Nature Based Cities (NBC), the not-for-profit organisation focused on improving biodiversity and nature outcomes in urban development, has launched its latest industry design guidelines and accreditation framework, this time targeting precinct-scale residential communities.

The move extends NBC’s influence beyond its initial focus on medium and high-density residential developments. Several projects have already achieved NBC accreditation since the launch of its Medium &amp; High-Density Residential Guidelines in early 2025.

The expansion into masterplanned communities and new residential precincts reflects the growing need for stronger nature-positive benchmarks as Australia’s outer suburban growth corridors continue to expand at pace.

Paul Hameister OAM, NBC Founder and the Executive Chairman of Melbourne developer Hamton who itself leans heavily into nature and biodiversity in its developments, says the&nbsp;nature-first approach to mitigate the effects of climate change has become standard in other parts of the world such as the UK, but Australia is lagging.&nbsp;Australia’s environmentally sustainable design (ESD) rating tools have no minimum mandatory requirements for living landscapes.

“We’ve always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren’t there,” Hameister says. “In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that’s concrete and glass with not a blade of grass. 
 
“The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn’t been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities.”

He says that having now&nbsp;made good progress in supporting developers of medium and high-density residential projects, NBC is now looking to bolster better nature-based decision-making and recognise developers of greenfield projects in the outer ring and large inner-ring brownfield precincts, who want to champion nature and living landscape as a defining feature.

Since 2022, the not-for-profit has sought to remove the roadblocks preventing developers from incorporating nature and living landscapes into their projects, shifting the conversation from the reduction of emissions and grey infrastructure, toward recognising nature as an essential infrastructure.

The New Communities Design Guidelines and Scorecard arm developers with the tools needed to deliver a nature positive outcome for their new communities. Intended to be adopted at the outset of the planning process, the guidelines are designed to help create communities that are cooler, healthier and more resilient while also enhancing social wellbeing and long-term economic value.&nbsp;

New Communities developers seeking accreditation will be independently assessed across a range of key criteria including ecology, tree canopy, biodiversity, and walkability. Once the masterplan is complete and submitted for approval, the scorecard is formalised based on proposed outcomes. Projects that meet the NBC criteria will receive either Commended or Exemplary accreditation outcomes, creating a clear benchmark for nature-positive new communities in Australia.&nbsp;

Janis Fischer, Director at Tract and NBC Advisory Council member, said the development of new communities in our suburbs can have a substantial impact on nature and biodiversity.

"By incorporating nature-based design principles at the inception of a project, developers and their design teams can achieve nature positive outcomes that are good for both people and the planet.’’&nbsp;

NBC accredited New Community projects will gain access to NBC branding and marketing tools to help communicate their nature-based credentials to purchasers and the broader market.&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Nature Based Cities: A new Australian benchmark for developing nature-positive new communities

Apartment buildings are increasingly being designed around how people actually live day to day, not just how they want a building to look.

For buyers, that shift is showing up in practical inclusions that respond to changing habits. Work-from-home spaces, EV charging, wellness amenities, secure bike storage and parcel management are becoming part of the broader apartment conversation, reflecting a move toward buildings that reduce friction in everyday life.

Online shopping has become one of the clearest examples of that change.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online. That has made parcel delivery a regular part of apartment living, rather than an occasional inconvenience.

For apartment residents, however, the delivery process can be less straightforward than it is for detached homes. Parcels may be left in lobbies, redirected to Post Offices, missed entirely, or placed under the responsibility of building managers and concierge teams.

That is why secure parcel infrastructure is increasingly being considered alongside more familiar apartment amenities.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-VjjLwoViX0?si=A3k7ws9NX35Uac7_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post Parcel Lockers offer one way to address the issue. When a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS, then collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN. The parcel is kept secure, accessible and removed from common areas.

The broader Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations across Australia, positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and other accessible locations.

For new apartment projects, the relevance is clear. A building’s amenity offering is no longer only about lifestyle spaces, but also about convenience, security and functionality.

As buyer expectations evolve, secure parcel delivery is becoming part of the same design conversation as flexible working, sustainable transport and resident wellbeing.

It is one less thing for residents to worry about, and another example of apartment design adapting to the way Australians now live.

Apartment design is adapting to the way Australians shop

While school holidays and trips to Europe tend to define the winter property market, there's been no cold snap at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> in North Sydney.

Developer-builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a> sold more than $35 million worth of apartments throughout June, including a $6.8 million apartment that now ranks among the highest apartment sales ever recorded in North Sydney.

SRM Residential agent Ben Stewart said buyer demand throughout June reflected a mix of improving market confidence and longer-term thinking from owner-occupiers.

"We're seeing strong demand from owner-occupiers who are taking a longer-term view," Stewart said.

"Many recognise the opportunity to secure an apartment in an iconic building and premium location while values remain attractive. They may initially lease the property, but the intention is to eventually move in themselves, rather than purchasing purely as an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=367129]

Located at 177 Walker Street, The Walden will deliver 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across a 30-storey tower designed by Rothelowman. Every apartment occupies a corner position, maximising natural light, cross ventilation and views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Heads and the northern districts.

Rather than a traditional balcony, the residences feature winter gardens that seamlessly extend the open plan living areas, creating versatile spaces for relaxing or entertaining throughout the year. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws in natural light while showcasing sweeping views from the building's elevated Walker Street position.

Every apartment features high-end Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, and fully integrated appliances.

The larger residences have been planned with distinct entertaining and private zones, with many master suites positioned on corners to capture natural light and harbour views. Walk-in dressing rooms, freestanding baths and refined stone finishes reinforce the house-like feel that has resonated with downsizers and owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6393]

Rothelowman Principal Ben Pomroy said the project was designed to make the most of its unique position overlooking the harbour.

"The Walden is a celebration of all things beautiful, curated for those who expect nothing less than exceptional," Pomroy says.

"Meticulously designed entertaining spaces and light-filled living areas that capitalise on capturing the natural beauty of Sydney's iconic harbour."

Residents will also have exclusive access to The Pavilion, a dedicated amenity building featuring a rooftop pool, wellness studio, gymnasium, sauna, concierge service, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and work-from-home facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6402]

The project marks ALAND's first major luxury apartment development in Sydney's inner-city market after more than two decades delivering residential communities across Greater Sydney.

Founder and CEO Andrew Hrsto previously said the rarity of the Walker Street site made it an opportunity the company could not overlook.

"This is a rare opportunity to bring a truly exceptional project to life in one of Sydney's most iconic locations, and to showcase our craftsmanship and design expertise at a world-class level," Hrsto said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6383]

The Walden has been introduced to the market at a time when demand for living in North Sydney is at an all-time high. Billions of dollars have been invested in infrastructure, including the recently opened Victoria Cross Metro station, located just 300 metres from The Walden, providing residents with direct access to the Sydney CBD in just minutes.

Private investment has also transformed the area through the arrival of new retail and dining destinations, elevating the lifestyle offering in what was once considered primarily a commercial precinct rather than an aspirational residential address.

The Walden is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

First look: ‘Far more than replacing a shopping centre’ as Conquest unveils 736-home Eastlakes redevelopment

Abadeen has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for one of Mosman's largest apartment developments in recent years, seeking approval to transform the former Honeysuckle Garden and Midas site on Military Road into a 100-apartment mixed-use development.

The SSDA, lodged with investment partner Phoenix Property Investors, proposes around $230 million worth of new housing on the prominent <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/494-516-military-road-mosman-nsw-2088">494-516 Military Road</a> site.

The proposal comes as Mosman Council continues to progress its recently endorsed Masterplan, which identifies the precinct for increased housing density while maintaining the suburb's established character.

Designed by DKO Architecture, the development would comprise 100 apartments above ground-floor retail, with a rooftop wellness precinct including a gym, sauna, entertaining areas and landscaped communal spaces.

Rather than pushing to the full 12-storey height identified in Council's Masterplan, the proposal ranges between five and nine storeys, stepping down towards Hale Road. A tenth level would accommodate resident amenities rather than additional apartments.

The project has been designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and young professionals through to families and local downsizers looking to remain on the Lower North Shore.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5dada03f-5b4c-43ba-ba62-2868add31440" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.57.55%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7LBy0B.Jo8_iWAFJsClcV7Q3UnXrv49r" />

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock.

"The apartments have been designed as genuine long-term homes, with efficient floorplans that maximise usable living areas, generous storage, natural light and strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces," Brown says."

"We've focused on creating homes for a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and growing families through to downsizers who want to remain in Mosman."

The rooftop wellness offering forms a key part of the proposal, with residents set to have access to a gym, sauna, outdoor entertaining spaces, communal dining areas, landscaped gardens and a multi-use recreation court overlooking Sydney Harbour.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d37c2d6b-583a-4a0f-b7a9-9f46b893d2f4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.58.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=FPoa5FCm2RtzjhAh2w5FTWJbV6GHfY8D" />

DKO drew heavily on the site's natural and cultural history, undertaking a Connecting with Country process with local Aboriginal Elders to inform the architectural and landscape design.

Senior Associate Matthew Ritchard said the design sought to create a building that responded to both the site's landscape and its cultural significance.

"The architectural language of the project is a deep expression of Connecting with Country, where the materiality and colour palette serve as a bridge between the site's geological history and its future as a residential sanctuary."

The proposal also retains the site's established blue gum tree as the centrepiece of the communal landscaped gardens, while introducing activated retail fronting Military Road to strengthen the connection between Mosman and Cremorne villages.

If approved, the project would deliver 100 new homes within walking distance of shops, public transport, schools and local amenities, adding to the limited pipeline of new apartments on the Lower North Shore.

<h2>Project Snapshot</h2>

Project: Honeysuckle Garden Redevelopment

Address: 494-516 Military Road, Mosman

Developer: Abadeen and Phoenix Property Investors

Architect: DKO Architecture

Lead Architect: Matthew Ritchard

Value: $230 million

Residences: 100 apartments

Key features:

<ul>
	<li>
	Ground-floor retail
	</li>
	<li>
	Rooftop wellness precinct
	</li>
	<li>
	Gym and sauna
	</li>
	<li>
	Outdoor entertaining and BBQ areas
	</li>
	<li>
	Landscaped communal gardens
	</li>
	<li>
	Multi-use recreation court
	</li>
	<li>
	Retained mature blue gum tree
	</li>
	<li>
	Connecting with Country design process
	</li>
	<li>
	Harbour, CBD and Balmoral views from upper-level apartments
	</li>
</ul>

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock

First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman

Pace Development Group

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PACE Development Group has rounded out a successful 2016 by unveiling 181 Fitzroy Street. Residents will this week begin moving in to the freshly completed residential project which may just contain the best views of any apartment project in Melbourne.

181 Fitzroy Street spans 10 levels and includes 151 one, two and three bedroom apartments. Designed by SJB, the project has achieved an average energy rating of 7.2 and in an Australian first, PACE has partnered with Origin Energy to provide an integrated energy outcome across the project, featuring solar, EV charger and a communal PHEV (plug in hybrid vehicle) solutions.

The result is substantial energy savings and the generation of power that will, in part, illuminate the project's common areas.

<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/image250.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="181 Fitzroy Street upon completion. Image: PACE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image250.jpg?itok=KYKBhwTL" title="181 Fitzroy Street upon completion. Image: PACE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>181 Fitzroy Street upon completion. Image: PACE</figcaption></figure>181 Fitzroy Street is PACE's latest project in the pocket surrounding the ever popular St Kilda Junction, with recent completions nearby including Allure, Henry Windsor, George Windsor and The Icon which has made a name for itself as one of Melbourne's most unique buildings.

With final touches applied over the weekend, residents can now begin to enjoy the impressive views, with all north facing apartments and the top floor communal area aligning with Albert Park and Lake, Southbank and the CBD beyond.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
The settlement of 181 Fitzroy, which was sold primarily to the local market (83.5%), marks the end of PACE’s most successful year to date.

Despite murmurings of a downturn in the market, 2016 has been incredibly successful year for PACE with 86 at Archer settled in May, 48 settled at George Windsor in October, 86 at Brunswick sold-out in 7 months, Northcote 75% sold in 4 months, Doncaster East selling well and now the completion of 151 luxury apartments at 181 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda.

For 181, the immaculate architectural work of SJB is complimented by the expert hand of interior designer, Sue Carr whose impeccable eye has touched upon every internal element at 181 Fitzroy Street, bringing a level of refinement to the project, reminiscent of the finest contemporary European hotels.

Having undergone an extremely smooth settlement &amp; valuations process, with 95% of apartments valued at or above purchase price, the settlement of the project marks an appropriate end to 2016 for PACE and aptly sets the tone for what is expected to be an even stronger 2017.
<cite>Shane Wilkinson, Managing Director, PACE Development Group</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image256.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Top floor terrace, infinity pool and views. Image: PACE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="155" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image256.jpg?itok=26CrkbLa" title="Top floor terrace, infinity pool and views. Image: PACE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Top floor terrace, infinity pool and views. Image: PACE</figcaption></figure>And PACE's <a href="/developments">2017's pipeline</a> is evident within the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

Yesterday, <a href="/buildings/pace-of-northcote-5-beavers-road-northcote">Pace of Northcote</a>'s tower crane was erected; it joins <a href="/buildings/ode-16-grey-street-st-kilda">Ode</a> and 808 Sydney Road at construction, with the latter currently seeing the commencement of piling works onsite. Together these three projects will see roughly 240 additional dwellings added to PACE's development portfolio.

<a href="/buildings/pace-of-doncaster-east-3-mitchell-street-doncaster-east">Pace of Doncaster East</a> is also at sales, having begun its campaign recently. Included within the project are 82 apartments split between one, two and three-bedroom options.

City of Yarra is set to host PACE's next wave of apartment developments. <a href="/buildings/pace-of-collingwood-75-wellington-street-collingwood">73-77 Wellington Street</a> will see a display suite take shape shortly, following on from the project's approval. The remaining project on PACE's immediate agenda and the only project of theirs currently at planning is <a href="/buildings/pace-of-abbotsford-247-johnston-street-abbotsford">247-249 Johnston Street, Abbotsford</a>.

Spanning 13 levels, the project may net PACE another 148 apartments set behind the historic St. Crispin House facade.

<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/image259.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A selection of upcoming PACE projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image259.jpg?itok=y1h8rbSZ" title="A selection of upcoming PACE projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A selection of upcoming PACE projects</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

181 Fitzroy Street rounds out 2016 as PACE shapes up for an active 2017

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There's news for Pace Development Group across a variety of fronts.

Firstly, the prolific developer has taken the 2016 Property Development Award at the Australian Property Industry (API) Excellence in Property Awards. St Kilda's 'The Icon' building was granted the citation as part of the event which recognises innovation and outstanding achievement s across the property industry.

Held last Friday evening, the award results from the deliberations of a group of property leaders which critically assessed all entries in their individual fields. The Icon landed the overall Property Development Award on the evening.

<blockquote>
Like any challenging design statement, The Icon created a sense of apprehension initially within the locally community, however with Pace’s expertise in the area, together with architects Jackson Clements Burrows (JCB) and local artist Matthew Johnson – the final result is truly stunning.
One we should all be proud of.
<cite>Michael Holah, Head of Planning and Design, Pace Development Group</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_6177_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Kilda's 'The Icon'"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6177_0_0.jpg?itok=2B2PXPMz" title="St Kilda's 'The Icon'" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Kilda's 'The Icon'</figcaption></figure>Now in its 22nd year of operation, Pace Development Group is powering ahead with its development pipeline.

With George Windsor and St Kilda's 181 Fitzroy Street all but complete, construction has commenced on Pace of Northcote. In excess if 60% of the initial stage has sold, allowing Pace of Northcote to progress from sales release to construction in little more than a few weeks.

The developer's Northcote pursuit is joined by Pace of Doncaster East and 808-818 Sydney Road which are both at sales, while Ode St Kilda is also at construction. This quartet is set to deliver approximately 320 new apartments across four separate suburbs.

<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/image73_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A revised 247-259 Johnston Street. Planning image: SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image73_3.jpg?itok=XZ5pksL1" title="A revised 247-259 Johnston Street. Planning image: SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A revised 247-259 Johnston Street. Planning image: SJB Architects</figcaption></figure>In related news, Pace Development Group's intended residential project at 247-259 Johnston Street, Abbotsford has gone back to Council with a revised scheme.

City of Yarra are now displaying the updated plans which carry an estimated development cost of $45 million. Gone is an earlier scheme for an 18 level tower, with a smaller tower installed in order to respond to the official feedback received from Council's independent Urban Designers. Greater setbacks to Johnston Street and Stafford Street have also been included.

At 12 levels, Pace Development Group is pushing to realise 148 apartments across the project, comprising of 66 x 1 bedroom, 7 x 1 bedroom plus study, 69 x 2 bedroom, 1 x 2 bedroom plus study and 5 x 3 bedroom options.

247-259 Johnston Street along with Collingwood's 73-77 Wellington Street form the backbone of Pace Development Group's future projects stock.
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Pace scores a gong, and looks to score with City of Yarra

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Freshly lodged with City of Yarra, Abbotsford's 247-249 Johnston Street is back in the spotlight with Pace Development Group endeavouring to gain approval for a 14 level residential building.

Although shorter than a failed proposal by the previous developer Abbotsford JV Pty Ltd to gain approval for a residential building onsite, the current 247-249 Johnston Street if approved would still stand as one of the suburbs tallest buildings. Pace Development Group secured the development site during early 2015 and had initially <a href="/news/a-test-of-wills-looms-over-a-prime-abbotsford-development-site">gone to Council requesting a 19 level residential tower</a>.

With the current application lodged four weeks ago, Yarra City Council will not decide upon the merits of the application until at least the end of March.

<h2>247-249 Johnston Street application summary</h2>

<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/image77_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the new streetscape. Image by SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image77_0.jpg?itok=Afcft6h9" title="Artist's impression of the new streetscape. Image by SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the new streetscape. Image by SJB Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application submitted February 2016</li>
	<li>Onsite commercial buildings include St Crispin House, over a site area of 2,300sqm</li>
	<li>Proposed 14 level buildings @ 48.84 metres</li>
	<li>167 apartments: 68 x 1BR, 7 x 1BR+S, 85 x 2BR, 2 x 2BR+S, 5 x 3BR</li>
	<li>3 level basement incorporating 214 parking spaces, 205 bicycles and 193 storage spaces</li>
	<li>2 ground floor retails spaces of 153.7sqm and 450sqm</li>
	<li>Communal amenities include pool, BBQ area, deck, lounge/dining space and landscaped area</li>
	<li>Nominal project cost: $45 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Height and heritage</h2>

A previous proposal for 247-249 Johnston Street landed at VCAT during 2012, and although unsuccessful the current development team have taken queues from that case in order to aid their planning application.

Rejected for differing reasons at 17 levels, the current proposal calls for 14 levels where council have nominated 8-10 levels as their preferred outcome under the <a href="http://file:///C:/Users/User/Downloads/JOHNSTON_STREET_LAP_ADOPTED_2015.pdf">Johnston Street Local Area Plan</a> which was adopted during December 2015. Urbis have noted within the current town planning report that "these are heights and street setbacks as guidelines only, with the primary goal being to achieve the design objectives."

In addition VCAT at the time found that “there would be no unreasonable amenity impacts resulting from a tall building (whether it be 11, 14-16 or 17 storeys)” at 247-249 Johnston Street, perhaps indicating that a building of 14 levels for height purposes alone would be acceptable.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image79_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected Stafford Street interface. Image by SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="305" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_1.jpg?itok=aZG3uaIG" title="Expected Stafford Street interface. Image by SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Expected Stafford Street interface. Image by SJB Architects</figcaption></figure>The existing St. Crispin House facade and other heritage elements within the 1923-built building are to be partly retained and incorporated under the new design with between 2.5 to 5.5 metres setbacks in place behind the retained facade.

Designated as having local historical and aesthetic/architectural significance, St. Crispin House falls under Heritage Overlay (HO410) and as such requires that prior to any demolition being green lighted the proposal needs to “demonstrated that the removal of part of the building or works does not negatively affect the significance of the place.”

To the rear of the site and Stafford Street will host a stand-alone five level residential building on what is now a warehouse in a separate structure to the mid-rise building.

<h2>Northern exposure</h2>

247-249 Johnston Street represents a strengthening of Pace Development Group's activities north of the Yarra after reeling off a string of residential projects in bayside Melbourne. Mentone, Windsor and St Kilda have accounted for nine individual projects in recent years with Evo at 107-115 Manningham Street, Parkville their sole project north of Melbourne's CBD.

The Abbotsford proposal joins existing Collingwood and Brunswick projects with the three producing roughly 360 dwellings for the developer.

<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/image80_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fieldwork Projects have created 808 Sydney Road. Image by 4D Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="315" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image80_0.jpg?itok=xCHB0eL7" title="Fieldwork Projects have created 808 Sydney Road. Image by 4D Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>808 Sydney Road. Image by 4D Studio</figcaption></figure>With Pace Development Group's website suggesting 247-249 Johnston Street is expected to launch in the second half of 2016, it joins 808 Sydney Road with that project accounting for 1/3 of available apartments since its launch during February. This follows a successful campaign by CBRE City Sales which saw the 2,023sqm development site sold during 2015.

Pace Development Group have slated demolition for June with excavation/construction to commence on 808 Sydney Road directly thereafter.
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Pace Development Group ups the ante on Johnston Street

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Pace Development Group's The Icon (6 St Kilda Road, St Kilda) celebrated its completion with an event on the level 5 residents lounge. The avant-garde Jackson Clements Burrows-designed building in collaboration with local artist Matthew Johnson spans 17 floors, accommodating 119 apartments and featuring a unique expanded mesh screen façade comprising 40 different colours.

The building is conceived as "an assemblage of irregularly stacked boxes, of varied heights, which aims to provide a connection between the surrounding built form and landscape, within this highly urbanised environment". Apartments within are treated to views directly over Port Phillip Bay, Albert Park Lake, the Melbourne and emerging South Yarra skylines and all the way to Arthurs Seat and the Dandenongs.

<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_0906.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="View of South Yarra skyline."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0906.jpg?itok=UoSjZSky" title="View of South Yarra skyline." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>View of South Yarra skyline.</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The main influence for this building was: how do you distinguish a building in the skyline?

I think most apartment buildings are just a singular extrusion - and we saw this as an opportunity to change the idea of that - by seeing it as a series of stacked elements or stacked boxes, so that the silhouette of the building would read very differently to a singular extrusion, with each box representing a different neighbourhood within the building and then each box has its own coloured representation, which we collaborated with the artist Matthew Johnson on and that's really about giving identity to what we imagine could be different communities within the building, so it was a way of thinking about a building as a collection of communities rather than a singular entity.

The apartment layouts have different variations between different one, two and three bedroom types so the good thing is that people who may have specific requirements can search through all the different layouts to find something that's specific to their needs, and I think that's quite unique as an offering.
<cite>Tim Jackson, Jackson Clements Burrows</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_6188_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="View looking up at the stacked boxes and overhangs."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6188_0.jpg?itok=Wk5uTCD3" title="View looking up at the stacked boxes and overhangs." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>View looking up at the stacked boxes and overhangs.</figcaption></figure>The Icon is an exemplar of good design that provides affordable accommodation with significant shared facilities and amenities, such as the Level 5 residents lounge that features an expansive outdoor terrace area overlooking St Kilda Road and Albert Park, dining room and gym.

With recent discussion around the introduction of minimum apartment sizes and the potential impact that may have on developers' ability to deliver affordable accommodation, guests were invited to inspect five apartments as part of the opening, four of which Pace identified to be the smallest affordable apartments:

<ul>
<li>A one bedroom apartment (with borrowed light) on Level 7: 42sqm plus balcony priced in the mid/high $300,000 to low $400,000 range.</li>
	<li>A three bedroom apartment on Level 7: 88sqm plus balcony priced in the high $600,000 range.</li>
	<li>A one bedroom apartment on Level 9: 42sqm plus balcony priced in the mid/high $300,000 to low $400,000 range.</li>
	<li>A two bedroom apartment on Level 9: 57sqm plus balcony priced in the low-mid $500,000 range.</li>
</ul>
Additionally there was a Penthouse-style three bedroom apartment, custom built on level 15 priced at $1,000,000, with a number of balconies including an extremely long balcony along the south.

<h2>Comment</h2>

It must be said that despite their size and the occasionally odd nuance here and there, the one bedroom apartments were quite comfortable in terms of their spacial and internal planning, affording more than adequate natural light. The Icon is impressive in how true it has managed to maintain and express the architectural integrity and design intent of JCB's vision, highlighted by the additional level of rigour and detail undertaken during the construction phase by Pace, in consulting with Matthew Johnson in ensuring the right colours were picked; not just for the mesh screens, but the backing walls behind.

The application of the coloured mesh panels to the soffits of the stacked boxes reinforces the dedication to seeing the vision realised, and that the completed building remained true to that vision, providing the pedestrian at street looking skyward with an appreciation of the stacked boxes in all dimensions. It would have been quite easy to reduce the distance which the elements cantilever from a constructability point of view and employing an alternative (say, villaboard) in lieu of the mesh undersides to save costs.

The decision to put design at the forefront is both commendable and admirable particularly when it has resulted in a brilliant and playful addition to the St Kilda skyline that has no boring elevations.

Please enjoy an assortment of accompanying photos taken from the opening event in the slideshow below.
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Laurence Dragomir

An Icon complete

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Does the humble display suite still hold prime position in a development's given marketing and sales game plan compared to a few short years ago? In a time where international marketing campaigns and channel sales tend to sop up a fair portion of apartment sales prior to their local release, perhaps the worth of a display suite in on the wane.

While hard numbers sell apartments to those intent on investing, the same can't be said for owner-occupiers who are altogether more discerning when considering their next property purchase. With this in mind Apartments.com.au viewed the 181 Fitzroy Street display suite recently and spoke with Pace Development Group's Georgie Bott on why their display is at the forefront of the sales campaign.

<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/image173_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 181 Fitzroy's southern facade. Image courtesy Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image173_0.jpg?itok=lsdAy8JS" title="Artist's impression of 181 Fitzroy's southern facade. Image courtesy Pace Development Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 181 Fitzroy's southern facade. Image courtesy Pace Development Group</figcaption></figure>And it's the display suite leading the way with Georgie Bott explaining that the majority of buyers passing through to date have been local; either from St Kilda or surrounding suburbs and with an eye toward returning to the bayside suburb or upscaling their current residence. The long, slender north-south positioned apartments within 181 Fitzroy Street have allowed for a relatively easy amalgamation of apartments where desired; as an example contracts have been signed for a single bedroom dwelling in excess of 100sqm - almost unheard of in Melbourne.

This willingness for prospective buyers to implement changes to the specified floor plans with the intent of tailoring internal spaces to their own wants and desires has been facilitated by the addition of multiple fully interactive touch screens within the display suite which essentially allows prospective buyers to design their apartment as they see fit.

Combining two apartments, removal of a wall, a reconfigured kitchen or applying upgraded fixtures and fittings; whatever the case the interactive screens allow prospective buyers a greater level of input in attaining what they want from an apartment, all with the swish of a finger.

Of all the display suites visited by Apartments.com.au we can't recall this level of empowerment given to the buyer previously. It certainly happens, just not in such an easy to use manner and this is in part why the project has sold strongly to date according to Pace.

<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_2472.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A typical kitchen within the development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_2472.jpg?itok=m3z4uTol" title="A typical kitchen within the development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A typical kitchen as per the display suite</figcaption></figure>BR Demolition in recent weeks has brought the existing structure down to ground level, with the car park sub levels to be retained. This in turn has allowed construction of 181 Fitzroy Street to begin immediately.

Slated to be removed later in the year and occupying a corner pocket onsite, 181 Fitzroy Street will be built around the sales suite. The onus on owner-occupier purchasers has prompted a decision to retain the sales suite onsite as long as possible, although this in turn has posed somewhat of an engineering challenge for the in-house build team.

<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_2133.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Onsite demolition works during May"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_2133.jpg?itok=_5uJKKAe" title="Onsite demolition works during May" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Onsite demolition works during May</figcaption></figure>With 181 Fitzroy Street all but having commenced construction, it joins a more than healthy project book for Pace. Construction has commenced on George Windsor, with the adjoining Henry Windsor building nearing completion. Marquee project The Icon continues to lose its scaffolding, revealing a multi-coloured exterior while <a href="http://www.odeapartments.com/">Ode</a> is the developer's latest exploit in St Kilda featuring an exterior influenced by local artist Matthew Johnson, as per The Icon.

Archer has risen above ground level on its way to delivering 87 apartments in bayside Mentone while 73-77 Wellington Street has a date with VCAT for the sake of expediency rather than any great misgivings Yarra City Council may have about the project. The Collingwood project represents Pace Development Group's first foray into Melbourne's ever-popular inner north.
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Hands on at Pace's 181 Fitzroy Street display suite

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As the scaffold progressively disappears, a new Melbourne icon will take its place in a highly prominent position perched above St Kilda Junction. Derided by detractors during the approvals process as a 'Lego Tower' due to its unique shape and multicoloured exterior, the term has now stuck in an endearing sense.

Officially called The Icon, the residential tower looks akin to a stack of irregularly sized building blocks placed atop one another. And it's The Icon's peculiar shape which represented a unique set of challenges for developer and builder Pace Development Group. Apartments.com.au visited the construction site to gain an understanding of the complexities represented by the irregular shaped tower, with Pace's Project Manager Ian Hastie providing a top to bottom guide of the 18 level complex.

With the basis of the structure designed by CBD-based Jackson Clement Burrows, the intricacies of the design documentation process were handled by Pace's internal team, aiding in the streamlining of the build process. Ian Hastie explained that when design to construction and everything that lies in between is handled internally, it provides a higher level of certainty for both the developer and apartment purchaser.

Whether it be a choice of material for a particular finish or a customer seeking to merge two apartments into a larger dwelling, the internalising of as many design and decision-making matters as possible allows for a streamlined process.

<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_6950_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Icon prior to yesterday's initial unveiling"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="848" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6950_0.jpg?itok=DLHXq2d5" title="The Icon prior to yesterday's initial unveiling" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Icon prior to yesterday's initial unveiling</figcaption></figure>Of course the above doesn't necessarily aid with the delivery of an irregularly shaped form. No perimeter safety screens could be employed during the build, resulting in the need for scaffolding to precede the form and pour of every level. A feat of engineering in itself, the scaffolding 'shroud' will be disassembled over a three month period as external finishes are progressively completed.

Posing a serious challenge were the cantilevered tower sections, the most prominent of which fronts St Kilda Road. Temporary steel girders set outwards at regular intervals were fixed to the slab below in order to support the formwork and platforms/scaffolding which have enabled the tower to jut out markedly, with nothing below the girders but the street level some 15 storeys below.

Ian Hastie conceded it's certainly not the most efficient method of delivering a residential tower, but is in line with Pace Development Group's aim to keep pushing boundaries, both in a design and building technologies perspective.

<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_6970.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="First look at The Icon's mid tower exterior"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6970.jpg?itok=wL0Zi7n9" title="First look at The Icon's mid tower exterior" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>First look at The Icon's mid tower exterior</figcaption></figure>It goes without saying that the the exterior is The Icon's highlight, with artist Matthew Johnson brought on board to aid in the final colour selections and patterns that will define Pace's tallest and most recognisable project to date. Cognisant that the developer will be associated with The Icon for years to come, Ian Hastie emphasised that much thought and effort went into achieving the desired finish to the tower's exterior.

Violet, indigo blue, moss green and luminous yellow are a handful of the chosen colours that will adorn the exterior by way of hundreds of individual perforated mesh screens. Pace’s care to detail is highlighted by the heads of all bolt fixings which are colour matched to their respective screens, also extending to the tracks which the screens are ultimately fixed to.

Double powder coated and holding a 20 year product warranty, the mesh screens will extend to the undersides of all the stacked volumes, thus providing The Icon with a complete exterior wrap. This is best demonstrated by the render below depicting the communal area with a more than unique ceiling.

Backing the screening will be precast panels or Kingspan composite panels which between them form the exterior wall. Lightweight yet impact resistant, the Kingspan panels provide excellent acoustic and thermal properties owing to their polyisocyanurate foam core - with the colours naturally changing to compliment the screening.

<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/image138.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Icon's communal area; current and intended"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="582" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image138.jpg?itok=XQxEtHi-" title="The Icon's communal area; current and intended" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Icon's communal area; current and intended</figcaption></figure>The first apartment interior has been completed (see slide show below) whilst work has begun in earnest of the podium-top communal area which will feature an indoor entertaining area and outdoor terrace. Sections of an above ground parking level has been commandeered to create what is essentially a production line churning out elements for The Icon's exterior.

Yesterday saw the unveiling of level 18 of The Icon, revealing the first layer of the structures multicoloured and intricate exterior. Looking ahead scaffolding will be pared back at roughly one level per week, with The Icon due to be seen in its entirety by the beginning of August.

Apartments.com.au will be present when The Icon is completed to provide readers with a overview of what is destined to become one of Melbourne's stand out residential projects. In the meantime, listen to relevant project members speak on The Icon at its <a href="http://theiconstkilda.com.au/">official website</a>.

Additional images of Apartments.com.au's site tour are below.
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Constructing an icon: no ordinary build for a new St Kilda landmark

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Pace Development Group currently have a planning application before City of Port Phillip for a prized Fitzroy Street, St Kilda site which the prolific developer reportedly paid in excess of $17 million for during the course of 2013. Previously home to the Australian Institute of Management, the existing office block at 181 Fitzroy Street is set to make way for a sizeable building of 177 apartments.

Incidentally 181 Fitzroy Street joints four other Pace Development Group projects within a short distance of St Kilda Junction, enforcing perceptions that the precinct is currently in the midst of an apartment surge.

<h2>Project summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>181 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, currently a six level office building</li>
	<li>Proposed 12 level apartment building at 38.7 metres</li>
	<li>2,146sqm site with expected GFA of 22,010sqm</li>
	<li>60 metre frontage to Fitzroy Street</li>
	<li>177 apartments: 70 * 1BR/1+study, 100 * 2BR/2+study, 7 * 3BR</li>
	<li>5 level basement car park for 177 vehicles and 55 bicycles</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_7662.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="181 Fitzroy Street's southern facade. Image courtesy SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7662.jpg?itok=CA9CdoV_" title="181 Fitzroy Street's southern facade. Image courtesy SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>181 Fitzroy Street's southern facade. Image courtesy SJB</figcaption></figure>Likely to target owner-occupiers, the SJB-designed building will carry amenities over level 8 including a gym, lounge and terrace area. The Fitzroy Street frontage will hold three retail tenancies and residential lobby while the site's rear to Pattison Street will also maintain three pedestrian entrances and vehicle access.

Each apartment has either a balcony or terrace included while 28 single bedroom + study apartments have been designed to be converted into two bedroom dwellings if demand dictates.

<blockquote>
The building consists of separate built forms including the main built form and its recessed light weight upper level. The building is well articulated and incorporates a range of quality materials and finishes including precast concrete, masonry cladding, glazing, dark metal cladding, galvanised metal mesh and timber batten screens.
<cite>Urbis Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Five on St Kilda Junction</h2>

<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/image19pdg.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pace Development Group's contribution to the Junction precinct"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="425" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19pdg.jpg?itok=dYrsWX89" title="Pace Development Group's contribution to the Junction precinct" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace Development Group's contribution to the Junction precinct</figcaption></figure>181 Fitzroy Street joins another Pace Development Group project currently at planning, albeit with City of Stonnington. According to the Stonnington Planning Register, <a href="/buildings/george-windsor-1-peel-street-windsor">46-48 Punt Road</a> has gone to appeal due to Stonnington's failure to determine within the prescribed time limit; an appeal hearing date is listed for Monday 29th September.

Directly opposite 46-48 Punt Road, construction has begun on another Pace Development Group project, <a href="/buildings/henry-windsor-2-henry-street-windsor">Henry Windsor</a> while <a href="/buildings/the-icon-6-st-kilda-road-st-kilda">The Icon</a> at 18 levels is in many ways the development firm's flagship project and well into construction. Rounding out the group is <a href="http://www.allureapartments.com.au/">Allure</a> which was completed the best part of a year ago.

<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_0357.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Henry Windsor to the fore with Icon beyond"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0357.jpg?itok=IuBUHI6e" title="Henry Windsor to the fore with Icon beyond" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Henry Windsor to the fore with Icon beyond</figcaption></figure>Should the two projects at planning reach reality, Pace Development Group would have contributed near on 500 new dwellings to the St Klida Junction precinct, making it a honey pot for the bayside-based developer.

<h2>181 Fitzroy Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Pace Development group</li>
	<li>Architect: SJB</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Heritage: Bryce Raworth</li>
	<li>Sustainability: SDC</li>
	<li>Services: MacCormack</li>
	<li>Traffic: Ratio</li>
	<li>Consulting engineer: Brogue</li>
</ul>
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Setting the Pace at St Kilda Junction

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Derided by locals and poised to be sold as a development site, 6 St Kilda Road has proven to be an unmitigated success – as the sales testify, with over 60% of the project sold in advance of the public launch. A product of Pace Development Group and conceived by Jackson Clement Burrows Architects, the tower was criticised through mainstream media and local opposition group websites during the approval process. Yet as its public launch neared, multiple high quality renders have been released showing a well articulated, interesting and unique residential tower in a prime position.

<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/external_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/external_0.jpg?itok=KGSjGHeG" title="Image © Pace Development Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Now branded The Icon, St Kilda and having had amended plans approved by VCAT during May, the still 18 level tower now has 11 additional residences while the ground floor office space has been replaced by a 160 seat restaurant, bringing further activation and interest to the building at ground level. Perforated folding metal screens will shroud the glass facade, with no less than 40 different colours to adorn the building, in complete contrast to the current building onsite sporting a white facade which also acts as the display suite.

119 apartments are incorporated, with one, two and three bedrooms available. Top end apartment layouts include three bedrooms, two bathrooms and two carpark spaces. Interiors are architecturally designed and of exceptionally high quality, with Miele appliances, timber floorboards and magnificent upgrade options. Balconies are large, and the striking façade allows external areas to be transformed to increase internal living spaces." With a choice of internal colour schemes and balconies that can be converted to useable internal spaces, the flexibility of The Icon will be a major selling point for potential buyers.

<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/Kitchen1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Kitchen1_0.jpg?itok=4rkRoBZ_" title="Image © Pace Development Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Given its position perched atop St Kilda Junction, the majority of apartments through the 56 metre high complex will hold excellent views in all directions, including Bay/Peninsula, Dandenongs, City and Albert Park aspects. The Icon's facilities include a Teppanyaki Barbeque Deck, common Dining Room, 2 kitchen areas, communal lounge area with suspended fireplace and gym facilities. Along with the redesigned ground level comes a cafe space for residents and visitors alike. Facilities aside, the exemplary design, quality finishes and cracking location suggest The Icon St Kilda will be an instant sales success when released for public sale, which happens to be today.

<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">Teppanyaki Barbeque Deck, Grand Dining Room, 2 kitchen areas, Lounge area with stunning suspended fireplace &amp; wine lockers, and personal training studio - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

<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/Looking-in_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Looking-in_0.jpg?itok=hVBfuC8k" title="Image © Pace Development Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Apartments are priced as follows:

<ul>
<li>1 bedroom apartments from $340,000</li>
	<li>2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000</li>
	<li>3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000</li>
</ul>
<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">1 bedroom apartments from $340,000 
2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000 
3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000 - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">1 bedroom apartments from $340,000 
2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000 
3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000 - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">1 bedroom apartments from $340,000 
2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000 
3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000 - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">1 bedroom apartments from $340,000 
2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000 
3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000 - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

<div style="position: absolute; top: -1999px; left: -1988px;">1 bedroom apartments from $340,000 
2 bedroom apartments + car space from $535,000 
3 bedroom apartments + 2 car spaces from $660,000 - See more at: http://www.motionproperty.com.au/property/the-icon-st-kilda#sthash.n0dEepXq.dpuf</div>

Visit <a href="http://theiconstkilda.com.au" target="_blank">theiconstkilda.com.au</a> for further information, and see the YouTube clip below. As the new saying goes, a YouTube clip is worth a thousand words.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" scrolling="no" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/2OSKLA2WR0I" width="100%"></iframe>
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