The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Spec Property

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Three new projects will appear across Melbourne under the guidance of builder ABD Group.

Among them is the firm's tallest build to date, whilst a further two projects will bolster ABD Group's already extensive credentials in the apartment sector. Combined the three secured acquired builds will add in excess of 500 apartments and serviced apartments to the builder's portfolio, just as ABD Group approached the finish line for a number of other builds under its guidance.

LINC Essendon has been awarded to the builder after a lengthy sales campaign. Revel Development Group is behind the project at 13-21 Russell Street, which is opposite Essendon Railway Station.

Expected is a 10 level, Plus Architecture-designed building above three levels of basement car parking. Retail will front Russell Street with 96 apartments to be added above, whilst a rooftop garden will crown the pending build.

ABD Group is nearing the end of another apartment project for Revel Development Group, namely Reflections which is one of the early projects to appear within North Melbourne's Arden-Macaulay precinct.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image5russell.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="LINC Apartments is set to make its mark"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5russell.jpg?itok=zgCLGCNo" title="LINC Apartments is set to make its mark" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>LINC Apartments is set to make its mark</figcaption></figure>Moray Street has also appeared as a new build on ABD Group's website. The substantial project will see another Fender Katsalidis tower realised on Southbank, after initially being submitted for approval during 2015.

Across 18-24 Moray Street, the build will see a new tower rise 38 levels above ground on a modest corner plot of 446sqm. The site was <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/property/southbank-notches-up-another-development-sale-20160909-grcz3a">reportedly</a> purchased by a Hong Kong-based developer for $8.8 million in 2016, at a per square metre rate of $20,000.

Initially approved with 124 apartments, ABD Group describes the project as containing 165 serviced and private apartments above a multi-level car stacker system. 18-24 Moray Street also includes a gym, terrace and option for a pool.

<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/image6moray.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="18-24 Moray Street is Southbank's next tower"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="704" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6moray.jpg?itok=rEfxRvFZ" title="18-24 Moray Street is Southbank's next tower" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>18-24 Moray Street is Southbank's next tower</figcaption></figure>Finally, ABD Group signage is now across a major build in its infancy in West Melbourne. The builder has been charged with the delivery of SPEC Property's latest development dubbed Flagstaff Green at 15-31 Batman Street, West Melbourne.

Flagstaff Green is in addition to ABD Group constructing Trilby which is the developer's other current pursuit consisting of 109 apartments at 466-482 Smith Street, Collingwood.

The West Melbourne project, on the other hand, will see 3 basement levels which will underpin 20 above ground levels, for a net result of 247 new apartments, two office tenancies and one new retail space. Flagstaff Green also includes communal amenities such as a pool, spa, gym and landscaped terrace plus courtyard in a project conceived by Inhabit Design.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_2229.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Works are underway on Flagstaff Green"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_2229.jpg?itok=5L0wLDOO" title="Works are underway on Flagstaff Green" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Works are underway on Flagstaff Green</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Builder ABD Group adds another 500 dwellings to its books

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18 months after securing a prime development site atop Doncaster Hill, <a href="/developers/samma-property-group">SPEC Property</a> is on the verge of receiving approval for their latest residential project within Manningham.

While they have diversified to become a citywide development presence, SPEC Property has been particularly strong within Doncaster in years gone by; Acacia Apartments, Viridian, Canvas Apartments and Madison are among the developer's work in the area to date. 9-11 Williamsons Road also represents a change in tact with <a href="/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a> coming aboard for the project which is poised to add 137 additional apartments to <a href="/buildings/the-point-doncaster-hill-600-doncaster-road-doncaster">Doncaster Hill</a>.

Touted by agent Savills as the area's best development site at the time of sale, SPEC Property took a development concept to Council soon after, with the design process playing out to the point where a notice of decision to grant a permit was recently issued.

While also marking the developer's return to its early stomping ground, 9-11 Williamsons Road further adds to the expanding array of developers across <a href="/new-apartments/doncaster-vic-3108">Doncaster</a> and the secondary yet growing apartment market within <a href="/new-apartments/doncaster-east-vic-3109">Doncaster East</a>.

<h2>9-11 Williamsons Road application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image4_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the proposed development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_9.jpg?itok=wzcWeHyQ" title="Artist's impression of the proposed development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the proposed development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site offered for sale during early 2015</li>
	<li>Current lowrise commercial complex over a 2,662sqm site</li>
	<li>Proposed 12 level building with an overall maximum height of 34.7m</li>
	<li>137 apartments: 15 x 1 bedroom, 106 x 2 bedroom, 16 x 3 bedroom</li>
	<li>7 townhouses to secondary street frontage</li>
	<li>1 retail space: 130sqm to Williamsons Road</li>
	<li>4 basement levels holding 171 vehicles</li>
	<li>Estimated project cost: $38 million</li>
</ul>
With unimpeded CBD views to the west, 9-11 Williamsons Road is configured in a U-shape to allow a maximum number of apartments a <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">CBD</a> view. A Carnarvon Street ground level communal garden links with internal amenities and will account for the void between either wing of the building.

Internally the project sees apartments vary in size from 48sqm to 105sqm, although four larger 3 bedroom penthouses will sit within the 120-132sqm zone. These penthouses are within a visually different design element atop the building and also hold expansive courtyards of up to 94sqm.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image9_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="686 Doncaster Road and 5-7 Williamsons Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="242" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_8.jpg?itok=W5G4mSsi" title="686 Doncaster Road and 5-7 Williamsons Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>686 Doncaster Road and 5-7 Williamsons Road may grace Doncaster Hill soon enough</figcaption></figure>A wider view of apartment projects across Doncaster and Doncaster East sees a healthy sector that for lack of a better term, continues to do what it's been doing for some years now.

13 apartment projects of note are under construction according to the Apartments.com.au Project Database, with <a href="/new-apartments/the-courtyard-832-doncaster-road-doncaster">832 Doncaster Road</a> the next in line; <a href="/builders/may-constructions">May Constructions</a> are the anointed builder. All in all, 900 plus apartments and 224 aged care apartments/beds are at construction across the two suburbs.

If SPEC Property choose to launch 9-11 Williamsons Road in the near term, they will join the like of <a href="/developers/pace-development-group">Pace Development Group</a> and <a href="/developers/jinshan-investment-group-pty-ltd">Jinshan</a> who have released their latest projects for public purchase.

Some hefty projects are also waiting in the wings, with approval for four separate schemes atop Doncaster Hill capable of yielding an additional 893 apartments.
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SPEC Property return to their roots atop Doncaster Hill

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As one the city's in demand new apartment locations, West Melbourne continues to consistently churn out development news.

Last week architecture firm Buchan Group confirmed that its former studio at 133 Rosslyn Street West Melbourne had received planning approval for a new residential complex. Replacing the firm's former office will be a new 9 storey design for developer Starland Pacific Group.

With PDS Group installed as Development and Project Manager, 133 Rosslyn Street will now proceed to apartment sales with construction expected to begin later this year. 165 apartments will be supplemented by 150 basement vehicle spaces.

<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/external1-1aa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Buchan Group's rendered 133 Rosslyn Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="332" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/external1-1aa.jpg?itok=MF2Eie_O" title="Buchan Group's rendered 133 Rosslyn Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Buchan Group's rendered 133 Rosslyn Street</figcaption></figure>Set over a 2,550sqm site, the development plot was sold during 2014 for in excess of $14 million, with CBRE City Sales and Gross Waddell handling the transaction. Buchan Group will still be involved by way of providing ongoing architectural and interior design services for the project.

<blockquote>
Our aim is to create an exciting and cohesive new residential development that brings a positive addition to the emerging architecture of West Melbourne. We are thrilled that the project has received Planning Approval and look forward to its progress.
<cite>Nick Nigro, Principal Head of Delivery, Buchan Group</cite>
</blockquote>

Also last week CBRE City Sales successfully sold a development site located at 137-157 Adderley Street West Melbourne. Subject to a current planning application for an eight level apartment development, the site was secured for $9.4 million by one of five bidders at the onsite auction which was conducted last Friday.

<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/image2wmelb.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Raw 3D's impression of 137-157 Adderley Street, West Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2wmelb.jpg?itok=aKB8H8hG" title="Raw 3D's impression of 137-157 Adderley Street, West Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Raw 3D's impression of 137-157 Adderley Street, West Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Included within the intended project which also maintains a Rosslyn Street frontage are 88 apartments, one cafe space of 120sqm and 72 car parking bays. Whether on not the above Michael Ellis Architects scheme for the site is maintained by the new developer remains to be seen.

Nearby and demolition has begun in earnest on Alpha 14's upcoming residential project at 386 Spencer Street West Melbourne. Bond Quarter will be a 16 storey building maintaining 105 one &amp; two bedroom apartments. Designed by Hayball, the project is currently at construction tender and will follow The Wallace which is Alpha 14's current West Melbourne apartment project at construction.

During March, 50-56 Batman Street West Melbourne landed before Melbourne City Council with a new planning proposal for a residential hotel. Formerly The Arkadia Centre, the property sold for $8.78 million after a campaign held during mid 2015.

At 868sqm the site is close to new builds that over recent years along Batman Street have generally peaked at 15 storeys.

<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/image7wm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Flagstaff Green and Rosslyn Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="208" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7wm.jpg?itok=nfeDnRWF" title="Flagstaff Green and Rosslyn Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Flagstaff Green and Rosslyn Street</figcaption></figure>Two pending projects have also reared of late. SPEC Property's 15-31 Batman Street has appeared online dubbed Flagstaff Green.

The project has undergone a number of design changes over the course of planning with a notable reduction in height also included. Flagstaff Green is SPEC's latest endeavour and follows on from the developer's intention to sell two sites with approved apartment schemes in North Melbourne and South Melbourne.

Last but not least Trennery Property is going with a new preliminary design image for 185 Rosslyn Street. After purchasing the site from Australia Post during 2015, Trennery has replaced an initial RotheLowman planning application with new intentions.

The project is likely to include residential and hotel uses, a medical centre, various retail spaces and substantial residential gardens as seen in the image above.
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West Melbourne's development scene as fluid as ever

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This coming Saturday Inhabit Design's Ariel Lopez, the lead architect on Spec Property's Trilby development in Collingwood is offering the general public the opportunity to 'Ask the Architect', affording prospective purchasers and members of the community alike a platform to interrogate the development's design and apartment living and ask all the pressing and vexing questions about the development.

<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/shot01-hero_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Trilby hero shot. Image courtesy of Spec Property."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shot01-hero_0.jpg?itok=egGU7n0N" title="Trilby hero shot. Image courtesy of Spec Property." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Trilby hero shot. Image courtesy of Spec Property.</figcaption></figure>Trilby, located at 466-482 Smith Street, is a new apartment offering in Collingwood, which seeks to find the balance between old and new Collingwood, through the retention of its distinctive redbrick façade.

In his approach to the site, Ariel Lopez was very aware of the manufacturing and industrial heritage of Collingwood, which is currently undergoing rapid gentrification.

<blockquote>
The industrial brick façade of the building informed the identity of the development. I’m really interested in creating a visual language respectful to the street and the individual experiences of those living in the building.
<cite>Ariel Lopez, Architect, Inhabit Design</cite>
</blockquote>

Making the most of long summer nights, the experience of living at Trilby will be heightened even further on the rooftop with a veritable playground of amenity which will include an outdoor cinema, fully equipped kitchen, library, bar, table tennis table and Teppanyaki grill providing sweeping views to the city skyline and over Clifton Hill.

<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/shot02-aerial.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial view towards the city. Image courtesy of Spec Property."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="269" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shot02-aerial.jpg?itok=Odc3KBkG" title="Aerial view towards the city. Image courtesy of Spec Property." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial view towards the city. Image courtesy of Spec Property.</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au met with Ariel over coffee to hear about his design philosophy and approach to working on Trilby. Ariel noted that the site came with an existing application which council had concerns about the bulk of the building and how it would present to the street.

Receiving guidance from Rob McGauran who prepared an urban design report, the design team immediately set about trying to address the problem of creating a street wall effect which was achieved via reduction of the mass.

The mass was broken down via a 3 tier solution which also included maintaining the existing red brick facade despite it not being heritage listed. Above this, a 'tower' element setback from the podium presents as a strong vertical expression due to the indentations in the building form, articulated with rusted steel panels and timber soffits which create a perception of warmth from both apartment and street.

The development and design team felt that they had covered all of council's major concerns as the development headed to VCAT for consideration. VCAT supported the height believing that there was no negative impact to the street.

Ariel considers the site a unique and curious one. While it isn't a corner site in the true sense of the word it does provide the perception of a corner site due to the relative scale and nature of the neighbouring corner pub, "The Trilby site is the beginning of the precinct, defining the gateway to the southern portion of Smith Street", says Ariel.

The development seeks to respond to the site's industrial context, with the new facade designed to complement and draw on the qualities of the existing red brick facade. As with other developments in the area the site is covered by an inundation overlay which means the ground floor must be raised 1.5m above street level.

In designing a space for a commercial tenancy for the ground floor, Ariel says they have created a buffer zone within the retail space to allow retailers a street presence while addressing the flood level issue, stressing that the ground floor experience was the main focus for the team.

Trilby has also been designed to respond to two different conditions: Smith Street and the laneway to the rear of the site, with each condition requiring a different approach. To Smith Street the provision of loft apartments within the podium activating the street and providing passive surveillance, while the laneway has apartments above the 1.5m flood level, in addition to the car park entry.

Moving to the building's rooftop, working in conjunction with Tract on the landscape design, the design team were able to create an informal playground which doubles as cinema seating through manipulation of the roof plane. The communal rooftop areas have been designed to engage the building's community and create a neighbourhood within.

<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/shot11-outdoor-cinema.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rooftop cinema. Image courtesy of Spec Property."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shot11-outdoor-cinema.jpg?itok=U9XLUGWz" title="Rooftop cinema. Image courtesy of Spec Property." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rooftop cinema. Image courtesy of Spec Property.</figcaption></figure>Trilby offers a diversity of typologies catering for various segments of the market such as the loft apartments which comprise 1 bed + study and 2 bed + study and as a means of maximising space and offering flexibility island benches have been designed with the capacity to double as dining tables.

While the apartments are generally larger and care has gone into the design of the communal areas, the most engaging moments happen on the street, "the amenity is the street. The public realm is where people engage," says Ariel. "I'm a firm believer in contextualism: responding to context in a contemporary manner and also designing for people."

To take the opportunity to meet Ariel Lopez, listen to his reflections on site and his inspiration for Trilby’s design approach, see the event details below.

<dl>
<dt>When:</dt>
	<dd>Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd November 2015, 2pm – 4pm</dd>
	<dt>What:</dt>
	<dd>Ask the Architect</dd>
	<dt>Where:</dt>
	<dd>Trilby Display Suite 410 Smith Street, Collingwood</dd>
</dl>
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Laurence Dragomir

Ask the Architect: Ariel Lopez talks Trilby

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Not another apartment development on <a href="/buildings/e-s-smith-368-374-smith-street-collingwood">Smith Street</a>? Well, no, Trilby is not like any other in certain regards with the team at SPEC Property going to great lengths in order to tailor the development toward the owner-occupier market.

Apartments.com.au visited the display at 410 Smith Street Collingwood in recent days following SPEC Property's latest residential release. The broad-ranging discussion encompassed topics such as the shifting dynamics of the residential sector, successfully designing a project relative to its surrounds and harnessing the target buyer for a development aiming to achieve an 80% owner-occupier buyer rate.

<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/shot01-hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Trilby as envisaged from smith Street. Image courtesy SPEC Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shot01-hero.jpg?itok=XUrZsymn" title="Trilby as envisaged from smith Street. Image courtesy SPEC Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Trilby as envisaged from smith Street. Image courtesy SPEC Property</figcaption></figure>SPEC Property like many local developers has recognised a shift toward smaller scale, non-CBD developments which are more intimate in nature than the sizeable towers within Melbourne's CBD. Shying away from large, investor-grade apartment stock is nothing new to SPEC Property, with a sweep through the Apartments.com.au Project Database showing <a href="/developers/samma-property-group">eight small and medium-scale residential developments</a> currently under the guidance of the Cremorne-based property outfit.

<a href="/buildings/trilby-466-smith-street-collingwood">Trilby Apartments</a> is the latest to join this stable of projects. Upon purchasing the site the developer immediately went about redesigning the initial scheme which was still with Yarra City Council. Chief architect Ariel Lopez of Inhabit Design explained that the previous scheme was not in line with the developers expectations and ethos, thus the decision was made to rework every aspect of the project to better suit its setting.

Consequently Trilby apartments now presents as being more open to Smith Street, and with a softer exterior relative to the previous proposed design. Timber and greenery have been introduced, as has been a revised podium that better integrates with the retained facade.

<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/shot06-loft-apartment.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a loft within Trilby. Image courtesy SPEC Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="313" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shot06-loft-apartment.jpg?itok=f0qzsgkM" title="Artist's impression of a loft within Trilby. Image courtesy SPEC Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a loft within Trilby. Image courtesy SPEC Property</figcaption></figure>Maintaining every aspect of development from design to delivery in-house, SPEC Property have gone with a revamped interior layout in order to create living options that will best suit the target market. The in-house nature of the business allows for, and almost demands that the developer taps into their customer database in order to gain critical feedback on issues of design, livability and the like.

Consequently loft apartments have been introduced throughout the Trilby podium; a direct result of the success of their experience of placing lofts within <a href="/buildings/helio-91-flemington-road-north-melbourne">Helio</a> on Flemington Road.

The sales team have been delighted to date with the volume of foot traffic through the display suite. Quizzed on the catchment area of both prospective and actual purchasers, it's explained that the bulk of traffic to date is from Collingwood and surrounding suburbs, with a skew to areas such as Kew and Hawthorn. Tram 86 which stretches to Bundoora also accounts for a notable amount of display traffic, with a tram stop in close vicinity to the display front door.

Downsizers have also been prevalent in the buyer profile, with the most notable being a couple who have chosen to leave Shepparton behind in favour of a podium loft-style apartment.

In addition to the lofts, terrace apartments are located over level three with the balance of the building's 106 dwellings dedicated toward one and two bedroom apartments; all of which have been given the touch befitting of an apartment set to be owner-occupied. As Ariel Lopez explained, it serves no purpose going to such great design lengths to simply churn out further investor-driven apartment stock.

<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/image55_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A two bedroom interior. Image courtesy SPEC Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="367" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image55_2.jpg?itok=DmBd6IZ1" title="A two bedroom interior. Image courtesy SPEC Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A two bedroom interior. Image courtesy SPEC Property</figcaption></figure>As such the apartments are finished to an exceedingly high level and carry a number of features previously unseen by Apartments.com.au. The surprise within the display are the kitchen kickboards which are actually draws, providing additional storage space.

All apartment finishes carry an industrial edge in their design. Aged bronzed tapware, Smeg appliances and powder-coated steel island benches define the kitchen spaces, with a similar motif throughout the bathrooms. Resembling plywood in appearance, the novel finish to the joinery continues the industrial theme, but with an underlying quality.

Crowning Trilby will be an external rooftop deck incorporating a lounge and kitchen, library, bar, ping pong facilities, playground, outdoor cinema and Teppanyaki grill. Bricks salvaged from the site demolition will be reused throughout the rooftop deck, bringing a lived-in quality to the communal area while avoiding the perception of sterility which tends to define many communal areas of recent residential projects through Melbourne.

In-house builder TriUrban Construction is set to commence construction works on Trilby Apartments.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image56_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Recycled bricks frame the rooftop area. Image courtesy SPEC Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image56_1.jpg?itok=NF_Ey5xE" title="Recycled bricks frame the rooftop area. Image courtesy SPEC Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Recycled bricks frame the rooftop area. Image courtesy SPEC Property</figcaption></figure>
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Trilby Apartments a reflection of its target market

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Samma Group may not be recognised instantaneously as an established Melbourne residential developer, but the Cremorne-based company has a number of subsidiaries under its umbrella which maintain a higher public profile. Chief amongst them is SPEC Property which continues to expand its portfolio of development sites throughout metropolitan Melbourne.

Hand in hand with SPEC sits in-house architecture, planning and design agency Inhabit Design which is responsible for the group's two most recent projects located in Fishermans Bend and Camberwell. Both projects shape as medium term development opportunities for the developer, which currently has a healthy workbook of residential developments.

<h2>51-59 Thistlethwaite Street and 476-486 City Road, 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/image55_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="51-59 Thistlethwaite Street and 476-486 City Road, South Melbourne. Image courtesy Inhabit Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image55_1.jpg?itok=4gyvFQ_4" title="51-59 Thistlethwaite Street and 476-486 City Road, South Melbourne. Image courtesy Inhabit Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>51-59 Thistlethwaite Street and 476-486 City Road, South Melbourne. Image courtesy Inhabit Design</figcaption></figure>Lodged with City of Port Phillip during January 2015, the project has already moved to an appeal setting according to Council's online planning portal. Ranging between 4 and 16 levels, the development seeks the approval of 258 apartments split between one, two and three bedroom options, with retail and commercial tenancies and community facilities included.

As part of the application, Soho dwellings, a 40sqm toy library and a 93sqm tenancy for a start-up business would be present at ground level, while an enhanced public realm would see the creation of a pedestrian/bicycle access lane adjoining the site.

Even though City of Port Phillip failed to decide upon the merits of the application within the prescribed 60 day limit, they have indicated via online documents that they were hesitant to support the proposed development in its current form. Concerns with building height and setbacks, and inconsistencies with the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan Policy and Design Guidelines were cited as major issues.

<h2>Prosper Apartments - 699 Burke Road, Camberwell</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/image80.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="699 Burke Road, Camberwell. Image courtesy Inhabit Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image80.jpg?itok=TNNyrxyp" title="699 Burke Road, Camberwell. Image courtesy Inhabit Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>699 Burke Road, Camberwell. Image courtesy Inhabit Design</figcaption></figure>Across town and 699 Burke Road has been dubbed Prosper Apartments according the SPEC's <a href="http://www.specproperty.com.my/">Malaysian website</a>. Purchased during mid 2014, the 836sqm site which is a stone's throw from Camberwell Junction is now subject to an Inhabit Design scheme seeking a 14 level apartment complex. 23 single bedroom and 42 dual bedroom dwellings constitute the apartment mix, which sit above a first floor dedicated to 635sqm of commercial office space.

Key to the tower's design is inclusion of a sizeable light well which abuts the adjoining Aerial apartment complex. With a depth in excess of 24 metres, the light well will utilise Aerial's boundary wall by transforming it into a heavily landscaped feature wall running upwards from a common outdoor area located on level 2.

The project was subject to a VCAT hearing earlier this month, with the result as yet unknown.

Other projects at planning under SPEC's guidance include <a href="/buildings/flagstaff-green-15-batman-street-west-melbourne">15-31 Batman Street West Melbourne</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/3-15-shiel-street-north-melbourne">3 Shiel Street North Melbourne</a> which if approved would produce approximately 300 dwellings for the developer. Wasting no time post approval via VCAT, the developer is poised to launch Trilby Smith Street at <a href="/buildings/trilby-466-smith-street-collingwood">466-482 Smith Street Collingwood</a>.

The work of Inhabit Design, Trilby is expected to feature 47 single bedroom, 20 single+study, 44 dual bedroom and six three bedroom dwellings over a 1,340sqm site.

<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/image3inhabit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Trilby apartments. Image courtesy Inhabit Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="297" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3inhabit.jpg?itok=iiwv4aRZ" title="Trilby apartments. Image courtesy Inhabit Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Trilby apartments. Image courtesy Inhabit Design</figcaption></figure>Recently Samma Group formed two construction subsidiaries, namely BuildID and TriUrban Construction which undertake construction on behalf of SPEC Property. The two-pronged approach currently sees BuildID constructing <a href="/buildings/the-maybloom-7-riversdale-road-hawthorn">The Maybloom</a> and <a href="/buildings/billy-co-368-burnley-street-richmond">Billy &amp; Co</a> while TriUrban Construction are concerning themselves with the 111-apartment <a href="/buildings/helio-91-flemington-road-north-melbourne">Helio</a> on Flemington Road, which is due for completion come 2016.
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Samma Group increases its residential development portfolio

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PDG Corporation and Spec Property have seized upon the success of their current North Melbourne projects by each proposing separate additional apartment developments within the suburb. Far from the soaring towers of Melbourne's CBD, the proposed developments are comparatively modest, yet point to the underlying strength of North Melbourne as a desired suburb for both developers and buyers seeking to avoid postcode 3000.

Lodged with City of Melbourne in recent weeks, both designs are the result of developer affiliated architecture practices, further bolstering the growing trend amongst well established local developers of internalising the project design process.

<h2>135-139 Arden Street</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/image69_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy Disegno Australia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="508" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image69_2.jpg?itok=fAedpK5O" title="Images courtesy Disegno Australia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images courtesy Disegno Australia</figcaption></figure>Located on a corner site, PDG Corporation's latest project also shares frontage with Abbotsford Street. A creation of Disegno Australia, 135-139 Arden Street seeks to replace a former service station with a four and five level L-shaped apartment building containing 92 dwellings. One, two and three bedroom options are included within the project, as is a communal roof terrace with landscaping and garden plots for residents.

The highly articulated facade sits above two basement levels catering for vehicle and bicycle parking, while the residential lobby faces Abbotsford Street. Applied over the facade will be a a translucent 'tree' graphic which is designed to cast a silhouette shadow onto the developments balconies and apartment interiors, while also providing a degree of privacy to residents.

<blockquote>
The building is architecturally designed to a high standard, will be constructed of high quality materials and will be a positive addition to this highly visible comer. The development provides a high level of internal amenity to all apartments, with adequate on site car parking, generous bicycle parking and communal garden area provided within the development.

It is submitted that the development's height, form and appearance, furthers the strategic objectives for the North and West area of Melbourne and, on the basis of the foregoing considerations, the application is worthy of a planning permit.
<cite>SJB Planning, associated planning report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>3 Shiel Street</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/image72.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Inhabit Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="300" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image72.jpg?itok=6jHaoS84" title="Image courtesy Inhabit Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Inhabit Design</figcaption></figure>Conceived by Inhabit Design, 3 Shiel Street consists of two residential buildings of up to ten levels, with a total of 65 dwellings included. One, two and three bedroom dwellings are included within the proposal.

<blockquote>
The buildings are highly articulated and fenestrated and have been designed to respond to the fall of the land. Providing separate built forms provides for a break through the site and enables a creative landscape architecture design that provides an attractive communal open space.

Materials and finishes are of a high quality and include face brickwork to the Shiel Street facade, interspersed with timber cladding, screen walls, precast concrete and glazing.
<cite>Ratio Consultants, associated planning report</cite>
</blockquote>

3 Shiel Street joins a growing number of planned and approved residential developments on the cusp of the Arden-Macaulay Precinct within North Melbourne which is slated for intensive regeneration. The Shiel Street - Haines Street combination also sees <a href="/new-apartments/reflections-108-haines-street-north-melbourne">104-112 Haines Street</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">1 Shiel Street</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/gardiner-on-the-park-116-haines-street-north-melbourne">114-116 Haines Street</a> present on the Apartments.com.au database.

Together these four projects have the potential to add 270 plus apartments into what was previously a low-rise area.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image68_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Helio with Ryan and Leveson"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="315" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image68_2.jpg?itok=0s7ctwQI" title="Helio with Ryan and Leveson" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Helio with Ryan &amp; Leveson</figcaption></figure>Of both developers current builds, Spec Property's <a href="/buildings/helio-91-flemington-road-north-melbourne">Helio</a> complex fronting Flemington Road has emerged above ground while PDG Corporation's <a href="/buildings/ryan-leveson-68-leveson-street-north-melbourne">Ryan &amp; Leveson</a> is nearing practical completion under the guidance of Hamilton Marino builders.
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PDG Corporation and Spec Property double up in North Melbourne

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Urban.com.au recently spoke with Ariel Lopez, Design Leader at Spec Property Developments. Having a decade of experience in both his native Buenos Aires and Miami, Ariel made the move to Melbourne during 2003 and has progressed to lead the design team within the integrated property group.

And it's the integrated nature of Spec where all aspects of development, from design through to construction are handled in-house, which has allowed the Cremorne-based developer to provide a differentiated product within Helio Apartments fronting Flemington Road, North Melbourne.

Ariel explains that the integrated nature of Spec has allowed market research and buyer feedback to reach the design team promptly, thus shaping what living options and design features were to be included within their forthcoming project. In addition the firm has a network of repeat clients built over their 20 year history which they can draw upon for opinions while monitoring current trends.

<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/mslider_07_-_kitchen_b_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A genuine kitchen forms part of the Helio design ethos"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="234" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mslider_07_-_kitchen_b_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg?itok=zdx7beEL" title="A genuine kitchen forms part of the Helio design ethos" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A genuine kitchen forms part of the Helio design ethos</figcaption></figure>Consequently Ariel Lopez and his team have provided a handful of living options within Helio to appeal to a spectrum of buyers. The rise of Asian-based investors has not gone unnoticed with Spec seeking to offer prospective investors a departure from the norm. Families, young professional and staff from nearby medical facilities are also expected to feature in the sales, with the latter expected to use their apartments as potential 'crash pads.'

So how does this approach to innovative apartment design manifest itself in this instance? Ariel and his team have included within Helio a healthy number of loft-style apartments which they believe will hit a segment of the market as yet underserved, while also delivering spacious dwellings on an otherwise tight site.

Mini and Maxi lofts have been included within Helio in addition to typical apartments. Maxi lofts which are located over the Helio's top levels see dual bedrooms situated above the open plan living quarters and laundry/power rooms below. These aren't surrogate penthouses, rather a case of placing a product in a unique position given that most developments place loft-style apartments at or near street level.

<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/mslider_08_-_bathrooms_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One particular version of a Helio bathroom"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="481" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mslider_08_-_bathrooms_-_spec_property_developments_-_helio_apartments_north_melbourne.jpg?itok=FCadCOF2" title="One particular version of a Helio bathroom" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One particular version of a Helio bathroom</figcaption></figure>In speaking with Ariel it became evident that the initial concept of a malleable design to suit the location and buyer profile was gradually worked down to address the finer details which they believe give Helio its progressive nature. To that end the majority of dwellings will feature a multi/flexible layout where fixtures and fittings are moveable according to the residents desire.

As Ariel stated, "It's about giving those people who buy in Helio maximum living options."

<h2>Comment</h2>

One developer providing a differentiated product in this case does not constitute an industry-wide shift in thinking, nonetheless it's highly encouraging to see a Spec Property offer greater diversity in their latest project.

Helio's renders show that compact, clever design doesn't need to sacrifice quality useable space. Far too often touted 'high-end' apartments come with impracticably small kitchenettes and barely there bathrooms whereas Helio's kitchens in particular are generous in size and practical in nature.

Ultimately with Helio Spec Property have endeavoured to provide the buyer with greater choice and increased design input both pre and post purchase - and you can't fault that.
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