Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

Joel Robinson

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5427]

The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5421]

The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134974]

Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152125]

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]

The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]

Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Investors may soon find themselves with fewer reasons to buy established property and more incentives to look towards the new apartment market.

Proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions would see new and off-the-plan apartments retain access to the tax benefits, while established properties would miss out, creating a clear advantage for buyers purchasing newly built housing.

The policy direction aligns with what many developers have been saying for several years. Australia needs more housing supply, and governments are increasingly looking for ways to encourage investment into new stock rather than existing homes.

The challenge for investors is that suitable product is becoming harder to find.

For much of the last decade, one-bedroom apartments were the cornerstone of investor demand. They offered a lower entry price, strong rental appeal, and were a common feature across most apartment developments.

Today, the development pipeline looks very different.

Across both New South Wales and South East Queensland, developers are increasingly targeting owner-occupiers and downsizers, delivering larger two, three and four-bedroom apartments in response to changing buyer preferences. While one-bedroom apartments still exist, they now form a much smaller portion of many new projects.

That shift has created a shortage of investor-friendly stock, particularly in well-located projects close to transport, employment hubs and lifestyle amenity.

At the same time, rising apartment prices have pushed many new developments beyond the reach of traditional investors. On the Gold Coast and across South East Queensland, it's becoming increasingly difficult to find new apartments priced around the $1 million mark, particularly those offering strong rental fundamentals and long-term growth prospects.

We've rounded up four new apartment developments where investors can still secure a foothold in the market for around $1 million or less.

<h2 data-end="1140" data-start="844">Flourish Soleira</h2>

<h2>Priced from: $1.07 million</h2>

Popular Palm Beach developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa</a> is soon to officially launch its newest local apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>.

The one-bedroom apartments in the building were only offered to first home buyers rather than investors, and all of those have been snapped up. The two-bedroom apartments will start from $1.07 million, and the three-bedrooms, still a good investment given the popularity of Palm Beach for owner-occupiers, starting at $2,045,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

Flourish Soliera will comprise 153 apartments across two buildings, connected by a skybridge, the first ever delivered in the suburb.

True to Sherpa's booming Flourish brand of apartment projects, Flourish Soleira will have extensive rooftop amenity across both buildings including a&nbsp;wellness centre with gym, work from home, yoga, pilates, a&nbsp;heated pool, private dining rooms, pizza oven and barbecues, basketball court, and golf simulator.

<h2>Corallo, Palm Beach</h2>

Priced from: $841,500

Nearby Flourish Soleira is Changfa Group's beachfront-inspired <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/corallo-palm-beach-5-palm-beach-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Corallo</a> development. They still have some one-bedroom apartments remaining, priced from $841,500.

The 105-apartment project on Palm Beach Avenue is otherwise dominated by larger two and three-bedroom residences, many of which are aimed at owner-occupiers and downsizers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=808]

For investors, the appeal lies in Palm Beach's continued transformation from a laid-back beachside suburb into one of the Gold Coast's most sought-after residential markets. Residents at Corallo will be within walking distance of Palm Beach's surf beaches, the recreational amenity of Tallebudgera Creek, and the increasingly popular collection of cafes, restaurants and boutique retailers along the suburb's central dining precinct.

<h2>Corner House, Stones Corner</h2>

<h2>Priced from: $880,000</h2>

One of only two Brisbane apartment developments to make the list with prices under $1 million is DeMartini Fletcher's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/corner-house-stones-corner-18-stoneham-street-stones-corner-qld-4120">Corner House development</a> in Stones Corner.

One-bedroom apartments start from $880,000 within the 88-apartment development, providing investors with exposure to one of Brisbane's most established inner-south locations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149098 project_image_fid=330594]

Stones Corner has long been supported by strong tenant demand due to its proximity to major employment and education destinations. The suburb sits less than five kilometres from Brisbane's CBD and is within easy reach of the Princess Alexandra Hospital, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Queensland Children's Hospital and several university campuses.

The project's location within a walkable urban village environment, surrounded by retail, dining and public transport infrastructure, continues to attract both professionals and healthcare workers seeking accommodation close to work.

Parkdrive Apartments, Chermside

Priced from: $749,000

The most affordable apartments across Brisbane's new and off the plan market are in Chermside where developer AusDev is selling one-bedroom apartments from $749,000, and two-beds from $929,000, at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">recently launched Parkdrive development</a>.

The development is strategically positioned in one of Brisbane's largest employment and retail precincts, placing residents within easy walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, St Vincent's Private Hospital Northside and the suburb's major bus interchange.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Already under construction and scheduled for completion in early 2028, Parkdrive benefits from Chermside's ongoing evolution into Brisbane's northern metropolitan centre. The suburb continues to attract significant public and private investment, supporting population growth and underpinning long-term rental demand.

For investors focused on yield and tenant depth, the combination of healthcare, retail and transport infrastructure within close proximity provides a strong foundation for occupancy and rental performance.

Investors to turn to new apartments after federal government changes spark hunt for Queensland's best $1 million apartments

Skyscrapers

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A groundbreaking ceremony yesterday officially kicked off proceedings for works on <a href="/buildings/aurora-melbourne-central-224-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Aurora Melbourne Central</a> which will in time become the tallest building within the CBD. Developer <a href="/developers/uem-sunrise">UEM Sunrise's</a> CEO and COO Commercial were in attendance, as were representatives from the project's architects <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a>, head contractor <a href="/builders/probuild">Probuild</a> and project manager PDS Group.

Hosted on level 5 of the soon to be demolished car park structure onsite, the event celebrated construction officially commencing on the 92 level tower with an associated upgrade to Melbourne Central train station attached.

The near sold out project will also rejuvenate the laneway running between La Trobe Street and Little La Trobe Street, with new retail spaces on the cards. A new station entrance will link Little La Trobe Street with Melbourne Central train station which is expected to see movements through the station grow to 21.5 million per annum by 2031 according to Public Transport Victoria.

<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/group_photo.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The official turning of the first sod, albeit in a car park"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/group_photo.jpg?itok=VOslly1s" title="The official turning of the first sod, albeit in a car park" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The official turning of the first sod, albeit in the car park</figcaption></figure><h2>UEM Sunrise delighted with their flagship project</h2>

<blockquote>
Today marks an important milestone for us as we are here to celebrate the official ground breaking for Aurora Melbourne Central. From the beginning our intention has always been to develop a premium project for Melbourne that will certainly make a statement.

As our flagship development in Melbourne we believe it will create a new focal point for the Central Business District with enhanced access and connectivity to Melbourne Central Station from La Trobe Street with new escalators and lifts creating a new direct underground connection.

We’re proud to have sold 941 apartments with 95% sales achieved worldwide within two months, making it our most successful development yet.
<cite>Anwar Syarhin Abdul Ajib, CEO and Managing Director, UEM Sunrise</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/image10_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aurora's latest rendering depicting the giant tower in situ. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="521" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_3.jpg?itok=YL6ePOPT" title="Aurora's latest rendering depicting the giant tower in situ. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aurora's latest rendering depicting the giant tower in situ. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><h2>Callum Fraser on Aurora's design</h2>

<blockquote>
1000 apartments that sit atop a train station represents a good model for high density urban development.

The tower’s design is based on the national flower of Malaysia – the hibiscus with the tower unfolding from the hibiscus’s organic form, imbuing and celebrating a cultural understanding in a design that is unashamedly modern. The curved geometry responds to its context by opening up views of the city and its stepped form creates a unique silhouette on Melbourne’s skyline.

The project seeks to activate and invigorate the north of the CBD, adding to its urban fabric and taking advantage of proximity to RMIT, the markets and the ability to connect directly to Melbourne Central as a shopping and transport hub. It wasn’t so long ago that the CBD used to stop at La Trobe Street.
<cite>Callum Fraser, Director, Elenberg Fraser</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Probuild: from the subway to the sky</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/21930478040_f50e06be90_b.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Onsite demolition works are underway. Image courtesy Oh Yes Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/21930478040_f50e06be90_b.jpg?itok=-OqT4PZJ" title="Onsite demolition works are underway. Image courtesy Oh Yes Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Onsite demolition works are underway. Image courtesy Oh Yes Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Probuild’s Group Managing Director Simon Gray was on hand, providing an overview of the pre-planning required to bring Aurora Melbourne Central to fruition. Months of detailed analysis and planning were required to merely arrive at this point given the complexities involved with building the tallest and most significant development within the CBD.

During Aurora Melbourne Central's 48 month construction program thousands workers will be employed on the project, with 500 on site during its peak. 3,600 concrete trucks will filter through the site over life of the build, while 20 lifts and a 1,487 step stair well will service the building upon completion.

The largest apartment tower build undertaken by Probuild to date, Aurora’s shape presents a “unique challenge.” Designed to sway up to 500mm in gusty conditions, the exterior will also feature 2.1 kilometres of coloured LED lighting.

Probuild will deliver the tower over stages; the first of which is due toward the end of 2017, with full completion expected in the third quarter of 2019.
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silvermb

The CBD's tallest building officially begins construction

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On Monday we learned Crown Resorts in conjunction with their joint venture partner Schiavello, had selected UK architecture firm WilkinsonEyre as the winner of a competition to redesign what has become known as Queensbridge Tower site on Southbank.

Long time Apartments.com.au readers may recall this project has grown since its original planning application in May 2013, initially limited to the old Queens Bridge Hotel site and neighbouring properties.

Over time the initial Bates Smart design was altered as more neighbouring properties were acquired, culminating in an enhanced design adding a greater distance between the proposed tower and 1 Freshwater Place. A pedestrian airbridge linking the site with Crown Casino was also included.

Usually with a marquee project such as this being unveiled, we would be quoting numbers from a planning application. Not so in this case, as plans for the new design have not yet been lodged.

It is with this in mind we remain cautious when talking about certain particulars of the project.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/qbh.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Queensbridge Tower from the Yarra's north bank"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/qbh.png?itok=BF37iOCv" title="Queensbridge Tower from the Yarra's north bank" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queensbridge Tower from the Yarra's north bank</figcaption></figure>A source close to the project was understandably sensitive about producing information we would like to have - for instance, elevation diagrams which can confirm exact dimensions and components of the building - and reiterated a point broadcast on ABC Radio that the amended planning application would be lodged within four weeks.

When quizzed about the overall height, we were told to defer to figures outlined in the Herald Sun: 317 metres.

However there is a general caveat in all of this: news coverage generated yesterday came from a Media/ASX release, not a planning application, and the statistics which currently reside in our <a href="/new-apartments/one-queensbridge-street-1-23-queensbridge-street-southbank">listing of Queensbridge Tower</a> may change if the planning application ends up showing different numbers to what has been reported.

We have learned two things not contained in the media release:

<ol>
<li>Architectus were appointed executive architects to coordinate the ground work in Melbourne with WilkinsonEyre.</li>
	<li>The project will buck a notable trend in similar large-scale projects in Melbourne of late: marketing for the project will only begin once an outcome has been received from the Planning Minister.</li>
</ol>
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Alastair Taylor

Crown's Queensbridge Tower a step closer to fruition

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It has been some time since the last update of the northern quadrant of our CBD model, better known as CBD North. With a host of new proposals and approvals adding to the precinct, it seems an opportune time to revisit the area as it stands prior to the effects of <a href="/tag/planning-scheme-amendment-c262">amendment C262</a> becoming clear.

Select each image for a larger view.

<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/cbd_north_looking_south-01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elevation of northern CBD towers looking south."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="271" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cbd_north_looking_south-01.jpg?itok=NoJ_ox7m" title="Elevation of northern CBD towers looking south." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elevation of northern CBD towers looking south.</figcaption></figure>At time of writing, the highlighted area as modeled carries 18 towers ranging in height from 57 to 267 metres at various lifecycle stages. The area has been limited to an island bound by La Trobe Street, Swanston Street, Victoria Street and William Street.

Significant towers outside of this include <a href="/buildings/eporo-tower-279-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Eporo</a>, <a href="/buildings/la-trobe-tower-323-la-trobe-street-melbourne">La Trobe Tower</a> and <a href="/buildings/swanston-central-168-victoria-street-carlton">Swanston Central</a>, while the fate of 293-303 La Trobe Street remains unclear.

Some noteworthy facts and figures around the development happening within CBD North:

<ul>
<li>Currently there are six towers under construction with Empire at 398 Elizabeth Street the 'smallest' of these at 62-storeys and 198 metres.</li>
	<li>The tallest is Aurora Melbourne Central at 88-storeys and 267 metres with the current car park on site being demolished.</li>
	<li>Vision at 500 Elizabeth Street is currently the most advanced in terms of its construction, with the tower likely to top out before Christmas. It will be the first 200 metre tower completed in the north of the CBD since the 211 metre Melbourne Central Tower in 1991.</li>
	<li>Eq Tower has recently cleared its podium with work beginning on the tower proper and its bottle-like form.</li>
	<li>Seven towers are approved with either sales and registration or construction phases imminent.</li>
	<li>212-222 La Trobe Street has approval in place, but has a planning amendment under consideration with a change of use to student accommodation and facade articulation.</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/cbd_north_axo_1-01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Axonometric of CBD North's skyscraper developments."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cbd_north_axo_1-01.jpg?itok=NUL-MvG7" title="Axonometric of CBD North's skyscraper developments." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Axonometric of CBD North's skyscraper developments.</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Five towers are currently at planning with the dual tower Queens Place development already being marketed overseas, after <a href="/news/the-future-melbourne-planning-committee-makes-some-decisive-calls">gaining support from the City of Melbourne</a>.</li>
	<li>111-125 A'Beckett Street is the most recent of these applications to appear on Apartments.com.au, and stands at 210 metres.</li>
	<li>Two yet to be covered (but due to appear on Apartments.com.au in coming weeks) are 478-488 Elizabeth Street and 189 A'Beckett Street at 210 and 203 metres respectively. Both projects were lodged in June before planning scheme <a href="/tag/planning-scheme-amendment-c262">amendment C262</a> was implemented.</li>
	<li>Of the 18 towers, ten are over 200 metres in height with all bar over 100 metres.</li>
	<li>There are three developments of dual towers: 212-222 La Trobe Street for Scape, Queens Place and 386-412 William Street.</li>
	<li>Remarkably, nine of the towers were designed by Elenberg Fraser and includes Lighthouse, Victoria One and 478 Elizabeth Street.</li>
	<li>Of the remainder, two were designed by Cox / Fender Katsalidis, one by Hayball, three by DCM for Scape, one by McGauran Giannini Soon, one by Buchan and one by Peddle Thorp.</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/cbd_north_axo_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Axonometric of CBD North's skyscraper developments."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="402" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cbd_north_axo_4.jpg?itok=wzLqzqfX" title="Axonometric of CBD North's skyscraper developments." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Axonometric of CBD North's skyscraper developments.</figcaption></figure><a href="https://urban.melbourne/design/2015/10/23/development-scenarios-munro-site-and-queen-victoria-market">An article next week</a> will look at high-rise development scenarios for the Munro site and the future development site at the Queen Victoria Market, essentially completing the work in progress below. Media reports suggest the building opposite Queen Victoria Market will accommodate a residential tower of approximately 200 metres in height.

<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/cbd_north_perspective.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective from the Queen Victoria Market."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="303" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cbd_north_perspective.jpg?itok=IpzvU-wd" title="Aerial perspective from the Queen Victoria Market." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective from the Queen Victoria Market.</figcaption></figure>
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Laurence Dragomir

The Northern Heights: CBD North model updated

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Vastly experienced Singaporean developer Tong Eng Group is seeking approval for a multi-coloured high-rise residential tower in the CBD's burgeoning north end. Operating for in excess of 50 years, the firm has selected 111-125 A’Beckett Street as their first project on Australian shores.

Purchased during early 2015, the 1,725sqm site in question is subject to a 65 level residential planning application which would retain the facade of the current heritage building onsite. Designed by Elenberg Fraser, 111-125 A’Beckett Street is set to be defined by its bow-tie shape and multi-coloured exterior.

The Melbourne site also marks Tong Eng Group's first venture abroad, with the developer also citing Sydney as a likely point of expansion.

<h2>111-125 A’Beckett Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image132_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Franklin and Elizabeth perspective. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="716" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image132_0.jpg?itok=-NRYfrrN" title="Franklin and Elizabeth perspective. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Franklin and Elizabeth perspective. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged: June 2015</li>
	<li>Current site use: City Triumph Motorcycles within the Commonwealth Motors building</li>
	<li>Proposed 65 level tower at 210 metres (226.38m AHD)</li>
	<li>632 apartments: 252 x 1BR, 378 x 2BR, 2 x 3BR</li>
	<li>Five retail tenancies: 1,351sqm of space available over three levels</li>
	<li>130 car parking spaces and 310 bike parking spaces above ground</li>
	<li>1,940sqm of residential amenities over levels 8 and 32</li>
	<li>Total GFA: 61,429sqm</li>
</ul>
<h2>Heritage interface</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/image136.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design indicators and the intended tower podium. Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="440" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image136.jpg?itok=HWA7qo_q" title="Design indicators and the intended tower podium. Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design indicators and the intended tower podium. Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>The existing B-grade listed Commonwealth Motors building facade will be retained for the most, with all bar 12 metres of the eastern aspect to remain. The demolished area will be rebuilt to match its current appearance during construction, which includes reinstating existing windows.

<blockquote>
The podium is a key design element in the link between the street level and the vertical tower above. Taking design elements from the heritage building below, the podium attempts to articulate the strong horizontal movements and reappropriate them as balustrades, mullions and spandrels, whilst introducing a secondary vertical element through hanging greenery.

The inspiration for the design of these elements was taken from pre-war automobiles and motorbikes, linking the heritage of the heritage showroom and reimagining it as a 21st century decoration. They are imagined as metal prefabricated units which for a part of the curtain wall façade.
<cite>Elenberg Fraser: Urban Context Report</cite>
</blockquote>

Between one and three metres of the existing interiors are slated to be retained, although DELWP have encouraged the development team to increase the amount retained given the large setback the tower employs from A'Beckett Street.

<h2>All that shimmers</h2>

With the tower's form constant, Elenberg Fraser have incorporated colour to bring a dynamism to the project's overall appearance.

<blockquote>
The materiality of the tower is articulated as a glass façade, utilising a slightly tinted performance glazing system. The slightly tinted glass reflects the tones of the surrounding context at the various heights of the building, facilitating a subtle and elegant shift in building appearance at various levels.
<cite>Elenberg Fraser: Urban Context Report</cite>
</blockquote>

The base exterior would see a neutral/silver reflective glazing with a gradual vertical transition to a multi-coloured tinted performance glazing. An inverse outcome is applied to the tower's spandrels which would see slices of colour through the main silver facade over lower levels, eventually reverting to silver as the performance glazing takes effect over the higher levels 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/image133.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Tower form and relevant setbacks. Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image133.jpg?itok=S_Duu09h" title="Tower form and relevant setbacks. Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Tower form and relevant setbacks. Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>The concave 'bow-tie' floorplate was deemed by the development team to be the most appropriate. Internal amenity is bolstered with sight lines capable of being diverted away from the neighbouring EQ Tower while also providing an optimal outcome when wind tested.

With no saddleback configurations, internal apartment sizes are slated to begin from 50sqm for 1 bedroom apartments, 60sqm for 2 bedroom (1 bathroom), 74sqm for 2 bedroom (2 bedroom) and 106sqm for 3 bedroom options; these figures include wintergardens or balconies.

<h2>DELWP showing support</h2>

Notes subsequent to the project's submission as seen by Apartments.com.au show that the Urban Design Unit within DELWP are generally supportive of the proposed tower. Subject to a number of design refinements and issues regarding possible tower crane penetration of the OLS ceiling, 111-125 A’Beckett Street looks to be well along the path to becoming reality.

<h2>111-125 A’Beckett Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Feature Alpha Investments Pty Ltd (Tong Eng Group)</li>
	<li>Architect: Elenberg Fraser</li>
	<li>Project Manager: Sinclair Brook</li>
	<li>Town Planner: Urbis</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: Traffix</li>
	<li>Waste Management Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Landscape Consultant: Tract</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: McKenzie Group</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant and Services Engineer: Murchie</li>
	<li>Structural and Civil Engineer: WSP</li>
	<li>Services Engineer Murchie</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Bosco Jonson</li>
	<li>Quantity Surveyor: WT Partnership</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Heritage: Bryce Raworth</li>
	<li>Acoustic Engineer: Renzo Tonin</li>
	<li>Fire Engineer: Omnii Fire Engineers</li>
</ul>
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Tong Eng Group's dazzling 210 metre entry into the Australian market

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Having secured the last of four consecutive Southbank blocks during early 2015, Central Equity have enlisted Doig Architecture to design a residential tower that strays away from the developer's typical formula for success, at least externally.

For so long, content with churning out towers of approximately 40 levels and of a generic nature, Central Equity will for the first time surpass the 200 metre barrier with a 67 level residential tower proposed for 71-87 City Road, Southbank. Further the tower will employ an irregular and highly angular floorplate with a high degree of external facade definition.

The proposal will also retain in its entirety the heritage listed building at 71-75 City Road, rather than simply facade the structure.

In a sign that Central Equity are ramping up their residential pipeline, two further planning applications on the developers behalf are active. 268-274 City Road, Southbank and 556-558 Lonsdale Street were also lodged just prior to the implementation of the new Metropolitan Planning Levy, with both projects also in excess of 200 metres.

Combined the three projects will have a development vale in excess of $500 million and deliver well over 2,000 new dwellings.

<h2>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/image91_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of 71-87 City Road. Image courtesy Doig Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="872" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image91_1.jpg?itok=t0M5kMdK" title="Hero perspective of 71-87 City Road. Image courtesy Doig Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of 71-87 City Road. Image courtesy Doig Architecture</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application prepared June 2015</li>
	<li>Four combined sites, with frontages to City Road and Fawkner Street</li>
	<li>Combined site area: 2,340sqm</li>
	<li>71-75 City Road: three storey heritage building to be retained</li>
	<li>Proposed 67 level residential tower at 224.6 metres</li>
	<li>782 apartments: 297 x 1BR, 368 x 2BR, 117 x 3BR</li>
	<li>406 car parks and 414 bicycle bays included</li>
	<li>Three retail tenancies: 543sqm</li>
</ul>
<h2>Street level interface</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/image92_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The podium as viewed from City Road. Image courtesy Doig Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image92_1.jpg?itok=-19KZp5b" title="The podium as viewed from City Road. Image courtesy Doig Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The podium as viewed from City Road. Image courtesy Doig Architecture</figcaption></figure>71-75 City Road which sits to one corner of the development site and is a B-grade heritage listed structure will be retained, with a setback in place from the proposed podium and tower. The three level structure will also maintain its use as a tenancy of 211sqm post development.

The tower podium will consist of a ten level edifice to the City Road site boundary, clad predominantly in bronze glazing and highlighted by metal screens which carry graphic prints. Stone and glazing will be present along City Road with only the booster housing considered inactive, while composite screening will set behind 71-75 City Road, allowing creepers to take effect.

Atop the podium extensive landscaping and communal facilities are incorporated, with greenery also a feature of the podium fronting Fawkner Street by way of planter boxes.

The irregularly shaped tower will be dominated by light grey, dark grey and bronze glazing, with setbacks to all boundaries.

<h2>The next move</h2>

As is generally the case with large planning applications, DELWP have asked for further information from the development team on issues such wind impact, general tower presentation, development breakdown and 3D modelling.

An extension of time request was recently granted allowing for the preparation of further information, suggesting that in all likelihood 71-87 City Road Southbank will gain a planning resolution well into 2016.

<h2>Development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: WKB Land Corporation Pty Ltd (Central Equity)</li>
	<li>Architect: Doig Architecture</li>
	<li>Planning and Lansdcape: ERM Australia</li>
	<li>Traffic: Cardno</li>
	<li>Acoustic: SLR</li>
	<li>Wind Environment: Windtech</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Heritage response: Heritage Alliance</li>
	<li>Aviation Assessment: Rehbein Airport Consulting</li>
	<li>Sustainability: F2 Design</li>
</ul>
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Central Equity breaks the mould: 71-87 City Road, Southbank

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It has become increasing difficult to decipher the status of the many towers beyond 200 metres that are or are intending to stake their place in the Melbourne skyline. While <a href="/buildings/568-collins-street-melbourne">568 Collins Street</a> is at completion and a handful of others are in their construction infancy, a veil of uncertainty hangs above many intended developments.

The recent implementation of sweeping new planning regulations has cast doubt over many of the proposals which are both at planning and intended. Indeed the number of towers that Apartments.com.au has identified for Melbourne beyond the 200 metre mark is ranging somewhere between 25 and 35; such is the uncertainty within the industry at the moment.

Only those close to each and every application know the status of their projects, and few are willing to comment at this time. Below is a current status of all 200 metre plus developments as best gleaned by Apartments.com.au:

<h2>Under construction</h2>

No doubt surrounds these projects, with construction progress on the following: <a href="/buildings/eq-tower-127-abeckett-street-melbourne">EQ Tower</a>, <a href="/buildings/victoria-one-452-472-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Victoria One</a>, <a href="/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Light House</a>, Vision. Vision is the most advanced as it's rapidly approaching the 200 metre construction mark while the others have quite a way to go.

<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_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="EQ Tower, Australia 108 render and Vision Tower looming large"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="401" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3_2.jpg?itok=4bYgpZ3V" title="EQ Tower, Australia 108 render and Vision Tower looming large" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>EQ Tower, Australia 108 render and Vision Tower looming large</figcaption></figure>Joining the list at construction is <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Australia 108</a> which Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/brookfield-multiplex-appointed-builder-for-australia-108-piling-to-commence-in-october">reported last week</a> as officially gaining Brookfield Multiplex as head contractor; works are due to begin onsite next month. <a href="/buildings/aurora-melbourne-central-224-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Aurora Melbourne Central</a> also has Probuild installed as its builder, with preliminary site demolition works having commenced for the sizeable tower.

<h2>Can't touch this</h2>

A handful of projects beyond 200 metres hold planning approval and are at sales, seemingly free from the <a href="/news/interim-central-melbourne-planning-controls-the-detail">new interim building controls</a> that look likely to derail a number of proposals that have not been lodged.

<a href="/buildings/swanston-central-168-victoria-street-carlton">Swanston Central</a> is at sales, set to make a notable difference to the city's northern skyline while <a href="/new-apartments/elysium-54-clarke-street-southbank">Elysium Southbank</a> is poised to launch its sales campaign for the highly distinctive BKK-designed edifice. <a href="/buildings/premier-tower-134-160-spencer-street-melbourne">Premier Tower</a> opposite Southern Cross Station is full steam ahead with project architect Elenberg Fraser suggesting works will begin onsite during March 2016.

<a href="/new-apartments/38-freshwater-place-southbank">25-35 Power Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/380-melbourne-380-lonsdale-street-melbourne">380 Lonsdale Street</a> are sitting on approval, as is <a href="/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">West Side Place</a>, with its sales campaign for the first tower which includes a Ritz Carlton set to launch.

<h2>The great unknown</h2>

The situation becomes decidedly more murky from this point (at least from a public perspective), with more questions than answers for the remaining batch of 200 metre plus towers. <a href="/new-apartments/150-queen-street-melbourne">Tower Melbourne</a> and <a href="/buildings/97-franklin-street-melbourne">97 Franklin Street</a> for example both hold planning approval but are no certainty to proceed.

It's been said that for differing reasons both may need to reapply for a planning permit and subject to the new planning controls may not receive approval in anywhere near their current form. Tower Melbourne in particular would be hoping to avoid this following the protracted legal dispute with its neighbouring land owner.

<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_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Renders depicting 640 Bourke, 350 Queen and 32 Flinders Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5_1.jpg?itok=q5triNqG" title="Renders depicting 640 Bourke, 350 Queen and 32 Flinders Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Renders depicting 640 Bourke, 350 Queen and 32 Flinders Street</figcaption></figure>This leaves as many as seventeen 200 metre towers at planning, with the outcome of each as yet publicly unknown. The status of <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">293-303 La Trobe Street</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/63-exhibition-street-melbourne">63 Exhibition Street </a>is unknown; both of which are still active on the GreenLight online register while <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">555 Collins Street</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/one-queensbridge-street-1-23-queensbridge-street-southbank">1 Queensbridge Street</a> and <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">180 Russell Street </a>remain active applications after having been at planning for considerable periods of time.

Word has it that <a href="/new-apartments/32-44-flinders-street-melbourne">32-44 Flinders Street</a> is headed for VCAT, leaving more recent submissions such as <a href="/new-apartments/293-297-city-road-southbank-vic-3006">295 City Road</a>, <a href="/buildings/aspire-melbourne-301-king-st-melbourne">295-309 King Street</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/queens-place-157-a-beckett-street-and-370-queen-street-melbourne">350 Queen Street</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/272-282-queen-street-melbourne">280 Queen Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">93-119 Kavanagh Street</a> to traverse the planning process. Further applications at 111-125 A'Beckett Street, 183-189 A'Beckett Street, <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">478 Elizabeth Street</a> and 71-87 City Road are also in play.

<h2>Possibles but not probables</h2>

260 La Trobe Street shaped as a likely tower with a preliminary assessment in front of CASA that seemingly has not entered state planning prior to the new interim controls, possibly rendering the intended 260 metre tower invalid; it remains to be seen what will come of the proposal.

All in all there will be a none too small change to Melbourne skyline in the next handful of years. The scope of this change remains to be seen, but it's not beyond the realms of possibility that a further 20-25 towers beyond the 200 metre mark will sprout skyward soon enough.

This article has been updated to remove images relating to 245 City Road. The original information was incorrect.
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Status unknown: a current overview of the 200 metre club

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Singaporean developer <a href="/developers/world-class-global">World Class Land</a> has formally appointed Brookfield Multiplex as builder for Australia 108, with on-site piling to commence in October.

The tower will become <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Melbourne's first super-tall skyscraper</a> measuring 319 metres housing 1,105 apartments over 99 levels. A super-tall skyscraper is a building which measures more 300 metres in height.

<a href="/">Apartments.com.au</a> has learned that construction will have five stages. The first stage of construction is scheduled to be completed in 2018 and the entire building will be completed in 2020.

The construction stages have the following milestones:

<ul>
<li>Stage 1: up to level 40, 491 apartments, to be completed late 2018</li>
	<li>Stage 2: up to level 56, 252 apartments, to be completed mid 2019</li>
	<li>Stage 3: up to level 66, 162 apartments, to be completed mid 2019</li>
	<li>Stage 4: up to level 86, 120 apartments, to be completed early 2020</li>
	<li>Stage 5: up to final level, 80 apartments, to be completed mid 2020</li>
</ul>
Stages 2 and 3 will be complete in different months in mid 2019 and the awarded construction contract is valued at $500 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/aus_108_site_rs.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Australia 108 site in August. Image Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/aus_108_site_rs.jpg?itok=Ve-I7-vk" title="Australia 108 site in August. Image Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Australia 108 site in August. Image Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>
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Brookfield Multiplex appointed builder for Australia 108, piling to commence in October

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There's been some interesting citations in recent times regarding design generators/inspirations for skyscrapers here in Melbourne. Perfume bottles, Beyonce's curves and now can we assert… the classic wrist watch!

ROTHELOWMAN's latest design on behalf of Sydney-based Besgate Group for 140 King Street is very much reminiscent of a luxury watch, or more specifically a solid link wrist band. Arranged in an interwoven pattern, 140 King Street's continuous 188 metre facade is designed to provides a unified and formal response to the site's surrounds.

Forming one of three sites which constitute Besgate Group's Melbourne portfolio with a combined yield of 1,300 dwellings, 140 King Street was the first to hit planning and now rests with the State Government.

<h2>140 King Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image47.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of 140 King Street. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="355" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47.jpg?itok=xZA65-OO" title="Aerial perspective of 140 King Street. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of 140 King Street. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Planning application lodged May 2015</li>
	<li>Existing 3 level office complex over the 793sqm site to be demolished</li>
	<li>Approval sought for a 57 level skyscraper at 188 metres above King Street</li>
	<li>271 apartments included: 103*1BR / 6*1BR + Study / 162*2BR</li>
	<li>Level 13 podium rooftop residential amenities area</li>
	<li>117 car spaces and 81 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>107sqm retail space over two tenancies</li>
	<li>GFA: 25,090sqm</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design statement</h2>

<blockquote>
The podium form blends with the tower to achieve a unified formal response.

A building of this scale has to work on two very distinct levels, firstly at streetscape pedestrian scale with a finely detailed facade at a human scale and secondly on a citywide level, with clean large gestures clearly legible from distant vantage points. The nature of the scalable facade pattern allows these two very different scales to seamlessly coexist and work with each other from ground floor to roof.

The streetscape has been addressed with the patterned facade coming to ground, creating large elegant framed windows allowing glimpses and access to the activity behind.
<cite>ROTHELOWMAN, town planning submission</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Facade nous</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/image49_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Form and function. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_1.jpg?itok=OVaVJyRV" title="Form and function. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Form and function. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>According to the application the east and west facades are comprised of lightweight modular metal panels which are fixed between slabs at regular intervals. The employed link pattern allows for adequate light penetration and ventilation to apartments, while also acting as shading due to the depth of each module.

East and west facades aside, the southern aspect is finished with curtain wall glazing, only broken by intermittent bands of charcoal metal cladding. Glazing and dark grey concrete panels complete the northern exterior.

Ground floor to King street will feature exterior marble cladding which masks a through link between King Street and Gallagher Place.

<h2>Besgate Group settles in</h2>

As was <a href="/news/besgate-group-readies-their-surge-into-the-melbourne-apartment-market">foreshadowed by Urban.com.au during May</a>, 140 King Street represents the vanguard project for Besgate Group in the Melbourne residential market, with two additional developments in the pipeline. 640 Bourke Street has also been submitted for approval while 558-566 Swanston Street in Carlton is set to pass through the approvals process shortly.

<a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/besgate-times-entry-perfectly-into-hot-melbourne-market-20150721-gih176">Fairfax Media have today ran a piece on Besgate Group</a>, outlining ROTHELOWMAN's design for 640 Bourke Street, or more appropriately dual designs. An 85-storey tower with 980 apartments has been put forward pending feedback from aviation authorities, while a smaller 66-storey tower which would slip in under the OLS ceiling has also been included within the 640 Bourke Street application.

<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/1437475304437.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Indicative render of 640 Bourke Street at a lower height. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="342" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1437475304437.jpg?itok=u5GPDcUZ" title="Indicative render of 640 Bourke Street at a lower height. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Indicative render of 640 Bourke Street at a lower height. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure><h2>140 King Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Besgate Group</li>
	<li>Architecture: ROTHELOWMAN</li>
	<li>Town Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Project Manager: KM Develop</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: Wood and Grieve Engineering</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Services Engineer: Wood and Grieve Engineering</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: AECOM</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer: Vipac Engineers &amp; Scientists</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Gardner Group Pty Ltd</li>
</ul>
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ROTHELOWMAN's solid link skyscraper: 140 King Street, Melbourne

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Urban.com.au can reveal Singaporean firm Figtree Holdings Limited's proposal for what was formerly the Duke of Kent hotel on La Trobe Street. Better known as a builder of commercial and industrial facilities throughout east Asia, the group will press into Melbourne's high-rise residential sector via its subsidiary Figtree La Trobe Pty Ltd.

Securing the Duke of Kent for $14.08 million during 2014, Figtree subsequently added the adjoining <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">301-303 La Trobe Street</a> in order to amalgamate both sites in the hope of gaining approval for a 213 metre residential tower.

Responsible for the preliminary development scheme devised for the Duke of Kent's sales campaign, <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> were also engaged in order to conceive the scheme for approval, with the application currently before the State Government. If successfully approved, 293-303 La Trobe Street would see 370 apartments delivered, consisting of one, two and three bedroom dwellings.

<h2>293-303 La Trobe Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image43_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Facing demolition. Image courtesy DKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image43_1.jpg?itok=Fub3elRH" title="Facing demolition. Image courtesy DKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Facing demolition. Image courtesy DKO Architecture</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Planning application lodged April 2015</li>
	<li>Site area: 667sqm with the Duke of Kent to be demolished</li>
	<li>66 level tower at 213m above ground (OLS ceiling)</li>
	<li>Total GFA sought: 34,353sqm</li>
	<li>​370 apartments: 1/2/3 bedroom options</li>
	<li>Podium parking for 61 vehicles and basement allowances for 168 bicycles</li>
	<li>50.2sqm of ground floor retail tenancy space</li>
	<li>Level 1 amenities area and level 13/44 communal spaces</li>
</ul>
<h2>Ground level greatness?</h2>

DKO Architecture have employed a visually unique and highly interesting ground level interface to the site's three frontages, namely La Trobe Street, Sutherland Street and Flanigan Lane. To avoid creating a 'choke point' of sorts by building to the site's boundaries, the lower levels has been arched inwards so as to improve the pedestrian experience to both Sutherland Street and Flanigan Lane.

Framed by perforated golden metallic screens, a new plaza to the eastern perimeter will open up Sutherland Street in particular while also allowing for enhanced solar penetration.

According to the town planning report, the proposed urban realm will not only allow for increased pedestrian movement north and south along Sutherland Street, but also create a space where pedestrians can relax and congregate. Landscape consultancy T.C.L have envisaged bluestone public seating and Bower Vines climbing the metallic screens as a means of softening the space.

<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/image40_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level interface. Image courtesy DKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="532" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image40_1.jpg?itok=zMpdx4GO" title="Street level interface. Image courtesy DKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level interface. Image courtesy DKO Architecture</figcaption></figure><h2>Tight site, tight fit</h2>

<blockquote>
The tower is architectural resolved in a cylindrical shape with convex ends east and west which make a tower form unique to Melbourne. The use of dark blue glazing to the façade, interspersed with gold-colour glass, complements the perforated gold metal of the ground level plaza to create a building that will be an iconic building within the CBD.

The proposed built form has been sensitively designed to offer improved public amenity at ground level and excellent internal amenity, while also responding to the surrounding built (existing and approved / under construction).
<cite>Urbis, town planning report</cite>
</blockquote>

The tight nature of the site has led to minimal setbacks to La Trobe Street and Flanigan Lane, although there is precedence in the area with current towers under construction also maintaining minor setbacks to all frontages. The design's intended setback to La Trobe Street ranges between 0 and 2.3 metres over levels 14 to 43, while the west boundary is setback between 4 and 5.57 metres in anticipation of a possible redevelopment of the adjoining property into the future.

Beyond level 44 the tower's form bulges, resulting in decreased east and west setbacks. It is noted within the planning documents that although 293-303 La Trobe Street's setbacks are minimal, recent projects in the area such as <a href="/buildings/victoria-one-452-472-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Victoria One</a> and <a href="/developers/brady-group">Brady Group's</a> completed Melbourne Star &amp; Sky employ little if any setbacks.

<h2>The tall and the short of it</h2>

As per many other pockets of inner Melbourne, the southern footpath of La Trobe Street between Elizabeth Street and Queen Street is in the grips of mass development with five residential towers at various stages of the development process. <a href="/buildings/eporo-tower-279-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Eporo Tower</a>, <a href="/buildings/la-trobe-tower-323-la-trobe-street-melbourne">La Trobe Tower</a> and <a href="/buildings/the-carlson-321-la-trobe-street-melbourne">The Carlson</a> are all under construction, with another 48 level residential development approved atop the <a href="/buildings/paragon-318-queen-street-melbourne">Celtic Club</a>.

The above projects border the Guildford Lane Heritage Precinct which is a prime example of early twentieth century low-rise industrial and warehousing buildings, and quite a unique aspect of <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's CBD</a>. With limited blocks fronting La Trobe Street available for development, 293-303 La Trobe Street shapes as one of the last sizeable residential towers that will front both La Trobe Street and the heritage precinct.

Only in the last year has the scale of La Trobe Street as depicted below begun to change immensely; it remains to be seen how Figtree's proposal along with the aforementioned towers slot into the streetscape and what effect, if any, they have upon the adjoining Guildford Lane Heritage Precinct.

<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/731003w-latrobest-dofkhotel-rsmith.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Duke of Kent in times gone by. Image courtesy tdu.to"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/731003w-latrobest-dofkhotel-rsmith.jpg?itok=WD4x7J_Z" title="The Duke of Kent in times gone by. Image courtesy tdu.to" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Duke of Kent in times gone by. Image courtesy tdu.to</figcaption></figure><h2>293-303 La Trobe Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Figtree La Trobe Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: DKO Architecture</li>
	<li>Town Planner: Urbis</li>
	<li>Structural: Webber Design</li>
	<li>Services &amp; ESD: ADP Consulting</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: SW Partners</li>
	<li>Traffic: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Bosco Johnson</li>
	<li>Wind: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Landscape Consultant: T.C.L</li>
</ul>
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Figtree's Melbourne foray: 293-303 La Trobe Street, Melbourne

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With more ins and outs than your favourite football team, it's an opportune time to provide a synopsis of all the towers vying to, or in the process of joining the Melbourne's 200 metre club. Much has changed since the last time Apartments.com.au visited the matter during <a href="/news/melbournes-200-metre-club-bursting-at-the-seams">August 2014</a>; new projects are seeking their place in the skyline while others have fallen by the wayside.

Rather than provide a simple list of those projects beyond 200 metres which are at varying stages of the development cycle, all projects are noted below according to their current status.

<h2>Hitting the heights</h2>

Following the completion of Prima-Pearl on Southbank, Melbourne theoretically sees eight projects in excess of 200 metres currently at construction; theoretically being the term of choice.

The sorry saga of <a href="/new-apartments/150-queen-street-melbourne">Tower Melbourne</a> continues with its onsite tower crane now dormant for well over a year. Although the legal wranglings surrounding the project look to have been settled, the site is anything but buzzing with activity. Also theoretically at construction is <a href="/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">250 Spencer Street</a> which under the guidance of St Kilda Road-based Far East Consortium has approval for four towers in excess of 200 metres. Following demolition completion, Brookfield Multiplex now have signage across the site with early works poised to begin.

Hong Kong-based parent company Far East Consortium International Limited has new renderings of the quartet of towers on their website, with the Melbourne's new Ritz-Carlton taking the most prominent position.

<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/image180.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="250 Spencer Street featuring Ritz-Carlton. Image courtesy FECIL"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="243" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image180.jpg?itok=DnBX2TFT" title="250 Spencer Street featuring Ritz-Carlton. Image courtesy FECIL" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>250 Spencer Street featuring Ritz-Carlton. Image courtesy FECIL</figcaption></figure>The remaining six projects are at varying stages of construction. <a href="/buildings/eq-tower-127-abeckett-street-melbourne">EQ Tower</a>, <a href="/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Light House</a>, <a href="/buildings/victoria-one-452-472-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Victoria One</a>, Vision, <a href="/buildings/568-collins-street-melbourne">568 Collins Street</a> and Melbourne tallest building, <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Australia 108</a> are keeping Melbourne's biggest builders occupied. These projects are soon to be joined by <a href="/buildings/aurora-melbourne-central-224-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Aurora Melbourne Central</a> which will see demolition begin next month in preparation for the hulking tower to begin its journey skyward.

<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/6c578f571fb50bf34f85b8f592d0199c.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Vision moving on up. Image courtesy Ryan Setchell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/6c578f571fb50bf34f85b8f592d0199c.jpg?itok=kNAUqsc9" title="Vision moving on up. Image courtesy Ryan Setchell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Vision moving on up. Image courtesy Ryan Setchell</figcaption></figure><h2>Approved but not yet at sales</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/a0f2d633-2112_power_st_web_640x245_freshwater_horizontal.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="M &amp; L Hospitality's Power Street development. Image courtesy mnlth.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="221" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/a0f2d633-2112_power_st_web_640x245_freshwater_horizontal.jpg?itok=EjF3jKIN" title="M &amp; L Hospitality's Power Street development. Image courtesy mnlth.com" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>M &amp; L Hospitality's Power Street development. Image courtesy mnlth.com</figcaption></figure>M&amp;L Hospitality have new signage across <a href="/new-apartments/38-freshwater-place-southbank">25-35 Power Street</a> signifying their intention to proceed with the 273 metre mixed-use tower designed by Metier 3. Carrying the above render on their website, M&amp;L Hospitality show the tower to have hotel rooms across levels 57-71 with a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom residential apartments below.

Project amenities will include a roof top Sky Bar on Level 73 as well as a pool and spa on level 72. The developer which is also undertaking a large expansion of its Four Points by Sheraton at Darling Harbour in Sydney, will see its new Melbourne project create 800 full time construction jobs over the build and 175-200 direct hotel jobs when completed.

<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_380.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="380 Lonsdale Street. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="893" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_380.jpg?itok=ROONdG_s" title="380 Lonsdale Street. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>380 Lonsdale Street. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Hengyi have recently snapped up <a href="/buildings/swanston-central-168-victoria-street-carlton">8 Bouverie Street</a> with scope for 1,035 dwellings, while <a href="/new-apartments/elysium-54-clarke-street-southbank">Elysium</a> on Southbank is taking registrations of interest for what will become one of Melbourne's more fascinating buildings upon completion. <a href="/buildings/97-franklin-street-melbourne">97 Franklin Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/380-melbourne-380-lonsdale-street-melbourne">380 Lonsdale Street</a> also hold approval with the latter to include an Aloft Hotel.

<h2>A pain in the ass-essment</h2>

The landscape has changed with a new State Government signalling a tougher stance on development in and around Melbourne. Here are the projects beyond 200 metres which have yet to gain a final planning approval… or may never gain it.

<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/image174.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="32 Flinders and 158 City Road. Images courtesy SJB and Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image174.jpg?itok=DQx4LGg5" title="32 Flinders and 158 City Road. Images courtesy SJB and Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>32 Flinders and 158 City Road. Images courtesy SJB and Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>First glimpses of two as yet unseen proposals, namely Dexus' <a href="/new-apartments/32-44-flinders-street-melbourne">32-44 Flinders Street</a> and EIPD's <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">158 City Road</a>. The former seeks a 212 metre SJB-designed structure with 595 apartments in addition to 30 SoHo living options. 158 City Road on the other hand largely conforms to the previously approved envelope, albeit expanded to 218 metres and with 722 apartments included.

Fresh applications to the 200 metre club include Fig Tree Holdings' unseen 293-303 La Trobe Street which has gone to planning during April. At 67 levels it will likely to weigh in at approximately 210 metres while carrying 370 apartments. Only last week <a href="/buildings/queens-place-157-a-beckett-street-and-370-queen-street-melbourne">350 Queen Street</a> was unveiled at a maximum height of 268 metres with Queens Place its likely moniker. Developer 3L Alliance is also proposing a second tower onsite which looks to be beyond the 200 metre mark.

Nine other towers at the planning assessment stage find themselves beyond the 200 metre threshold. Covered at one point or another on Apartments.com.au, they include <a href="/new-apartments/272-282-queen-street-melbourne">280 Queen Street</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/293-297-city-road-southbank-vic-3006">295 City Road</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/one-queensbridge-street-1-23-queensbridge-street-southbank">1 Queensbridge Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/aspire-melbourne-301-king-st-melbourne">295 King Street</a>, <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">555 Collins Street</a>, <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">180 Russell Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/premier-tower-134-160-spencer-street-melbourne">134 Spencer Street</a>, <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">85-93 Lorimer Street</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/63-exhibition-street-melbourne">63 Exhibition Street</a>.

Change is a constant when projects are at planning, as is the policy that surrounds them; there remains the likelihood that a number of the projects listed above will be revised downward in scale.

<h2>​Coming up short</h2>

What of the projects that have regressed or are just short of the 200 metre benchmark? They too require mention based upon their sheer numbers.

Three previously submitted proposals substantially beyond the 200 metre mark have been altered in favour of shortened outcomes. Of <a href="/new-apartments/madison-grand-334-city-road-southbank">334-344 City Road</a>, <a href="/buildings/avant-60-abeckett-street-melbourne">54-64 A'Beckett Street</a>, and the much hyped 447 Collins Street, the shortest tower was to have been 265 metres. 447 Collins Street at 297 metres will now make way for dual 194 metre towers according to Cbus Property.

<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/w800-h600-2011932882_3_pi_150427_060128.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Oceania Construction Group's A'Beckett Street proposal"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="501" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/w800-h600-2011932882_3_pi_150427_060128.jpg?itok=W-DXzrV9" title="Oceania Construction Group's A'Beckett Street proposal" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Oceania Construction Group's A'Beckett Street proposal</figcaption></figure>Other to miss out marginally on joining the 200 metre club include <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Uni Tower</a> at 48 A'Beckett Street which leads the pack at 198 metres, followed by <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">Collins House</a> at 195 metres and the revised Cbus 447 Collins Street twins which have yet to be submitted at 194 metres.

Also worthy of mention is the approved <a href="/buildings/home-southbank-256-260-city-road-southbank">256-260 City Road</a> at 193 metres in height and the trio of <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">80 Collins Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/empire-melbourne-398-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Empire Melbourne</a> and <a href="/buildings/shadow-play-105-clarendon-street-southbank">Shadow Play</a> which are all just shy of 190 metres.

All in all there's the potential for 31 towers in excess of 200 metres to grace Melbourne skyline in addition to those existing… and we may have missed one or two. Industry rumours persist on a number of other projects which are in the pipeline that will add to the 200 metre list. You can reference every project above 200 metres listed within the Apartments.com.au Project Database via the individual listings below.
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