Construction is now underway at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/cumulus-grand-villas-carrara-17-baltimore-court-carrara-qld-4211">Cumulus Grand Villas</a> in Carrara, with all stages fully funded as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/venturecrowd-property-projects">VentureCrowd</a> progresses its 59-residence gated community on an elevated ridgeline overlooking 100 hectares of natural savanna.

The commencement marks a key milestone for the Gold Coast project, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a> and being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/devcon">Devcon Property Group</a>, at a time when buyers are placing greater emphasis on delivery certainty and builder track record.

With Devcon active in South East Queensland since 1993 and having delivered more than 1,000 homes, the team is positioning Cumulus as a fully financed, under-construction offering in a market where risk mitigation has become a central consideration for off-the-plan purchasers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360496]

Located at 17 Baltimore Court, Cumulus Grand Villas comprises 59 three- and four-bedroom villas across four collections, Skyline, Canopy, Savanna and Broadview. Pricing starts from $1,455,000, with completion of the first stage targeted for Q4 2026.

Across the four collections, each design represents an expansive and thoughtfully considered offering. The Broadview provides additional flexibility within its floorplan, incorporating a multipurpose room or optional additional bedroom, and is priced from $1,895,000.&nbsp;

Configured across two levels, the four-bedroom villas feature two master bedrooms with private ensuites, as well as a multipurpose room (MPR), supporting intergenerational living, guest accommodation, or the creation of a dedicated retreat space.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360497]

The main living areas are positioned on the ground floor, while the bedrooms are located upstairs, a configuration that promotes both family separation and connected living. All villas include a second master suite on the ground floor, reinforcing the project’s focus on flexibility and long-term adaptability.

That adaptability was central to BDA Architecture’s design approach. The team sought to create a sophisticated, low-maintenance product that makes the most of the site’s elevation and outlook while responding to evolving household needs. Expansive glazing, open-plan interiors and private outdoor areas draw in natural light and frame views towards the savanna, hinterland and Broadbeach skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360470]

VentureCrowd Director of Property David Whitting said the project responds to a growing group of buyers reassessing what premium living on the Gold Coast looks like.

Flexible floorplans have proven particularly relevant for purchasers aged between 40 and 65, including next home buyers, downsizers and investors. The inclusion of dual master suites in the Broadview design, along with options for a downstairs MPR or guest bedroom, allows homes to adapt as family dynamics shift, whether accommodating older parents, adult children, or extended stays.

Across the community, villas are specified with European appliances and premium fixtures and fittings, alongside double garages and landscaped private areas. The gated enclave includes number plate recognition entry, reinforcing a focus on security and exclusivity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360474]

Lifestyle amenity is anchored by the Infinity Terrace, an elevated communal space incorporating a 20m heated pool, alfresco zones and barbecue facilities, designed as a shared retreat within the neighbourhood. A two-acre private nature reserve with walking trails and rehabilitated bushland further integrates the development with its savanna-edge setting, reflecting a broader masterplan initiative to restore native vegetation and habitat corridors.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/carrara-qld-4211">Carrara</a>’s positioning continues to attract attention from prestige buyers seeking proximity to the coast without beachfront pricing. The suburb offers access to major retail centres including Pacific Fair and Robina Town Centre, is around 15 minutes from Broadbeach, and benefits from connectivity via the M1 to Brisbane and the Gold Coast Airport.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135663]

Joel Robinson

VentureCrowd’s Cumulus Grand Villas in Carrara advances with construction underway

Joint venture partners <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> are officially launching the third and final residential stage at their landmark $350 million harbourfront precinct, Putney Wharf, with The Residences representing the final opportunity to secure a new home within this rare waterfront destination.

Strong demand has already been established across the earlier stages of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-residences-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a>, with more than 50 per cent sold ahead of this final release. The Residences will introduce a selection of the precinct’s most premium apartments, many of which were deliberately reserved for this concluding stage.

Located at 20 Waterview Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a> NSW, the completed precinct will comprise 67 residences, including 18 terraces and 49 apartments, alongside five retail tenancies and a 36-berth marina.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=1338]

Developed alongside partners Phoenix Property Investors and Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Putney Wharf occupies a prized 300-metre stretch of absolute waterfront and incorporates the historic former Halvorsen’s Boatshed. The precinct connects directly to surrounding parklands via a landscaped foreshore walkway and a large, landscaped podium linking both sides of the development to the adjoining foreshore parklands.

The Residences comprise two newly built, three-storey apartment buildings delivering a boutique collection of 30 generously proportioned waterfront apartments. Designed to capture harbour outlooks, natural light and cooling breezes, The Residences balance architectural refinement with relaxed, low-maintenance living.

Architecturally designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the apartments continue the cohesive design language seen across the broader precinct. A refined palette of light and dark materials, softer-toned stone and neutral, earthy finishes reflect the surrounding landscape and harbour setting. Interiors feature painted timber veneers, tactile joinery, timber flooring to living spaces and 100 per cent natural wool carpets in bedrooms, creating warm and sophisticated homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362525]

Justin Brown, Executive Chairman and Founder of Abadeen, said the release of the final residential stage marks an important milestone for the project.

“Putney Wharf brings together everything we’ve learned over more than 25 years of development,” Mr Brown said. “It respects the site’s extraordinary maritime history while delivering contemporary homes that connect people directly to the harbour.

The Residences offer the rare combination of low-maintenance apartment living, waterfront outlooks with beautiful sunset views, and the convenience of retail and amenity at your doorstep. For boating enthusiasts, the opportunity to secure a private marina berth completes a truly unique Sydney harbourfront lifestyle.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291197]

PERIFA Managing Director and Co-Founder Fabrizio Perilli added that the diversity of housing across the precinct has been central to the project’s success.

“Whether it’s the heritage Halvorsen’s apartments, the Waterview Terraces or now The Residences, Putney Wharf offers a range of homes that respond to different lifestyles, all united by an unrivalled harbourfront setting,” Perilli said. “This is a precinct that will add lasting value to the Putney community.”

Managing project marketing and sales, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Partner Tim Rees said the final release has already attracted strong demand reflecting the project’s unique harbourfront position and the success of earlier stages.

“Following the strong response to both the Halvorsen’s Boatshed residences and the Waterview Terraces, The Residences represent the final chance to secure a new home within this tightly held waterfront precinct,” Rees said. “Buyers are drawn to the rare combination of absolute harbour frontage, parkside living and genuine architectural quality.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240]

Putney Wharf is a one-of-a-kind mixed-use destination, delivering an exclusive residential offering alongside waterfront dining, retail and a 36-berth marina designed to the latest Australian Standards, accommodating vessels up to 18 metres and helping address Sydney Harbour’s ongoing marina shortage.

The precinct will include five retail tenancies and a prominent waterfront jetty area fronting the retail village, creating an activated harbourfront destination for residents and visitors alike.

Residents will enjoy direct access to lush harbourfront parklands, a public foreshore walkway and landscaped podium gardens connecting the development to the surrounding waterfront reserve. Construction across the Putney Wharf precinct is expected to be completed by Q2 2027.

Sales of The Residences officially launch this weekend, with the display suite open Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 12pm at Putney Wharf. Visitors are invited to enjoy a complimentary coffee while touring The Residences and experiencing the Putney Wharf lifestyle firsthand.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Final Harbourfront release in Putney Wharf launches this weekend

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/draycon">Draycon Building</a> is nearing completion of Boutique Chevron Island, a 42-apartment development on the northern end of Chevron Island at 17–19 Parneno Street, with a limited-time offer of fully furnished apartments available.

Now more than 90 per cent complete, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/boutique-chevron-island-17-19-parneno-chevron-island-qld-4217">Boutique</a> has been shaped by one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held island addresses, where riverfront outlooks and walkable access to Surfers Paradise converge.

For Draycon Building Managing Director Howard Dabit, the appeal of the site was immediate.

“I knew it was a good site as soon as I saw it,” Dabit said.

“The position and location on the north end of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>, the way the river swirls around the site basically from the north to the east, it feels like the site is surrounded by the water. The height that we’ve got and the aspect looking north is beautiful. Eighty per cent of the apartments are looking north so they get that drenching sunlight coming in.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89709 project_image_fid=360922]

That northern orientation places the development within a stretch of Chevron Island defined by open river aspects and skyline views, while remaining embedded in the suburb’s established village setting.

Chevron Island has increasingly drawn owner-occupiers seeking centrality without the intensity of high-rise beachfront living. Positioned at the geographical centre of the Gold Coast, the island offers direct access to both the beach and key cultural infrastructure while retaining a neighbourhood-scale character.

Connected by bridge to Surfers Paradise, Chevron Island offers walkable access to beaches, riverfront parklands and a revitalised foreshore boulevard animated by walkers and cyclists throughout the day. The Pacific Ocean is only minutes away, reinforcing the suburb’s dual river-and-surf identity.

At the same time, Thomas Drive forms the spine of the island’s village life, delivering cafés, wine bars, casual dining and everyday services within easy reach. Independent grocers, wellness operators and neighbourhood retailers contribute to a community atmosphere that remains distinct from the vertical scale of the beachfront.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89709 project_image_fid=360915]

In the opposite direction, the Green Bridge links directly to HOTA – Home of the Arts – placing galleries, performance venues and parklands within walking distance. Weekly markets and major exhibitions draw visitors from across the region, while residents return to a quieter residential pocket at day’s end.

Public transport, including nearby bus routes and the G:link light rail corridor along the coastal spine, strengthens connectivity north and south. Griffith University, the Gold Coast University Hospital precinct and established private schools such as The Southport School are all within a short drive.

Ongoing investment across Surfers Paradise, HOTA and the broader Southport corridor has elevated amenity while preserving Chevron Island’s comparatively low-rise residential character. It is this balance, walkable village atmosphere paired with metropolitan-scale infrastructure, that continues to differentiate the suburb from higher-density beachfront precincts.

Boutique comprises just 42 residences, designed to maximise river and skyline outlooks within this tightly held island setting.

Boutique Chevron Island is slated for completion in April 2026, with prices starting from $1,220,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=89709]

Draycon Building’s Boutique Chevron Island places 42 residences at the heart of the Gold Coast

Sydney developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a> has secured planning approval for a $300 million residential development in Lindfield, marking the company’s second project on Sydney’s North Shore and its first on the Upper North Shore.

Located on Beaconsfield Parade and designed by DKO Architecture, the state significant development comprises three buildings of up to 10 storeys and will include 399 residences, including 59 affordable homes and 40 adaptable homes.

Residences will range in size from one, two and three bedrooms, with two-bedroom apartments accounting for over 60 per cent of the product make-up. Residents will have access to a broad suite of amenities, including a wellness area, indoor and outdoor recreational spaces, a pool, a gym, a community room and a golf simulator.

In line with Deicorp’s long-standing focus on creating transit-oriented communities, the project is located just 260 metres from the Lindfield Train Station, reinforcing its role in delivering well-connected housing close to established infrastructure, retail and local services.

The inclusion of affordable and adaptable housing supports greater diversity within the local market, while the mix of apartment types responds to demand from downsizers, young professionals and families seeking access to the Upper North Shore.

Deicorp Founder Fouad Deiri OAM said the approval represents an important milestone for both the company and the suburb

“This approval allows us to deliver well-designed homes in a location that is already supported by strong transport and community infrastructure," Deiri said.

"Our focus is on creating places that integrate into their surroundings and provide long-term value for residents, and the broader Lindfield community. Being within walking distance of the station ensures this project supports sustainable growth in the right locations."

Across its portfolio, Deicorp currently has 4,703 apartments under construction, playing a leading role in shaping connected, liveable communities across Sydney.

Its expanding portfolio of Metro-linked developments includes Tallawong Village, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kings-bay-village-five-dock-53-75-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">Kings Bay Village</a> in Five Dock, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hyde-metropolitan-sydney-133-141-liverpool-street-sydney-nsw-2000">Hyde Metropolitan</a> in Sydney CBD, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/falcon-alexander-crows-nest-8-alexander-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Falcon &amp; Alexander</a> in Crows Nest and Showground Village, Castle Hill.

Deicorp purchased the Beaconsfield Paradise site last year. Construction is scheduled to commence in Q2 of 2026 and will be completed in 2029.

Deicorp expands portfolio to nearly 5,000 apartments with Lindfield project

In a joint venture with The Trump Organization, Australia developer Altus Property Group has announced plans to bring a Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower to the Gold Coast, marking the first Trump-branded project in Australia.

"Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower, Gold Coast is our first official project in Australia and reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class luxury experiences in iconic locations around the world," Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organization, said.

"This development exemplifies the Trump brand’s dedication to quality, sophistication, and unmatched service, and we are thrilled to bring this vision to the vibrant Gold Coast community."

The 91-storey building, which will become the tallest in Australia at 335 metres, will feature a&nbsp;285-room luxury hotel bearing the trademark Trump logo. It will also include 272 luxury residential apartments, a three-level podium with an exclusive Beach Club, and over 3,400 sqm of premium commercial, retail, and dining space, revitalizing the central Surfers Paradise precinct.

“Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower, Gold Coast will be a truly unique offering in the Australian market, bringing the prestige and allure of a world-class luxury brand,"&nbsp;Altus founder and chief executive David Young said.

"Altus Property Group is proud of its track record in delivering landmark developments across Australia, and our expertise ensures this project will be an outstanding success."

Trump Hotel heads for the Gold Coast to become Australia's tallest building

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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New townhouses

News