One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

&nbsp;

FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

Joel Robinson

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<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/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Parkville

<html><body>
Having worked on both the Initial Reference Design (IRD) and Reference Design (RD) for the Melbourne Metro Rail Tunnel during my years at Grimshaw, I have maintained an ongoing interest in the project from afar, as development plans for each station along the twin 9km tunnels are finessed and new renders are released.

The key theme for us when working on the Reference Designs of each station was "celebrating the engineering" and designing a series of components (or kit of parts) which could be upgraded over time as required or advancements in technology, rather than making wholesale changes to the architecture or aesthetics to respond to the design trend of the time.

This translated into a line-wide identity where concrete and steel structural elements were exposed for all to see and reflected the construction methodology and technologies employed. This reflected the design of metro stations around the world such as those in Copenhagen, Budapest, London etc.

The concept of a line-wide identity was further explored with platform and concourse levels generally consistent across the mined cavern stations  (CBD North and South) and again for the cut and cover station box stations (Arden, Parkville and Domain). Each station would then reflect its surrounding context as you ascended up towards street level, particularly at the upper concourse and station entries.

<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/parkville_platform.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Reference Design for Parkville's Platform level. Image: Grimshaw Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/parkville_platform.jpg?itok=Uvh06tdR" title="Reference Design for Parkville's Platform level. Image: Grimshaw Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Reference Design for Parkville's Platform level. Image: Grimshaw Architects</figcaption></figure>The latest round of renders, <a href="/news/melbourne-metros-finalised-station-designs-unveiled">which were released on Wednesda</a>y, carried with them a "Concept Image" watermark and based on my own experiences the likelihood is that the designs will continue to evolve and be refined to respond to the construction methodology and stakeholder feedback.

The team of architects, which comprises and is led by local (but global) firm HASSELL includes international offices Weston Williamson and Rogers Stirk Harbour who were brought in following Cross Yarra Partnership's successful bid for the stations. In a joint statement the design team describes the key drivers which influenced the station designs;

<blockquote>
Passenger experience has been at the heart of our design. The stations open up to fresh air and natural light and the underground spaces have a generous civic quality that will feel safe and intuitive to use.

But this project isn’t just about adding new stations, it actually creates five extraordinary new public buildings and transformative public places for Melbourne. Together these new places will add a brand new layer to Melbourne, amplifying and connecting to what makes our city one of the world’s most liveable.

We’re proud to be part of this project that will help shape the way the city works today, into the next century and beyond and we hope that Melbourne will grow to be proud of the new metro.

- HASSELL, Weston Williamson and Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners 
</blockquote>

What has become clear that with the reduced construction programme and station completions being brought forward by a year that the designs of each station have had to respond accordingly. 

<h2>Anzac Station (formerly Domain Station)</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/anzac_station_ba.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Before &amp; After - L: Domain Station &amp; R: Anzac Station. Image: Rail Projects Victoria"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="333" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/anzac_station_ba.jpg?itok=dPG6bCxM" title="Before &amp; After - L: Domain Station &amp; R: Anzac Station. Image: Rail Projects Victoria" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Before &amp; After - L: Domain Station &amp; R: Anzac Station. Images: Rail Projects Victoria</figcaption></figure>"Anzac Station has been designed as a ‘pavilion in the park’ – an integrated public building and landmark that connects seamlessly with surrounding parklands."

Above ground the design has generally remained true to the first concept released, with the element of reality and practicality added to the pavilion's canopy, which previously almost appeared to float over the station entry at the tram interchange.

Dual entries either side of St Kilda Road within the Shrine gardens and Albert Road Reserve allow passengers to cross the stretch of road below ground, removing the conflict with vehicles.

Below ground based on the renders provided, it would appear the line-wide identity has become more consistent across the stations, with the site-specific coloured bands across the OTE plenums now the bronze finish prevalent throughout all the stations. Likewise, the structural elements are treated with minimum fuss or need for unnecessary ornament.

<h2>Town Hall Station (formerly CBD South Station)</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/town_hall_ba.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Before &amp; After - L: CBD South Station &amp; R: Town Hall Station. Image: Rail Projects Victoria"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="362" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/town_hall_ba.jpg?itok=qahHMJp5" title="Before &amp; After - L: CBD South Station &amp; R: Town Hall Station. Image: Rail Projects Victoria" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Before &amp; After - L: CBD South Station &amp; R: Town Hall Station. Images: Rail Projects Victoria</figcaption></figure>The first concept images for what was then CBD South Station featured a series of arches and vaulted spaces which were also reflected in some form at CBD North Station. The arches within the concourse area have since evolved into a forest of concrete structural branches supporting a web of beams set against a backdrop of solid and perforated metal panels.

At platform level, the vaults have been rationalised from a contoured fan vault into a more regular barrel vault, with bronze overlapping arches tacked on supporting the lighting and supported by large concrete columns, again reflecting the line-wide strategy, with some tweaking to reflect the cavern station construction. 

Above ground within Federation and City Square canopies over the entries reflect the respective locations with a lightweight  steel and glass structure at City Square and a more blade-like canopy at Fed Square drawing on the geometry of the architecture of the buildings there. Whether that is the final design is to be determined in light of the controversy surrounding Apple's potential move to the square and the architecture employed for its store.

Of particular note also, is the changing role of Flinders Lane in the precinct, which is slated to  "...become a shared street adjacent to City Square, with a raised surface to increase the scale of the square and link it to St Paul’s Cathedral and Chapter House Lane."

<h2>State Library Station (formerly CBD North)</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/state_library.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Before &amp; After - L: CBD North Station &amp; R: State Library Station. Image: Rail Projects Victoria"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="364" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/state_library.jpg?itok=F-ma6EaL" title="Before &amp; After - L: CBD North Station &amp; R: State Library Station. Image: Rail Projects Victoria" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Before &amp; After - L: CBD North Station &amp; R: State Library Station. Images: Rail Projects Victoria</figcaption></figure>The reflective iridescent arches within the main entry located on the corner of LaTrobe and Swanston Streets have been replaced with supersized concrete portal frames which span the full width of the entry save for the lobby and core areas set aside for the Over Site Development (OSD) which they will eventually support.

Once again the metallic panelling provides the surface treatment to the walls and soffits at street level. Glazing along LaTrobe Street provides the entry with light and visibility.

The platform level at State Library is essentially the same as at Town Hall Station.

According to the Metro Tunnel website "Existing laneways at Literature Lane and Stewart Street will be revitalised and extended to provide connections into the new station, opening up new walking routes and evenly distributing pedestrians around the precinct".  Swanston Street will be reconfigured to "enable widened footpaths, increasing space for pedestrians outside the new station and creating space for new trees to be planted."

It has not been confirmed whether the tiered amphitheatre entry at Franklin Street adjacent to RMIT has been retained in the latest round of designs - its origins tracing back to Reference Design. The southern footpath however, "will be widened to become a linear park with areas for socialising, outdoor dining, shade, gardens and public art." This forms part of a greater strategy to transform the street into a pedestrian promenade between Stewart and Victoria Streets. 

<h2>Parkville Station</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/parkville_ba.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Before &amp; After - L: Parkville Station &amp; R: Parkville Station. Images: Rail Projects Victoria"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="358" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/parkville_ba.jpg?itok=STjtloNz" title="Before &amp; After - L: Parkville Station &amp; R: Parkville Station. Images: Rail Projects Victoria" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Before &amp; After - L: Parkville Station &amp; R: Parkville Station. Images: Rail Projects Victoria</figcaption></figure>The construction of the station will see Grattan Street transformed into a ‘grand promenade,’ connecting some of Victoria’s most prominent institutions.

"The main station entry, on the northern side of Grattan Street outside the University of Melbourne, features a 50 metre long glass and steel canopy to draw natural light into the station concourse. The entrance has been designed to sit within the tree canopy to blend in with the surrounding environment. Natural light is also maximised in the concourse via light wells that allow light to penetrate from the surface to the station below."

The concourse level previously featured a ceiling comprising large staggered apertures of varying sizes allowing light into the station. These have since been rationalised and appear more as traditional skylight strips in response to the structural elements and construction of the station.

Down at platform level, Parkville features design features and finishes in keeping with North Melbourne and Anzac Stations.

<h2>North Melbourne Station (formerly Arden Station)</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/nth_melbourne.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Before &amp; After - L: Arden Station &amp; R: North Melbourne Station. Images: Rail Projects Victoria"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nth_melbourne.jpg?itok=n4CqspkI" title="Before &amp; After - L: Arden Station &amp; R: North Melbourne Station. Images: Rail Projects Victoria" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Before &amp; After - L: Arden Station &amp; R: North Melbourne Station. Images: Rail Projects Victoria</figcaption></figure>As the catalyst for the wider renewal of the Arden Precinct, the station design draws on the area's former industrial character and history with concrete and masonry forming the grand vaulted entry.

Earlier concepts also featured the use of brick throughout, with the cascading stairs down to platform level previously shown as being lined with brick paving.

The entrance will be raised 1.5m above ground level to respond to flooding.
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

A closer look at the latest round of Melbourne Metro Station Designs

<html><body>
The Parkville apartment of the late world-renowned conductor Professor Richard Divall failed to sell at weekend auction.
It now comes with a $1.75 million asking price having been passed in at $1.56 million.
Affectionately known as Radio Parkville due to its buzzing music scene, the apartment has hosted an array of musicians over the years.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-parkville-125377446" target="_blank">The three bedroom apartment </a>in the Fender Katsalidis designed Arcadia building cost Divall $491,800 in 1999.
Two of the bedrooms offer private balconies while a wrap-around entertainers terrace overlooks the Royal Park.
Nelson Alexander agent Nicholas Westare has the offering.
Divall was the longtime music director of the Victoria State Opera in Melbourne.
This article first appeared in The Weekend Australian.
 
 
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Late conductor Richard Divall's Parkville unit passed in at auction

<html><body>
Oliver Hume's continued push into the realm of property development has taken another step forward with Parkville by Oliver Hume. As the name suggests the project is situated in the leafy established inner-city suburb of Parkville, on a site at 535-541 Royal Parade. The site boasts dual frontages to Royal Parade and The Avenue, with a third interface to the Capital City Trail.

Oliver Hume Property Funds has engaged DKO Architecture, Carr Design Group and Jack Merlo to deliver 20 luxury residences, each with its own individual address and private access. In keeping with the theme of three, the design team has responded with three distinct but related styles of homes with a focus on simplicity and timeless architecture based around the classic Victorian period concept for modern living.

<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/w1920-h1080-1744_1_dp_160902_022817.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Parkville by Oliver Hume exterior. Image courtesy Oliver Hume"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/w1920-h1080-1744_1_dp_160902_022817.jpg?itok=vpUMoLPf" title="Parkville by Oliver Hume exterior. Image courtesy Oliver Hume" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Parkville by Oliver Hume exterior. Image courtesy Oliver Hume</figcaption></figure>The 5-storey residences are all located on their own title and range in size from 30-52 squares. They are all equipped with a sunlit staircase, individual rooftop terrace, rear garden and integrated lock-up garage, capable of holding 2-4 cars, an. Some of the homes feature a swimming pool with an integrated day bed, lounge area and barbeque, each set in gardens in addition a private elevator for convenient access to each floor.

Located in close proximity to parks and gardens, the residences provide a feeling of retreat from city life and offer simple but smart spaces. The sense of space is further enhanced by an integrated landscaping response, borne out of close collaboration between each of the partners, including renowned landscaper Jack Merlo. 

<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/parkville_by_oliver_hume_outdoor_area_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title=" Parkville by Oliver Hume outdoor area. Image courtesy Oliver Hume"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="725" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/parkville_by_oliver_hume_outdoor_area_0.jpg?itok=UYH7kkme" title=" Parkville by Oliver Hume outdoor area. Image courtesy Oliver Hume" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Parkville by Oliver Hume outdoor area. Image courtesy Oliver Hume</figcaption></figure>A light render, each uses timber, bronze and coated steel screening and fences to achieve a classic but modern façade. The collection of residences include four Royal Parade residences featuring three bedrooms, four sitting rooms, five bathrooms and its own private garage for two to four cars. One home also includes an in-ground swimming pool. These homes feature a sun-drenched lower-level living zone accessible from descending street level stairs with a wine cellar and study.

Overlooking The Avenue are seven residences, four featuring in-ground swimming pools set within landscaping by Jack Merlo. Some of these homes feature cinemas, wine cellars, as well as three bedrooms, multiple sitting rooms and five bathrooms.

Bridleway Walk fronts the culvert that is the Capital City Trail and consists of nine residences, offering three bedrooms and three ensuites, plus double garages.

Each residence has a large living area and kitchen on the ground floor, as well as a second living space inside the master retreat - an entire floor dedicated exclusively to master level living. The larger homes have multiple studies split between levels. All bedrooms feature ensuites and are complemented by an additional retreat area. The design culminates in private rooftops, which provide a generous separate living space, affording views over Princes Park as well as to southern and western aspects.

Builder VCON will commence construction in March 2017 with completion anticipated by July 2018.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Parkville by Oliver Hume comprises a classic collection of modern buildings that stand apart for their timeless simplicity.It’s a unique interpretation of the Victorian period home and the ease of lifestyle this provides, with a true flow through from indoors to outdoors.This collaboration has resulted in a special group of luxury homes, a unique concept in Melbourne property.

Natural stone, bronze, metal and timber provide an authenticity that will stand the test of time. We have placed an emphasis on trying to plan as many sun soaked places as possible, so you can sit indoors or outdoors and enjoy the sun year round. This includes employing a high degree of glazing and screening techniques.
<cite>Koos De Keijzer, Principal, DKO Architecture</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
These new homes take the best of a treasured lifestyle and improve on it. We've used modern ideas drawing inspiration from abroad to create timeless luxurious homes
<cite>Jason Wood, Development Director, Oliver Hume</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
These period homes contain important lessons for the design of contemporary neighbourhoods. With their wonderful proportions, emphasis on vertical living, connection to landscape and close proximity to the city, they are a compact and sustainable urban housing model for the future. With Parkville by Oliver Hume, we wanted to incorporate some of the traditional ideas of the classic Victorian period home, refine them and offer a design that provides a contemporary way of living. The Avenue and Royal Parade homes are equipped with private elevator, in addition to a striking and graceful feature staircase. All of these homes are made up of a series of spaces designed with a specific function in mind. All have large proportions, grander than many other modern housing models.
<cite>Sue Carr, Director, Carr Design Group</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
With a shared minimalist design philosophy, we have created a harmonious flow and seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces. A less is more approach and the restrained use of materials results in a timeless appeal, with a contemporary style of architecture, interior and landscape design.
<cite>Jack Merlo, Landscaper</cite>
</blockquote>
</body></html>

Triumvirate of design combine for Parkville

<html><body>
One of the city's more significant design contributions has taken its place within the grounds of Melbourne University.

In the heart of the <a href="/new-apartments/parkville-vic-3052">Parkville</a> campus, the new Arts West Redevelopment was unveiled at the turn of September and primarily consists of a new $66 million teaching and learning building. Arts West also shapes as a key placemaking project, allowing the immediate area to tie-in by way of a newly landscaped plaza which references surrounding buildings.

The building itself which is the work of both <a href="/architects/arm-architecture">ARM Architecture</a> and <a href="/architects/architectus">Architectus</a>, is adorned by flat metal bands that are seen as a topographical form from ground level. When viewed from a distance, a relief over the facade depicts <a href="https://arts-west.arts.unimelb.edu.au/arts-west-exterior/arts-west-facade-competition">artefacts typical of the bronze work found in the Luristan region</a> of Iran dating between 900 and 700 BC.

<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_9382.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Arts West 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_9382.jpg?itok=l6yCcx5F" title="Arts West exterior" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Arts West exterior</figcaption></figure>With sections of the building yet to open, the seven-level complex provides a new home of the Bachelor of Arts. According to the <a href="https://arts-west.arts.unimelb.edu.au/#teaching-and-learning">project's webpage</a>, "The new spaces have been purpose designed, and include facilities for collaborative and project-based learning, interactive learning (including a cinema- quality interactive theatre), a media laboratory, and lecture and discursive spaces.

There are two specialised teaching rooms to combine the great potential for object-based learning presented by the Cultural Collections with our responsibilities for the care and conservation of these precious objects."

Arts West has also eyed off a 5 star Green Star Education v1 Design rating.

A recessed ground level looks to reference existing stone archways within the Parkville campus, albeit with more modern materials.

<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_9378.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Arts West's recessed ground level"><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_9378.jpg?itok=hnKEULlO" title="Arts West's recessed ground level" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Arts West's recessed ground level</figcaption></figure>The surrounding area consists of new spaces, with extensive seating and planting softening the project's edge. Visible along the Arts West perimeter is an embossed concrete path which references the Wurundjeri people.

The new landscape works are in the process of being extended to the Melbourne Brain Centre, providing an enhanced link between the two buildings.

In terms of sustainability, Arts West reflects Melbourne University's drive to become a far more sustainable campus. Initiatives such as natural ventilation, water capture and thermal control all aid the building in its goal of achieving a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to an equivalent BCA code compliant building.

See further images of Melbourne University's Arts West redevelopment below.
</body></html>

silvermb

Arts West fits best for Melbourne University

<html><body>
Melbourne’s most important building to be completed in 2016 sits proudly at the top of Elizabeth Street as a beacon of hope to all Victorians fighting cancer.

One of the great success stories in the development of the city of Melbourne is the creation of the flourishing Parkville medical precinct in the early twenty first century. Just to the North of the CBD, with the University of Melbourne as an anchor point, a collection of world class research facilities have sprung up at an astonishing rate.

Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, the Peter Doherty Institute, the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute and the Melbourne Brain Centre are all now located within the precinct which also boasts the new Royal Children’s Hospital, the Royal Women’s Hospital and the Royal Melbourne Hospital. The crown jewel in this impressive collection is the new home for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre which stands proudly as the flagship and gateway to this precinct.

The genesis of this building was from a tender bidding process which was won by the Plenary Health consortium. Embedded within this consortium were STHDI, a joint venture between architects Silver Thomas Hanley and Design Inc, who provided design expertise in laboratory and clinical design. Architects McBride Charles Ryan (MCR) were brought into the consortium to provide their design expertise on the external form and the public areas within the building.

<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/image14_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Exterior images"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1213" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_7.jpg?itok=m1OWqObU" title="Exterior images" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Varying exterior profiles</figcaption></figure>This bidding process set a clear vision for what the project was to be from the very start. A world class clinical treatment, research and education facility all in one building.

<blockquote>
The promise that you have made to the State has to be delivered.
<cite>Debbie Ryan, McBride Charles Ryan</cite>
</blockquote>

From the viewpoint of the architects, there can hardly be a more challenging project. A massive site, a $1 billion budget, a huge number of stake holders from multiple organisations and multiple government bodies and the requirement to facilitate cutting edge technology. Yet despite these challenges, a brilliant piece of architecture has been produced.

The first thing you notice about this building, from whichever direction you approach, is the seductive organic expression which willfully sweeps across the facade. The crisp white lines that branch and spread across the glazed envelope intentionally reference the research collaboration and networking ambitions of the centre. Fittingly they also mimic the wiry winter branches of the elm trees surrounding the site.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/vccc-7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre by McBride Charles Ryan in partnership with STHDI"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="741" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/vccc-7.jpg?itok=cj5wGIGD" title="The Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre by McBride Charles Ryan in partnership with STHDI" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre by McBride Charles Ryan in partnership with STHDI</figcaption></figure>Along the north edge of the building the facade expression takes on a more sculptural form to present an entry colonnade to Grattan Street. Utilizing finely finished and detailed concrete and fibre reinforced polymer, the building successfully integrates with the busy pedestrian thoroughfare of the street.

Soaring above the observer are two bridge connections between the VCCC and the Royal Melbourne Hospital. These enable the two hospitals to share operating theaters, if the need arises, providing the benefit of additional resilience and efficiency to both hospitals.

<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/image15_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bridges over Grattan Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="252" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15_6.jpg?itok=kK8CnKh_" title="Bridges over Grattan Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bridges over Grattan Street</figcaption></figure>Entering the main lobby, or ‘welcome hall’ as it is known, it is clear that the organic theme expressed externally has made it’s way to the interior. The bright and well-proportioned space is generous without overwhelming and disorientating the visitor. Despite being a largely white space, the design successfully navigates the danger of becoming visually sterile. Texture, pattern, and slight splashes of colour are all used with precision.

Moving deeper within the building, the grand central atrium reveals itself, providing an abundant source of natural light throughout the centre of the plan. Vaguely reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Guggenheim in New York, white ribbons dance around the void to spectacular effect.

Directly below, where one might have expected a staircase or lobby, an open amphitheater space reminds the visitor of the educational role of the building.

<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/image16_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="VCCC's impressive interiors on show"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1171" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16_6.jpg?itok=jGPopfrL" title="VCCC's impressive interiors on show" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>VCCC's impressive interiors on show</figcaption></figure>Hospitals and laboratories have to meet some of the most stringent design regulations of any building type. With the very specific requirements of Australian and international standards, it might have been expected to notice a convergence in design. Clearly the VCCC has avoided this anonymity. For MCR it was also of substantial importance that the building have a particularly Australian identity. The use of spotted gum timber as an orientating surface within the public spaces subtly makes this differentiation.

As with other major hospitals across the globe, a significant problem is attracting and retaining the best staff. Even though it has only just opened, the VCCC has already lured several world class Australian researchers back to Australia from prestigious international positions. From a research perspective, the building is also a symbol that our State and Federal Governments are taking cancer research seriously.

As well as being a success story for the MCR and STHDI design team, the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre is also a parable for the State Government, on the importance of a strong Government Architect. In procurement models where architecture teams are embedded within an overall project consortium, there is every risk that design quality can be sacrificed for other objectives.

The best protection for the public against these sub standard outcomes is for the State Government client to be provided expert advice. If the government will not accept a reduction in design quality, then the consortium will be forced to deliver on what was promised.

For researchers, the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre is a solid commitment to Australian medical science, in the form of a world class facility. For students and young professionals this building is about supporting the future of cancer treatment. However perhaps most importantly, for patients and their families, this is a building that exudes optimism and hope in a way that only the best architecture can.

Michael Smith is a principal at Ateiler Red+Black. This article originally appeared on the <a href="https://theredandblackarchitect.wordpress.com/">Red and Black architect blog</a>.
</body></html>

redblackarchitect

Red+Black review: The VCCC - the new home of Peter Mac

<html><body>
Over a decade ago works began on the 2006 Commonwealth Games Village which post event was rebadged as Parkville Gardens. The development and subsequent retrofit was headed by The Village Park Consortium; a joint venture between Citta Property Group and Australand which still endures onsite today.

During the initial development, a sizeable tract of land abutting Citylink was set aside for the purpose of flanking the arterial road with multiple high-rise apartment towers. Recent years have seen the development partners pursue a string of low-rise and medium density apartment projects, far from the 15-20 level buildings envisaged in earlier concept designs.

Relatively minimal builds such as Ville, The Green and Hyde have taken their place within the Freeway Apartments Precinct bounded Cade Way and Galada Avenue, with no high-rise towers in sight.

<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/image19_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Thrive and Flourish. Images courtesy Citta Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="256" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_3.jpg?itok=M6hhAauO" title="Thrive and Flourish. Images courtesy Citta Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Thrive and Flourish. Images courtesy Citta Property Group</figcaption></figure>The tide however began turning with Jardin, an eight level apartment complex which was recently completed by Buildcorp Commercial. With the sell out success of Jardin's 90 apartments under their belt, Citta and Australand have reeled off three high-rise projects in rapid succession, capitalising on the robust demand for apartments in inner city locales.

With its tower crane freshly erected, Thrive Parkside represents the first high-rise in the precinct with its 15 levels of 134 one and two bedroom apartments mostly accounted for. Buildcorp Commercial are once more the builder for Thrive which is officially Stage 7 of the Freeway Apartments Precinct, and may be favoured to undertake the next tower dubbed Flourish Parkside.

At 12 levels Flourish contains 81 one and two bedroom apartments and abuts Thrive. As per previous projects within the precinct, Flourish is also a creation of SJB.

<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/header.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Prosper Parkside. Image courtesy Enrich Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/header.jpg?itok=6dj0dQi0" title="Prosper Parkside. Image courtesy Enrich Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Prosper Parkside. Image courtesy Enrich Property</figcaption></figure>With Flourish yet to break ground, another project within the precinct has emerged carrying the name Prosper Parkside. With some distinctive SJB design features, Prosper is a 14-15 level residential apartment project located on what is currently a vacant block of land on the corner of Cade Way and Galada Avenue.

Nestled between existing buildings and fronting Village Oval, Prosper looks to be the largest project undertaken within the precinct to date. It remains to be seen whether Prosper correlates to an active planning application currently before authorities which was submitted during February of this year covering Stage 8 of the Freeway Apartments Precinct, or whether the application is for yet another forthcoming project.

<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/image22_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Freeway Apartments Precinct. Image courtesy australand"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_1.jpg?itok=3fRFGIgi" title="Freeway Apartments Precinct. Image courtesy australand" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Freeway Apartments Precinct. Image courtesy australand</figcaption></figure>What is apparent is the upward trajectory in scale that recent projects have taken within the Freeway Apartments Precinct. Accounting for the three towers outlined above, the precinct master plan still allows for a further four residential buildings east of Flourish.

While the composition of these four projects is as yet publicly unknown it might be assumed that based on the success of the projects released to date, future builds will be of a similar high-rise nature. It may have taken the best part of a decade but Parkville Gardens looks to be finally gaining its high-rise mojo as envisaged many years ago.
</body></html>

A Parkville vision finally realised

<html><body>
The best part of a year from completion and the new <a href="http://www.vcccproject.vic.gov.au/">Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre</a> (VCCC) is beginning to show why it looms as one of, if not the most important building to be delivered in Melbourne since Federation Square. The $1.27 billion project located on the highly visible Haymarket roundabout holds prime position within Melbourne's medical and research precinct.

What makes the VCCC impressive even this far from completion is its spectacular exterior. Hospitals by their nature are inward-looking institutions; what happens internally is exponentially more important that how the actual building expresses itself to its surrounds. This is evidenced by recent equivalent large-scale or current hospital builds around Melbourne such as <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.panoramio.com/photo/26365400">Austin Hospital</a>, <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/east/doors-open-at-new-box-hill-hospital-building-worth-448m-in-arnold-st/story-fngnvlxu-1227021797380">Box Hill Hospital</a>, <a href="http://lostoncampus.com.au/img/poi/l/the-royal-womens-hospital-29459.jpg">The Royal Women's Hospital</a> and <a href="http://www.irwinconsult.com.au/experiences/monash-childrens-hospital/">Monash Childrens</a>.

All four examples are externally functional/austere without being altogether much more. Even the recent <a href="http://www.batessmart.com/bates-smart/projects/sectors/health/the-new-royal-childrens-hospital-architecture/">Royal Children's Hospital</a> with it's excellent frontage to Flemington Road is dominated by precast to its remaining elevations.

<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_7022.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The north west aspect prior to the final exterior application"><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_7022.jpg?itok=TDwnUBmy" title="The north west aspect prior to the final exterior application" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The north east aspect prior to the final exterior application</figcaption></figure>This is not the case for the VCCC. From every aspect the building is highly expressive while carrying splashes of McBride Charles Ryan's trademark purple. Flowing lines define the exterior as does the depth of colour and detail; most of which has yet to be applied and will appear as an elongated white ribbon over parts of the building.

It's quite apparent that the parties involved in the design and delivery of the VCCC have made a conscious and concerted effort to produce a facility with both form and function; a statement building for its time.

<blockquote>
The new design is to be symbolic and representative of the bringing together of the project partners, of the creation of new networks and clusters of collaboration. The building will have an imagery that is expressive of optimism and progress.

It will be instantly recognisable, both locally and internationally.
<cite>Plenary 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_7020.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="VCCC's interface with the existing medical precinct"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7020.jpg?itok=UpQXcv47" title="VCCC's interface with the existing medical precinct" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>VCCC's interface with the existing medical precinct</figcaption></figure><h2>VCCC Project highlights</h2>

<ul>
<li>Client: Victorian Government</li>
	<li>Builder: Grocon/PCL Joint Venture</li>
	<li>Architects: STHDI + MCR – a partnership of Silver Thomas Hanley and DesignInc with McBride Charles Ryan</li>
	<li>13 level 120,000sqm facility</li>
	<li>​Royal Melbourne Hospital 12,000sqm extension and refurbishment</li>
</ul>
The project will deliver:

<ul>
<li>160 overnight inpatient cancer beds</li>
	<li>42-bed capacity intensive care unit</li>
	<li>110 same day beds</li>
	<li>Dedicated clinical trials unit with 24 treatment places</li>
	<li>25,000sqm of research space</li>
	<li>8 operating theatres and two procedure rooms</li>
	<li>8 radiation therapy bunkers</li>
	<li>Education and training facilities (a 250 and 60 person lecture theatre plus 47 seminar/meeting rooms throughout).</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/11208501_1087668371248754_1504356717_n.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The view from the top. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="580" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/11208501_1087668371248754_1504356717_n.jpg?itok=1HRxmNnG" title="The view from the top. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The view from the top. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>As for the interiors, VCCC is on target for a mid 2016 completion. Dominated by a large internal atrium casting natural light to all areas, the central void is a key element of the design which projects partners say will immeasurably enhance the internal environment of the centre.

While the atrium and other interior design features are something to look forward to, see below a set of images taken in recent days covering all external perspectives the VCCC has to offer.
</body></html>

VCCC a triumph of design

<html><body>
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.
</body></html>

Alastair Taylor

OHM 2013: Walter + Eliza Hall Institute

<html><body>
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.
</body></html>

Parkville

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Parkville

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News