It’s only been a few months since local Gold Coast developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dankav-developments">Dankav</a> unveiled its next precinct-driven project, and less than a month since formally launching <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-alfred-mermaid-beach-2375-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">The Alfred Residences</a>, a reimagining of the former Mermaid Beach Shopping Village.

In just the first three weeks, 30 of the 40 residences in stage one have been secured, predominantly by local buyers already living within the coveted 4218 postcode, underscoring the demand for a well-connected, beachside lifestyle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149942 project_image_fid=355148]

The origins of the shopping village, a community staple for several decades, will continue under DANKAV’s precinct-driven scheme. The apartments in the first stage will sit above a curated collection of restaurants, cafés and boutique retailers.

A central landscaped laneway defines the ground plane, framed by a series of low-scale buildings that open into shaded courtyards and plazas designed by <a href="http://j.ar">J.AR</a> Office. The residences above were designed by BDA Architecture and feature generous balconies, modern interiors and elevated views across the ocean, skyline or hinterland. The interiors are curated with layered detail and coastal-appropriate finishes, with layouts focused on privacy, natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149942 project_image_fid=355150]

It was the site’s prime location that first appealed to DANKAV founder Daniel Veitch. The development sits directly across the road from the future Mermaid Beach South light rail station, giving residents convenient public transport access to the rest of the Coast.

While DANKAV is delivering extensive amenity as part of the retail plaza, the area is already well serviced, with a Woolworths Metro, established cafés and restaurants, and the all-important sand of Mermaid Beach just 100 metres from the front door.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149942 project_image_fid=355149]

DANKAV is also behind the recently completed The Oxley 1823 at Nobby’s Beach, which has become the area’s go-to lifestyle precinct. They are nearing completion of LAANI on Alexandra Avenue, also in Mermaid Beach.

Construction on The Alfred Residences has already commenced, with the first stage slated for completion in 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149942]

Joel Robinson

DANKAV approaches first stage sell-out of The Alfred Residences in Mermaid Beach after three-week sales blitz

On the top floor of Gardner Va​ughan Group’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/danby-lane-nundah-village-5-danby-lane-nundah-qld-4012">Danby Lane</a> project in Nundah, just two penthouses offer some of the largest and most detailed new apartment homes ever delivered in the well-connected suburb, and among the biggest in Brisbane’s inner north.

Each of the four-bedroom, three-bathroom residences spans the full depth of the building on the 10th storey, one of the tallest buildings in Nundah. They are split between north and southeast orientations, maximising natural light and cross-ventilation, as well as capturing the suburb’s best views from the large wrap-around balconies.

One of the penthouses has already been snapped up by a local.&nbsp;The remaining 270 sqm penthouse is priced at $3.4 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112531 project_image_fid=340185]

The open plan living, kitchen and dining area, which flows seamlessly to the terrace, forms the heart of each home. The kitchen has been designed as much for entertaining as everyday living, featuring large central island benches with stone overhangs that double as dining spaces. Butler’s pantries, European appliances and soft-close joinery complete the space.

The master bedroom in each penthouse features a walk-through wardrobe with integrated shelving and storage, and an ensuite with double vanities and a freestanding bathtub.

The additional bedrooms also include ensuites and balcony access, with one offering flexibility as a study or multi-purpose room. Each penthouse includes three secure car spaces, as well as a dedicated laundry with linen storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112531 project_image_fid=320117]

Buyers can choose from two exclusive interior schemes. The Champagne palette pairs warm whites with timber grain and gold accents, while Truffle introduces deeper tones with forest-inspired wood finishes and matte black fittings. Both schemes extend consistently throughout the home, from kitchens to bathrooms.

Gardner Vaughan Group, a vertically integrated builder-developer that has already commenced construction on Danby Lane, is set to move its headquarters into one of the commercial spaces upon completion in early 2027. Having been based in Nundah for more than a decade, Danby Lane is very much a passion project for the team.

Residents will also enjoy a suite of private amenities, including a rooftop recreation area with a swimming pool, gym and function room, along with retail tenancies on the ground floor.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112531]

Staff Writer

Inside the remaining penthouse at Danby Lane in Nundah

Developer Tian An LFD has been given the green light from the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to go ahead with its new Chatswood apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hammond-greens-chatswood-5-9-gordon-avenue-chatswood-nsw-2067">Hammond Greens</a>.

The 35-storey mixed-use tower at 5-9 Gordon Avenue, on the edge of the Chatswood Bowls Club, will comprise 91 apartments, 22 of which will be affordable homes managed by Link Wentworth. They will sit above a two-level podium with retail and commercial space.

The plans were upsized from the early 25-storey scheme which proposed 64 apartments, following the Government's new planning provisions under the Housing SEPP that gave developers the opportunity to increase heights and floor place in exchange for an affordable housing component.

&nbsp;

The design by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fjc-studio">FJC Studio</a>&nbsp;builds on the concept first presented when the firm won the site’s design competition, describing Hammond Greens as “a unique form of vertical living that belongs on the North Shore - drawing on the vernacular and materiality of suburban living, and integrating native landscaping between the narrow tower forms”.

At ground level, 1,500 sqm of retail and commercial space will activate the podium, supporting a hybrid work environment and creating a stronger connection with the local community. Residents will also have access to an outdoor pool deck, yoga room, golf simulator, and landscaped gardens designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sturt-noble-landscapes">Sturt Noble Associates</a>.

&nbsp;

Located less than 500 metres from Chatswood Transport Interchange, the project contributes to the suburb’s growing pipeline of high-density development. It joins the likes of Changfa's recently launched The Anderson and Billbergia's Chatswood Grand Residences.

Hammond Greens is the first of two towers Tian is planning in Chatswood. They have a sister project, dubbed Hammond Place, just one street away at 15-19 Nelson Street. That will have around 110 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=142900]

Tian An LFD greenlit for Hammond Greens apartments in Chatswood as project launches

The sought-after Latent Defects Insurance policy, offering off the plan apartment buyers peace of mind for 10 years post-completion, has made its way to Sydney’s harbourside. Boutique developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/toohey-miller">Toohey Miller</a> has secured this insurance for its newly launched Elizabeth Bay development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/barncleuth-square-elizabeth-bay-4-4a-barncleuth-square-elizabeth-bay-nsw-2011">Barncleuth</a>. This marks the developer’s second project in the area, following the success of No. 1 Onslow Place.

Latent Defects Insurance, offered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/resilience-latent-defects-insurance">Resilience Insurance</a>, provides cover for structural or waterproofing defects in new apartment buildings. It is a policy that only the developer or builder can take out, not the apartment purchaser.

Located just&nbsp;off Macleay Street, one of Sydney’s most desirable high streets, Barncleuth offers a rare collection of only 10 residences. With just two per floor, each oversized floorplan has been designed by SJB specifically for the owner-occupier.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140184 project_image_fid=356342]

The five-storey building captures views over Rushcutters Bay and Paddington, blending contemporary brickwork with the expressive silhouettes of its Art Deco neighbours.

Inside, the residences, designed by David Hicks, prioritise generous scale and enduring quality, with a mix of two- and three-bedroom layouts. Expansive terraces and cross-ventilated interiors maximise light and airflow, while sustainable features such as a green roof and locally sourced materials reflect SJB’s commitment to long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140184 project_image_fid=356341]

Developer Toohey Miller, led by Nick Couloumbis, says the design aims to bring lasting quality to an area long celebrated for its apartment heritage.

"It's a stone's throw from the best restaurants in Sydney. Some people call it the Soho of Sydney," Couloumbis told Apartments.com.au when the project was approved.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140184 project_image_fid=356337]

By securing <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/resilience-latent-defects-insurance">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance</a>, Barncleuth joins a growing group of premium Sydney projects adopting the gold standard in building protection.&nbsp;

The cover, provided before construction begins, ensures any hidden structural or waterproofing defects are repaired immediately, without lengthy litigation or fault disputes.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent said the product has been a catalyst for renewed confidence in the off the plan market.&nbsp;

“Ultimately what we’re trying to do is build better buildings consumers can trust. When buyers take possession, they have full insurance protection from day one, for 10 years,” Nugent explained.

Unlike traditional policies such as strata or construction insurance, Resilience LDI is a first-resort, strict liability policy, meaning repairs are covered immediately without needing to prove negligence. Coverage extends to foundations, load-bearing walls, and waterproofing, the elements most critical to long-term structural integrity.

Regarded construction firm Jasara has been appointed to deliver Barncleuth. They are forecasting an early 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140184]

Toohey Miller brings 10-year Latent Defects Insurance to Elizabeth Bay as Barncleuth apartments launch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/golden-sedayu">Golden Sedayu</a> has unveiled plans for the next phase of its landmark $4 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/burswood-point-saintly-entrance-burswood-wa-6100">Burswood Point</a> project, just 3.5km from the Perth CBD at the Belmont Racecourse site.

The Local Development Plan Application has been lodged for a world-class mixed-use hub (Precinct B) on the previously untouched 2.5km stretch of Swan River foreshore.

Designed by Skidmore, Owings &amp; Merrill (SOM), recognised for their work on the world’s tallest skyscraper, Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the One World Trade Centre in New York, Precinct B will feature 15 buildings, offering a mix of residential and commercial spaces including a shopping centre up to 30,000 sqm in size.

Complementing this, an internationally acclaimed five-star hotel, and a high-end pedestrian-friendly retail boulevard with vibrant day-and-night retail, dining, and entertainment venues, will provide exciting new ways for Perth residents to connect with the riverfront.

This latest milestone signals continued construction and expansion momentum across Perth’s premier riverfront community, which is set to attract local, national and international visitors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142314 project_image_fid=263304]

The masterplan features 110,000 sqm of public open space, which is comparable to other Perth landmarks including inner-city Langley Park and South Perth foreshore. The riverside precinct will be brought to life through a visionary landscape concept by globally renowned architectural practice Grant Associates.

With an impressive international portfolio, including Gardens by the Bay and Funan Mall in Singapore and Barangaroo South in Sydney, the firm brings expertise in creating environments that harmonise with surrounding amenity.

At 38 hectares, Burswood Point is one of the largest urban development projects ever undertaken in Australia, and one of Perth’s most transformative mixed-use developments.

Golden Sedayu Managing Director Andrew Sugiaputra said the company was working closely with SOM, Grant Associates and the Government of Western Australia to ensure Burswood Point’s design responds sensitively to its surroundings, reflecting and enhancing the character, history, and natural features of the local environment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142314 project_image_fid=1817]

“West Australians enjoy a privileged outdoor lifestyle and the Swan River is central to their enjoyment,"&nbsp;Sugiaputra said.

"We’re proud to be creating something truly spectacular and unique for the city, a place that feels alive from sunrise to sunset, a place where people can stay, shop, dine, and celebrate life on the river."

Precinct B builds on the outstanding success of Burswood Point’s first residential stage, which has been met with exceptional market demand. Somerset Residences, a two- tower luxury apartment development, and the exclusive riverfront homes collection are under construction and selling fast. As the number of Perth houses listed for sale remain at or near record lows, Burswood Point will deliver 4,500 new homes over the next 10 years.

“Golden Sedayu is dedicated to delivering on our promises,"&nbsp;Sugiaputra added.

"Our clients can buy with confidence, knowing that the price is fixed throughout construction. In an industry that has faced challenging market conditions, we’re proud to provide our clients complete peace of mind and confidence in the value of their investment."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=142314]

Golden Sedayu reveals next 15 buildings in Perth's $4 billion Burswood Point precinct

SP Setia

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<a href="/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has announced that <a href="/builders/probuild">Probuild</a> will be embarking on the construction of the 120-metre-tall, 65-level <a href="/buildings/uno-melbourne-117-abeckett-street-melbourne">UNO Melbourne</a> building with a slated completion of 2021. The tower will occupy the 1,741 sqm 111 A’Beckett Street site in Melbourne’s CBD and will see the existing heritage building integrated within the new development. In keeping with the original heritage, the Elenberg Fraser-designed building elegantly ties in elements of streamlined moderne, with soft, rounded features and elongated lines. UNO Melbourne will also be Probuild’s fourth residential project with <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a>.

<figure><a href="/buildings/uno-melbourne-117-abeckett-street-melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="761" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/probuild_x_sp_setia_uno_pr_img_002.jpg?itok=wR5jo1Tk" title="L-R: Michael Passarella (Probuild), Choong Kai Wai (SP Setia), Luke Stambolis (Probuild) and Hunt Soon See (SP Setia)" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>L-R: Michael Passarella (Probuild), Choong Kai Wai (SP Setia), Luke Stambolis (Probuild) and Hunt Soon See (SP Setia)</figcaption></figure><figure><a href="/buildings/uno-melbourne-117-abeckett-street-melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="516" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/uno-tower-in-melbourne-e120919-4-450x400.jpg?itok=OZALKJF7" title="UNO Melbourne exterior street-level render. Credit: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>UNO Melbourne exterior street-level render. Credit: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure> 

<blockquote>
“SP Setia and Elenberg Fraser have always created projects of distinction through timeless, considered design and UNO will be no different, with highly considered apartments and world-class residential amenities… This appointment is a testament to the faith SP Setia has in Probuild’s extensive expertise in residential construction, as well as our commitment to safety and delivering Melbourne’s best quality apartments.”
</blockquote>


Luke Stambolis, Probuild’s Group Managing Director

UNO Melbourne’s street-level floorplate will provide a welcoming lobby, concierge and retail stores. Level One contains a private dining area, resident’s lounge, bar, entertainment space and media room, while Level Two has a dedicated childcare centre.

Wellness facilities can be found on Level 9 and will feature a spacious yoga studio, tranquil therapy room, well-equipped gymnasium, an outdoor cinema, and a steam room, spa and swimming pool. There will also be ample outdoor space for residents to enjoy.

<figure><a href="/buildings/uno-melbourne-117-abeckett-street-melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="516" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/uno-tower-in-melbourne-e120919-4-450x400.jpg?itok=OZALKJF7" title="UNO Melbourne exterior street-level render. Credit: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>UNO Melbourne exterior street-level render. Credit: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><figure><a href="/buildings/uno-melbourne-117-abeckett-street-melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="322" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/uno-tower-in-melbourne-e120919-3-520x289.jpg?itok=XKAi0ubi" title="UNO Melbourne pool render. Credit: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>UNO Melbourne pool render. Credit: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure> 

UNO Melbourne also boasts fantastic local amenity and is walking distance to Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne Central and RMIT University.


The development will follow developer SP Setia’s four previous Melbourne developments including Fulton Lane, Parque Melbourne, Maison Carnegie and Marque Prahan.

<blockquote>
“We look forward to progressing our new relationship with Probuild, a builder who is committed to safety and delivering high-quality residential apartments.”
</blockquote>

Choong Kai Wai, SP Setia’s Australian CEO

Lead image credit: Elenberg Fraser
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Olivia Round

Probuild appointed to construct SP Setia’s UNO Melbourne tower

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It's officially spring and so it would also appear, ground breaking season. Apartments.com.au was onsite along with Lord Mayor Sally Capp and representatives from S P Setia, Multiplex, Fender Katsalidis, Cox Architecture and Shangri-La to celebrate the ground breaking of Sapphire By The Gardens and the official appointment of Multiplex as head contractor.

S P Setia’s 62-storey, $565 million development mixed-use development will feature Melbourne’s first 5-star Shangri-La hotel of 500 suites, in addition to 300 apartments with 95% sales achieved at time of writing. With Multiplex on board as the builder, a 3 year construction programme  is expected with Shangri-La Melbourne due to open in 2022.

<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/breaking_ground_at_sapphire_by_the_gardens.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lord Mayor Sally Capp with representatives from the development team"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/breaking_ground_at_sapphire_by_the_gardens.jpeg?itok=Jan7PJI7" title="Lord Mayor Sally Capp with representatives from the development team" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lord Mayor Sally Capp with representatives from the development team. Image: Nate Moir</figcaption></figure>Located at 308 Exhibition Street opposite the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Carlton Gardens, the design of Sapphire By The Gardens draws on and celebrates its garden location with a podium and urban realm characterised by lush greenery. The dual tower development's signature feature however, is its two-storey sky bridge linking the towers 50-storeys up in the air, and providing unique panoramic views across Melbourne to Carlton Gardens and beyond.

Speaking at the event to mark the occasion, Architect and Founding Director of Fender Katsalidis (FK), Karl Fender joked that if not for FK and Cox competing against each other, either firm would have won the competition outright. Instead because S P Setia couldn't split them they formed a partnership combining ideas from their respective concepts to produce Sapphire By The Gardens - "two architects for the price of one" said Fender with a wry smile.

<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/sapphire_by_the_gardens_overlooking_carlton_gardens.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sapphire By The Gardens, draws on its location opposite the Carlton Gardens. Image: S P Setia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sapphire_by_the_gardens_overlooking_carlton_gardens.jpg?itok=brZYCgza" title="Sapphire By The Gardens, draws on its location opposite the Carlton Gardens. Image: S P Setia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sapphire By The Gardens, draws on its location opposite the Carlton Gardens. Image: S P Setia</figcaption></figure><h2>What the say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Today's ground breaking ceremony marks an extremely significant milestone not just for Setia, but for Melbourne and so we are deeply honoured to have the Lord Mayor present to celebrate this auspicious occasion. We are here of course to mark the commencement of the construction works of this visionary twin tower project comprising Victoria's first Shangri-La hotel and Sapphire By The Gardens residences.

S P Setia with our A-team consultants and our giant builder Multiplex, has been working tirelessly to bring this project to reality. And now here we stand, proud that this has been achieved, and accordingly we would like to thank the City of Melbourne, in particular for the support it provided during the formative stages of the project.

Effort in each of our projects, both large and small to sensitively contribute to their context but perhaps none moreso than Sapphire By The Gardens. With its Shangri-La hotel, these striking twin towers mark the north-eastern gateway into the city through the stunning World Heritage Carlton Gardens and this has inspired a richly landscaped podium and forecourt presence to the public realm. On the other hand floating high above, the Skybridge - also open of course to the public and a first in Australia - will provide never-before-seen views of Melbourne and the Gardens.

The Shangri-La is one of the finest hotels in the world, it is fitting that it enjoys the primacy of this location  which is one of the finest in Melbourne. We are extremely proud to deliver this project to Melbourne and extremely privileged to share this moment with our Mayor, Sally Capp.

- Mr Choong Kai Wai, CEO of S P Setia’s Australian operations
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
On this very spot a significant architectural project is soon to rise above the streets of Melbourne. We will have our oldest iconic building, the Royal Exhibition Building looking on as our newest iconic building with its Skybridge is built right here. Congratulations to everyone involved.

I want to acknowledge that ambition is indeed at home right here in Melbourne. Melbourne's booming economic performance shows no sign of slowing down and projects such as this with its enormous scale is all important in terms of the investments and development happening right here in our city.

We expect our residential population to rise by over 50% over the next decade and so the investment in the much needed housing and accommodation that will happen through Sapphire By The Gardens is very welcome. I also note the thoughtfulness of what will happen at a street level as part of this project and the fact that this environment will add to Melbourne's reputation for engaging in distinctive experiences, you are also delivering that.

- Lord Mayor, Sally Capp 
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Today is made very auspicious by this ground breaking ceremony, yet to come. It's ground breaking on a very, very special site in Melbourne, possibly, I would argue, the best site in Melbourne. It's on the gateway into Melbourne from the east, through the stunning World heritage gardens of the Carlton Gardens so it's appropriate that this gateway, this entry into Melbourne, is celebrated in the right way and makes all the right announcements.

Announcements such as 'great design comes first'. Our city is based on great design, past and present and going forward. On that note I really would like to make a special mention to Phillip Rowe and his team at Cox, who are our co-architects, co-designers on this project.

It will also sign Melbourne, the garden city, with this incredible garden entry way, in the design process we thought about bringing the Carlton Gardens across LaTrobe Street and into the building, through a beautiful plaza  meant for the public, and also up the face of the building, particularly the podium.

The futuristic Skybridge - another first for Melbourne - will be fantastic, it will provide new views over Melbourne for everybody whilst you sip your gin martini.

- Karl Fender, Founding Director Fender Katsalidis
</blockquote>

 
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Laurence Dragomir

S P Setia and Shangri-La break ground on Sapphire By The Gardens

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Now complete, Parque is an upmarket residential development on St Kilda Road comprising two glazed towers accommodating 332 luxury apartments. Designed by Fender Katsalidis the towers are connected by a private outdoor area on Level 8, featuring a 25-metre infinity pool.

The level 11 clubhouse has a library, a function room, outdoor terraces and a private dining room and kitchen designed by Shannon Bennett, with expansive views of Melbourne.  

The client, SP Setia, presented the design team with an existing building approval that negotiated the area’s building height restrictions and envelope controls. However, Fender Katsalidis still saw this as a unique project that warranted careful consideration and could take its cues from its natural environmental 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/fkmed_1145_5602.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Landscape was a major influence and driver for the design of Parque. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="414" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fkmed_1145_5602.jpg?itok=d57LswqV" title="Landscape was a major influence and driver for the design of Parque. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Landscape was a major influence and driver for the design of Parque. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>This led to a design conceived for placing a building ‘in the round’, with 360- degree views, that absorbed its park environment. The Western tower fronts St Kilda Rd and spans 11-storeys, stepping down to 8-storeys in the centre to preserve views of the Shrine of Remembrance and the city, before rising to 19-storeys at the Eastern tower.

Both towers feature highly articulate, curved glass curtain wall facades with recessed panels providing the facade with depth and capturing light and shadows. 

The neighbouring heritage listed grounds feature 150-year-old elms listed on the National Trust of Australia's register of significant trees, requiring careful site coordination to ensure trees were protected throughout construction. 

<blockquote>
It’s an incredible location, adjacent to a heritage park, which will always be protected and is in fact part of the development. A truly unique site along St Kilda Road.

The buildings' form is drawn from the contours of nature to create the two curvilinear tower volumes that define Parque. We are in this remarkable spot, so everything about the building is working from the inside out to maximise views for residents.

Literally reflecting the park location, we arrived at an expression that has 100 percent glazing around the two building volumes. The reflective glass facade let us create a beautiful pattern of recessed and flush glazed panels.

It's very different depending on what the environment of the day might be; it changes with the light and the seasons, just as the deciduous trees of the park do.

The entry experience is really quite remarkable. You have two entries into the building at ground level and it is very much a grand lobby experience. It's probably the largest residential lobby we've ever designed and is beautifully clad, wallpapered in travertine stone, so it's quite a stunning environment.

The residences are very luxurious, with a level of amenity and appointment that can be likened to a hotel experience. All of the apartments are terrifically sized.

When we began the development’s design, this was not necessarily what the Melbourne marketplace was generally demanding or offering, so we are very proud of setting an industry standard with Parque.

- Nicky Drobis, Director, Fender Katsalidis
</blockquote>

Urban.com.au: Fender Katsalidis (FK) had to work within an existing approved envelope. What was the brief from SP Setia for Parque? Who was the target market for the development and how did this ultimately inform the design of the apartments and resident areas?

Nicky Drobis: The brief from SP Setia was for FK to design a building worthy of its heritage listed location. They understood the importance of this site within the broader context of St Kilda Road and had the desire to develop a building that would of course succeed commercially but also genuinely contribute to and enrich Melbourne’s built environment.  

FK needed to stay within the restrictions of the Shrine Vista Controls which by their nature encourage buildings that are lower towards St Kilda Road and higher towards the Eastern end of the site which results in two volumes at different heights linked by a podium piece in the centre. However, a key factor in SP Setia’s brief that enabled FK to fully explore the design potentials for the site was their understanding of the value of good design could indeed provide more value to a development than necessarily maximising an allowable building volume.

The brief also responded to SP Setia’s understanding of the lack of supply at the time in Melbourne of apartments which would attract owner occupiers and investors alike. Hence the apartment mix is varied and the apartments were larger than those typically in the market place at the time.

SP Setia is also known internationally as a developer who invests heavily in providing a wonderful amenity offer to residents in their developments, and this is definitely the case at Parque.

UM: Parque is located within a historically and culturally significant pocket of St Kilda Road. What were some of the challenges involved in working in such a sensitive context?

ND: There is wonderful complexity in the immediate built environment surrounding the Parque site, including historically significant buildings such as the former Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind, the Wesley College campus and the heritage listed park in which our building is sited. Our intention was to design a building which would not compete with its heritage neighbour to the south east and was responsive in form and material to its landscaped context.

In so doing the building forms are not directly referencing our context, but rather are a sculptural insertion which very much literally reflect the immediate surrounds in the glazed façade.

<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/fkmed_1145_5592.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Parque has been designed to be responsive in form and material to its landscaped context, says FK Director Nicky Drobis. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="578" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fkmed_1145_5592.jpg?itok=IICZl_o4" title="Parque has been designed to be responsive in form and material to its landscaped context, says FK Director Nicky Drobis. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Parque has been designed to be responsive in form and material to its landscaped context, says FK Director Nicky Drobis. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>UM: They say the ultimate test of any development is whether or not the developer or architect lives there. Are any members of the project team also residents in the development?

ND: There are indeed numerous members from the Development, Architectural and Construction team that own homes and live in Parque. The purchaser demand for the apartments was very strong and we never got to use the purpose built marketing suite to its full effect as the development sold out so quickly!

UM: SP Setia is obviously very happy with the finished product as FK has also been engaged to design 308 Exhibition Street. Can you tell us a bit about the working relationship with SP Setia?

ND: Our relationship with SP Setia has been an enriching and successful one. The Setia team bring with them a long history of quality developments centred in Malaysia that reaches globally, so there is the wisdom that comes with that.

They have astute local leadership supported by a strong team that work very cohesively. A fantastic part of our experience has been to learn from and enjoy SP Setia’s business culture which is embracing and supportive.

Close relationships across the entire consultant team and industry can be fostered in this environment.
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FK's Nicky Drobis on Parque's design credentials

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SP Setia's golden touch looks to have taken a literal turn as the developer prepares to launch UNO Melbourne.

111 A'Beckett Street will be home to the mixed-use tower, after SP Setia concluded a deal to purchase the site from Singaporean developer Tong Eng for $61 million mid this year. The project is appearing across a number of websites in an all gold finish, differing from the approved version which was to have utilised a tinted performance glazing system resulting in a multicoloured facade.

Urban.com.au was <a href="/news/tong-eng-groups-dazzling-210-metre-entry-into-the-australian-market">first to bring the Elenberg Fraser-designed tower to light</a> during 2015. 

UNO Melbourne is set to join no less than six major skyscrapers designed by Elenberg Fraser in the immediate vicinity. Adjoining SP Setia's pending A'Beckett Street tower is EQ.Tower; at 63 levels it is another Elenberg Fraser product.

<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/image14uno.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="UNO Melbourne will see a mixed-use outcome. Image: Yeeyi"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14uno.jpg?itok=Na8dPckZ" title="UNO Melbourne will see a mixed-use outcome. Image: Yeeyi" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>UNO Melbourne will see a mixed-use outcome. Image: Platinum Realty Investment Group</figcaption></figure>The tower will span 210 metres in height and consist of approximately 60,000sqm of floor area. SP Setia's purchase of the site with a permit which was granted prior to reworked planning controls has allowed for UNO Melbourne to maintain a roughly 35:1 plot ratio, far above the preferred current 24:1 ratio.

Apartments aside, the image above suggests that SP Setia have chosen to include a hotel across the tower's lower levels.

<a href="/buildings/uno-melbourne-117-abeckett-street-melbourne">UNO Melbourne</a> will rise behind the retained facade of the Commonwealth Motors building, which is finished in an Art Deco-style. As shown above, the lower sections of the tower are likely to include amenities such as a hotel club, conference facilities and a childcare centre.

Traditional apartments take over thereafter, bisected by a level 40 sky lounge and capped by a level 64 wellness centre.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image17_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Indicative finishes within the tower. Image: Raeon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="518" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17_17.jpg?itok=gLGbONRP" title="Indicative finishes within the tower. Image: Raeon" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Indicative finishes within the tower. Image: Raeon</figcaption></figure>The sky lounge is set to include a library, music room, games room, cinema and dining area. UNO Wellness as it has been dubbed on level 64 includes a heated pool, sauna, steam room, yoga studio and gym.

Apartments with UNO Melbourne as shown on early advertising material would include one, two and three bedroom options, with study add-ons also available. Apartments are expected to range in size between 51sqm and 111sqm.

SP Setia have an operational website for UNO Melbourne and according to online platforms the project has an expected completion date of late 2021.

<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/image18_20.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A view to Melbourne's north. Image: Raeon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="360" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_20.jpg?itok=T-9HDje5" title="A view to Melbourne's north. Image: Raeon" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A view to Melbourne's north. Image: Raeon</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

SP Setia closes in on Melbourne's next major tower release

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The appeal of being located in close proximity to the World Heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens continues to be a major selling point for developers, with a handful seeking to take advantage of the views afforded by the northern location.

Developer SP Setia has recently experienced this appeal first hand, with their Sapphire by the Gardens development passing the 80 per cent sold mark. The remaining 20 per cent of apartments will be marketed during two exclusive events in Sydney and Melbourne in coming weeks.

<div>
<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/sbtg_interior_render_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sapphire By The Gardens apartment interior. Image: SP Setia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="302" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sbtg_interior_render_3.jpg?itok=4RN28wU4" title="Sapphire By The Gardens apartment interior. Image: SP Setia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sapphire By The Gardens apartment interior. Image: SP Setia</figcaption></figure>
</div>

<ul></ul>
<blockquote>
A small number of the remaining apartments overlook the iconic, UNESCO world heritage listed, Royal Exhibition Building and its surrounding Carlton Gardens. These apartments will boast some of the most impressive views in Melbourne, as will the limited remaining apartments overlooking Melbourne’s CBD.

Sapphire By The Gardens has been carefully designed to the highest architectural standards and we are excited to watch this development evolve and settle into this iconic location.

- Mr Choong Ka Wai, CEO of SP Setia Melbourne
</blockquote>

<div>
The first tower, Sapphire By The Gardens will accommodate 345 residential apartments and residents will be able to access a range of amenities, including spa and sauna facilities, gymnasium and yoga area, infinity-edged pool and residents dining lounge just to name a few.

A second tower connected to the first by a sky-bridge will deliver 500 suites as part of Melbourne’s first Shangri-La branded hotel that s is scheduled for completion - along with the rest of the development - during 2021. 
</div>

Not too far away a number of other developments are at various stages of their respective development lifecycles, with UEM Sunrise's Conservatory the most advanced in terms of progress. Under the lead of head contractor Hickory, construction of the COX Architecture-designed 37-storey apartment tower is racing skyward at a feverish pace.

Conservatory will at completion add 473 dwellings, designed around views towards the Carlton Gardens. The main entry lobby is flanked by a new north-south retail laneway with tenancies located within a series of pods designed to activate the streetscape.

<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/conservatory_hickory.png" rel="gallery-all" title="UEM Sunrise's Conservatory apartments are rising opposite the Carlton Gardens."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="579" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/conservatory_hickory.png?itok=cmM4W7pG" title="UEM Sunrise's Conservatory apartments are rising opposite the Carlton Gardens." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>UEM Sunrise's Conservatory apartments are rising opposite the Carlton Gardens.</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The sculptural tower form has been configured to maximise the number of units that have the best views to Carlton Gardens, unencumbered views to the north, as well as view corridors through existing and approved developments to the south.

The curved form of the building maximising the facade area to allow the greatest amount of glazed frontage, allowing optimal natural light penetration to more unit areas while the environmental fins modulate solar penetration. The top of the tower incorporates an environmental crown housing PV cells and water harvesting measures, creating a dynamic highlight to the form to transition from the mass and bulk of the adjacent tower down to the smaller scale of the tower to the east and the gardens below. 

- COX Architecture
</blockquote>

Conservatory is expected to be completed late next year, while another project directly opposite was recently submitted for planning consideration. Should it be granted approval 23-29 Victoria Street will accommodate 90 apartments within a 25-storey building located on a 894sqm wedge-shaped site with two street frontages, currently occupied by a service station.

Similar to Sapphire by the Gardens and Conservatory, the Woods Bagot designed scheme for Perri Projects has drawn on its location opposite Carlton Gardens, with apartments oriented to best maximise a northerly aspect.

<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_14_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="23-29 Victoria Street as rendered from Drummond Street. Planning image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_14_0.jpg?itok=WkAiXx32" title="23-29 Victoria Street as rendered from Drummond Street. Planning image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>23-29 Victoria Street as rendered from Drummond Street. Planning image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Lastly the long dormant former Cancer Council headquarters building at 1 Rathdowne Street on the corner with Victoria Street continues to languish with little movement on the key corner site.

The 3,100sqm sold for in excess of $16 million during 2013 to Kingisland Timber Pty Ltd. The owner has yet to progress any plans for the site, despite having received approval in 2015 for the conversion of the existing building, which has been described by Lord Mayor Robert Doyle as one of Melbourne's worst eyesores, into a Indoor (trampoline) Recreation Centre. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1-23_rathdowne_street.png" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Rathdowne Street has approval in place for a Indoor Trampoline Centre. No joke. Image: Latitude Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1-23_rathdowne_street.png?itok=cYj79Afo" title="1 Rathdowne Street has approval in place for a Indoor Trampoline Centre. No joke. Image: Latitude Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1 Rathdowne Street has approval for a Indoor Trampoline Centre. Image: Latitude Developments</figcaption></figure>One suspects it won't be long before the owners either on sell the site or draft up plans for a residential scheme for what is one of the most prominent sites in the northern CBD.
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