Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Plus Architecture

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Early in the year Apartments.com.au highlighted a squad of <a href="/news/south-melbourne-a-magnet-for-new-residential-tower-applications">new residential towers looking to call South Melbourne home</a>. Fast forward and the considerably lengthy backlog of residential projects at planning within City of Port Phillip is a little lighter, with a number of earlier tower applications given the go-ahead.

A VCAT-issued permit for 2 Bowen Crescent was obtained by Wuzhong International last month, clearing the way for a 19 storey residential building for Chinese-backed outfit. The work of Plus Architecture, 2 Bowen Crescent holds 213 apartments across a 1,800sqm site.

The tower planning application was lodged during December 2015, and at the time included a healthy number of apartments in a single bedroom format. Property advisory and project management practice Gallagher Jeffs have indicated the project will proceed to sales mid this year.

<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/600600p450ednmain17plan_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2 Bowen Crescent. Image: Gallagher Jeffs"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/600600p450ednmain17plan_0.jpg?itok=rA2tPVZ5" title="2 Bowen Crescent. Image: Gallagher Jeffs" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>2 Bowen Crescent. Image: Gallagher Jeffs</figcaption></figure>A few doors away, and Melbourne-based GURNER is all but ready to advance its 7 Bowen Crescent development to sales after gaining a VCAT-issued permit last year. Currently, the project has been noted as at appeal within City of Port Phillip's planning system, with the supplemental action taking place earlier this month.

Initially submitted with a heavier apartment count, 7 Bowen Crescent's internals have been rejigged to carry just over 120 apartments, with 64 noted as having three bedrooms. 

<blockquote>
Set to be one of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings set on a triangle site with uninterrupted views of Albert Park lake, the bay and Melbourne’s skyline, it will rival the best in the world.

A design collaboration between Elenberg Fraser and David Hicks will provide the market something never seen before!!!
<cite>GURNER</cite>
</blockquote>

Meanwhile another Asian developer is poised for success, as City of Port Phillip have issued a delegated notice of decision last month for 596 St Kilda Road; the final stage prior to a permit being issued.

Having landed at planning mid last year, Singaporean outfit Lian Beng Group are in the box seat to move ahead with the tower designed by Bates Smart. Included are 170 apartments, split between one and two bedroom options. The tower was designed as a mixture of vertical fins, protruding balconies and hanging greenery running the height of the tower.

<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/image41_2_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="596 St Kilda Road. Planning image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="442" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_2_0.jpg?itok=Vjmur8I8" title="596 St Kilda Road. Planning image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>596 St Kilda Road. Planning image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>The trio above is in addition to Australian Unity's 114-130 Albert Road which was given the go-ahead late last year. Alterations and additions to the existing commercial building will see an adjoining 19 storey tower constructed.

The approval and pending redevelopment of the Albert Road property into an aged care and retirement development is in addition to Australian Unity squaring away and their new commercial home on Spring Street, with construction due to begin shortly.
</body></html>

silvermb

Multiple towers given the green light within Port Phillip

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It may still be in its infancy, but the emerging <a href="https://vpa.vic.gov.au/project/arden/">Arden Urban Renewal Precinct</a> has scored its most substantial construction project to date, with Hickory Group winning the Arden Gardens build contract.

The sizeable urban renewal area which is still at master planning has been earmarked for significant growth over the next 30 years. Arden Gardens will rise over Macaulay Road, with secondary frontages to Canning Street and Vaughan Terrace.

It is the latest project to head to construction for CBD Development Group, which also has <a href="/buildings/288-albert-street-brunswick">Brunswick's tallest apartment development</a> under construction.

On the border of Arden Precinct and City of Melbourne's pending Macaulay Precinct, Arden Gardens includes 299 apartments spread over two residential towers supplemented by extensive commercial/retail spaces throughout the podium, with Woolworths the anchor tenant. 

Click here to see the project details of Arden Gardens on Off The Plan Melbourne.

<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/image20_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Arden Gardens will soon become reality. Image: Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="529" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_8.jpg?itok=UPNensGE" title="Arden Gardens will soon become reality. Image: Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Arden Gardens will soon become reality. Image: Buchan Group</figcaption></figure>Although the biggest, Arden Gardens is not the sole project at construction in the area, with a handful of other residential projects on the go.

ABD Group is advancing construction of <a href="/new-apartments/reflections-108-haines-street-north-melbourne">Reflections</a>, which will be a 13 level tower set above 2 basement levels, creating 143 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments. Adjoining Reflections, MAV Group have all but completed works on <a href="/new-apartments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">1 Shiel Street</a> which will add a further 39 apartments.

Elsewhere in Arden, Manresa Constructions is overseeing <a href="/buildings/charlotte-241-dryburgh-street-north-melbourne">241 Dryburgh Street</a> whilst Built is in charge of Cbus Property's <a href="/buildings/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne">Volaire</a> apartment project at at 9-19 Dryburgh St and 109-121 Ireland, West Melbourne. Ultimately that project will include 154 apartments, retail/commercial/cafe tenancies on the ground floor and basement parking.

<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/image21_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Reflections under construction and the adjoining 1 Shiel Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="236" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_11.jpg?itok=K0CCut4V" title="Reflections under construction and the adjoining 1 Shiel Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Reflections under construction and the adjoining 1 Shiel Street</figcaption></figure>The precinct's increased construction activity follows on from the recent approval of another substantial residential development nearby. 

36-58 Macaulay Road was given the nod at the turn of the year for a mixed-use development consisting of 177 apartments, communal spaces and 176 car parking spaces. The design by Artisan Architects sees apartments spread between dual 10 and 13 level buildings, with an activated plaza included.

Approval for 36-58 Macaulay Road leaves Fridcorp's <a href="/new-apartments/3-15-shiel-street-north-melbourne">3-15 Shiel Street</a> as the major development yet to gain approval in the area.

<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/image17_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Macaulay Road landmark. Image: Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="233" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17_9.jpg?itok=lyuSbLi_" title="A new Macaulay Road landmark. Image: Artisan Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Macaulay Road landmark. Image: Artisan Architects</figcaption></figure>Arden Precinct is expected to include 34,000 jobs and 15,000 residents by 2051. With the precinct still under planning, the flow of planning applications into Arden has lessened over the previous year as developers likely wait for planning landscape to become clear.

What is definitive is the creation of Arden Station, which will provide a bookend to the Metro Tunnel and act as a catalyst for urban renewal in the area upon its completion.

<blockquote>
Arden will represent the next stage of Melbourne’s evolution as a world-class capital city. It will be a flourishing jobs hub that will boost Melbourne’s global competitiveness. Government owns much of the land in Arden, so it has a unique opportunity to ensure its planning is guided by world’s best practice in integrated and sustainable urban renewal.

The scale of this opportunity, coupled with the precinct’s excellent transport connections, make Arden a truly exciting project for Melbourne.
<cite>Victorian Planning Authority </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/arden-precinct-civic-heart-1024x576.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A future Arden. Image: Victorian Planning Authority"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/arden-precinct-civic-heart-1024x576.jpg?itok=ruEaIFBf" title="A future Arden. Image: Victorian Planning Authority" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A future Arden. Image: Victorian Planning Authority</figcaption></figure>For more information on Arden Gardens, follow the project link below.
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Arden Precinct receives a construction boost

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Queens Road is likely to lose one of two major vacant development sites in the near future, with 31 Queens Road now resting with City of Port Phillip's planning department.

Alongside a site adjoining Bayview Eden Melbourne which was once subject to a hotel proposal, 31 Queens Road is one of the two 'missing teeth' detracting from the thoroughfare which is itself undergoing a construction spurt. Queens Road Projects Pty Ltd is the entity looking to gain approval for the 16 level residential tower.

Set within the Plus Architecture-designed tower are 155 apartments. Externally, Plus Architecture have chosen a tubular or curvaceous expression which is designed to set the tower apart from its angular neighbours.

Costed at near on $45 million, the proposal would add to the hundreds of apartments in the development pipeline along Queens Road, which at the moment is equalling St Kilda Road in terms of development activity.

<h2>31 Queens Road application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image10_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A curved addition to Queens Road. Planning image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="323" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_8.jpg?itok=v777WXB3" title="A curved addition to Queens Road. Planning image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A curved addition to Queens Road. Planning image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Vacant site area: 2,320sqm</li>
	<li>Proposed 16 level tower at 49.9 metres to roof</li>
	<li>155 residential dwellings: 33 x 1BR, 109 x 2BR and 13 x 3BR</li>
	<li>3 basement levels: 178 car parking spaces, 60 bicycle spaces and 155 residential stores</li>
	<li>Ground floor communal facilities: gym, pool and spa, cinema, lounge and games room, and a private dining room</li>
	<li>Rooftop terrace</li>
	<li>Estimated cost of development: $44,970,000</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design rationale</h2>

<blockquote>
The majority of buildings within the area are free standing rectangular objects interspersed with a number of exemplary designed buildings from the last century. 31 Queens Road sits between two such examples with the Expressionist Newburn Flats at 30 Queens Road and the Art Deco Brookwood Flats at 32 Queens Road.

Extensive analysis of these allows the proposal to draw inspiration from them to create a more contextual response. The design techniques shared with them include: jutting out of the side elevations to orientate views toward Albert Park and curvilinear forms softening building edges. The overall massing of our proposal balances the surrounding building heights, which vary greatly from almost 20 stories down to a few stories.

The curvilinear shape of the massing provides that side elevation articulation, it responds with the internal planning, and creates a varying silhouette against the sky. The circular in plan form adjusts as it grows vertically, and the number of curved segments reduce into larger circles at the top of the building. The jutting circular forms create apartments with great amenity and interesting spaces.
<cite>Town planning submission, Plus Architecture</cite>
</blockquote>

Citing the likes of SOM's Al Sharq Tower and Hetherwick Studio's Learning Hub as design leads, Plus Architecture's Queens Road edifice will see five different shades of glazing over the tower. Also present is precast concrete with applied finishes and wintergarden louvres to match tinted glazing.

The application was lodged during September.

<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/image13_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design leads alongside 31 Queens Road. Planning image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_11.jpg?itok=4DhM3PZX" title="Design leads alongside 31 Queens Road. Planning image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design leads alongside 31 Queens Road. Planning image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>31 Queens Road adds to the healthy number of residential projects along Queens Road. <a href="/buildings/the-arthur-14-queens-road-melbourne">The Arthur</a>, <a href="/buildings/lakeside-77-queens-road-melbourne">Lakeside</a> and Queens Domain are at construction while <a href="/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne">Victoriana</a> and <a href="/buildings/k1-residences-melbourne-1-union-street-melbourne">K1</a> are waiting in the wings with their respective sales campaigns about to commence.

<h2>31 Queens Road development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Queens Road Projects Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architectural plans and design response: Plus Architecture</li>
	<li>Landscape plans: John Patrick Landscape Architects</li>
	<li>Arboricultural Preliminary Assessment: Greenwood Consulting</li>
	<li>Traffic Impact Report: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Sustainable Management Plan: Green Rate</li>
	<li>WSUD report: Adams Consulting Engineers</li>
	<li>Wind report: SLR Consulting Australia</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
</ul>
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The long-dormant 31 Queens Road heads to planning

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South Melbourne is poised to host a new hotel on the corner of Moray and Dorcas Street, with developer Perri Projects planning to launch the luxury development.

Having gained a footprint onsite during 2005, subsequent land purchases were made allowing Perri Projects to push ahead with the hotel scheme, which entered planning mid last year. With approval in place, Perri Projects are now ramping up their intentions for the site to coincide with a high time in Melbourne's hotel sector, which is enjoying buoyant occupancy rates.

Not too far from the mass of hotels in Melbourne's CBD, but far in terms of design ethos, Perri Projects are positioning the new hotel facility as alternative experience in an urban setting.

Aimed principally at the premium business market, the intended hotel at 185-197 Moray Street will include a pool, gym and business centre, in addition to café/restaurant and bar spaces at ground level. A rooftop function and events centre will crown the six level 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/south_melbourne_hotel.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hotel accommodation set above an active street frontage. Image: Perri Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="677" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/south_melbourne_hotel.jpg?itok=cDnGBW-C" title="Hotel accommodation set above an active street frontage. Image: Perri Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hotel accommodation set above an active street frontage. Image: Perri Projects</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
There is a distinct lack of new, luxury hotel offerings in this area. The majority of existing hotel stock around St Kilda Road and South Melbourne is now ageing considerably so we’ve identified a real gap in the market for quality, bespoke hotels for business and high-end leisure travellers

The move into the boutique hotel space is closely aligned with our brand and business strategy; we have been working towards this for the past three years. More than a hotel, we envisage this mixed-use development to be a lifestyle destination in South Melbourne including retail, food and beverage, and a rooftop function and events centre.

Our current strategy is to develop and retain a significant portfolio of the retail and commercial facilities in our mixed-use masterplanned developments so we view investing in hotels as an extension of that.

Perri Projects is in early discussions with some of Australia’s premium hospitality groups for partnerships in the restaurant and functions centre. We’re looking at only the best operators to reinforce the sophistication of the precinct
<cite>David Scalzo, Managing Director, Perri Projects</cite>
</blockquote>

Plus Architecture designed the futuristic building which will see the exterior present as a mix of exposed concrete and treated glazing. A special application to the glazing will provide the development with a unique finish across a clean, simple form.

Transitioning from white and solid to clear and luminous, the tiled facade is a novel look with Plus Architecture also intending for these lines and forms to <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au/portfolio/moray-street/">directly relate to their corresponding internal suites</a>.

Moray Street will be Perri Projects' first Melbourne hotel development, with intentions in place to acquire suitably zoned development sites that will add to their local hotel portfolio. Active across Melbourne and Brisbane, Perri Projects have also broken the ice in Queensland with their South City Square development to also include a boutique hotel.
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Perri Projects diversify into the hotel sector

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A trio of apartment projects are before City of Melbourne, all seeking the right to add to the inner north's apartment stock. Lodged during September, the trio are also looking to bring a heightened design perspective to their surrounds.

First up and Piccolo Developments are seeking another statement project, with 341-347 Queensberry Street subject to a 13 storey application encompassing 59 apartments. On the back of their award-winning Upper House project, Jackson Clements Burrows Architects have been utilised once more with a similar design outcome.

<blockquote>
The composition of the building mass was conceived through a series of urban design gestures. The first conceptual gesture was based on the acknowledgement of the prominent corner position of the site. 

Punching through the facade are a series of projecting balconies that graduate in depth and width as they travel up the building.
<cite>Town Planning Report: Jackson Clements Burrows Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

On the corner of Queensberry and Peel Streets in North Melbourne, the design has taken inspiration from a handful of existing forms such as Milan's Bosco Verticale and The Bauhaus Building; a 1925 design-based building in the German city of Dessau.

Piccolo Developments intends to split the dwelling numbers between 36 single bedroom and 23 dual bedroom apartments.

<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/image1pic.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Piccolo's next landmark development. Planning image: JCB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="430" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1pic.jpg?itok=ithvqwve" title="Piccolo's next landmark development. Planning image: JCB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Piccolo's next landmark development. Planning image: JCB</figcaption></figure>Plus Architecture are on the radar once more with an angular design effort for 419-421 Spencer Street, West Melbourne. Located within an emerging high-rise precinct, the proposal is of a larger nature and seeks approval for 181 apartments, with internals ranging from 48sqm to 111sqm.

On the corner of Spencer Street and Batman Street, and created for Yarrabank Developments Pty Ltd, the 22 level tower's design is described as follows: 

<blockquote>
The building is split into three to create building separation from the heritage component thus distinguishing it from the tower beside and above. The towers peel away from the heritage building increasing separation, and celebrates the bakery chimneys that line the lobby entrance. This also gives the apartments above the heritage a better view beyond the parapets. 

The two parts of the tower are differentiated in size, form and material. One side facing west, is smaller, angular and brick, which reflects the smaller scale of west Melbourne and its industrial lineage. The other, larger smooth and glazed faces towards the city. This site is therefore a culmination of contradictory relationships between fast and slow, active and inactive, big and small, old and new.

The design response seeks to make best use of and contribute to these context features and fit respectfully within the urban fabric. 
<cite>Plus Architecture : Design Response</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/image9_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spencer Street will see additional development. Planning image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="332" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_10.jpg?itok=SPmNdNVK" title="Spencer Street will see additional development. Planning image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Spencer Street will see additional development. Planning image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Finally an existing approved development scheme has gone back to planning as Fridcorp seeks to increase the yield of its development site at 3-15 Shiel Street, North Melbourne.

Total apartments within the scheme have essentially doubled to 124, with a mix of one and two bedroom options planned. Consequently, the overall size of the project has increased, with Elenberg Fraser conceiving a 12 storey building which is similar is size to a number of surrounding projects which have been approved.

<blockquote>
The building has also been designed with reference to ‘Artemis’ - the goddess of the hunt and wilderness. Artemis’ character and fables form the basis of a holistic design narrative which is carried through the architecture, lighting installations and landscape architecture.

The bronze colouring and earthy tones contained in the depictions of Artemis in the design concept inspire the materiality of the architectural expression, and also references the red brick and industrial elements commonly found in the area. 
<cite>Meinhardt: Town Planning Submission</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/image15_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new look for Shiel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="380" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15_7.jpg?itok=gnCc4jO1" title="A new look for Shiel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new look for Shiel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>
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City of Melbourne field three high quality development applications

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Essendon Station is making a good fist of attracting its fair share of apartment developments. Much like the plethora of apartment projects sprouting up along the Tram 59 route which slices through Essendon/Essendon North, the emergence of multiple apartment projects surrounding Essendon Station speaks to the success of the suburb in attracting new investment and people willing to call the suburb home.

With the mass of investment within Essendon Fields also radiating throughout neighbouring suburbs, Essendon in particular has seen a solid boost to apartment development in recent years, This, coupled with the Essendon Junction Structure Plan has given apartment developers confidence to seek higher density outcomes around the junction/station precinct.

Largest of all is Linc at 15 Russell Street which is mere metres away from Essendon Station's entrance.

Revel Development Group Director, Daniel Caspar recently spoke of the merits of Essendon via circulated comment:

<blockquote>
The gentrification of the Melbourne’s inner ring may have taken some decades to reach suburbs like Essendon, but now that it has, we are seeing greater opportunities for positive, high-density development with a focus on owner occupiers.
We are experiencing strong interest amongst buyers within a three to five-kilometre radius of the inner north-west, who are looking to either upgrade, downsize or enter the market for the first time and are willing to move to Essendon to do so because of its relative affordability.
Acclimatised to the idea of apartment living, these buyers are favourably comparing the suburb’s proximity to the city and quality of amenities with equivalent suburbs in the east and bayside.
<cite>Daniel Caspar, Director, Revel Development Group</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image30_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Linc's outdoor entertaining area. Image: Revel Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image30_9.jpg?itok=1o2HJVgn" title="Linc's outdoor entertaining area. Image: Revel Development Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Linc's outdoor entertaining area. Image: Revel Development Group</figcaption></figure>Linc as the tallest apartment development within Essendon will also boast a number of enhanced features, including a rooftop terrace with views toward the CBD; one of three three separate garden areas within the project. Plus Architecture are responsible for Linc's internal and overall design, with Jack Merlo in charge of outdoor areas.

Linc is not the only development looking to capitalise upon its immediacy to Essendon Station.

Another sizeable planning application is before Moonee Valley City Council, with interests controlling 27 Russell Street looking to replace an Edwardian/Bungalow style house with 61 new apartments set over 9 levels.

<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/image28_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="27 Russell Street seeks to add to the area's increased apartment activity. Image: John Demos Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28_5.jpg?itok=IbZdoAMz" title="27 Russell Street seeks to add to the area's increased apartment activity. Image: John Demos Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>27 Russell Street is at planning. Image: John Demos Architects</figcaption></figure>John Demos Architects has created a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments within the proposal, supported by a new ground floor cafe of 130sqm.

In the immediate area, 93-97 Rose Street is all but complete, Alexandria at 952 Mt Alexander Road has launched its sales drive while 118-120 Buckley Street's display suite is taking shape.

The remainder of the development pipeline surrounding Essendon Station consists of the approved 23-25 Russell Street and the at appeal 81 Rose Street. 47 Rose Street which consisted of a five level residential building was withdrawn from the approvals process last week.

Savills recently moved on a development site at 95 Buckley Street which is capable of accommodating an apartment building under the Essendon Junction Structure Plan. Also in the wings is the possible rejuvenation of the sprawling car park adjoining Essendon Station as part of VicTrack's station precinct development program.

<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/rose-st-3d-photomatch-left.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rose Street has been subject to increased development activity. Image: Point Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/rose-st-3d-photomatch-left.jpg?itok=_kREX1do" title="Rose Street has been subject to increased development activity. Image: Point Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rose Street has been subject to increased development activity. Image: Point Architects</figcaption></figure>
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Essendon Station fast becoming a magnet for apartment developments

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Two highly prominent locations are now free to host substantial residential buildings after receiving planning approval in recent days.

VCAT has green-lighted St Kilda's tallest development to date at 8-12 Punt Road while Darebin City Council were satisfied with the merits of what is set to become Reservoir's biggest apartment development at 830 Plenty Road.

8-12 Punt Road, which is also referred to as One St Kilda Junction first <a href="/news/st-kilda-junction-subject-to-its-biggest-development-yet">appeared on Urban.com.au during February</a>, with subsequent planning movements landing the Plus Architecture-designed tower at VCAT.

For its part, City of Port Phillip's <a href="https://jaagstkilda.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/cpp-punt-8-12-1227-2015-delegate-report.pdf">report for VCAT</a> determined that it had made the decision to refuse the application based upon the development unreasonably impacting the amenity of the immediate and wider neighbourhood. This can be read as an overdevelopment of the subject site.

In response, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/vic/VCAT/2016/1396">VCAT's decision</a> was to approve the project which consists of a main 26 level tower, with a smaller 10 level extension to its east. In total 203 apartments will be serviced by 397 car spaces across seven basement levels.

<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/image1_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One St Kilda Junction. Image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_5.jpg?itok=gjbqshaE" title="One St Kilda Junction. Image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One St Kilda Junction. Image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>On the opposite side of town, 830 Plenty Road was issued a permit yesterday for an expansive multi-building apartment development. Dubbed <a href="http://www.architeria.com.au/reservoir-reflection-star-island">Star Island</a> and conceived by Architeria Architects, final numbers for the project will see 338 apartments and townhouses, in addition to commercial and retail spaces.

Submitted for approval during June of 2015, 830 Plenty Road had been subject to numerous proposals prior to the current iteration headed by Architeria Architects.

Three separate apartment buildings will front Plenty Road, with a fourth building and 17 townhouses nested in behind.

The expansive 10,194sqm site coupled with its elevated position and low-rise surrounds allows Star Island to hold a very pronounced position along one of Melbourne's major northern transport corridors.

<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/1507_reservoir_front_architeria_architects_email_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Star Island. Image: Architeria Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1507_reservoir_front_architeria_architects_email_1.jpg?itok=eGjljuLS" title="Star Island. Image: Architeria Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Star Island. Image: Architeria Architects</figcaption></figure>
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Two major residential projects receive approval

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Dual development sites are adding to Box Hill's skyward push. Located opposite one another, 843 Whitehorse Road and 845-851 Whitehorse Road both have the potential to accommodate substantial towers.

Selling agent Savills last week listed <a href="/buildings/east-central-tower-820-whitehorse-road-box-hill">843 Whitehorse Road</a> on Development Sites Melbourne, billing the site as Box Hill's best corner development opportunity. Located within Box Hill's 'Major Development Precinct' the site is set to be rezoned as Commercial 1, allowing for a considerable tower or towers to rise from the 1,972sqm plot.

843 Whitehorse Road also fronts Wellington Street which itself is subject to a host of mid-rise apartment developments, whilst 820 Whitehorse Road directly south is another project at planning. At 31 levels and 100 metres in height, <a href="/buildings/east-central-tower-820-whitehorse-road-box-hill">820 Whitehorse Road</a> could provide developer Longriver Property with a yield of 300 plus apartments.

<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/1_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="843 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill is up for grabs. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1_9.jpg?itok=2u6FG_j2" title="843 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill is up for grabs. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>843 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill is up for grabs. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure>The listing of 843 Whitehorse Road follows on from City of Whitehorse's recent advertising of plans for the site directly opposite. 845-851 Whitehorse Road will likely add to the crop of 100 plus metre towers within Box Hill, and provides some guidance as to what can be expected at 843 Whitehorse Road.

Spotlight Development Group is behind the development push at 845-851 Whitehorse Road that calls for 517 apartments and 150 hotel suites within a tri-towered scheme. Designed by Plus Architecture, 845-851 Whitehorse Road's tallest tower would span 37 levels and top out at a height of 117 metres.

<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/image13_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="845-851 Whitehorse Road's podium. Planning image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="234" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_9.jpg?itok=dIUPGXbp" title="845-851 Whitehorse Road's podium. Planning image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>845-851 Whitehorse Road's podium. Planning image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Currently home to Spotlight and KFC outlets, the new development would see the hotel component located within the development's podium along with a gym, car parking and apartments. 130 single bed, 131 single plus study, 230 dual bedroom and 26 three bedroom apartments constitute the mix of dwellings within the proposal.

<blockquote>
The Whitehorse rd towers are read as a pair of soft, clean volumes where their forms move and play against each other as if in a close slow dance. The east and west facades of both towers are further defined vertically to emphasise their slender lines.

The Hotel façade appears as a white sheet of paper slightly curving to respond to nodes of interest, like the corner, entry and tower breakup. The rhythm of the gold windows also change where shape becomes distorted creating a beautiful visual response.
<cite>Plus Architecture: Design response </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_7416.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Whitehorse Towers on the rise"><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_7416.jpg?itok=Ro89Pa1B" title="Whitehorse Towers on the rise" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Whitehorse Towers on the rise</figcaption></figure>On the south side of Whitehorse Road, Box Hill's first tower to break 100 metres is on the rise.

Asian Pacific Group's Whitehorse Towers will consist of 100 Art Series Hotel-branded suites, in addition to 516 private dwellings. Builder Maxcon has the project nearing the top podium floor, with dual towers set to rise above. The podium also houses a gym/recreation facility, 4 restaurants and 19 office spaces.

Designed by Peddle Thorp Architects, the project's construction contract is valued at $172 million and has an estimated completion date of November 2017.
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One Box Hill behemoth arrives whilst another beckons

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Relative newcomer <a href="/developers/dcf-property">DCF Property</a> has made a play for a mixed-use tower in the rapidly expanding fringe CBD pocket opposite Flagstaff Gardens.

With two low-rise apartment projects to their name, DCF Property are seeking to greatly expand their presence with <a href="/buildings/407-415-king-street-west-melbourne">407-415 King Street</a>. Now Flagstaff House, the West Melbourne corner site plays host to the two to three storey building which carries an individual Heritage Overlay, affording the property a B grade listing.

While the existing exterior would be incorporated under the proposal, design lead <a href="/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a> have added a 23 level tower above which would host both a hotel and apartments.

407-415 King Street abuts two development sites. <a href="/developers/samma-property-group">SPEC Property</a> are actively marketing Flagstaff Green apartments fronting Batman Street while Haileybury College have recently completed an overhaul of 383 King Street, itself subject to a failed application for a 75 metre apartment building in recent years.

<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/flagstaff_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flagstaff_2.jpg?itok=XH5afeHn" title="407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>​

<h2>407-415 King Street application summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Submitted May 2016</li>
	<li>Existing 930sqm site home to heritage listed Flagstaff House</li>
	<li>Proposed 23 level mixed-use building at 81.3 metres atop Flagstaff House</li>
	<li>158 hotel suites</li>
	<li>70 apartments: 19 x 1BR, 47 x 2BR, 4 x Penthouse</li>
	<li>Hotel office, gym, meeting and function rooms, restaurant/bar</li>
	<li>Level 12 communal area and rooftop garden</li>
	<li>64 car parking spaces and 44 bicycle bays over four basement levels</li>
	<li>Estimated cost of development: $50 million</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/flagstaff_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="821" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flagstaff_3.jpg?itok=-tPCcJnh" title="407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>​

Flagstaff House is a Yuncken Freeman design which was completed during 1968, with the heritage overlay covering the exterior only. Thus the development calls for only the facade to be retained, with the tower to rise behind.

The project's hotel and apartment components are separated by a design feature midway up the tower which also houses communal facilities. Plus Architecture refer to the separation as a truss feature, drawing a design parallel to Yuncken Freeman's timeless 140 William Street found within <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's CBD</a>.

One and two bedroom dwellings aside, the planning application calls for a sprawling whole floor penthouse. At 439sqm, the four bedroom penthouse shapes as one of, if not the largest apartment created within <a href="/new-apartments/west-melbourne-vic-3003">West Melbourne</a>.

Set above the penthouse is a 236sqm rooftop garden.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image23_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="407-415 King Street was once Yuncken Freeman's offices. Image: Wikipedia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="358" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image23_4.jpg?itok=eLNGkb7k" title="407-415 King Street was once Yuncken Freeman's offices. Image: Wikipedia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>407-415 King Street was once Yuncken Freeman's offices. Image: Wikipedia</figcaption></figure>To date DCF Property's presence on the Apartments.com.au Project Database has been limited to two projects in Melbourne's eastern suburbs.

<a href="/buildings/inqu-140-cotham-road-kew">INQU at 140-142 Cotham Road, Kew</a> is completed with <a href="/builders/orange-building-solutions">Orange Building Solutions</a> delivering the project encompassing 40 apartments, six retail tenancies and one restaurant. DCF Property's other current pursuit is for a vacant block in Balwyn North.

76-78 Doncaster Road is a DKO Architecture-designed residential project which if approved adds another 60 apartments on the developer's books.

<h2>407-415 King Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: DCF Property</li>
	<li>Architect: Plus Architecture</li>
	<li>Planning: Planning and Property Partners</li>
	<li>ESD, Structural &amp; Services engineer: WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff</li>
	<li>Heritage: Bryce Raworth</li>
	<li>Traffic: Traffix</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Wind: SLR Consulting</li>
</ul>
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DCF Property looks to capitalise atop Flagstaff Hill

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It's the stuff of roosters and feather dusters over the course of the last week. While the western end of Melbourne's CBD will be graced by a building unlike any other in Melbourne, Spring Street is set to receive a tower at the opposite end of the design scale.

As has been widely reported a new $300 million tower designed by international architecture firm Zaha Hadid Architects has been given final approval by the Victorian Government. Expected within developer Landream's 54 level tower, which weighs in at 176 metres, are 420 dwellings and in excess of 10,000sqm of office and retail space.

Designed in conjunction with Plus Architecture, the base of the tower at 582-606 Collins Street will also include ground floor art space, a public plaza to Collins Street and a new pedestrian link and a publicly accessible terrace.

<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/image49_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="582-606 Collins Street. Image: Zaha Hadid Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_3.jpg?itok=yoJhIJix" title="582-606 Collins Street. Image: Zaha Hadid Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>582-606 Collins Street. Image: Zaha Hadid Architects</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
This stand-out design will enhance the city’s skyline, deliver jobs during construction and additional housing for people wanting to live in the CBD.

The late Zaha Hadid has been described as an a starchitect, Melbourne will now have a piece of her artistic flare and I look forward to seeing it come together and provide new public space in the city.
<cite>Jill Hennessy, Acting Minister for Planning</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Working in close collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects, Plus Architecture is deeply privileged to be a part of the team bringing Dame Zaha Hadid’s inspiring design to the Melbourne skyline with the project set to be a monumental part of our city’s urban fabric and architectural narrative.
<cite>Jess Liew, Director, Plus Architecture (local architects on record)</cite>
</blockquote>

To 85 Spring Street now where revised images of Grocon's intended apartment development have appeared over online sales portals.

After much wrangling between the development team and the State planning department, a <a href="http://architectureau.com/articles/grocons-denton-corker-marshall-designed-tower-approved/">revised scheme of considerable design merit won approval during 2015</a> . Fast forward and gone is Denton Corker Marshall's design of note, replaced with a pared-down 39 level edifice.

The current version, seen below right, loses much of its architectural expression and appears externally to be little more than a generic design that smacks of value management.

Unfortunately, it also happens to be in a premier CBD location.

<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/image45_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="85 Spring Street, old and new. Images: ArchitectureAU &amp; realestate.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="373" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_3.jpg?itok=DbiJSh_0" title="85 Spring Street, old and new. Images: ArchitectureAU &amp; realestate.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>85 Spring Street, old and new. Images: ArchitectureAU &amp; realestate.com.au</figcaption></figure>And finally to a design spotted on Apartments.com.au's forum this week of a concept as seen below for Landream by Zaha Hadid Architects once more.

Apartments.com.au covered the story one year ago regarding Landream approaching CASA to initiate discussion on a <a href="/news/260-la-trobe-shapes-as-melbournes-next-big-tower">possible tower for 254-260 La Trobe Street</a>. The tower which was tall enough to challenge the PANS-OPS ceiling would have been of a similar height to the adjoining Aurora Melbourne Central that is now under construction.

The spectacular design that would now not adhere to the interim and soon permanent planning controls, may well be consigned to the history books.

Nonetheless a truly impressive design.

<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/image42zh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Zaha Hadid Architects' take on 260 La Trobe Street."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="538" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image42zh.jpg?itok=Y_CaZ0Ar" title="Zaha Hadid Architects' take on 260 La Trobe Street." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Zaha Hadid Architects' take on 260 La Trobe Street.</figcaption></figure>
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