<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Gardner Vaughan Group breaks ground on first Gold Coast development, Bronze on Chevron

Planning applications

<html><body>
A few games of Street Fighter II, killing your mates in Phaser Strike and throwing up on the Gravitron (with "Ice Ice Baby" blaring in the background) was a dream day out when growing up in Melbourne in the 1980's and 1990's. And the only place you could have all this was the Fun Factory on the Corner of Chapel Street and Toorak Road in South Yarra.

But the fun was not to last as Chapel Street became the place to be seen in Melbourne in the 1980's, developers started hatching plans to redevelop the massive Fun Factory Site. In 1989 a permit was issued for the demolition of the building and the development of a 15 storey apartment tower. However the Recession through the early 1990's meant that this plan was never built and the Fun Factory lived on. By 1999 economic conditions had improved and the owners of the site proposed a massive mixed use redevelopment of the site including a 42 storey tower. City of Stonnington officials were not ready for this scale of development and the application was promptly refused by Council.

<figure><a 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/Image10_3.jpg" title="Early concepts for the Fun Factory. Images courtesy AppleInsider and Webber Design" class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" rel="gallery-all"><img src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image10_3.jpg?itok=Be1dhJAn" width="580" height="312" alt="" title="Early concepts for the Fun Factory. Images courtesy AppleInsider and Webber Design" class="image-article-full-width-580px"></a>
<figcaption>Early concepts for the Fun Factory. Images courtesy AppleInsider and Webber Design</figcaption></figure>Subsequently Fender Katsalidis Architects were employed to deliver a new design, they being at that time the go-to architects for getting difficult proposals through the planning system. A new plan was hatched that incorporated a retail podium with a 27 level, 91 metre high apartment tower rising above. The application was approved by the City of Stonington in 2001. A local residents group appealed the decision, but VCAT upheld Council's decision.

This development was also never built and by 2008 the owners of the site commissioned yet another proposal for the site. This time they employed Bates Smart Architects to design a redeveloped Fun Factory consisting a retail podium with a 9 storey office building and a 39 storey apartment tower rising above. At 134 metres high, the main tower would have easily become the tallest building outside of the central city area. This proposal was refused by the City of Stonnington despite the recommendation of Council officers who supported the application. That decision was overturned by VCAT on appeal in late 2009.

By late 2010 the project was known as The Capitol and apartments in the main tower were on sale to the public. Marketed as a high end luxury development with large, it contained well-appointed apartments with even larger penthouse apartments on the upper floors. Joint developers including APN Property Group were optimistic about the prospects of the development and around the same time applied to VCAT to increase the height of the tower to 151m by adding an additional 5 penthouse levels. This application was refused by Council and the refusal was upheld by VCAT who saw the increase in height as going one step too far. The developer’s optimism proved to be unfounded and by the end of 2011 sales in the development were struggling to break to 50% mark and by the end of the year the development had been shelved.

<figure><a 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/capitol%20comparison_0.jpg" title="Image comparing the initial Bates Smart scheme to that currently seeking approval. Image © Bates Smart" class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" rel="gallery-all"><img src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/capitol%20comparison_0.jpg?itok=rT0_MJkT" width="580" height="400" alt="" title="Image comparing the initial Bates Smart scheme to that currently seeking approval. Image © Bates Smart" class="image-article-full-width-580px"></a>
<figcaption>Image comparing the initial Bates Smart scheme to that currently seeking approval. Image © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>With the developers considering all options including the sale of the site, they have instead submitted yet another application to amend the approved development. Amendments involve a significant increase in the number of smaller one and two bedroom apartments and a reduction in floor to ceiling heights. These intended changes will also simplify the buildings floor plans, remove the office component and split the development into two stages.

The developers are hoping that these measures will increase the broader market appeal and in turn the financial viability of the project, making apartments far easier to sell at a lower price range. Council voted on 20th May not to support the proposed amendments as they viewed the new scheme as watereing down the design intent of the original Bates Smart scheme, signalling that the architectural expression of the amended development will no longer produce an iconic podium tower development or a sculptural and slender building.

VCAT will now have a very difficult decision between insisting that any development on the site must have an exceptional standard of architectural design, even if that means the site may remain underutilised for another 24 years, or accepting that it was not realistic to expect such a high standard of design would be economically viable and that in order to achieve the objective of providing more dwellings in existing activity centres that the amended design will be good enough. Time will tell...
</body></html>

nwharr

Sixth time lucky at the Fun Factory?

<html><body>
As some readers would know, a revised planning application was recently submitted for the old Queensbridge Hotel site at 1-23 Queensbridge Street, Southbank. Joint partners Schiavello Group and PDG Corporation intend to expand upon already approved plans for their previous Queensbridge Tower project.

Originally proposing the demolition of two buildings at 1-7 and 9-15 Queensbridge Street and the erection of a slim 276m residential tower, the developers have now decided to demolish a third site at 17-23 Queensbridge Street, which will be merged into the development allowing for much larger floor-plates than its predecessor.

<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/Image17_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial of Southbank with1-23 Queensbridge Street highlighted."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image17_0.jpg?itok=BX6n6RS1" title="Aerial of Southbank with1-23 Queensbridge Street highlighted." typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

While the height remains unchanged, the new tower will now be mixed use in nature. An initial 10 level podium will be followed by 17 levels of hotel accommodation, with the balance consisting of high-end apartments and residential facilities interspersed with five plant levels, for a total floor area of 138,859sqm. Taking inspiration from their earlier proposal and surrounding buildings, architects Bates Smart have evolved the elegant design to now show a bundle of three linked asymmetrical cylindrical towers creating a structure that, with the use of soft undulating forms and platinum/silver glass, is sure to become an iconic tower for Melbourne's Southbank precinct.

The make-up of the tower will see a single level of underground car parking (owing to unfavourable underground conditions), along with 10 levels of above ground car parking catering for 630 car spaces and 186 bicycle bays. A wrap of apartments over the podium and hotel recreational facilities have been included to activate the Queensbridge Street frontage. Directly above the podium will sit 408 hotel rooms, varying in size between 41sqm and 60sqm.

Upper levels contain 604 apartments, boasting 3.5 metre ceilings. 31 levels of mid-rise apartments and 10 levels of high-rise apartments will be split by a recreational level incorporating a pool abutting the northern facade allowing panoramic city views. Typical apartments will range from 61sqm to 137sqm.

<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_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed Queensbridge Tower as seen from Northbank"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image15_0.jpg?itok=0DQTTOFQ" title="The proposed Queensbridge Tower as seen from Northbank" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Queensbridge Tower incorporates an intended setback of 10 metres to the existing Freshwater Place apartment tower and the approved 25 Queensbridge Street highrise circa approximately 240m, however a variety of initiatives have been undertaken by Bates Smart to help alleviate any perceived intimacy issues. These include a screen-like façade, whilst also employing vertical privacy screening which allow for expansive views, without peering into neighbouring buildings.

Bates Smart have already used this method to great effect on Proximity Apartments which overlook Albert Park Lake, allowing for a stylist and efficient outcome. Further, balconies will be treated as winter gardens with the area protected by awning sashes which can be opened by occupants at their discretion, allowing for additional enclosed living space where desired.

<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/Image13_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Intended sight lines and privacy screeens for Queensbridge Tower"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_3.jpg?itok=jnVNiq2C" title="Intended sight lines and privacy screeens for Queensbridge Tower" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

A range of amenities will be located with the building, allowing residents the added benefit of hotel services within the one complex. These amenities include a recreational area on level 10 involving a pool, gym and spa as well as a bar for residents and hotel guests. Level 28 will also include similar recreational amenities, however will be exclusive to hotel members and residents of the upper levels of the building. One notion the planning application focuses on however, is the idea that this development will finally complete Queensbridge Square, in particular opening up the square to the southern end of Queensbridge Street. Bates Smart have designed all three buildings fronting the area allows for continuity of design.

The podium has been designed to keep uniformity with the current built environment along Queensbridge Street, drawing inspiration from the geometry of the Freshwater Place podium, with horizontal and vertical lines prevalent in the design. At ground level the development will include a large Schiavello showroom space, which is designed to be an “important visitor attraction in Southbank”. At street level, blue stone paving and greenery will be incorporated, an initiative which will definitely improve the area which is devoid of any vegetation at present.

<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/Image1111.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queensbridge Street activation as envisaged by the planning aplication"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1111.jpg?itok=dSoGaHym" title="Queensbridge Street activation as envisaged by the planning aplication" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Currently sections of Queensbridge Square are not pedestrian friendly, which was originally implemented to protect the area from party goers at the then QBH nightclub. The subsequent closure of the club and intended development of the site will allow for greater accessibility in and out of the square with the removal of the elevated wall separating Freshwater Place and Queensbridge Square.

The lack of smaller retail tenancies to help activate the area is noteworthy, although there are a great variety of outlets in the adjoining Freshwater Place precinct. Further the architects have emphasized the showroom component which they along with Schiavello believe will become a destination in itself. Based upon the plans there's no doubt Queensbridge Tower is one of the highest quality proposals in Melbourne at the moment and will definitely enhance Southbank. If approved, eventual construction will likely to be a joint venture between developers Schiavello and PDG, following the success of other recent developments undertaken by the pair including <a href="/buildings/prima-tower-31-queensbridge-street-southbank">Prima Pearl</a> in Southbank and <a href="/buildings/abode-318-318-russell-street-melbourne" target="_blank">Abode Apartments</a> on Russell Street.

 

All images © Bates Smart 

 
</body></html>

melbournee12

Planning Application > 1-23 Queensbridge Street, Southbank

<html><body>
Given it's a long weekend, a brief article today highlighting two developments that I believe should be the benchmark for all medium sized apartment developments in Melbourne when it comes to green credentials.

First up, <a href="http://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/Planning--Building/Major-developments/97-99-Rose-Street-Fitzroy/" target="_blank">VCAT have recently overturned a Yarra City Council decision</a> to reject an apartment proposal at 97-99 Rose street, Fitzroy. Going by the name Rawhouse, the development has been jointly conceived by Breathe Architecture and Small Giants as a follow-up to their <a href="/news/is-this-melbournes-best-new-residential-development" target="_blank">Commons</a> project in Brunswick. Holding 12 apartments, 22 bike spaces and a restaurant at ground, no car parking has been included due to the area's excellent public transport connectivity.

<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/Image322.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Breathe Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image322.jpg?itok=gmpjoAG3" title="Image © Breathe Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Mirroring Commons, Rawhouse is also laden with <a href="/news/6-of-australia-s-top-sustainable-architectural-design-trends">ESD</a> features, including an open stairwell (below) which allows natural light and ventilation to foster a living facade. The building's timber and concrete finishes will be simple in their nature and recycled where possible allowing high insulation, high thermal and acoustic performance, low energy demands and an optimal living environment.

Further, rainwater will be harvested for reuse in toilet flushing while captured water will also serve all greenery via an irrigation system. Rawhouse is designed to be naturally ventilated and is expected to be a 100% green energy building. A fully useable rooftop green space will feature both winter (north) and summer (south) spaces with vegetable garden plots available. Extensive solar panels and solar hot water panels round out the building.

<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/Image3233.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Breathe Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3233.jpg?itok=tYEEHU69" title="Image © Breathe Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Secondly, <a href="http://illura.com.au/" target="_blank">Illura Apartments</a> located at <a href="http://maps.google.com.au/maps?q=87-101+Roden+Street+West+Melbourne&amp;hl=en&amp;sll=-37.807521,144.948657&amp;sspn=0.003666,0.008256&amp;gl=au&amp;hnear=87-101+Roden+St,+West+Melbourne+Victoria+3003&amp;t=m&amp;z=17" target="_blank">87-101 Roden Street West Melbourne</a> is nearing completion. Conceived by Elenberg Fraser Architects with Tract Consultants (landscaping) for Manhattan Hansen Group, the 92 one and two bedroom project has been delivered by Construction Engineering.

Featured over the facade are four vertical garden panels holding native grasses, mirroring the area's ecology prior to settlement. An internal grey water system fed by apartment showers will ensure there is ample sustenance for the greenery.

If nothing else, Illura's facade looks stunning!
</body></html>

silvermb

Two thumbs up!

<html><body>
Given City of Port Phillip's resolute preference for a 100m height limit over the Montague precinct of the Fishermans Bend urban renewal project, they may well be sent into an apoplectic state should this exceptional concept design eventually come to fruition. Delivered by Architecton for an undisclosed client, it carries the address 120-132 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne. Currently home to a nondescript low level brown brick factory, the 1207sqm site may well become the areas landmark tower based on the images below.

For comparison's sake the block form below left is the 165m, <a href="/buildings/134-142-ferrars-street-south-melbourne">143-142 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne</a> scheme designed by Rothe Lowman which is currently under planning consideration.

<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/hd_2a61dc01bc07d143b94071bef3ac1863.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/hd_2a61dc01bc07d143b94071bef3ac1863.jpg?itok=2yZqFJfj" title="Image © Architecton" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

The design calls for retail and lobby facilities through the ground floor, followed by five levels of podium carparking. Thereafter residential apartments would rise to level 60, with (sub)penthouses to level 68. Level 69 includes a plant room while the remainder consists of essentially a sloping architecture feature measuring 235m to tip.

<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/Image51.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image51.jpg?itok=YGIjYZJR" title="Image © Architecton" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Granted the concept design is just that, but it would not have been commissioned with a basis of intent. When a planning application is eventually submitted for 120-132 Ferrars Street, it will be interesting to see what scale tower is called for and whether the above concept is an accurate precursor to the fact.

If nothing else Architecton's concept poses the question; should Montague have a signature tower much like what Eureka is to Southbank, or should the area be content in churning out towers of uniform height and bulk? I would suggest any precinct/skyline is far more dynamic with a degree of variety, so by all means add a tower of this scale on the proviso the design quality is of the highest calibre.

See Architecton's <a href="http://www.architecton.com.au/34556/1408291/select-projects/ferrars-street-south-melbourne" target="_blank">Ferrars Street project</a> webpage for further information and images
</body></html>

CoPP that! 235m tower for Fishermans Bend?

<html><body>
A closer look today at one of the ever increasing number of planning applications that eventually intend to call the Joseph Road Precinct of Footscray home. 1 Warde Street was submitted to state government body DPCD last year for approval, although as yet no planning decision has been revealed. Devised by <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/#!/" target="_blank">Elenberg Fraser</a> for burgeoning property developers Urban Inc, and with the working name Romeo and Juliet, 1 Warde Street is already visible on <a href="http://urbaninc.com.au/pages/ajax/places/romeo-and-juliet#" target="_blank">Urban Inc's website</a> and forms part of the developers intended future development stock.

Located well back within the Joseph Street Precinct, 1 Warde Street's 2181sqm site would be hemmed in by the already approved <a href="/new-apartments/12-moreland-street-footscray" target="_blank">10 Moreland Street </a>development to the east, and the Footscray rail reserve to the west. Stage One is the smaller, 19 level tower whilst the taller Stage Two would match its intended neighbour at 26 levels, thereby not exceeding a height transition line as seen below.

<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/Image13_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Warde street as seen from Newell Street, Footscray."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_2.jpg?itok=H0YQLKXx" title="1 Warde street as seen from Newell Street, Footscray."></a>

As per the submission, 1 Warde Street would contain 311 apartments over two towers which when completed would appear as one solid structure. 263 car parking spaces would be available over five levels, as would be 211 bicycle bays. Overall height of the buildings would round out at 63m and 84m respectively, with Stage 1 including 140 apartments whilst the taller Stage 2 allows for 171 residential dwellings. All apartments will be a choice of one and two bedroom options.

Both rooftops would include useable areas for residents with stage 1 incorporating communal indoor and outdoor lounges, sundecks, landscaping, kitchen and a barbeque area. Stage 2 holds an altogether similar layout with the exception being a gym incorporated into the facility, offering excellent views.

Double level SOHO commercial spaces will be available at ground fronting either Warde Street or Neilson Place, as will apartments, a dedicated restaurant space and an 84sqm cafe. These retail spaces will front an intended public park directly west of the proposed development.

<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/Image2_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Warde street as seen from Wightman Street within the Joseph Street Precinct."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2_14.jpg?itok=1LVx1yRs" title="1 Warde street as seen from Wightman Street within the Joseph Street Precinct."></a>

Heavily resembling Elenberg Fraser's previous project <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/#!/project/clara" target="_blank">Clara</a>, 1 Warde Street's podium is designed to mimic an "Eroded, porous, inhabited base. It provides a continuous streetscape and an urban scale to Warde Street." Conversely the tower element has incorporated a number of vertical elements, with Elenberg Fraser describing the tower as "A light crystalline cluster of volumes. It introduces verticality above the podium level and provides articulated surfaces that structure the built form."

Bombastic language aside, the architects aim is to create two contrasting elements, they being the podium and tower. Particularly pleasing is the use of greenery over the carpark levels. Not only does the greenery hide the inactive perforated metal screens, it ties in nicely with the intended park greenery of the immediate area.

<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/Image11_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cause and effect, 1 Warde Street inspirations."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_5.jpg?itok=IlLzbGr3" title="Cause and effect, 1 Warde Street inspirations."></a>

As expected, Maribyrnong City Council have voiced opposition over a number of issues relating to this application. 1 Warde Street has failed to gain support from City of Maribyrnong based on the following factors.

<ul>
<li>The proposal significantly exceeds the 12 storey height limit allowed under local policy</li>
	<li>The proposal fails to provide an appropriate land use mix, with recreation and community uses lacking in particular</li>
	<li>The proposal fails to provide diversity in housing choice</li>
	<li>Overshadowing issues</li>
	<li>Unacceptable internal amenity for occupants due to wind impacts</li>
	<li>Insufficient carparking provisions</li>
</ul>
Whilst Council have submitted the above injections, they have also requested that upon gaining approval (in whatever form that may be) via DPCD, a Development Contribution of $900 per dwelling be imposed, which is higher than what has been allowed for in the planning application.

Whereas a number of planning applications in the Joseph Road Precinct have been put forward by non-developers seeking to sell their land parcel with planning approval in place, 1 Warde Street may well be the first development to break ground. Working on the assumption that 1 Warde Street will eventually gain planning approval from DPCD, its likely Urban Inc as a property developer will see this application through to fruition.

All images above taken from DPCD planning application and © Elenberg Fraser Architects.
</body></html>

Planning Application > 1 Warde Street, Footscray

<html><body>
As demolition progresses for the Upper House residential development on Swanston Street, another apartment building on an adjoining site awaits approval with a planning application lodged for 139-155 Queensberry Street, Carlton. Currently under assesment by Melbourne City Council, the site is also bound by Queensberry Way and Cornell Place. The building if constructed will rise 15 levels and sit between the 17 level <a href="/buildings/upper-house-516-520-swanston-street-carlton">Upper House</a> project and the 9 level, at sales <a href="/buildings/81-cardigan-street-carlton#content" target="_blank">81 Cardigan Street</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/139QueensburyStreet5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="As envisaged from Queensberry Street, with Upper House to the right. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/139QueensburyStreet5.jpg?itok=udmReqi7" title="As envisaged from Queensberry Street, with Upper House to the right." typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>As envisaged from Queensberry Street, with Upper House to the right.</figcaption></figure>A product of <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au/" target="_blank">Plus Architecture</a>, the building will hold a highly articulated light weight façade, which will include horizontal and vertical framing in a bid to break up the mass of the structure. It will comprise 193 residential dwellings and include 72 bicycle spaces.

138 on site car parking spaces will also be included in the development over 3 basement levels, with vehicular access to the building planned for both Queensberry Way and Cornell Place laneways, allowing for the activation of Queensberry Street which will be improved through the addition of 2 new retail outlets. Plus Architecture have also incorporated faux cottages through the ground floor facade, cleverly bringing an element of interest to an otherwise unused and seldom walked laneway.

<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/139QueensburyStreet3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level articulation. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/139QueensburyStreet3.jpg?itok=-lo1YJXy" title="Ground level articulation. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level articulation. Image © Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Adding to the amenity of the building will be a communal rooftop terrace which will be accessible to all residents of the building. The architects have designed the building in a way that allows for a transitional built form for the area, between the higher density Swanston Street precinct and the low rise Carlton precinct. Through this initiative, the Queensberry Street frontage will rise 10 levels to a total height of 32m with an additional 5 levels constructed above this which will be set back between 11.2 and 12.6 metres. The setback also allows for a clear differentiation between the podium levels and the upper levels in the building.

While an effort has been made to provide this transition in built form between the two precincts, Carlton residents have already voiced their opposition to the proposal, with the Carlton Residents Association claiming that 15 stories is of “excessive height” and that it does not aid the transition from taller buildings on Swanston Street to low-rise in the east of Swanston Street. Another point of concern is the domolition of the Australian Communication Workers Union building onsite.

<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/Image2_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The current building as per Google Maps"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2_13.jpg?itok=ebm2aFV_" title="The current building as per Google Maps" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>The current building as per Google Maps</figcaption></figure>If given the go ahead, one would assume apartments in the building would be highly sought after following the recent selling out of all apartments in the Upper House building. A decision has not yet been made on the permit.

Renders © Plus Architecture.
</body></html>

Planning Application > 139-155 Queensberry Street, Carlton

<html><body>
Trouble looms on the horizon for regulars who seek refreshment at the Rising Sun Hotel, one of a string of Richmond pubs engrained in the area's psyche and history. 395 Swan Street owner S. Tsourlenes &amp; Son Pty Ltd have teamed with SJB Planning and Catt Architects to submit for approval a seven level apartment building which would replace this historic venue.
<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/Image11_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © theriser.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_4.jpg?itok=qoNTF6WT" title="Image © theriser.com.au" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Sourcing the venue's website, The Rising Sun was established during the late 1800's. Through a number of owners and alterations the building has managed to maintain both character and a degree of heritage, lending itself as a local landmark in the process. The scheme below however calls for 30 apartments and 350sqm of retail space over seven levels. Heavy on precast panels and light on architectural flair, it's a clear departure from the present.
<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/Image3_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Catt Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3_12.jpg?itok=-ZgaSwpr" title="Image © Catt Architects" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
The L-shaped building will contain two below ground levels catering for 23 vehicles, bicycle and apartment storage and services, all accessed via a laneway running off Beissel Street. With 22 two-bedroom and 8 one-bedroom options, expected living spaces range between 45sqm and 99sqm. The majority of dual bedroom options will sit around the 80sqm mark.
In response to the High Density Guidelines for the area, the planning report contends the following, "The development will make a positive and lasting contribution to the quality of architecture in the Burnley precinct. It is designed to address both main street frontages with a well resolved design that acknowledges the corner location." In relation to ensuring visual impacts to immediate dwellings are appropriate, the report suggests "The building has been designed to be viewed from all angles, with all elevations well-articulated."
<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/Image6_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Catt Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image6_7.jpg?itok=SgMzw1_i" title="Image © Catt Architects" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
As disappointing as potentially losing this hotel is to many, evidently The Rising Sun seems to have met its end as a viable concern. As the saying goes, times change! Now it's the task of Yarra City Council to determine whether this proposal is an acceptable replacement. Issues to be addressed include the proposals impact upon the area's amenity, heritage concerns, the proposal's architectural merit and its sympathy toward its immediate surrounds.
 
For further details, click on the <a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/projects/yarra/395-swan-street-richmond" target="_blank">395 Swan Street</a> database listing
</body></html>

Bad Moon Rising

<html><body>
It's not often that a developer goes to the trouble of commissioning two schemes for the one site with the expectations both will gain planning approval. That's precisely what South Yarra stalwart developer Michael Yates &amp; Co has done. 661 Chapel Street, South Yarra is currently a lowrise commercial complex yet should either or both applications gain approval, a minimum 287 apartments can be expected.

The developer has been in negotiations with the adjacent Melbourne High School (MHS) to sell a portion of the development site, all things proceeding as planned a 933sqm northern section of 661 Chapel Street will transfer to MHS for use as student accommodation and teaching facilities. Within this agreement is a clause where the intended MHS building can only rise to the equivalent of four carpark levels of the adjoining future 661 Chapel Street development, protecting residential sight lines by invoking light and air easements.

It's expected the site will be divided into three lots once MHS and the State Government complete negotiations for funding, with two being retained by the developer. Should the planned sale and transfer to MHS not proceed, a larger scheme incorporating the entire site has also been submitted to Stonnington for approval, leading to dual planning applications.

<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_5224_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="661 Chapel Street ground plan with Melbourne's High School's portion to the right"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_5224_0.jpg?itok=FvJ-cQZt" title="661 Chapel Street ground plan with Melbourne's High School's portion to the right" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Major differences between Michael Yates &amp; Co's schemes 1 and 2 can be summarised by the following, where Scheme 1 reserves the intended MHS plot C (seen above) while Scheme 2 incorporates plot C into a larger development.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" height="283" style="width: 100%;" width="829">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">Scheme 1</th>
			<th scope="col"> </th>
			<th scope="col">Scheme 2</th>
			<th scope="col"> </th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Tower 1A</td>
			<td>Tower 1B</td>
			<td>Tower 1A</td>
			<td>Tower 1B</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td> </td>
			<td> </td>
			<td> </td>
			<td> </td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>26 levels</td>
			<td>21 levels</td>
			<td>26 levels</td>
			<td>21 levels</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>76m</td>
			<td>60.35m</td>
			<td>76m</td>
			<td>60.35m</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>158 apartments</td>
			<td>129 apartments</td>
			<td>202 apartments</td>
			<td>137 apartments</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>131 car spaces</td>
			<td>128 car spaces</td>
			<td>175 car spaces</td>
			<td>161 car spaces</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>46 bicycle spaces</td>
			<td>45 bicycle spaces</td>
			<td>60 bicycle spaces</td>
			<td>57 bicycle spaces</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>&gt;&gt;</td>
			<td>unknown</td>
			<td>&gt;&gt;</td>
			<td>1187sqm office</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>&gt;&gt;</td>
			<td>54sqm retail space</td>
			<td>&gt;&gt;</td>
			<td>189sqm cafe</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>&gt;&gt;</td>
			<td>69sqm retail space</td>
			<td>&gt;&gt;</td>
			<td>217sqm shop</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Working on the assumption that the MHS plan eventuates, the smaller scheme 1 would involve 287 apartments split between two buildings which share a common wall. The taller west building (1A) at 26 levels would command sweeping views over Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne's CBD while the abutting 21 level East building (1B) fronts Chapel Street with views to the Dandenongs.

Whilst appearing as one unbroken form, the two tower complex allows Developer Michael Yates &amp; Co to deliver a staged development if they so desire, releasing one or both to public sales at their discretion.

<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_5252_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="661 Chapel Street centre stage with Avenue (left) and Yarra house (right) at different stages of construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_5252_1.jpg?itok=GA529Q9W" title="661 Chapel Street centre stage with Avenue (left) and Yarra house (right) at different stages of construction" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Project architect Bird De La Coeur have by intent or coincidence devised a western tower that is remarkably similar in form to Buchan Group's Vogue apartment tower at 670 Chapel Street. Both employ a sheer glass facade indented with balcony openings. Conversely 661 Chapel Street's eastern building includes a number for setbacks from Chapel Street, the first of which occurs at level 6 or 20.5m above street level. A further setback occurs at level 18 or 55.85m, allowing the building to transition into the taller western tower.

<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/Image1_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bird De La Coeur's proposed 661 Chapel Street with Buchan's existing 670 Chapel Street "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_17.jpg?itok=JSolnWCU" title="Bird De La Coeur's proposed 661 Chapel Street with Buchan's existing 670 Chapel Street " typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Questions may be raised as to the amount of vehicular space dedicated to the porte-cochere and whether it could be used in a more meaningful purpose, exacerbated by the fact the eastern tower will also have another carpark entry. This results in three separate vehicle access points to Chapel Street.

The porte-cochere is made possible by a 30m setback from Chapel Street for the western tower while the eastern tower maintains 2.82m setback, in line with the existing streetscape. Retail premises are prominent, as are the alfresco dining areas, thereby enhancing activity and interaction with Chapel Street.

<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_5250.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The building as seen from Chapel Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_5250.jpg?itok=cU25I8XO" title="The building as seen from Chapel Street" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

A Stonnington Council planning decision for 661 Chapel Street is imminent.

All renders and ground plan © Bird De La Coeur Artchitects
</body></html>

Take it either way > 661 Chapel Street planning application

<html><body>
A company associated with <a href="http://www.littleprojects.com.au/" target="_blank">Little Projects</a> is awaiting a planning decision from Minister Guy's department for a large residential complex on the banks of the Maribyrnong River. Located within the currently vacant <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Page/Page.aspx?Page_id=2220" target="_blank">Joseph Road Precinct</a> that is earmarked for intensive redevelopment, Devcorp (Vic) Pty Ltd is the applicant for the subject site, 2 Hopkins Street Footscray. Whilst City of Maribyrnong have voiced their opposition to the scheme and called for improved planning controls for the precinct, ultimate responsibility rests with state planning body DPCD.
Considered the precinct's most important site due to its proximity to Maribyrnong River, <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au/" target="_blank">Plus Architecture</a> have subsequently incorporated a large tranche of open space slicing through the middle of the site, allowing future residents living deeper within the precinct direct access to the Maribyrnong River's bank and facilities.
<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/Image3_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site overview and ground layout. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3_13.jpg?itok=FRX1Di_C" title="Site overview and ground layout. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
The scheme calls for four distinctive buildings of 16, 18, 20 and 25 levels holding a total 774 apartments. Of those 278 will be one bedroom, 496 two bedroom with no 3 bedroom or penthouse apartments available. Above ground podiums will accomodate 759 car parking bays (including 50 visitor parking spaces), 277 bicycle spaces while each apartment also receives at least one storage cage.
Intended building heights range between 50 and 82 meters. The tallest tower would sit to the site's north-west corner while a distinctive angular glass tower would front Hopkins Street and the Maribyrnong River, thereby becoming the most visible of all proposed buildings in the precinct if travelling in a westerly direction via Dynon Road.
<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/Image46.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="View from the eastern bank of the Maribyrnong. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image46.jpg?itok=juCXDuLq" title="View from the eastern bank of the Maribyrnong. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
1315sqm of commercial space is expected to be split over two buildings, they being the two towers located closest to Hopkins Street. In this way retail street activation is maximised along the future Maribyrnong Street and extended Warde Street junction. Active frontages are also designed into the lower levels of all buildings fronting Maribyrnong River.
Having both Warde Street and Neilson Place extensions traverse the site will have a two-pronged effect. The public realm would be clearly defined with direct Maribyrnong River Trail and park access through the site, furthermore these pedestrian thoroughfares would physically divide the site into three parcels, allowing a staged development if the developer so wishes.
<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/Image7_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level from Maribyrnong Street and Neilson Street. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image7_12.jpg?itok=bk-I2Xf-" title="Ground level from Maribyrnong Street and Neilson Street. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Maribyrnong City Council have voiced their opposition toward 2 Hopkins Street in its submitted form, stating "The proposal raises significant issues with respect to inappropriate built form, limited mix of uses, non-compliance with State and Local Planning Policies and impact on the Maribyrnong River."
Maribyrnong City Council have also included the following issues which led to their opposing this scheme;
<ul>
<li>
		request the Developer Contribution Payment increase from $450 to $900 per dwelling</li>
	<li>
		an inadequate mix of uses, in particular employment generating uses and fails to contribute to housing diversity</li>
	<li>
		lack of adequate parking on site for visitors/patrons. Scheme doesn't take parking needs of entire precinct into account</li>
	<li>
		noted overshadowing concerns, see below the expected shadow 2pm, September 22nd (equinox)</li>
</ul>
<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/Image13_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="22nd September shadow diagram. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_1.jpg?itok=g3ra-0tP" title="22nd September shadow diagram. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Submitted during October 2012, no decision has been given by DPCD planning officials. Further the application is now listed as deferred on the State Planning Permit Register, pointing to the possibility that 2 Hopkins Street may well have found itself in limbo for the immediate future.
 
The original planning application as lodged with the Maribyrnong City Council, is in parts.  You can view each individual part here: <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/files/Attachments/DEC12_CDSC_2_Hopkins_Street_Footscray_Part1.pdf" target="_blank">Part 1</a>, <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/files/Attachments/DEC12_CDSC_2_Hopkins_Street_Footscray_Part2.pdf" target="_blank">Part 2</a> &amp; <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/files/Attachments/DEC12_CDSC_2_Hopkins_Street_Footscray_Part3.pdf" target="_blank">Part 3</a> (PDF's hosted on Maribyrnong's CMS).
All images © Plus Architecture
</body></html>

From Little things, big things grow?

<html><body>
Forumers Nicholas Harrison and Fedsquared have been kind enough to post pictures and the planning report for a proposed residential tower at 57 Haig Street, Southbank. Designed by Bruce Henderson Architects, the scheme has been produced for Zoland Family Nominees Pty Ltd and R &amp; J Freeman Nominess Pty Ltd. Given the parties aren't known developers the application if approved may well be on-sold for profit to a developer capable of delivering the project.

<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/57%20haig%201.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="57 Haig Street. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/57%20haig%201.jpg?itok=GYOxg-l6" title="57 Haig Street. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"></a>

Regardless Apartments.com.au recent looked at the newly completed <a href="/news/theres-nothing-wrong-with-a-green-wall" target="_blank">Tiara Apartments</a> building also on Haig Street, in particular its dismal street activation. 57 Haig Street thankfully takes a different stance, while the render below may not look enthralling it at least gives something back to the streetscape.

<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/Image4_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="57 Haig Street and public interaction. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_8.jpg?itok=nupW6qX3" title="57 Haig Street and public interaction. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"></a>

Ground floor features of the proposed tower include an activated, glass fronted lobby facing Haig Street while a commercial tenancy of 150sqm is also available. Above ground sits a number of carpark levels wrapped with apartments facing Haig Street while vehicle access and loading is accessible via Blakeney Place. Having pedestrian access and vehicle/motorcycle access separated does wonders for Haig Street while the exposed carpark levels at the rear of the site fronting Blakeney Place are covered by existing buildings.

Given the intensive future development earmarked for the areas surrounding Haig Street and access lanes running both north &amp; south capable of handling all vehicles it raises the question - could Haig Street eventually become a pedestrian only thoroughfare? Once developments such Fishermans Bend and the approved <a href="/new-apartments/400-430-city-road-southbank">400-430 City Road</a> hotel and apartment complex eventuate, it strengthens the case for a retail-lined pedestrian only thoroughfare linking these areas with Crown.

<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/1343116456one_melbourne_1b.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Perestrian Lane at approved 400-430 City Rd linking with Haig Street. Image © Crone Partners"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/1343116456one_melbourne_1b.jpg?itok=ApIXxv3r" title="Perestrian Lane at approved 400-430 City Rd linking with Haig Street. Image © Crone Partners"></a>

A Crone Partners image above shows the potential of linking 400-430 City Road's internal pedestrian arcade with that of Haig Street, eventually spilling onto Clarendon Street (itself in need of beautification) and Crown opposite. Pie in the sky? Quite possible, but it must start somewhere and that somewhere may just be 57 Haig Street.
</body></html>

Planning applications

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Planning applications

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News