challenging in the current market.”&nbsp;

Urbis’ broader WA commentary also notes that industry remains at or above capacity with lot and housing creation, and that many builders are limiting new sales to manage stretched workforces and fixed‑price contract pressures, conditions that flow directly into apartment feasibility and delivery timing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108869 project_image_fid=317905]

<h2>Supply: improving later, but still constrained, and Perth lags eastern benchmarks</h2>

While near‑term supply remains constrained, Urbis’ forecast shows completions lifting “Supply is forecast to be back above 1,500 apartments per annum for the first time since 2019”, with 1,775 completions forecast for 2026, and volumes remaining above that level over the following years.&nbsp;

Looking further ahead, completions are forecast to reach 2,500 in 2028, with the report noting 32% of that total is social/affordable, reflecting the role of government‑supported delivery in rebuilding the pipeline.&nbsp;

However, Urbis said Perth remains behind comparable markets on pipeline scale. In a national comparison of projects under construction, the report shows under construction Perth Build‑to‑Sell (BTS) at 3,446 apartments versus the Gold Coast at 7,922. Mr Cresp said “The challenge for Perth is how to we grow the delivery pipeline”.

Urbis’ conclusion is that Perth’s market is increasingly defined by product discipline and delivery certainty, with the research identifying “delivery certainty is key” and calling out builder risk and procurement models as core success factors, alongside “timing and staging”.&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Perth apartment sales hit strongest pace since late 2021 as builder capacity tightens

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sammut-developments">Sammut Group</a> has secured development approval for its latest Brisbane apartment project, marking the Sydney developer’s next step in expanding its Queensland pipeline following the success of its debut Gold Coast development, Coast.

The approved project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/44-glen-road-toowong-qld-4066">44 Glen Road, </a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> will deliver a 15-storey riverfront apartment building with 42 residences, significantly increasing the scale of the site’s previous approval for a smaller luxury scheme. Designed by Bureau^proberts, the development will comprise a mix of predominantly four-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments positioned to maximise Brisbane River and city views.

Sammut Director Julian Sammut said the group had been actively searching Brisbane for several years before identifying Toowong as the right fit.

“Brisbane was the right step for Sammut,” Sammut said.

“With the success of Coast we thought we should definitely look to do more in Queensland alone. We then pushed up to look at Brisbane. We've been looking for I'd say two to three years actually and it was hard to find the right location.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dYAVIL7qdcGA8ojvkslSrLjczXFejSSx" />

Sammut said suburbs including New Farm and Teneriffe were considered before the group ultimately focused on Toowong due to its strong downsizer demographic and limited supply of developable riverfront land.

The site was acquired off-market after what Sammut described as a lengthy negotiation and planning process, with the developer pursuing an uplift to the original approval.

“We are DA approved now which is very exciting,” Sammut said.

“We've had our change approval come through and we've obviously doubled the height, 15 storeys plus rooftop. We've got 42 amazing apartments that are going to be coming to market soon.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ohkRkY0dIZlqdfME2EZePsCQavRiBadE" />

Bureau^proberts said the design responds to Toowong’s evolving urban character, balancing contemporary apartment living with the area’s established residential identity.

“A place where traditional Queensland living has taken place for centuries; Toowong is seeing a shift of contemporary influence, commercial and retail hubs mixed with well-considered residential offerings – all the while maintaining its character and charm,” the architect noted in planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council.

The architecture practice said the project’s form was shaped by its riverfront setting, flood considerations, neighbouring building scales, and view corridors.

“They said the mix of four and two-bedroom apartments capture the ‘fundamental qualities of Queenslander living,’ translated into the context of a contemporary subtropical building.”

The development sits just off Coronation Drive within walking distance of Toowong’s retail precinct and the upgraded Regatta ferry terminal, while also benefiting from proximity to the incoming green bridge connection to West End. Sammut said the accessibility and amenity offering were central to the site’s appeal.

The approval adds to growing residential activity along the Toowong riverfront, joining nearby projects including Consolidated Properties’ Monarch Residences and Spyre Group’s ARC Residences.

Sammut secures approval for debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong

Developer Lanevick is heading back into Sydney’s apartment market after focusing more heavily on the luxury townhouse and terrace sector in recent years.

Lanevick, founded and directed by Steve Maroun, is expecting to receive approval in the coming months for a new apartment development in Gladesville, with the aim to launch it to the market later this year.

The 51-apartment project, designed by Studio Johnston, will comprise a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments positioned toward the Hunters Hill downsizer market.

“Traditionally it’s been difficult for people in that market to downsize because there just hasn’t been the right product available,” Maroun said.

“We’re targeting buyers who might have 30 to 40 per cent of their house value sitting in the bank after downsizing.

“They still want good spacious entertaining areas, they still want quality design, but they also want flexibility and the ability to enjoy life a bit more after working hard for a long time.”

The project sits near Boronia Park and within close proximity to the Parramatta River foreshore, an area Maroun says offers more of a Hunters Hill lifestyle than a traditional apartment precinct.

“From a lifestyle perspective, it’s really more Hunters Hill than Gladesville,” Maroun said. “You’re close to the foreshore, close to parklands, and still connected back into the village precinct.”

From level four and above, apartments will capture water views&nbsp;toward Sydney Harbour. Communal amenity will include rooftop entertaining areas, wellness spaces, and a gym tailored toward owner-occupier buyers.

“We’ve really designed these apartments around that buyer coming from the Hunters Hill LGA and what they’re actually looking for in their next chapter.”

The proposed development has also been designed to respond to the changing character of the broader Gladesville town centre, where a growing number of mixed-use and residential proposals are expected to emerge over the coming years.

“Gladesville presented a rare opportunity to deliver a genuinely design-led residential project within an evolving lifestyle precinct, just moments from the growing Gladesville town centre, and we’ve approached the project with a strong focus on architecture, liveability and long-term community value,” Maroun said.

Maroun said Lanevick saw a first-mover advantage within the precinct as planning controls continue to evolve to accommodate greater housing density.

“We think there’s a real opportunity there that hasn’t really been serviced properly yet,” he said.

“There’s going to be a broader evolution of the whole Gladesville village precinct over time, particularly with more activation and mixed-use outcomes.”

The Venus Street proposal will include a commercial and retail component at ground level designed to contribute to that evolving streetscape activation.

“A big part of the thinking was how do you activate that area properly and create more vibrancy and amenity, which is what Hunters Hill has been looking for,” Maroun said.

Lanevick’s focus since 2020 has largely been on smaller-scale luxury townhouse and terrace developments. The developer recently completed Royale Randwick, also designed by Studio Johnston, where prices reached $3.65 million. The project was featured in the UDIA NSW 2026 Professional Development Prospectus and was also named a finalist for Development of the Year.

&nbsp;

Lanevick to cater for Hunters Hill downsizers with new Gladesville apartment development

Property developer One Living, backed by former Macquarie banker turned investment manager Chris Green’s investment firm, has unveiled plans to bring more institutional capital into housing to help address the national supply crisis.

The New York-based investor has focused his firm, GreenPoint Partners, on addressing the supply shortage hitting middle market housing in Australia.

It is backing the new One Living business to develop more than 1000 units along the eastern seaboard. The new firm is starting with a development on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with around 140 apartments planned. They are eyeing off more sites across the city.

With cost pressures rising in the industry, One Living’s model is to be a vertically integrated developer-builder, so it can respond directly to the housing gap by removing the cost inefficiencies embedded in traditional residential delivery.

“We are building a platform designed to operate at scale and starting in a market where there’s a clear need for quality, attainable housing,” One Living joint managing director Joseph Scuderi said.

“It’s that missing middle – it’s that attainable end of housing… that’s what most Australians invest into and what Australians can actually afford.”

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="798dfa93-4941-4db6-a696-31e9dc18e81c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.31.50%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=mKBqi5C_DmeiXS.AtJkcR8LQIxqCqmFi" />

GreenPoint Partners brings years of experience assembling and scaling real estate operating businesses across major markets. And Green sees a big opportunity in Australia.

“For its size, sophistication and importance to the community, Australia’s living sector has remained largely under-institutionalised, which represents significant opportunity,” Green said. “GreenPoint identified that gap, assembled the right team, and is backing One Living to build a platform that is aligned to market needs.”

Green said being a builder-developer would give the company the capacity and flexibility it required to deliver reasonably-priced homes.

“We want it to be at that attainable level; not super high end luxury but at that attainable level,” he said.

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74a5344a-4b26-4d4a-ada3-056b1220be77" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.32.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=vY8hXHO4reBMdO8ZXMWCNtGZJofUPQ3j" />

&nbsp;

One Living will undertake a component of affordable housing in its schemes, which it will own and operate, and it could also run build-to-rent on some sites.

Green praised local policy settings.

“The NSW government is being very supportive, strategic and pragmatic in terms of how do we generate more supply of housing,” he said. “We think it’s actually positive for development and the bit that’s been lacking at that attainable level is that it’s lots of relatively small private developers, whereas we want to create an institutional platform.”

One Living is also&nbsp;looking at high-density projects and could take on more institutional funding in the future.

“The way we will be able to achieve economies of scale is through size,” Green added.

One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition

It's been several years since there's been an opportunity to buy a brand new townhome in Melbourne's coastal suburb of Mordialloc. Even apartment developments in recent times have been few and far between in the area.

Local developer LDS Property identified the gap in new housing, securing a site on White Street, directly opposite&nbsp;Woodlands Golf Club Mordialloc. They've recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/wm-residences-mordialloc-102-white-street-mordialloc-vic-3195">WM Residences</a>, just 13 townhouses which they have already started building.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson, who is selling WM Residences, says the townhouses x that perfect middle ground be

"Mordialloc residents have had limited options to downsize within the suburb, often forcing them to look elsewhere despite long-standing ties to the area," Thompson says.

"With very little comparable new supply coming to market, projects like WM Residences are well placed, particularly as buyers look to capitalise on current conditions amid constrained supply."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6109]

The development, designed by regarded architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>,&nbsp;adopts a deliberately restrained architectural approach, focusing on simplicity, durability and liveability rather than overt design gestures.

The boutique scale is central to the offering. With only 13 three-bedroom residences, each home is configured to prioritise functional layouts and everyday use, supported by private terraces and secure two-car garages.

Ewert Leaf’s design response leans into a calm, neutral material palette. Interiors are defined by oak flooring, white walls and soft finishes, creating a consistent and understated backdrop. The approach avoids trend-driven detailing in favour of longevity, with an emphasis on natural light and spatial clarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6110]

Beyond aesthetics, the homes are designed to meet contemporary performance expectations. Each residence targets a minimum 6-star energy rating, incorporating double glazing, comprehensive insulation and all-electric Bosch appliances.

The project’s location supports a walkable coastal lifestyle, sitting within close proximity to Mordialloc’s foreshore, Main Street retail strip and the train station. Local cafés and dining venues, including Suburbia Deli and Hendriks Café, are within a short walk, reinforcing the area’s established neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6116]

While <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is often defined by its beach and pier, the project taps into other areas of day to day living, offering easy access to local food, casual dining and transport, rather than positioning itself purely as a lifestyle retreat.

WM Residences reflects a continued trend across Melbourne’s coastal suburbs towards smaller-scale, design-led townhouse developments, particularly on infill sites where proximity to amenity is already established.

With construction commenced prior to its market entry, the project aligns with a growing preference among buyers for developments with visible progress and defined delivery timeframes.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134646]

WM Residences fills gap in Mordialloc townhouse market

Open House Melbourne

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After already passing the halfway mark of 2019, it’s an apt time to reflect on the incredible progress architects and construction firms have been making to shape the cities around us. The University of Melbourne will be opening it’s doors next weekend to invite the general public to take tours of the brand new transformative redevelopment projects which have been completed across 16 sites at both Southbank and Parkville campuses. 

<h2>Here’s a snapshot of some of Southbank Campus’ highlights this year</h2>

IAN POTTER SOUTHBANK CENTRE (IPSC) 

<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/ianpottersouthbankcentre.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ian Potter Southbank Centre. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="342" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ianpottersouthbankcentre.jpg?itok=qYphhDeQ" title="Ian Potter Southbank Centre. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ian Potter Southbank Centre. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Earlier this year, more than 1000 staff members and students moved into the brand new $109 million ICSP building designed by award-winning firm John Wardle Architects. 

The new building will house the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music and has been classed as a “once in a generation transformation” featuring state-of-the-art teaching, learning, rehearsal and performance spaces. The conservatorium also houses one of the world’s largest oculus windows at 6 metres in diameter, including a 400 seat cantilevered auditorium, a 180 seat ground floor studio and plenty of multi-use spaces.

<hr>
THE STABLES

<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/thestables.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Stables. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/thestables.jpg?itok=hyL38Omn" title="The Stables. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Stables. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>The Stables is a world-class arts facility located within the heart of the Melbourne Art’s Precinct. Historically, the building was formally home to the Victorian Police Riding Brance, however, it has now undergone a complete transformation with design lead by Kerstin Thompson Architects and conservation works directed by Lovell Chen. The building is rich in history and provides a unique space for students to create art within the 170 studios, and perform at the new 260 seat multipurpose arts theatre for dance, theatre and music performances.

<hr>
THE HUB

<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/uoms04_01_hub_csav_schulman.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Hub. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/uoms04_01_hub_csav_schulman.jpg?itok=I8NIhjey" title="The Hub. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Hub. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Another newly-completed space is known as The Hub, designed by Lyons Architects. The Hub is a dynamic space which is home to the largest performing arts and music library collection in Australia.

Other buildings which will be open for tours will be the ABC Southbank Centre designed by Cox Architecture and completed in 2018; Australia 108 designed by Fender Katsalidis; Boyd Community Hub and Testing Grounds.

<hr>
<h2>A few highlights from the Parkville Campus include:</h2>

OLD QUAD

<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/cmus-melbourneuniversity-oldquad_008.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Old Quad. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cmus-melbourneuniversity-oldquad_008.jpg?itok=gtIFmKX3" title="Old Quad. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Old Quad. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>After a two-year restoration project, the University’s north wing quadrangle has been revitalised with the introduction of a towering stained-glass work by artist Tom Nicholson, and stained glass artisan Geoffrey Wallace. 

<blockquote>
"The renovations in the Old Quad are uncovering the history that the University of Melbourne is built upon. Literally and figuratively."
</blockquote>

- University of Melbourne 

<hr>
WESTERN EDGE BIOSCIENCES

<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/westernedge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Western Edge Biosciences. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westernedge.jpg?itok=zFdFUm3X" title="Western Edge Biosciences. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Western Edge Biosciences. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>As the university prepares for the next wave of scientists, doctors and veterinarians, a brand new Life Sciences precinct has been added to the University of Melbourne’s masterplan, with design lead by award-winning firm, Hassell. The aim was to produce a facility which could house a 140 pax cohort with a range of laboratories, informal and collaborative learning spaces, workshop classrooms and storage facilities.

<hr>
ARTS WEST

<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/artswest.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Arts West. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/artswest.png?itok=tukbC9bU" title="Arts West. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Arts West. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Arts West is the new home to the Bachelor of Arts course and has been designed by ARM in collaboration with Architectus. The new facility is the most significant purpose-build education centre for the Faculty of Arts in 50 years, and offers a diverse range of facilities including digital, object-based and interactive classrooms, as well as informal spaces for discussion and quiet study alcoves.

 

<hr>
<h2>Events of note:</h2>

<ul>
<li>The First Commissions exhibition will be shown in the Martyn Myer Arena during the Open House weekend</li>
	<li>Kerstin Thompson will be delivering the 2019 Heritage Address, Monday 15 July at Federation Hall in Southbank</li>
	<li>Bauhaus Now! exhibition will open on Saturday 27 July with commentary from Dr Ann Stephens and Professor Philip Goad, Redmond Barry Distinguished Professor and Chair of Architecture, The University of Melbourne</li>
	<li>Fender Katsalidis will lead an exclusive architectural tour on Sunday at 1 pm</li>
	<li>Designing Cultural Spaces and Precincts will feature an intriguing discussion Melbourne architects Meaghan Dwyer (John Wardle Architects) and Ian McDougall (ARM Architects) hosted by journalist Ray Edgar, Southbank Theatre </li>
</ul>
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Olivia Round

Open House Melbourne: Explore the University of Melbourne’s new buildings

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It wouldn't be a typical week on Apartments.com.au of late if there was no mention of better apartment living and apartment design standards. As part of Open House Melbourne 2015's Speaker Series, Deakin Edge at Federation Square is hosting a who's who of experts who will participate in the Better Living forum on the subject of the State Government's Better Apartments discussion paper.

<blockquote>
The recently released Better Apartments discussion paper by the Victorian Government “weighs up housing needs, market demands and building standards with the aim of improving liveability and affordability.” (Richard Wynne, 2015). The paper intends to “kick-start consultation” with the public and industry stakeholders to establish minimum standards for the design and development of apartments.

As Melbourne’s population swells, it’s prized liveability dwindles and investment drives market pressure. These standards hold the potential to have a lasting effect on our city – hopefully for the better.

Join Open House Melbourne as it brings together a planner, a city maker, a developer, a policy maker, an architect, a commentator, a lawyer, an economist, a real estate agent and a resident to help discuss: how do we keep pace? There will be an opportunity for audience members to participate in the discussion through a Q&amp;A.
<cite>Open House Melbourne 2015</cite>
</blockquote>

Speakers include:

<ul>
<li>Stuart Harrison (MC) Director of <a href="http://www.haw.com.au/">Harrison &amp; White</a> and former presenter on RRR's The Architects</li>
	<li>Planner Colleen Peterson, Managing Director at <a href="http://www.ratio.com.au/home">Ratio Consultants</a> (an Apartments.com.au Industry Hub member)</li>
	<li>Developer David Waldren, National Executive Design Manager at <a href="http://www.grocon.com/">Grocon</a>
</li>
	<li>Lawyer Riad Yasmine, Senior Associate at <a href="https://www.maddocks.com.au/">Maddocks</a>
</li>
	<li>Commentator Michael Bleby, <a href="http://www.afr.com/">AFR</a>
</li>
	<li>Economist Marcus Spiller, Principal at <a href="http://www.sgsep.com.au/">SGS Economics and Planning</a>
</li>
	<li>Architect Kerstin Thompson, Founding Principal of <a href="http://www.kerstinthompson.com/">KTA</a>
</li>
</ul>
More speakers to be announced.

<dl>
<dt>When:</dt>
	<dd>Tuesday 21 July 2015. Doors open at 5.45pm for 6.00pm start, 8pm finish</dd>
	<dt>Where:</dt>
	<dd>Deakin Edge, Federation Square</dd>
</dl>
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Laurence Dragomir

Open House Melbourne Speaker Series: Better Living Forum

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Open House Melbourne is up and running with Planning Minister Matthew Guy launching the annual event yesterday at Scots' Church.

This year's event features 30 new sites open for viewing and 100 buildings and places overall open for inspection. New buildings and sites added this year include the Argus, Government House and Young and Jackson Hotel, in addition to working infrastructure such as the Spencer Street sub-station

For a genuinely unique perspective, visitors are also able to access Melbourne Central's glass cone and shot tower for some unique views.

<blockquote>
This is a once-a-year opportunity to explore areas usually hidden from the public eye, discover some of the city's newest and most innovative spaces, or gain a new appreciation of some of our iconic and much-loved buildings.

There are some amazing places and opportunities to learn something new about the city in which we live.

There is a rare chance to walk inside the intricately decorated Queen's Hall, which opened in 1859 but has been closed to the public since 2003. Or you can take the opportunity to visit Australia's first film studio, Limelight Studios, established in 1896. Or why not see the new performance and training facilities for Circus Oz, which has been 10 years in the making?

We are delighted to be associated with an event that is widely embraced by Melburnians and to help open even more doors this year.

Architecture and urban design add so much to our beautiful city, and this event showcases just how much they contribute to Melbourne's status as the world's most liveable city.
<cite>Matthew Guy, <a href="http://premier.vic.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/10546-rediscover-melbourne-s-great-buildings-and-places">"Rediscover Melbourne’s great buildings and places"</a></cite>
</blockquote>

As much as Apartments.com.au would love to employ a fleet of flying monkeys with cameras at the ready, that is not a possibility... at least this year. So if you have a few spare hours on your hands, venture into the inner city and see Melbourne from a different perspective.

http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings
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silvermb

Open House off and running

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Once again <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/">Open House Melbourne</a> has come and gone for another year and once again I took the opportunity to volunteer. Having been assigned the <a href="http://www.austapestry.com.au/">Australian Tapestry Workshop</a> as my building for the Saturday morning shift, I had no idea what to expect as I wasn't even aware of its existence and I'm probably not alone in that respect.

Occupying a National Trust and Heritage listed building at 262-266 Park St in South Melbourne, the Australian Tapestry Workshop is the only studio of its kind in the country and also one of only a few worldwide for the production of hand-woven, contemporary tapestries. Originally built in 1885 to plans drafted by architect TJ Crouch, as a drapery establishment Harcourt and Parry Emporium, before being adapted for use as Patross Knitting Mills.

A renovation by Peter Carmichael in 1976 transformed the formerly derelict and dingy factory space into a spacious, light filled studio; a perfect home for the Victorian Tapestry Workshop, now known as the Australian Tapestry Workshop. The most recent spate of works were carried out in 1999 by Peter Williams of <a href="http://www.williamsboag.com.au/">Williams Boags Architects</a>.

Visitors to the Workshop experience a vibrant setting with multi-coloured yarns lining the walls and weavers seated at many looms creating new artworks. Ranging from miniature to monumental, the tapestries are woven using the finest Australian wool, which is specially dyed onsite to a unique palette of 370 colours.

Most of the Workshop's tapestries have been specially commissioned and hang in significant public buildings and collections.

Outside of Open House Melbourne, the Australian Tapestry Workshop is open to the public from Tuesday to Friday, 10am-5pm ($5 studio viewing, no charge for gallery viewing). The public are welcome to browse through the collection of small and large tapestries, and the retail shop stocking the workshop's exclusive range of yarn, 370 colour shades and tones, as well as cards and books featuring recently commissioned tapestries and highlights from past commissions.

I can honestly say I was pleasantly surprised and very impressed by the fantastic spaces and architecture, filled with a rich and diverse body of work at various stages in their development. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and would like to say a big thank you to the wonderful staff.

For more information check out their <a href="http://www.austapestry.com.au/">website</a> and be sure to follow them on <a href="https://twitter.com/AusTapestry">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/austapestry">Instagram</a>.

In the meantime, please enjoy my photos from Saturday afternoon.
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Weaving their magic - OHM 2014: Australian Tapestry Workshop

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Open House Melbourne is upon us once again with the organisers of the July 26th and 27th event announcing the building list recently. Among the <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings" target="_blank">list of buildings</a> are some familiar favourites as well as buildings throwing open their doors for the first time and also brand new recently completed and occupied buildings.

Among the new buildings this year are <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/government-house" target="_blank">Government House</a>. Open only the the Saturday, there will be guided tours of the State Apartments between the reduced hours of 10am and 3pm. On the other side of St. Kilda Road, <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/vic-barracks" target="_blank">Victoria Barracks</a> will be open on both Saturday and Sunday, however the guided tours will be limited to 30 people at 10am and 1pm only.

<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/government_house_chris_phutully_flickr_cc_by_sa_20.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Government House, source: flick, CC-BY-SA 2.0"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/government_house_chris_phutully_flickr_cc_by_sa_20.jpg?itok=c3H9VALV" style="height:386px; width:580px" title="Government House, source: flickr, CC-BY-SA 2.0"></a>

<figcaption>Government House, source: <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.flickr.com/photos/72562013@N06/8416406044" target="_blank">flickr</a>, CC BY-SA 2.0</figcaption></figure>Happily, one of the buildings which at the time we asked "<a href="/news/is-this-melbournes-best-new-residential-development" target="_blank">Is this Melbourne's best new development?</a>" is also flinging its doors open. The Commons in Brunswick will have guided tours of 15 people every 15 minutes where, <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/commons-the" target="_blank">according to the OHM profile</a>, visitors will be exposed to many of the building's elements.

<a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/coops-shot-tower-and-museum" target="_blank">The Coops shot tower and museum</a> will be open for self-guided tours on both Saturday and Sunday and 41 Exhibition Street, housing the <a href="http://www.architecture.com.au/" target="_blank">Australian Institute of Architects</a>, will be open as well. <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/41x" target="_blank">41 Exhibition Street</a> will have guided 15 person tours, two in the morning and two in the afternoon each day taking in the rooftop, levels 21 and 1 through 5 as well as the <a href="http://www.architext.com.au/" target="_blank">Architext</a> Bookshop. 41 Exhibition Street was one tower<a href="/news"> we had a very close eye on during construction</a>.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Img_9326.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="41 Exhibition Street, picture © Mark Baljak"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_9326.jpg?itok=4My48aa7" style="height:387px; width:580px" title="41 Exhibition Street, picture © Mark Baljak"></a>

<figcaption>41 Exhibiton Street, image credit: Mark Baljak.</figcaption></figure>Among the other new buildings this year are the <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/collingwood-masonic-centre" target="_blank">Collingwood Masonic Centre</a>, the <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/australian-catholic-university" target="_blank">Australian Catholic University</a> and <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/circus-oz-hq" target="_blank">Circus Oz HQ</a>.

NAB's new <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/nab-headquarters-700" target="_blank">700 Bourke Street building</a> is also open allowing visitors to mill around the concourse level and guided tours (which require photo ID) will lead visitors through NAB's new activity-based workplaces as well as visit the rooftop garden.

<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/NABDocklands6_woods_bagot.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="NAB 700 Bourke Street, image © Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/NABDocklands6_woods_bagot.jpg?itok=GEKXy7QU" style="height:387px; width:580px" title="NAB 700 Bourke Street, image © Woods Bagot"></a>

<figcaption>NAB 700 Bourke Street, image © <a href="http://www.woodsbagot.com/project/national-australia-bank-docklands" target="_blank">Woods Bagot</a>.</figcaption></figure>The recently redeveloped <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/argus-building" target="_blank">Argus Building</a> will be open to tours, however it will be by ballot only (opening on July 1).  Interestingly this year <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/port-of-melbourne-boat-tours" target="_blank">Port of Melbourne will have boat tours</a> with guided commentary by Port of Melbourne staff as the boats pass through the Coode Canal, Victoria, Appleton and Swanson Docks.

Do you have any recommendations?  Post it in the comments section below.
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Alastair Taylor

Open House Melbourne building list announced

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After leaving <a href="/news/ohm-2013-walter-eliza-hall-institute" target="_blank">Walter + Eliza Hall Institute</a> last Saturday, I meandered down to 171 Collins Street. Open House Melbourne 2013 was good timing for 171 Collins Street: the development is complete, BHP Billiton is moving into the high-rise section although a number of low-rise floors don't have tenants as yet.

Click the images for a larger version.

<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/047.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Looking up through the atrium to the high-rise area which BHP Billiton will be moving their Global Headquarters to"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/047.JPG?itok=yeYkqnLk" title="Looking up through the atrium to the high-rise area which BHP Billiton will be moving their Global Headquarters to" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Looking up through the atrium to the high-rise area which BHP Billiton will be moving their Global Headquarters to</figcaption></figure>The tour had quite a substantial wait time - 30 minutes - perhaps this was due to its central location or possibly people were just interested in the spectacular views. More on the views later. The tour kicked off with a brief talk about the the site's heritage features and then progressed to discussing the foyer and atrium. The Atrium (seen above) is mirrored down the walls in an effort to maximise natural light and like 333 Collins Street, will be accessible to the public during business 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/051.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Beyond the main foyer, the ground floor lift entrances with BHP Billiton's own concierge in the background"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/051.JPG?itok=Y7VML8xy" title="Beyond the main foyer, the ground floor lift entrances with BHP Billiton's own concierge in the background" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Beyond the main foyer, the ground floor lift entrances with BHP Billiton's own concierge in the background</figcaption></figure>After viewing BHP's separate concierge desk (pictured above), we headed up to level 7 for a closer look at one of the vacant office floors. 171 Collins Street has an raised floor system with air conditioning flowing underneath, allowing tenants the added option to move the vents/floor panels and easily position them to fit specific needs. A rundown of the towers common features was given; the most memorable and that which drew the most laughs from the crowd are the bathrooms, decorated in a 'hotel style.'

<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/054.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Vacant level 7"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/054.JPG?itok=51n9iEqv" title="Vacant level 7" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Vacant level 7</figcaption></figure>Thereafter the focus shifted toward the facade. As you can see in the below picture, the window treatment includes a white sheen; this is actually a ceramic layer in the triple-glazed facade which reduces the heat load and according to the tour guide, is a feature of 171 Collins Street required by its planning permit. Upon approval the tower was required to have a facade which did not detract from the vista of St. Paul's Cathedral nearby if you were standing under the clocks at Flinders Street gazing in that direction. So the towers facade when viewed from distance doesn't carry the same reflective qualities as other towers facades would. The white/grey hue is meant to mimic Melbourne's grey skies and if you walk closer, the outlook remains decided obscured.

When the tour guide was explaining the facade's features I cast my mind back to the many OH&amp;S induction sessions from the various contract and permanent jobs I've had in the past. I'm sure many reading this will be familiar with the idea when offices workers are at their desks, they are encouraged to look away from their PC screen every 5-10 minutes in order to give your eyes a rest. The most popular suggestion? Look out the nearest window. Maybe I missed something, however given the lack of clear views outwards, looking out a window wouldn't do much!

<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/056.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="View southwards over the currently closed Aldephi hotel - the white pattern obscuring the image is the ceramic layer in the triple-glazed facade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/056.JPG?itok=kI7S8P8B" title="View southwards over the currently closed Aldephi hotel - the white pattern obscuring the image is the ceramic layer in the triple-glazed facade" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>View southwards over the currently closed Aldephi hotel - the white pattern obscuring the image is the ceramic layer in the triple-glazed facade</figcaption></figure>To date one level in the low-rise section of 171 Collins has been leased with another 5 available / actively being marketed. A prime location, they won't last long in this all together impressive building.
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OHM 2013: 171 Collins Street

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After leaving the <a href="/news/ohm-2013-royal-melbourne-hospital-tunnels-helipad" target="_blank">RMH Tunnels and Helipad tour</a>, I hot-footed it around the corner to the <a href="http://wehi.edu.au/" target="_blank">Walter + Eliza Hall Institute</a> (WEHI) as part of my <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/" target="_blank">Open House Melbourne 2013</a> outing. Since 1915 WEHI has had an association with the Royal Melbourne Hospital and effectively it has been located next to, or in an RMH building ever since.

The tour started at the main entrance located next to the basketball court for University High. The interior is simple yet impressive (no photos of the entrance interior as I wasn't sure at this stage if photography was OK) which prominently displays all the funding partners and donors which contribute to the Institute. Beyond the security gates we were lead down the Discovery Tunnel which chronicles the history of the institute and leads to the newest wing, designed by DCM and opened in 2012.

On the ground floor of the new wing rests a model of the Institute's facilities as well as many of the prestigious awards scientists working at the Institute have received over the years including the Nobel Prize awarded to <a href="http://www.wehi.edu.au/about_us/history/directors/frank_macfarlane_burnet/" target="_blank">Frank Macfarlane Burnet</a>.

<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/032.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Model of the WEHI facilities"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/032.JPG?itok=Nn6edNU-" title="Model of the WEHI facilities" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Model of the WEHI facilities</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/031.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Sir Frank Macfarlane Burnet's Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine with Sir Peter Medawar for the discovery of immunological tolerance"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/031.JPG?itok=-dSJu6yE" title="Sir Frank Macfarlane Burnet's Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine with Sir Peter Medawar for the discovery of immunological tolerance" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Sir Frank Macfarlane Burnet's Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine with Sir Peter Medawar for the discovery of immunological tolerance</figcaption></figure>After going up one level, a short video featuring cameos by the design team was playing and half-way through I gazed upwards and became transfixed with the illumination of the void which we were standing at the base of.

<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/035.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Looking straight up between the Labs, staircase and lifts"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/035.JPG?itok=95pkXS-7" title="WEHI - Looking straight up between the Labs and staircase" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>WEHI - Looking straight up between the Labs and staircase</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/036.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Looking up at the labs"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/036.JPG?itok=vUoWI6vD" title="Looking up at the WEHI labs" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Looking up at the WEHI labs</figcaption></figure>When we rode up the glass lift, exited to go through the secured entry, we were greeted with life - no not mutant zombie-like creatures, but scientists, at work in the lab. It turns out there's approximately 1000 scientists, researchers and support staff working at the institute: no small organisation by any stretch of the imagination. We were also then taken into the only tea room in the entire facility - and it's enormous, complete with separate lecture theatre, industrial-sized kitchen and enough seats and tables, by my estimation, for 300 people - not to mention a great northerly aspect looking over old-school Parkville.

<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/041.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Looking north over Parkville"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/041.JPG?itok=omLZyUNm" title="Looking north over Parkville" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Looking north over Parkville</figcaption></figure>The tour naturally focused on the architecture, however WEHI also run <a href="http://www.wehi.edu.au/news/events/discovery_tours/" target="_blank">Discovery tours</a> which focus on the research and science which happens inside. I'd recommend anyone, even if you have a limited interest in science (says someone who dropped Science altogether in Year 10 and has only appreciated its application in adulthood) sign up because you'll be exposed to spaces, in particular work spaces, unlike many in the city.
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OHM 2013: Walter + Eliza Hall Institute

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Over the past weekend, Open House Melbourne drew many people out of their winter hibernation and onto the streets to view the various public and private buildings which threw their doors open. Having read many reviews in previous years on the the Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH) tunnels, I was pleasantly surprised to find the helipad was also open to the public this year.

Registration was required before the tour began and everyone who registered was asked to go to the exhibition in an adjacent room, where there was an informative journey of the hospital's past and future.

Of particular interest were the original blueprints.

<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/003.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Blueprints in the RMH history and future exhibition"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/003.JPG?itok=ux5CS_Xh" title="Blueprints in the RMH history and future exhibition" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Blueprints in the RMH history and future exhibition</figcaption></figure>The tour begun at the base of the lift core, where the original tunnels underneath the first building form a simple cross emanating from the basement level lift doors. The tour then proceeded into a void just underneath the new entrance to the Hospital built last decade, where we learnt about the on-site electricity generation capacity for the hospital should the standard power grid fail.

Interesting tidbit: the grid you walk over on the main ramp (into the new entrance) has an enlarged skylight overhanging; not for natural light penetration, but so a large crane could eventually be positioned over it, should the powers that be ever need to remove the diesel generators from the void below.

The tour then proceeded to the newer outer ring of tunnels built to better service the hospital as it has been expanded over the years. At this point, it suddenly dawned on me as to the reason why so many hospitals are clustered in southern Parkville: RMH provides multiple services like medical oxygen and steam for heating to adjacent buildings, including parts of the University of Melbourne. The former Royal Children's site (next to the new building) used to also be serviced by the facilities at RMH via another tunnel, an impressive feat given the RMH and former RCH sites are 1km apart! The Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre will also be served in part by RMH.

<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/014.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Roaming under Flemington Road's footpath"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/014.JPG?itok=zMGVXoPy" title="Roaming under Flemington Road's footpath" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Roaming under Flemington Road's footpath</figcaption></figure>The tunnel tour ended at a 2nd generator house on Flemington Road, next to the new road built to service the Royal Women's Hospital.

From there participants were invited to walk back, on the surface, to the main entrance of the RMH and then head up to the helipad. It wasn't in active use on the day thanks to maintenance work being carried out, however members of the public were allowed up there to witness the fantastic views.

<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/020.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Straight down the guts: view of the centre of the CBD from the RMH Helipad"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/020.JPG?itok=Qu_lEDMX" title="Straight down the guts: view of the centre of the CBD from the RMH Helipad" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Straight down the guts: view of the centre of the CBD from the RMH Helipad</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/027.JPG" rel="gallery-all" title="Cordons on the helipad"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/027.JPG?itok=Oz88gvwo" title="Cordons on the helipad" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Cordons on the helipad</figcaption></figure>All in all, if you haven't done it as part of any previous Open House Melbourne, I highly recommend doing it next year.
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OHM 2013: Royal Melbourne Hospital tunnels & helipad

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Open House Melbourne 2013 entered its fifth year on the ever growing Melbourne events calendar this weekend. Boasting over 100 buildings open to the public all over town, it is a stark contrast to the eight that opened their doors along the Swanston Street spine during the event's inception.

For the second year running I volunteered my services and having completed a shift at Trades Hall in Carlton last year I found myself stationed at Urban Workshop, located at 50 Lonsdale Street in the 'East Precinct.' We had over 400 visitors walk through the doors and take a guided tour of the ground floor lobby by historian Michelle Summerton, as well as the 33rd floor offices of Australian Super who managed the operation of the building for OHM2013.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/IMG_0123_lo-res_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Urban Workshop Streetscape"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/IMG_0123_lo-res_0.jpg?itok=57EuKVLK" title="Urban Workshop Streetscape" typeof="Image"></a>

<figcaption>Urban Workshop Streetscape</figcaption></figure>The site has a rich history forming part of the notorious 'Little Lon' red light district and once featured a network of laneways that dissected the site in amongst 10 cottages. One of these lane ways is retraced on the paving in the foyer spelling out 'Little Leichardt". The name of another laneway pays homage to a colourful character in Melbourne's past, brothel owner, Madame Brussels.

The current development was designed by John Wardle, Hassell and NH Architecture and was to be constructed by Grocon, yet after a fresh tender process Multiplex ultimately built the complex which became the new home of the Department of Human Services and Australian Super amongst others. The redevelopment incorporated two 19th century buildings into the revitalised streetscape, including what was one of Melbourne's first pubs. Prior to construction commencing, an archeological dig was undertaken on site uncovering over 300,000 artifacts, which are now on display in an installation curated by local artist Rosslynd Piggot, on the ground floor.

For now here are some shots I took from the street and from up on level 33 for those of you who missed out. Ciao.

Related links:

<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.madamebrusselslane.com.au/">http://www.madamebrusselslane.com.au</a></li>
	<li><a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/">http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/</a></li>
	<li><a href="http://www.johnwardlearchitects.com/projects/project/14-the-urban-workshop">http://www.johnwardlearchitects.com/projects/project/14-the-urban-workshop</a></li>
	<li><a href="http://www.nharchitecture.net/index.php?option=com_content&amp;task=view&amp;id=496&amp;Itemid=496">http://www.nharchitecture.net/index.php?option=com_content&amp;task=view&amp;id=496&amp;Itemid=496</a></li>
</ul>
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