<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a> has officially lodged plans for its first Gold Coast apartment project since the departure of the Abedian family from the company three years ago, unveiling a new high-rise proposal for a prominent Broadbeach corner site on Old Burleigh Road.

The application was submitted by an entity directed by Tom Jamieson, stepson of longtime Sunland leader Soheil Abedian, and Riaz Rezvanipour, brother-in-law of Sahba Abedian, Soheil’s son.

Sunland acquired the 1,283 sqm site on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Armrick Avenue for $9.5 million late last year and is now seeking approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-101-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">42-storey tower with 81 apartments</a>.

<img alt="First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fea2946d-90ee-4cfc-babe-2a8ad5db2cb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers.png?VersionId=BV0fihJw31nDIQ8ozY_h3GbS8mxDyhnm" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, the proposed tower at 99-101 Old Burleigh Road would deliver a predominantly larger-format apartment mix aimed at the owner-occupier market. Plans include 17 two-bedroom apartments, 55 three-bedroom apartments, and nine four-bedroom residences across 35 residential levels.

The development also incorporates three basement levels, four podium parking levels, two levels of communal recreation facilities, and rooftop plant and equipment. A total of 189 car spaces are proposed, significantly exceeding the 90 spaces required under the planning scheme.

The architecture adopts a sculpted, curvilinear form, with deep wraparound balconies and integrated landscaping intended to soften the tower’s vertical expression. The planning report states the building’s “slender footprint/form provides a complimentary yet varied built form within the local streetscape” and contributes to “a varied, yet ordered skyline.”

Contreras Earl noted in its Architectural Statement that from the early stages, the project addressed a fundamental challenge: how to accommodate the required residential yield while avoiding the conventional model of a tower sitting on a rigid, fully resolved parking podium.

“The most direct response would have been to consolidate parking into a singular, flat podium and extrude a repetitive tower above,” the statement said. “While efficient, this approach would result in a consolidated built form with limited engagement with the surrounding landscape and public realm.”

Instead, the conventional podium model was “deliberately rejected”. The architects described the base of the building as “a landscaped architectural condition where structure, planting and circulation are integrated”.

“Rather than presenting a continuous built mass, the base of the building is articulated through a series of concrete planter elements that organise the podium into a fragmented system,” the statement said. “This approach reduces the perceived bulk of the lower levels while establishing a more permeable interface with the streetscape and adjacent open space.”

<img alt="Sunland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="923fad8d-c960-4527-8fbe-975cf1ddf88d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%2010.32.03%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pngwb0hYOIUpq9vDw6F2EsOiVuHF3DiX" />

&nbsp;

The site sits within the High Density Residential Zone and inside the City of Gold Coast’s unrestricted “HX” building height area, where the planning framework anticipates intensified residential development tied to the expanding light rail corridor. The planning report notes the area is undergoing “transition toward more intense development forms” given its proximity to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and high-frequency public transport infrastructure.

Positioned directly opposite Broadbeach Park and within walking distance of Florida Gardens light rail station, the development would sit among a rapidly evolving stretch of Old Burleigh Road that has become one of the Gold Coast’s most active apartment development corridors.

The application joins a growing pipeline of luxury residential projects reshaping Broadbeach, including nearby developments by 5Point Projects, Polycell, and Graya.

The planning report argues the project contributes toward the Gold Coast’s long-term housing targets under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, which forecasts the need for more than 100,000 additional high-rise dwellings across the city by 2046.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-4" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-1" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-1" dir="auto">
The Abedian family departed Sunland Group in late 2023, ending a four-decade association with the company, and subsequently established the private development firm Abedian &amp; Co. The group is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/greenmount-residences-cnr-hill-street-and-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Greenmount Residences</a> at Rainbow Bay and recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/18-mary-avenue-14-18-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">18 Mary Avenue</a> in Broadbeach.
</section>

Joel Robinson

First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach new apartment market with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans

The Minns Labor Government has established the new Bays West Delivery Authority to lead the development&nbsp;of the Bays West Precinct and Blackwattle Bay Precinct.&nbsp;

The Authority is charged with creating Sydney’s newest precinct, a thriving, connected, sustainable hub with White Bay Power Station as its cultural heart. Its vision is to build on the area’s natural, cultural and industrial history to shape a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The precinct will deliver up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes. Combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years, while retaining important deep-water facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

The Bays West Delivery Authority,&nbsp;an agency of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, will report to the NSW Minister for Lands and Property who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo.

As part of the broader Bays West transformation, the Minns Government recently announced that a proposal from Lendlease to redevelop part of the Bays West Precinct has progressed to Stage 2 of the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ed71eb9-d8e8-4fa7-b9d1-de4531dcf2f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%209.42.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=IDryFIbped9SNDg72LEN_EecvhUsOPvp" />

The Minns Labor Government has also confirmed the Bays West precinct will have a new suburb name. This will be the first major suburb built in close proximity to Sydney’s CBD in decades and will encompass the area currently being referred to as Bays West, including Glebe Island and the White Bay Power Station. Served by a new Metro station just five minutes from the CBD, it will become one of the most populous suburbs in the Inner West and one of Sydney’s premier cultural destinations.

An early works program is taking shape, which&nbsp;includes the first stages of an international design competition.&nbsp;

The aim of the Bays West&nbsp;International&nbsp;Design Competition is to&nbsp;ensure design excellence is embedded in the project from the start. The competition will deliver an&nbsp;urban framework that defines the character, ambition and long-term identity of&nbsp;this&nbsp;former industrial precinct as it transitions to a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable residential&nbsp;neighbourhood.

The competition will be led by the Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW.&nbsp;

It will launch with an invitation for a global Expressions of Interest, before moving to an invitation-only stage that will be assessed by a panel that&nbsp;will provide advice to Cabinet who will select a winner.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns said the establishment of the new Authority is the first step in transforming the Bays West precinct into a vibrant, livable suburb minutes from the Sydney CBD and two stops from Hunter St Station on the Metro West line.

“The Authority will deliver well-located homes close to the heart of the city and integrate the new precinct with Blackwattle Bay and the new Sydney Fish Market.

“This is a generational opportunity to build a new suburb on the city’s edge and open the harbour foreshore to the public for the first time in a century.”&nbsp;

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the new Bays West Delivery Authority established by the Minns Government will turbocharge the development of Sydney’s newest suburb.

“The Authority is working at a record pace to deliver an international design competition, planning pathways and a financial model so that this development benefits Sydney with well-designed homes in a central location, close to public transport, jobs, entertainment and essential services.

“If we want Sydney to stay liveable and affordable, we need to be bold about using underutilised government-owned land to deliver homes for the future while making sure essential working harbour functions can be accommodated.”

Bays West Delivery Authority established to "turbocharge" Sydney’s newest suburb

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

South Melbourne

<html><body>
A Fishermans Bend planning application of heightened interest has passed through the planning process in recent months, with the pending decision eagerly anticipated by City of Port Phillip in particular. Voicing concerns that the project if approved as is would establish a precedent for other buildings to exceed the preferred yet non binding height limit for the land parcel, City of Port Phillip have requested that the Metropolitan Planning Authority impose a number of conditions upon the development.

<h2>171-183 Ferrars 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/image68_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="171-183 Ferrars Street hero perspective. Image courtesy DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="917" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image68_0.jpg?itok=MLX0-oAL" title="171-183 Ferrars Street hero perspective. Image courtesy DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>171-183 Ferrars Street hero perspective. Image courtesy DCM</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current site use: dual level office complex.</li>
 <li>Developer: Portal.</li>
 <li>Architect: Denton Corker Marshall.</li>
 <li>24 levels at 82.5 metres in height.</li>
 <li>122 apartments.</li>
 <li>42 car spaces, one motorcycle space and 39 bicycle spaces.</li>
 <li>Pedestrian link, restaurant and bar over ground level layout.</li>
 <li>Through link bridge to light rail platform.</li>
</ul>
<h2>City of Port Phillip says</h2>

City of Port Phillip released a media statement late November regarding the proposal, excerpts of which are seen below.

<blockquote>
Port Phillip Council will ask the Metropolitan Planning Authority to reduce the height of a planned tower near the proposed Ferrars Street primary school in South Melbourne to avoid setting a concerning precedent. Councillors decided at a Statutory Planning Committee Meeting last night to advise the MPA that the 24 storey building proposed by the developer was inconsistent with the 18-storey limit recommended in the State Government’s Strategic Framework Plan.

“This height is more than 30 per cent higher than the preferred building scale for this area and would set a precedent for other buildings to exceed 18-storeys,” Mayor Amanda Stevens said. “While the SFP provides discretion to exceed the maximum preferred height, Council believes new planning approvals should reflect the area and not detract from the liveability of this growing community.”

“Council is also concerned about the cumulative impact of this sort of density on the general character and congestion of the Fishermans Bend community.”

<cite>City of Port Phillip media release</cite>
</blockquote>

According to planning documents 171-183 Ferrars Street abuts a four storey (15m) preferred height precinct to the south, and is also opposite to an eight storey (27m) preferred height precinct. With non binding Framework Plan Design Guidelines recommending a tower of 18 levels or 60 metres and a school earmarked nearby on Ferrars Street, City of Port Phillip believe the current design would be out of context.

<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/image69_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Railway Place through link.Image courtesy DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="699" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image69_0.jpg?itok=ODxWyt7k" title="Railway Place through link.Image courtesy DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Railway Place through link. Image courtesy DCM</figcaption></figure><h2>Victorian Design Review Panel response</h2>

Denton Corker Marshall presented their scheme to the Victorian Design Review Panel during 2014 with the following text providing contrast to City of Port Phillip's stance.

<blockquote>
This proposal is for a rationally resolved building offering an elegant and appropriate design for the site. It establishes a benchmark for Fishermans Bend, given the clear commercial objectives of use, apartment amenity and approach to car parking are all carefully considered and offer enhancement of the standard podium/tower model.

We support the logic informing the resultant design quality of this proposal and anticipate it could be a building that contributes positively to the South Melbourne streetscape.

The proposed height of 23 storeys is above the 18 storey discretionary limit identified in the Framework Plan. Without clear direction on the nature and extent of discretionary height decisions, the additional 5 storeys was supported on the basis that it created a more slender and elegant building.

The idea of a link from Ferrars Street through the northern side of the ground floor is supported as an innovative proposal. The creation of a new street link through the continuation of Thistlethwaite Street to Railway Place is a positive contribution to the precinct.
<cite>Geoffrey London, Victorian Government Architect</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>As it stands</h2>

City of Port Phillip have indicated in principle support for the project to deciding body the Metropolitan Planning Authority, although it will be subject to a number of stipulations should they get their way. Chief among these will be the reduction of height to 18 levels or 60 metres and that the first floor through link be deleted from the design.

As with many other proposals for Fishermans Bend awaiting an outcome, the Metropolitan Planning Authority is expected to deliver its verdict on 171-183 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne in the first quarter of 2015.
</body></html>

silvermb

We say, they say > 171-183 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne

<html><body>
City of Port Phillip's planning department is currently juggling a healthy number of high-density planning applications as land owners and developers seek to push through the next wave of apartment development. At varying stages of the planning process, the projects listed below would add 405 new dwellings to the municipality with South Melbourne and St Kilda the suburbs of choice.

With six of the smaller current planning applications highlighted, a handful of larger planning applications before City of Port Phillip will feature on Apartments.com.au in coming weeks.

<h2>240-242 Dorcas Street, South Melbourne</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/image11dorcas.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="312" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11dorcas.jpg?itok=yUo1jqYg" title="Image © Rothe Lowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Rothe Lowman</figcaption></figure>Online documents have indicated a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit be issued for 240-242 Dorcas Street, pending the implementation of a number of amendments. One such amendment requires the deletion of one level and addition of an upper level setback, as the proposal contravenes a discretionary height limit of 23.5 metres.

<ul>
<li>Proponent: unknown</li>
	<li>Design: Rothe Lowman</li>
	<li>Eight levels at 23.95m</li>
	<li>48 apartments</li>
</ul>
<h2>274-278 Coventry Street, South Melbourne</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/image15copp.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Interlandi Mantesso"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="252" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15copp.jpg?itok=HWBpGzVr" title="Image © Interlandi Mantesso" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Interlandi Mantesso</figcaption></figure>A revised planning application, Interlandi Mantesso have returned to City of Port Phillip after a VCAT appeal lodged by the development team found no favour. The current application decreases the buildings height from ten levels (30.8m) to seven (21.5m), while also increasing setbacks from the street. The two current buildings are deemed worthy of demolition, with Interlandi Mantesso also providing an enhanced street frontage.

A Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit has also been put forward by the City of Port Phillip Statutory Planning Committee.

<ul>
<li>Proponent: Twenty Ninth Macorp Nominees Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Design: Interlandi Mantesso</li>
	<li>Seven levels at 21.5m</li>
	<li>43 apartments</li>
</ul>
<h2>244-246 Dorcas Street, South Melbourne</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/image16copp.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Hassell Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16copp.jpg?itok=1R_eO2g8" title="Image courtesy Hassell Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Hassell Studio</figcaption></figure>Jewel as Evolve Development have christened it, is open to registrations of interest via the project's website. Valued at $45 million, the seven level block which is slated for completion during 2016 replaces an earlier 10 level scheme.

Holding a mixture of one and two bedroom luxury apartments, Evolve have positioned the development at the luxury end of the market as evidenced by utilising Hassell Studio for the design.

<ul>
<li>Developer: Evolve Development</li>
	<li>Design: Hassell Studio</li>
	<li>Seven levels at 20.7m</li>
	<li>61 apartments</li>
</ul>
<h2>245-249 St Kilda Road, St Kilda</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/img_7646copp.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7646copp.jpg?itok=JuHbe0ID" title="Image courtesy Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>This mixed-use proposal seeks to replace a low-rise commercial complex currently onsite. With a GFA of 17,842 the Plus Architects-designed project would feature 87 single bedroom and 53 dual bedroom apartments in addition to a separate three level commercial building. Holding 92 metres of street frontage the project also includes a sizeable central courtyard.

More images of this proposal can be seen in the dedicated <a href="/news">St Kilda forum thread</a>.

<ul>
<li>Proponent: Tony Train &amp; Aroona Property Trust</li>
	<li>Design: Plus Architecture</li>
	<li>Eight levels at 29.1m</li>
	<li>140 apartments &amp; 3,495sqm commercial space</li>
</ul>
<h2>63-73 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda</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/view-2-e1387337959876_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title=" Image courtesy Cactus Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/view-2-e1387337959876_1.jpg?itok=ds5pSZo6" title=" Image courtesy Cactus Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Cactus Architects</figcaption></figure>Cactus Architects have conceived this project as a replacement for the current 1957-dated Easystay motel onsite. Containing 21 single bedroom and 42 dual bedroom apartments, the development includes basement car parking and provision for 40 bicycles.

Interestingly enough an open air car park will be maintained (albeit smaller) at the rear of the site, should it gain approval.

<ul>
<li>Proponent: Renzella Group Property</li>
	<li>Design: Cactus Architects</li>
	<li>Six levels at 18.7m</li>
	<li>63 apartments</li>
</ul>
<h2>31-33 Park Street, South Melbourne</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/image17copp.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="427" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17copp.jpg?itok=LwqOOQIW" title="Image courtesy Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>Fender Katsalidis have created an 11 level development on behalf of their client, covering a site area of 405sqm. 50 one and two bedroom apartments constitute the living spaces with seven basement levels accessed via car stacker forming part of the capacity for 30 vehicle and 58 bicycle spaces.

A setback of 2.5 metres is implemented over levels 3-10, while a 106sqm retail space is available at ground level.

<ul>
<li>Proponent: Greg Hocking Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Design: Fender Katsalidis</li>
	<li>Eleven levels at 34.8m</li>
	<li>50 apartments</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

City of Port Phillip fielding planning applications from all directions

<html><body>
Since being submitted nigh on one year ago, MAB Corporation's planning application for a prime piece of Fishermans Bend land has sat idle at the desks of State planning body DTPLI. As with all Fishermans Bend planning applications, no final decisions will be handed down until a point where a final Structure Plan for the urban renewal area is delivered by the State Government.

Not that MAB Corporation would necessarily be concerned by the delay as the Melbourne-based developer has held the land parcel in question for some years. Developing the low-rise Industry Business Hub at the western edge of 15-87 Gladstone Street prior to the announcement of rezoning, MAB Corporation subsequently enlisted prolific architecture form Hayball to take the lead in conceiving a staged, three tower residential scheme as seen below.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image23mab.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="15-87 Gladstone Street. Image © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="644" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image23mab.jpg?itok=Dlt_J1mx" title="15-87 Gladstone Street. Image © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<h2>Development Summary</h2>

<h3>15-87 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</h3>

<ul>
<li>Towers @ 29 levels/93m, 25 levels/81m, 26 levels/81m</li>
	<li>Site: approximately 140m x 40m and 5984 sq.m</li>
	<li>Apartments: 733 (1/1+study/2/3 bed options)</li>
	<li>Retail: 427 sq.m</li>
	<li>Cars: 579 &amp; motorcycles - 6</li>
	<li>Bicycles: 225</li>
</ul>
<h2>Diversity of design</h2>

According to Hayball's urban context report, three distinct tower designs have been created:

<ul>
<li>The fluid metallic form of the CITY TOWER reflects its significant location at the city end of the project and adjacent to the major infrastructural entities to the north.</li>
	<li>The CENTRE TOWER sits at the mid point of the site – horizontal and folded spandrels using palette of reflective materials, respond to its contextual role as a connecting element.</li>
	<li>The PORT TOWER is a more robust composition of stacking elements with colour and intricacy relating to the strong metaphor of port activity.</li>
</ul>
While the three towers forms offer visually different outcomes, "The PODIUM edge offers the greatest opportunity to instill a sense of richness and diversity into people’s experience of the project. Care has been taken to deliver the maximum sculptural and activation potential at ground level."

<h2>Oculus deliver</h2>

<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/Image22mab.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground and podium landscape plans. Image © Oculus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="256" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image22mab.jpg?itok=IgI_8VKT" title="Ground and podium landscape plans. Image © Oculus" width="580"></a>

Landscape design team Oculus have delivered a grand public/private interface at street level. "The selection of materials, the incorporation of trees and vegetation and the maintainability of the landscape all impact on the perception of a project and its wider site, helping to establish value, a local identity and to foster civic pride." The indicative renders (see link at bottom of page) show a malleable, green and interactive environment fronting public areas - just as anticipated in early visions for the precinct.

Via the landscape proposal, Oculus seek to:

<ul>
<li>Establish a hierarchy of green spaces adjacent to living spaces providing a diverse range of uses, microclimates and rooms</li>
	<li>Establish a clear network of paths connecting existing streets to residential dwellings</li>
	<li>Emphasise green pattern and hierarchy through the intense planting of trees and shrubs and retention of existing street trees in road reserves at the edge of the site</li>
	<li>Create a series of vistas to capture internal and external views</li>
	<li>Use landscape elegantly to create identity and maximise amenity for new and existing users</li>
	<li>Ensure that circulation is permeable and accessible to all by creating safe and convenient access between key destinations</li>
	<li>Provide a diverse planting palette between indigenous species contrasting with exotic species</li>
	<li>Establish ample opportunities for various outdoor activities on the podium level</li>
	<li>Ensure consistent palette of landscape elements that are deployed throughout the development to create a sense of identity, cohesion and place with the existing character of Gladstone Street.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Comment</h2>

"Both the sub-precinct ‘3 sites master plan’ and detailed design for the Gladstone St site have been developed with extensive consultation between the consultant team and DPCD (DTPLI), Places Victoria and City of Port Phillip." If this does not evoke a WTF moment regarding Fishermans Bend's progression I'm not sure what does!

After reading multiple other applications for Fishermans Bend it is somewhat bewildering that developers can prepare plans after consulting with relevant planning bodies only to have those plans shelved for an extended period of time. Perhaps a lesson for future Melbourne urban renewal projects - consult thoroughly, prepare a credible structure plan and only then allow the planning applications to flow.

Regardless an election year is afoot and there's no doubt an announcement regarding Fishermans Bend is imminent. Could there be a dual announcement finalising a Fishermans Bend Structure Plan while also heralding the approval of a select cluster of current planning applications (including 15-87 Gladstone Street) akin to '<a href="/news/victorian-government-announces-suite-of-super-tuesday-approvals" target="_blank">Super Tuesday</a>' earlier in 2014. If only I were a gambling man...

<h2>Development Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Client: <a href="http://www.mab.com.au/" target="_blank">MAB Corporation</a>
</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.hayball.com.au/" target="_blank">Hayball</a> (consultant lead, urban design and architecture)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.oculus.info/index.php" target="_blank">Oculus</a> (urban design and landscape)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.contour.net.au/" target="_blank">Contour Consultants Australia</a> (planning)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.mordueengineering.com.au/" target="_blank">Mordue Engineering</a> (structural)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.wge.com.au/" target="_blank">Wood and Grieve Engineers</a> (services + ESD)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.tgmgroup.com/" target="_blank">TGM Group Pty Ltd</a> (civil)</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.traffixgroup.com.au/">Traffix</a> (traffic)</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Biding time > 15-87 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne

<html><body>
The St Kilda champion Nick Riewoldt didn't jag a buyer when his contemporary South Melbourne townhouse home went to weekend auction, but sold shortly after at an undisclosed price.
Their was definite latent buying interest, but with hands in their pockets, the only bid was the $1.6 million vendor bid.
Melbourne agents secured a healthy 72.3% weekend clearance rate, according to Australian Property Monitors, against a revised 71.7% tally for the previous weekend.
The sold Riewoldt property was listed through Marshall White agent Michael Paproth who expected more than $1.6 million at the auction which was attended by Nick's father Joe.
<img src="/images/2014/04/14/riewoldt%20april%2014.jpg" alt="">
Photo: Nick Reiwoldt's South Melbourne townhouse goes to weekend auction.
It cost around $1.2 million in 2009, in the project undertaken by Linara Property Developments.
Building began in 2007 with 32 three-storey town houses on the corner of Cecil and Dorcas streets, the suburb's largest housing development in decades was constructed on the site of an old service station and some Uniting Church land. 
The town houses were spread over four blocks, with one facing Dorcas Street, another Cecil Street and two internal blocks. There were 16 townhouse designs, with five-metre or six-metre frontages and floor plans ranging from 195 square metres to 335 square metres. All within walking distance of South Melbourne Market and the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre and about a minute's walk to the South Melbourne light-rail station.
The Mrocki developer family have also undertaken The Victoria on Beaconsfield project, Maxx at St Kilda in a joint venture, and Linx in Prahran. Linara Projects Group was founded by brothers Leon and Harry Mrocki since coming from trade backgrounds having developed more than 1000 apartments in Melbourne during the past 20 years.
Marketed as a substantial contemporary residence, <a href="/news/st-kilda-champion-nick-riewoldt-lists-leafy-contemporary-south-melbourne-home">the Riewoldt abode</a> comes with downstairs bedroom with en suite, that would work as a home office.
There are three further bedrooms on the first floor including the main bedroom featuring balcony, retreat zone and double shower en suite.
The top floor living/dining areas has polished floors that flow to a balcony with city views.
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mlbANSD1Sko" target="_blank">It comes with video</a> marketing campaign.
{qtube vid:=mlbANSD1Sko}
The nine year Saints captain, who is married to Catherine Heard, has apparently bought the large Brighton family home by private treaty in late February.
It was among 1,261 weekend offerings in Melbourne with an $870 million worth of stock, including around $640 million in houses set to be offered under the hammer and $230 million worth of apartments.
Australian Property Monitors research assistant Neil Tan advised that this weekend's offerings was some 142% higher than the same weekend last year. 
Melbourne's 1,277 auctions this Saturday was its fourth weekend above 1,000 this year with about 450 units and 810 houses for scheduled auction.
Melbourne's median weekend for house prices was $737,000 and the median unit price was $520,000, based on the initial 994 initial results.
That's much higher than the typical $568,000 Melbourne median for houses and the median for typical $420,000 Melbourne units.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Nick Riewoldt sells but after awaiting $1.6 million plus offers as South Melbourne abode passed in

<html><body>
Having reputedly bought in Brighton, the St Kilda champion Nick Riewoldt has listed in South Melbourne.
The property is listed for weekend auction through Marshall White agent Michael Paproth who expects more than $1.6 million, according to the local paper.
It cost around $1.2 million in 2009.
Marketed as a substantial contemporary residence, there is downstairs bedroom with en suite, that would work as a home office.
There are three further bedrooms on the first floor including the main bedroom featuring balcony, retreat zone and double shower en suite. 
The top floor living/dining areas has polished floors that flow to a balcony with city views.
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mlbANSD1Sko" target="_blank">It comes with video</a> marketing campaign.
{qtube vid:=mlbANSD1Sko}
The Saints captain, who is married to Catherine Heard, apparently bought the large Brighton family home by private treaty in late February.
Title Tattle gathers Catherine, who works at a PR and marketing agency, has told friends she will miss the walking distance to the South Melbourne Market.
It's among tomorrow's 1,261 offerings in Melbourne with an $870 million worth of stock, including around $640 million in houses set to be offered under the hammer and $230 million worth of apartments.
Australian Property Monitors research assistant Neil Tan has advised that this weekend's offerings is some 142% higher than the same weekend last year. 
Melbourne's 1,261 auctions this Saturday will be its fourth weekend above 1,000 this year.
This weekend there are about 450 units and 810 houses for scheduled Melbourne auction.
Melbourne's median last weekend for house prices was $790,000 and the median unit price was $510,000.
That's much higher than the typical $568,000 Melbourne median for houses and the median for typical $420,000 Melbourne units.
</body></html>

St Kilda champion Nick Riewoldt lists leafy contemporary South Melbourne home

<html><body>
The building that housed the seventh season of The Block has won the Jury and Peer Voted awards in the Residential Mid Rise category of the Architizer A+ awards.
Designed by Australian architecture firm Brenchley Architects, the building at 142 Park Street in South Melbourne is a conversion from a 1960s motel building. Brenchley Architects pursued a high level of environmental sustainability, with a “second skin” of black aluminium and batten and vertical gardens buffering the existing walls from fluctuating environmental conditions and stabilising the building’s internal temperature.
The building also features a communal rooftop terrace area and solar energy panelling.
The five apartments sold on The Block: Sky High gathered $7.603 million on auction day collectively, with Adelaide sisters and The Block: Fans v Faves team Alisa and Lysandra selling the winning apartment.
Architizer described the building as a “prime example of the ‘adaptive re-use’ of existing, low grade building stock into high-end environmentally sustainable development.”
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

The Block: Sky High building wins international architecture awards

<html><body>
Brooding, sleek and elegant...we like this one, we really like it. Prominent Melbourne architecture firm <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/" target="_blank">Rothe Lowman</a> have expanded to their burgeoning Fishermans Bend projects portfolio with the addition of 228-238 Normanby Road, Southbank.  Submitted for consideration during early October the scheme is on behalf of site proponent Perpetual Normanby Pty Ltd, a CBD-based company which appears on Apartments.com.au for the first time.
Prior to delving into the particulars it's worth noting that 228-238 Normanby Road lies within the specified 'towers above podiums' zone according to the draft State Government height limits for Fishermans Bend, as illustrated below.  In essence, this particular site located within the Montague Precinct has no impending height limits and as such should have an unfettered path through the planning process.  This is in contrast to other existing nearby planning applications which at this point have an uncertain approvals process due to their location within potentially height limited zones.
The subject site finds itself within close proximity to the West Gate Freeway, with limited development potential between it and the expansive CBD and Southbank primarily due to the Melbourne Exhibition &amp; Convention Centre to north-east. Regardless the Port Melbourne light rail is within walking distance as are the retail and amenity offerings of South Wharf.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image4_20.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site in question"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_20.jpg?itok=tHFlNu-T" title="The site in question" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Rothe Lowman describes the scheme as a development that "Will make a major contribution to the surrounding public realm and will be defined by high-quality architecture. A contemporary architectural expression with sensitivity to existing surrounds has been the basis for our design response."  And that response comes in the shape of two residential towers sitting atop a visually common podium heavy with residential amenity, retail spaces and activation via a predominantly home office wrap.
Emphasis is placed upon the relationship between the two towers where both maintain a convex form when addressing each other.  External lift wells face one another at the towers closest point of separation which stands at 13 metres, where the convex shape maximises sight lines for residents of both towers whilst also mitigating wind effects (in addition to tower orientation).  It's expected that the western 39 level tower will be developed initially (Stage A) followed in due course by the 49 level eastern tower closer to Melbourne's CBD (Stage B).
<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_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="228-238 Normanby Road with Melbourne's CBD to the rear"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image10_5.jpg?itok=8RsNl9vE" title="228-238 Normanby Road with Melbourne's CBD to the rear" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Together the towers are expected to add 525 apartments or well over another 1000 Melburnians to Southbank, where Stage A sees 230 apartments offered while the larger Stage B is expected to yield 295 apartments thereafter.  An accumulated break down sees 296 1 bed/1 bath options which account for over 54% of all envisaged dwellings on offer, 221 2 bed/2 bath options, 6 1/2 bed home office spaces and 2 2/3 bed duplexes on offer.
The podium is near Brutalist in appearance and in stark contrast to the towers above, yet is designed to interact with the immediate surrounds via its activated wrap. Within the lower levels lie all services, 243 car parking spaces and 242 bicycle bays.  Externally passersby will be met by a 363 m² retail space fronting the length of Montague Street within the Stage A while the separate podium of Stage B will hold a 246 m² retail space fronting Normanby Road.
Above the ground floor a mixture of apartments, home offices and duplexes bring activity and variety to levels two and three, while three separate amenity spaces are incorporated into Stage A.  Two areas over levels four and five are in addition to the entire sixth floor being set aside for communal use.  Add Stage B's level 48 to the cause and total project residential amenity amounts to 1116 m²; it seems that if you can't find some relief within 228-238 Normanby Road, you're just not trying!
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image13_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Base, raft and core according to Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_9.jpg?itok=xxZE2z-Y" title="Base, raft and core according to Rothe Lowman" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
External finishes utilise what is a very Melbourne palette of materials; dark blue grey curtain wall glazing, charcoal/natural precast panels, metal cladding, bluestone and a splash of gold over the ground floor.  Add the light vertical metal fins over the towers and the end result is indeed a subtle yet exceptional looking apartment complex that draws parallels to buildings such as Rialto and Melbourne Central in part.
I for one hope this particular planning application is realised.
 
All images  © Rothe Lowman
</body></html>

So very Melbourne > 228-238 Normanby Road, South Melbourne

<html><body>
Apartments.com.au touched upon this planning application briefly via <a href="/news/fishermans-bend-tower-count-now-at-29" target="_blank">this article</a> some weeks ago, yet today we look closer at the imposing proposal that is 2-4 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne.  Submitted for assessment during August, the dual tower scheme seeks to replace the current low-rise home of MAP Coffee within the Montague Precinct.  On behalf of Buckhurst Development Pty Ltd, the proposals overall design is a joint effort between <a href="http://www.jcba.com.au/" target="_blank">Jackson Clement Burrows</a> (JCB) and emerging architecture firm <a href="http://inglisarchitects.com/" target="_blank">Inglis Architects</a>, with <a href="http://www.meinhardtgroup.com/" target="_blank">Meinhardt Group</a> contributing the lion's share of engineering, planning and landscaping reports.  

As the article title suggests we start from the ground up today, for the simple fact that the podium and public interface for 2-4 Buckhurst Street are worthy of praise and discussion.  Much has been said since Fishermans Bend was slated as an Urban Renewal Area, particularly around the assertion that Fishermans Bend would simply be another Docklands; barren, unfriendly and isolated in parts.  Regardless of the mountain of thought and effort dedicated toward structure plans for Fishermans Bend, the image seen below can alone allay a number of the aforementioned concerns.

As required 5% of the 3471 m² development site has been set aside as a public contribution, bolstering the already strong amount of open space surrounding the proposed development. Whilst the towers follow a certain design course, conversely the common podium carries a different feel and form which mirrors existing Jackson Clement Burrows projects such as <a href="http://www.jcba.com.au/#/projects/83/" target="_blank">The Cullen</a> and <a href="http://www.jcba.com.au/#/projects/144/" target="_blank">Upper House</a>, all defined by protruding pods.  In separating the design of tower and podium JCB seeks "Localised ambience that responds to the envisaged character of the Montague Precinct and surrounding neighbourhood," in essence encouraging amenity, comfort, safety and ease of access to and around the complex - an inviting building.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image12_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="As envisaged from Buckhurst &amp; Kerr. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image12_6.jpg?itok=aTlFVBBv" title="As envisaged from Buckhurst &amp; Kerr. " typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Land to 2-4 Buckhurst Street's west will be closed to development, fostering the creation of a public plaza/local park with features such as bio-retention rain gardens and seamless level paving (no kerbs) supported. Whilst some developments within Fishermans Bend are of a land size where extensive public domain works are impractical, potential developments such as <a href="/news/planning-application-123-125-montague-st-south-melbourne" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 16px;" target="_blank">123-125 Montague Street</a>, 15-87 Gladstone Street and 2-4 Buckhurst Street do heavily skew their applications toward ensuring public domain considerations are more than taken care of - something parts of Docklands have to date failed to deliver upon.

The podium itself sees a naturally cross ventilated above ground car park and services area wrapped by an active facade of apartments and townhouses, greenery and retail spaces.  245 vehicles, 9 motorbikes and 223 pushies are accommodated within the podium structure while three retail spaces of between 110-183 m² enhance public interaction.  Atop the podium sees a communal landscaped area including lounges, a function space, gym, pool and outdoor dining facilities.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image7_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium aspect from the east"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image7_18.jpg?itok=WStxRXKV" title="Podium aspect from the east" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Rather than utilising the maximum space above the podium the architects have delivered two towers of 39 and 27 levels, with the final size and shape taking into account wind testing results, overshadowing mitigation and the desire to maximise CBD views whilst amenity is enhanced via the northern towers level 19 outdoor terrace.  The facade carries a vertical over horizontal theme where glass and horizontal mesh balconies are contrasted by vertical elements spanning one to three floors; a detailed contrast to a number of curtain wall facade proposals within the immediate area.

Within the building 359 apartments are expected, consisting of 189 one bedroom options, 124 two bedroom options, 38 three bedroom options and 8 townhouses of both two and three bedrooms which span the podium.  It's refreshing to see 40 (including townhouses) three bedroom dwellings included within the proposal; a proportionally high number relative to other submissions in the area that just might cater for future families seeking apartment living. One bedroom apartments range between 45-50 m², two bedrooms span 60-84 m² while the three bedroom apartments carry 89 m² of internal space.

Through the application, environmental design strategies are present such as "Solar shading devices, double glazing, cross-flow ventilation and natural lighting to common corridors and extensive planting opportunities to outdoor spaces and terraces."  Indoor Environmental Quality is a high priority where ventilation, shading and building orientation can lessen or mitigate the need for cooling/heating devices.  As is generally the norm these days stormwater harvesting and solar hot water services are also included.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image9_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero image highlighting the highly activaed facade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image9_11.jpg?itok=k0mRHM3W" title="Hero image highlighting the highly activaed facade" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

In terms of overall quality Apartments.com.au staff seem to think 2-4 Buckhurst Street is at or near the pointy end of all applications submitted to date within the Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area.  It's fitting the final words on this particular development are taken from the planning application, "The architecture and design of this building is exemplary, and it is our submission that it will not only make a valuable contribution to improving the immediate environs, but will set a high quality benchmark for all developments in this precinct."

Spot on!

 

All images © JCB / Meinhardt
</body></html>

From the ground up > 2-4 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne

<html><body>
Today we take the wraps off yet another intended residential development for Fishermans Bend. 91 Montague Street South Melbourne (also known as 89-103 Gladstone Street) adds to Melbourne developer <a href="http://www.blueearth.com.au">Blue Earth Group's</a> burgeoning portfolio of residential projects over all stages of the development process. Following a recent collaboration with <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au">Plus Architecture</a> for an intended residential development located at <a href="/buildings/the-lantern-195-wellington-street-collingwood">195 Wellington Street Collingwood</a>, the two firms have teamed up once again to produce a striking 30 level residential tower within the Montague Precinct.

Located on the south east corner of the Gladstone Street and Montague Street intersection (below), and with the elevated 109 Tram line in close proximity to the north, 91 Montague Street can expect excellent sight lines to both the CBD and Port Phillip Bay for the foreseeable future. Immediately to the east of the subject site sits the recently built four level Industry Business Hub complex; also designed by Plus Architecture it was delivered by MAB Corporation. While the low rise complex will further enshrine potential views for 91 Montague Street, the balance of the MAB site will at some point hold three additional residential towers. Should their scheme be approved, MAB can expect a yield of 700 apartments, with the tallest tower reaching 34 levels.

Also visible in the urban analysis plan below is the intended Carlins Automotive development. Currently seeking approval, the Carlins planning application calls for a mixed-use four tower complex ultimately holding 900 apartments with the tallest tower at 39 levels or approximately 125 metres in height. Should the complex gain approval media reports suggest Carlins will sell the site in stages to property developers intending to deliver a staged development. Both of these planning applications will be looked at by Apartments.com.au in due course.

<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/002_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site position with the neighbouring Carlins site development plan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/002_3.jpg?itok=KQonNBxJ" title="Site position with the neighbouring Carlins site development plan" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Site position with the neighbouring Carlins site development plan</figcaption></figure>As is the way of Plus Architecture, the firm never fails in producing a visually stimulating design and 91 Montague Street is no exception. Rising the best part of 98 metres, the scheme is defined by a multitude of offset fins alternating between one and three floors in length which band together to create a chevron pattern. While providing design merit, the fins also serve a more practical purpose in that they're angled in such a fashion that allows for maximum shading from the harsh western summer sun. On a southwest-northeast axis, the fins also provide privacy screening while maximising views toward both Melbourne's CBD and Port Phillip Bay.

The intended tower's mass is essentially broken in two along an east-west axis where the northern facade carries a high articulation, the southern mass is less spectacular, almost staid, enforcing the distinction between the two elements. A southern boundary lift well is flanked by precast elements, catering for the likelihood of another tower abutting 91 Montague street in the future. Incorporated into the design is a six level podium of approximately 20 metres in height which has full coverage over the 815sqm site, while the towers northern form maintains a setback of 3.31 meters from the podium/street.

<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/Image7_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of 91 Montague Street, South Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image7_15.jpg?itok=PaJPEi--" title="Hero perspective of 91 Montague Street, South Melbourne" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of 91 Montague Street, South Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Ground floor for the intended tower consists of lobby, associated services and a retail space of 289sqm fronting Montague Street while access for services, 86 bike spaces and 77 car parking bays lies off Gladstone Place. Thereafter levels one and two maintain living areas fronting Montague Street while the balance of the floors in question are absorbed by car parking. Levels 3-5 are solely for the use of car parking and are serviced by a car lift system.

The diagram below shows the bulk of two bedroom apartments located either side of the lift well for the entirety of the tower while one bedroom options monopolise floors 7-26, enjoy northerly views. Levels 27-28 contain limited north facing three bedroom options with what one could imagine to be sublime views. Level 29 sees two recreational areas combining for an impressive 303sqm of amenity space.

Ten varying apartment layouts have been included in the planning document, the smallest of which comes in at a combined internal/external 50sqm of space for a one bedroom apartment while the most expansive three bedroom option weighs in at 97sqm of internal/external space which is by no means massive but encouraging nonetheless. Three bedroom apartments over Melbourne tend to be quite large and therefore expensive putting them beyond the reach of the average family, yet if this tower comes to fruition I'd be intrigued to see what the three bedroom options are priced at. With one bedroom apartments currently out of favour, compact yet reasonably priced three bedroom apartments may find their niche in the market.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/003_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="91 Montague Street orientation and apartment positioning"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/003_5.jpg?itok=I6s5mxCL" title="91 Montague Street orientation and apartment positioning" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>91 Montague Street orientation and apartment positioning</figcaption></figure>A multitude of planning applications for Fishermans Bend have been filed with the State Government seeking approval and like all others 91 Montague faces a lenghthy wait until the State Government releases a comprehensive structure plan for the impending renewal area.

All images © Plus Architecture.
</body></html>

South Melbourne

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

South Melbourne

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News