IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Joel Robinson

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

When the opportunity arose for South Australian developer Palumbo to return to Kent Town, where it had previously delivered East Park Apartments and the East 
Rundle Apartments, it wasn't one the longstanding developer-builder was going to pass up.

The decision was quickly vindicated, with more than 30 apartments sold within the first month of launching <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/royal-apartments-kent-town-2-8-north-terrace-kent-town-sa-5067">Royal Apartments</a> to the market.

The 206-apartment development, which will bring significant new supply to Adelaide's tightly held eastern city fringe, also gives <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/palumbo">Palumbo</a> the opportunity to bring new life to one of Kent Town's most recognisable watering holes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376073]

Royal Apartments incorporates the historic Royal Hotel, a venue Palumbo Managing Director Daniel Palumbo said has a longstanding connection with the local community.

"Everyone in the area has history with the Royal Hotel," Palumbo told Apartments.com.au.

"It was quite an active pub and social gathering place for locals. We want to bring it back to its former glory."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376072]

The wider development will comprise two residential towers alongside the restored hotel, sitting on North Terrace opposite the Adelaide Park Lands.

For Palumbo, the project also marks a return to familiar territory.

The developer completed East Park Apartments next door more than a decade ago and jumped at the opportunity to develop in Kent Town again when the Royal Hotel site became available.

"The opportunity emerged, and we moved to secure the site," Palumbo said.

"We were approached by the previous landowner, who said they had extensive commitments in Sydney and weren't in a position to deliver the project.

"We took over the site and within six months recut the design scheme to be more in keeping with the type of development we want to bring to Adelaide.

"Now we're on the market and those changes have really resonated with local buyers."

That has translated into a strong start to sales, with 33 apartments transacting in the project's first 35 days.

Palumbo said the early purchaser profile had been consistent with the group's traditional focus on owner-occupiers rather than investor-led apartment stock.

"Local owner-occupiers have always been our market," he said.

"There are always some investors, but we've never developed what would be called traditional development stock. Owner-occupiers are very much our market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376068]

The buyer mix has been diverse so far, with downsizers and younger professionals both accounting for a significant portion of early sales.

South Australia's current stamp duty settings, which allow&nbsp;eligible homeowners in South Australia aged 60 savings of up to $103,830 on stamp duty when they downsize to a new property valued at up to $2 million,&nbsp;have helped encourage downsizer activity, while younger buyers in their late 20s and early 30s have been attracted to the opportunity to live immediately outside the CBD while still being able to walk into the city.



Location has been a major part of the proposition for both buyer cohorts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376075]

Royal Apartments sits on North Terrace directly opposite the Adelaide Park Lands, with residents able to walk through the parklands toward the East End, Rundle Street and Rundle Mall.

Apartments have been positioned to capture views across the parklands, Adelaide skyline, Botanic Gardens and Adelaide Hills.

Palumbo believes the scarcity of developable land along this section of the Park Lands makes the site particularly difficult to replicate.

"There's very few allotments on that side that can be developed," he said.

"If this location was in New York and you were sitting on Central Park, you'd be talking about a $60 million apartments."

Royal Apartments will offer a broad mix of residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.

Current listings include one-bedroom apartments from $680,000, while larger three and four-bedroom residences are priced around $2.5 million.

Residents will have access to a swimming pool, gym, barbecue and recreation areas, residents' lounge and dining space, and a communal deck.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376067]

The apartments will feature generous balconies, while secure parking, bicycle storage and storage cages will also be provided.

A porte-cochère-style arrival and drop-off area has also resonated with buyers, particularly those attracted to being able to walk into the CBD during the day while retaining secure vehicle access at home.

Palumbo is acting as developer, architect and builder on Royal Apartments, continuing the vertically integrated model it has used across its South Australian portfolio.

The group was also behind the $150 million Sofitel Adelaide, the 251-room five-star hotel and residential tower which opened in 2021.

Palumbo said Royal's launch had come at an interesting time for the broader Adelaide apartment market.

Buyer confidence had initially been impacted by uncertainty surrounding the Federal Budget and broader economic conditions, but Palumbo believes sentiment is beginning to improve against a backdrop of significant investment flowing into South Australia.

He pointed to increased activity across defence and resources, including Olympic Dam, as potential long-term drivers of the state's economy and housing market.

"Money is starting to flow into Adeliade, significant amounts as Adelaide bucks the trend of the rest of the country.," Palumbo said.

"There's a lot of activity in the economy over the next decade. I think more investment will come into this market."

Early works on Royal Apartments are expected to commence this year, with major construction activity and cranes anticipated on site from early next year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6109]

Palumbo's return to Kent Town strikes early chord with buyers

Go-to builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">GRAYA</a> is continuing to bulk out its already impressive and diverse apartment portfolio across South East Queensland. Their latest milestone is securing development approval for Silk, its boutique riverfront apartment development in St Lucia.

The approval clears&nbsp;the way for the team to begin construction planning for the 22-residence project.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/silk-st-lucia-16-18-sandford-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">Silk</a> will rise 15 levels from an 810 sqm site at 16-18 Sandford Street, occupying a prominent bend of the Brisbane River with a prized northern aspect across Orleigh Park toward the Brisbane CBD.

The approved scheme will comprise 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences, continuing GRAYA's move into larger-format apartment developments targeting Brisbane's prestige owner-occupier market.

The project has been designed around the site's broad river frontage and dual-direction views, with GRAYA prioritising larger residences, privacy and outlook over apartment yield.

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa5c2349-f96c-4914-a812-1f2cd6827af8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WY0vEU_7vYjeRJKQHiCwFdMxu8PvFh52" />

GRAYA Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Rob Gray said the project had been shaped around local homeowners wanting to remain in St Lucia without maintaining a traditional family home.

"St Lucia is one of those suburbs people do not want to leave," Gray said.

"They know the river, the trees, UQ, the golf course, Toowong and Indooroopilly, and that familiarity is hard to replace.

"True riverfront opportunities here are exceptionally scarce. What we have designed at Silk is a way to stay in the suburb people love, with the scale and privacy of a private home and far less to maintain.

"This is not typical apartment product. It is a proper home on the river, and that is exactly what this market has been missing."

The approval comes as new apartment development continues to increase across the St Lucia and neighbouring Toowong corridor, although direct riverfront sites remain considerably more tightly held.

GRAYA Co-founder and Managing Director Andrew Gray said securing the approval had removed a significant element of development risk from Silk.

"Genuine riverfront sites of this quality in St Lucia are not something that comes up regularly," Gray said.

"The approval removes a substantial layer of execution risk, and the location underwrites demand in a way very few inner-city sites can.

"The fundamentals here are as strong as anything we have assessed in Brisbane."

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d0f3d734-65e1-48e8-8ed3-2e0715ffcdd9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sOLSs_jdHkXLWbBKzRyayf5BfTb2vPsD" />

Silk will see GRAYA return to a stretch of the Brisbane River where it already has recent construction experience. The vertically integrated group recently completed ARC in neighbouring Toowong as builder for developer Spyre, delivering the riverfront project on a constrained site.

GRAYA will take a different role at Silk, controlling the project from design and development through construction and aftercare under its vertically integrated model.

The development will include a gym and resident leisure areas at ground level, integrated with the river's edge.

Silk joins a growing pipeline for GRAYA across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, which includes Enclave, The Gallery, Coral and Ripple.

The developer-builder has also recently lodged plans for its largest project to date, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-silo-19-chester-street-newstead-qld-4006">The Silo</a>, a proposed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/graya-buys-frasers-newstead-site-plans-the-silo-between-james-street-and-gasworks-precincts">$700 million mixed-use development</a> in Brisbane's James Street precinct.

Silk is expected to predominantly target local owner-occupiers and prestige buyers seeking a permanent riverfront home in Brisbane's inner west.

Registrations of interest are now open, with further details on the project and construction program to be released as it progresses.

<hr />
<h2>SILK PROJECT FACTS</h2>

Developer-builder: GRAYA

Project: Silk

Location: 16-18 Sandford Street, St Lucia

Apartments: 22

Built form: 15 levels

Site: 810 sqm riverfront holding

Mix: 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences

Status: Development approved

Next step: Construction planning underway

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152168]

GRAYA greenlit for riverfront St Lucia apartment development, Silk

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]

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

Plus Architecture

<html><body>
Constantin Brancusi's Bird in Space, Alvar Aalto's Savoy Vase and the iridescent nature of a bubble which captures the reflection and refraction of light waves via its surface. Not the first thoughts that come to mind for the average reader contemplating the design impetus behind <a href="/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture's</a> scheme for <a href="/buildings/aspire-melbourne-301-king-st-melbourne">295-309 King Street, Melbourne</a>.

Nonetheless they have been listed as major influences upon what may become one of Melbourne's tallest apartment towers should it gain approval.

The proponent for 295-309 King Street is Farinia Pty Ltd and that entity is seeking permission to replace two low-rise office buildings within a western pocket of <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's CBD</a>, which is experiencing gargantuan levels of development at the moment. Town planning agency <a href="/developers/urbis">Urbis</a> state within their associated report:

<blockquote>
The 81-level proposal is appropriate to its changing and emerging urban context. Currently the west precinct of the City lacks significant architectural developments and this proposal will contribute to the emerging contemporary character of the area.
<cite>Urbis, planning permit application report</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/image77.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The above have been cited as design impetus. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="271" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image77.jpg?itok=zvjUGEN1" title="The above have been cited as design impetus. Image © Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The above have been cited as design impetus. Image © Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure><h2>295-309 King Street, Melbourne</h2>

<ul>
<li>Current 1,301sqm site use: dual low-rise commercial buildings</li>
	<li>Planning application submitted October 2014</li>
	<li>Proposed 83 level residential tower at 269.45 metres to LMR</li>
	<li>Total GFA: 58,984sqm</li>
	<li>603 apartments: 99*studio / 239*1BR / 238*2BR / 15*3BR / 12*Penthouses</li>
	<li>124 car spaces (stacker) / 290 bicycle spaces / 18 motorcycle spaces</li>
	<li>415 storage units</li>
	<li>Residential amenities and common areas provided at Levels 10 and 79</li>
</ul>
<h2>An iridescent facade</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/image75.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Facade section. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="296" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image75.jpg?itok=x1THnczZ" title="Facade section. Image © Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Facade section. Image © Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Dominating 295-309 King Street's exterior will be a curtain glaze of iridescent panels capable of capturing the light spectrum in a manner unlike any other Melbourne tower. The façade will change appearance depending upon factors such as weather conditions and the angle from which it is viewed.

<blockquote>
Plus Architecture’s design for the proposed building embodies elegance, flair and sophistication and adds a high quality signature element to the evolving northern and western residential fringe of Melbourne’s CBD. The unique built form has been inspired by the concept of a budding flower, and as a result, presents as a number of tapering curves revolving around a centre point.
<cite>Urbis, planning permit application report</cite>
</blockquote>

With its splayed shape and unique façade capable of creating its own distinct detail, Plus Architecture have strived to set 295-309 King Street apart from all other Melbourne buildings.

<h2>From the ground up</h2>

<ul>
<li>Basement: single basement level which would accommodate services, storage cages and bicycle parking</li>
	<li>Ground: three retail tenancies plus the residential lobby and building services</li>
	<li>Level 1-7: car parking, apartments to street frontages plus a community centre facing King Street</li>
	<li>Level 8: studio, two and three bedroom apartments plus 70 stores</li>
	<li>Level 9: plant services</li>
	<li>Level 10: pool, gym, library/lounge, yoga/pilates studio and 78 stores</li>
	<li>Level 11-50: apartments with a mixture of layouts</li>
	<li>Level 51: plant services</li>
	<li>Level 52-75: apartments with a mixture of layouts</li>
	<li>Level 76-78: penthouses, smallest at 151sqm</li>
	<li>Level 79: lounge, wine cellar, dining area, karaoke, gaming room</li>
	<li>Level 80-82: plant and damper</li>
</ul>
<h2>Jenga time</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/image76.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Jenga-like podium envisaged from King Street. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="425" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image76.jpg?itok=NJQby1xb" title="The Jenga-like podium envisaged from King Street. Image © Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Jenga like podium as envisaged from King Street. Image © Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The Podium has been designed to respond to the fine grain relationship with the King Street and Little Lonsdale Street wall. Historically, Melbourne has had a distinct connection with its use of bluestone in creating Rustica Façade designs.

The podium design for this development seeks to draw inspiration from the bluestone streetscape of King Street by reinterpreting this relationship in a contemporary way that responds to the human scale. Thus, the podium has been broken up into a Jenga like formation creating a dynamic façade that plays with scale and materiality, while also providing privacy for podium apartments.
<cite>Plus Architecture - Design response, town planning submission</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>The feasibility of it all</h2>

As touched upon earlier 295-309 King Street is one of many towers lining up to replace the bevy of available development sites immediately surrounding the site in question, most of which are loosely located around the King and Lonsdale intersection. 250 Spencer Street's quartet of towers between 205 and 300 metres, the at sales <a href="/buildings/the-fifth-605-lonsdale-street-melbourne">605 Lonsdale Street</a> (165 metres) plus the under construction <a href="/buildings/manhattan-at-uws-33-rose-lane-melbourne">33 Rose Lane</a> (170 metres) and 612 Lonsdale Street (144 metres) attest to the popularity of this patch of Melbourne's CBD at the moment.

Perhaps understanding that most sites surrounding 295-309 King Street carry prime redevelopment potential, Plus Architecture have added development feasibility scenarios for the adjoining 311 King Street. As a result 295-309 King Street is built to the northern boundary to a height near on 40 metres, providing 311 King Street with a common boundary to build against, with a tower above podium to 70 metres possible in a likely scenario. Under this feasibility scenario tower to tower distance would be 9.5 metres.

<h2>295-309 King Street, Melbourne planning team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer/Proponent: Farinia Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Planning Report: Urbis</li>
	<li>Architectural Plans and Urban Context Report: Plus Architecture</li>
	<li>Traffic Assessment: Cardno</li>
	<li>Waste Management Advice: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Environmental Sustainable Design Statement: Cundall</li>
	<li>Wind Impact Assessment: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Acoustic Assessment: Renzo Tonin &amp; Associates</li>
	<li>Aviation Assessment: Thompson GCS</li>
</ul>
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silvermb

Planning application: 295-309 King Street, Melbourne

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Leighton Properties Managing Director Mr Mark Gray described the purchase of Moonee Ponds' Readings site as "Consistent with Leighton Properties strategy to focus on inner ring urban renewal sites which are in prime locations, close to transport links, retail and places of work." Sixteen months later and the boom site covering more than 13,300sqm is for sale with JLL and CBRE jointly offering what was formerly home to the Moonee Ponds Market.

With six street frontages and high expectations for a landmark urban renewal development, Leighton Properties and joint venture partner Qualitas snapped up the vacant land for $23 million.  During their October 2013 announcement, it was stated via Leighton Properties' website that the staged development would likely provide in excess of 800 apartments and 2,000sqm of retail, with an end value near on $450 million.

<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/image3_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="40 Hall Street which is at planning. Image courtesy Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3_1.jpg?itok=7_PNdJ_R" title="40 Hall Street which is at planning. Image courtesy Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>40 Hall Street which is at planning. Image courtesy Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Seen above is the design for the sole plot of the sprawling site which the joint partners advanced to planning assessment with City of Moonee Valley. <a href="/news/leighton-initiate-the-readings-moonee-ponds-transformation">Covered first</a> by Apartments.com.au during October 2014, the residential tower would have 162 apartments within its 15 levels and include retail outlets fronting Hall Street.  Along with associated landscaping and provision for a pedestrian link the scheme would cover 2,388sqm or over 17% of the total development area.

Plus Architecture are responsible for the initial planning application, and it's more than likely that they too are responsible for indicative scheme seen below.  Accompanying online sales information are a number of high quality concept images designed to provide context for prospective developers; 1200 apartments within seven buildings is the nominated site outcome.

<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/main_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An indicative outcome. Image courtesy JLL"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/main_2.jpg?itok=sz_VSiy-" title="An indicative outcome. Image courtesy JLL" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An indicative outcome. Image courtesy JLL</figcaption></figure>Two residential towers in excess of 20 levels headline the concept scheme, followed by the at planning <a href="/buildings/hall-st-40-hall-street-moonee-ponds">40 Hall Street</a> and a number of smaller towers thereafter.  Included within the scheme is the envisaged north-south pedestrian link/public open space which City of Moonee Valley had requested, in addition to a number of other key site criteria that have been sent to the Minister for Planning for approval within site specific Development Plan Overlay.

<blockquote>
In September Council asked the Minister for Planning to approve and include in the Moonee Valley Planning Scheme a Development Plan Overlay for the site. We are currently still awaiting approval.

<cite>City of Moonee Valley, January 2015</cite>
</blockquote>

As to the motivations for Leighton/Qualitas offloading this prized site with a staged delivery timeframe most likely over a decade? According to <a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/walker_corporation_runs_ruler_over_RZtUxZONt76pNLVgF5NUhO">this AFR article</a> Leighton Propeties as an entity is for sale after its parent company (Germany's Hochtief) refused to provide rental guarantees to support some projects in its development pipeline.  Leighton's Properties thereafter began offloading a number of future development sites with the Moonee Ponds Market site set to be the latest.

Nonetheless opportunity has arisen for a developer to assume the reigns over one of Melbourne's blue-chip development sites.

<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_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of the eastern portion of the site. Image courtesy JLL"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_3.jpg?itok=IKxeuJ_h" title="Hero perspective of the eastern portion of the site. Image courtesy JLL" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of the eastern portion of the site. Image courtesy JLL</figcaption></figure>
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Leighton seeks to offload their Moonee Ponds super site

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St Kilda Road-based <a href="http://plusarchitecture.com.au/">Plus Architecture</a> have recently updated their website with fresh information, thus allowing Apartments.com.au to insert a swag of new and predominantly residential listings into our Project Database. South Yarra twice over, Glen Waverley, Box Hill, South Melbourne and North Melbourne are home to the new project listings, with 720 apartments and 157 hotel suites the expected sum result.

Little Projects' The Elfin residential tower leads the pack. Located at 38 Claremont Street South Yarra, it is preparing for a sales launch while early works continue onsite. The Elfin's 102 apartments may also be joined by an additional 99 dwellings at nearby <a href="/new-apartments/402-416-chapel-street-south-yarra">402-416 Chapel Street</a> South Yarra.

Lodged mid 2014, South Melbourne-based Blueprint Development Group is behind the scheme which would see the demolition of the existing building and construction of a 12 storey mixed use tower including 99 apartments, 157 hotel suites, restaurants holding a total of 473 patrons, 1,009sqm of retail space, 579sqm of commercial space and a gymnasium. City of Stonnington have added no further information since the application was lodged.

<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_4433.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Early works have commenced at 38 Claremont Street. Render courtesy Plus Architecture"><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_4433.jpg?itok=oj4jZ7V8" title="Early works have commenced at 38 Claremont Street. Render courtesy Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Early works have commenced at 38 Claremont Street. Render courtesy Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Of the four remaining projects only <a href="/buildings/galleria-glen-waverley-52-osullivan-road-glen-waverley">52-54 O'Sullivan Road, Glen Waverley</a> has gained planning approval, with City of Monash ruling in favour of the 276-apartment project during late 2014. Despite community concerns over height and lack of communal facilities, the 15 level tower on behalf of Australia Nan Xin Investment Pty Ltd can now proceed at the developer's discretion.

<a href="/new-apartments/reflections-108-haines-street-north-melbourne">104-112 Haines Street, North Melbourne</a>, <a href="/buildings/carrington-109-carrington-road-box-hill">109 Carrington, Road Box Hill</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/65-palmerston-61-65-palmerston-crescent-south-melbourne">61-65 Palmerston Crescent, South Melbourne</a> represent the remaining trio of Plus Architecture-designed projects still at planning assessment. 104-112 Haines Street is the largest, seeking approval for 143 apartments in a traditionally low-rise area of North Melbourne.

City of Melbourne are also considering the merits of a similarly proportioned proposal on the neighbouring <a href="/new-apartments/gardiner-on-the-park-116-haines-street-north-melbourne">114-116 Haines Street</a> site; should Council approve both developments it would likely set a precedent for the accelerated urban renewal in North 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/perspective_8-819x600.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="104-112 Haines Street North Melbourne. Image courtesy Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="353" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/perspective_8-819x600.jpg?itok=YSa3NzNw" title="104-112 Haines Street North Melbourne. Image courtesy Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>104-112 Haines Street North Melbourne. Image courtesy Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>The six additional project listings has swelled the current Plus Architecture stable to 19 within Apartments.com.au's Project Database, ranging from project assessment through to construction. All their projects are <a href="/architects/plus-architecture">available for viewing</a>.

The impressive number of current projects has propelled Plus Architecture into a position of strength, nestled in behind Hayball and Elenberg Fraser in terms of overall project numbers which alludes to the rate at which Plus Architecture gas grown in recent times. The six most recent Plus Architecture listings are available for individual viewing below.
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Plus Architecture begins 2015 with a bang!

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Could this be Fishermans Bend's first tower to reach construction? A planning application first highlighted on Apartments.com.au during August 2013 looks likely to take the title of Fishermans Bend's first project to become reality.

<a href="/news/planning-application-91-montague-street-south-melbourne">91 Montague Street</a>, now better known as Gravity Tower @ 89 Gladstone Street is the latest project to be delivered by assiduous Melbourne-based developer Blue Earth Group. In line with Blue Earth Group's business plan the tower won't proceed to retail sales, but will be moved as investment stock nationally via a network of partners as per their previous projects.

<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/render001_exterior-ground1_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="89 Montague Street's distinctive facade. Image courtesy Fraher Design 3D"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1051" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/render001_exterior-ground1_1.jpg?itok=KKHmNKg4" title="89 Montague Street's distinctive facade. Image courtesy Fraher Design 3D" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>89 Montague Street's distinctive facade. Image courtesy Fraher Design 3D</figcaption></figure>Gravity Tower itself is a 28 level building designed by Plus Architecture which carries 144 residential apartments according to Blue Wealth Property's <a href="http://issuu.com/bluewealthproperty/docs/141105_-_gravity_tower_-_ddr__pdf_">due diligence</a> report on the project. One bedroom apartments begin from $405,000 at 51sqm whilst dual bedroom apartments begin at $549,000 and 68sqm as shown in the due diligence document.

Chinese website Yeeyi is also carrying <a href="http://translate.google.com.au/translate?hl=en&amp;sl=zh-CN&amp;u=http://www.yeeyi.com/bbs/thread-1733533-1-1&amp;prev=search">sales material</a> for the tower which shows a rooftop communal area, open air cinema and plunge pool whilst a retail space will be included at ground level. Given Gravity Tower looks set to be the first project within Fishermans Bend to reach construction, it will be afforded unfettered views upon completion.

Gravity Tower may not be alone for long with a number of additional projects within the Urban Renewal Area looking for imminent sales launches. Guangzhou-based R&amp;F Properties heads the list as it's reportedly preparing for the launch of <a href="/new-apartments/60-82-johnson-street-south-melbourne">60-82 Johnson Street</a> following its acquisition of the site during 2014.

<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/image5_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of Grivity Towers' views. Image courtesy Fraher Design 3D"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="242" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5_0.jpg?itok=G0_RArny" title="Artist's impression of Grivity Towers' views. Image courtesy Fraher Design 3D" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of Gravity Towers' views. Image courtesy Fraher Design 3D</figcaption></figure>There is to a degree an implied assumption that Gravity Tower will proceed to construction based upon the previous work of Blue Earth Group; the company has become adept at advancing projects to construction with very little if any public knowledge of the project.

Recently competed apartment complexes by Blue Earth Group include Geox, Stratus and Mink Essendon whilst their current project, <a href="/buildings/a-apartments-92-albert-street-brunswick-east">A Apartments</a> at 92 Albert Street East Brunswick, is under construction and would have escaped public attention but for its listing on Apartments.com.au. In addition Blue Earth Group look to have found a willing cohort with Hamilton Marino undertaking their five most recent builds, hinting that Gravity Tower is indeed close to reality and that a builder may well be in place.
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Gravity Tower poised to become Fishermans Bend's first build

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With a total site area of 13,390sqm in their keeping, Leighton Properties have chosen to divide the prized Readings Moonee Ponds site into separate development parcels, the first of which has recently been lodged with City of Moonee Valley. Highlighted by Apartments.com.au during May 2013, the then sales campaign included an <a href="/news/finally-readings-moonee-ponds-for-sale">indicative development scheme of 30 levels</a>.

Subsequently parent company Leighton Holdings was revealed as the buyer and approximately a year later have presented in conjunction with project partner Qualitas a planning submission with the intent of delivering a substantial apartment project.

<h2>Application summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Stage 1 development: 40 Hall Street, Moonee Ponds</li>
	<li>Current site use: at grade car park (formerly Moonee Ponds Market)</li>
	<li>Application for development lodged September 2014</li>
	<li>15 levels @ 49.2 metres</li>
	<li>Site area: 2,388sqm</li>
	<li>162 apartments (1/2 bedroom) &amp; 2 retail tenancies over 437sqm</li>
	<li>137 car spaces &amp; 70 bicycle spaces</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/image3hall.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 40 Hall Street . Image © Plus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3hall.jpg?itok=1hqoX-oL" title="Artist's impression of 40 Hall Street. Image © Plus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 40 Hall Street . Image © Plus</figcaption></figure><h2>Design impetus</h2>

Plus Architecture have employed a gentle undulating facade over the tower with a variety of materials on display. Differing glaze colours are joined by metal cladding, masonry and applied finishes (assumed precast) to create the external look.

<blockquote>
The articulation of the building envelope is both unifying and highly adaptive. The design presents a singular bold expression to Hall Street, providing the relatively short building the required gravitas to anchor the future precinct in a clear and calm manner .

The design considerations have resulted in a unique and contemporary design response that will contribute significantly to this streetscape and the overall centre. The development displays a high amount of glazing, including a mixture of tinted glazing and glass balustrades. The proposal will incorporate quality materials and finishes, including a mix of applied light and dark colours to respond to the highly innovative architectural design of the overall building.
<cite>Plus Architecture: planning application design statement</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Communal focus</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/image8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected ground level layout. Image © Oculus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="481" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8.jpg?itok=eECzrxOl" title="Expected ground level layout. Image © Oculus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Expected ground level thoroughfare. Image © Oculus</figcaption></figure>Consisting of recycled brick and concrete pavers, 40 Hall Street seeks a new north-south pedestrian link with a likely future extension through to Homer Street. Beyond ground, a 482sqm resident's communal garden is included over the mezzanine level whilst level 5 also carries a communal terrace complete with mature trees.

A 147sqm roof garden is proposed to supplement the indoor/outdoor rooftop communal terrace area. Included is a kitchen, dining area and lounge space whilst the external area holds a BBQ and dining/entertaining space. It's envisaged an easily reconfigured terrace could also hold an outdoor cinema with the CBD as a backdrop.

<h2>One of many</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/image2_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Readings overview with 40 Hall Street in red. Image courtesy Urbis planning report"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="371" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_0.jpg?itok=wM5hu9tv" title="Readings overview with 40 Hall Street in red. Image courtesy Urbis planning report" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Readings overview with 40 Hall Street in red. Image © Urbis</figcaption></figure>Prior to 40 Hall Street's submission, City of Moonee Valley had indicated that 17 levels was an appropriate outcome of the Readings site. With scope for an additional four or five apartment towers onsite and the nearby Moonee Valley Racecourse seeking 25 level towers as part of its redevelopment, it remains to be seen whether Leighton will push for future towers in the 25-30 level vicinity.

In the wider context Urbis' 40 Hall Street planning report states "Moonee Ponds is expected to undergo a shift in character to a taller, higher density precinct. There are also a number of new developments under construction or approved in the wider area." Indeed Moonee Ponds continues on an upward trajectory in terms of apartment development.

Currently three separate apartment buildings fronting Moore Street are under construction whilst The Montgomery and MOPO are both at sales, yielding a combined 178 apartments. Other projects currently of note within the Moonee Ponds Activity Centre include the 10 level 6-14 Young Street and Moloney Group's 33 Hall Street at 14 levels.

<h2>40 Hall Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Leighton Properties / Qualitas</li>
	<li>Architect: Plus Architecture</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Transport: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Landscape: Oculus</li>
	<li>Sustainability: Lucid Consulting Australia</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
</ul>
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Leighton initiate the Readings Moonee Ponds transformation

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Apartments.com.au recently had the privilege of being the only media outlet invited to peruse the recently completed Wrap apartment complex located at 133-139 City Road, Southbank. Championed initially by Melbourne based multi-disciplinary property company <a href="http://baracon.com.au/" target="_blank">Baracon</a>, project partners Leighton Properties, Qualitas and Baron Corporation joined the team prior to construction. Contexx Probuild act as head contractor for the $175 million dollar project, which saw site piling begin early 2012.

<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/4.1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Baracon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/4.1.jpg?itok=Oayhb_U3" title="Image © Baracon" width="580"></a>

Designed by Plus Architecture, the 41 level complex was christened Wrap due to the unique exterior feature frame that envelopes the facade. Drawing inspiration from Melbourne's Arts Centre spire and Beijing's Birds Nest Olympic Stadium, the white lattice structure was married to the tower progressively during construction to create a distinctive form, distinguishing itself from other more generic developments nearby.

A heritage warehouse fronting city road was incorporated into the tower's podium and marks the entrance to the residential development. Upon entry reflective glass floor panels and a podium void promoting a sense of light and space soon give way to one of, if not the most impressive common areas that we've viewed within any residential development.

Included within the ground floor are a cafe, bar, lounge and high end lobby. Whilst projects can be lost in marketing hyperbole when describing facilities and finishes, Wrap Southbank's communal space is genuinely a quality space. An understated elegance is perhaps the best way to describe the area which features marble, recycled brick and dark trim that combines to produce a warm, earthy space - a space where residents and visitors alike would want to go!

<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_3871.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Wrap Southbank's enclosed pool. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_3871.jpg?itok=n5umdlrj" title="Wrap Southbank's enclosed pool. " width="580"></a>

Sauna, pool and gymnasium round out residents facilities atop the podium whilst the proceeding 31 levels host a majority of the 300 1 bedroom, 1+study, 2 bedroom and penthouse apartments. One of the premier apartments in the tower is afforded to the live-in manager however; a massive abode within the podium running the entire southern boundary of the complex.

Plus Architecture describe the interiors as "Sophisticated luxury meets contemporary living...the fixture and fittings within each apartment are unsurpassed." Apartments are well presented with extra's such as etched kitchenette splashbacks available at time of purchase, which add yet another dimension to an already impressive space. And of the buyer who at the time of combined two adjoining apartments, we should all be so lucky.

Dual penthouses are afforded massive wraparound terraces, ideal for taking in the spectacular panorama (or a game of cricket). Much like the development itself, the views are far from being crowded out and provide a unique experience on an ever expanding Southbank.

<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_3885.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The penthouse view"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_3885.jpg?itok=ocfW8o_3" title="The penthouse view" width="580"></a>

And what next for Baracon following the success of Wrap Southbank? An even grander project looms large as Baracon teams with Urban Matrix &amp; Urban Cube to deliver the spectacular 54 Clarke Street.

At 74 levels and 244 metres in height, 54 Clarke Street will be a revolutionary 288 apartment project incorporating a modular building method and a unique almost scaled facade. Launching a public sales campaign during the latter part of 2014, Baracon expect 54 Clarke Street will appear unlike any other tower on Melbourne's skyline.

Definitely one to watch for, but for those wanting more, registrations of interest can be submitted <a href="http://baracon.com.au/54-clarke-street-southbank/" target="_blank">here</a>.

In the mean time enjoy the image set below, taken during Apartments.com.au's recent visit to Wrap Southbank.
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