A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

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

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

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

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

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

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

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

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

Spencer Street

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With the first details of Asset1's four-tower residential development appearing in recent weeks and demolition of the former Convention Centre underway, it seems the perfect time to consider some opportunities the site presents. I primarily have stronger pedestrian connections to the Yarra in mind.

The recently submitted planning application for 7-23 Spencer Street sees 1,321 square metres of retail space across two podiums, yet the development is limited in terms of scope and ambition by the well-worn 13-storey Crowne Plaza hotel to the south abutting the Yarra. This is a relic of time gone by where tall built form could meet the edge of the Yarra and no one would bat an eyelid.

While not included in the development plan for the Elenberg Fraser-designed scheme, Crowne Plaza could - through a staged development - be relocated to one of the four towers, allowing for future demolition of the existing structure. This scenario is depicted in the image below, dramatically opening up the river vista with views through to the Yarra's Edge towers beyond.

<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/3-23_spencer_street_edit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mock-up of relocated Crowne Plaza and demolition of existing structure."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/3-23_spencer_street_edit.jpg?itok=dsJJTnku" title="Mock-up of relocated Crowne Plaza and demolition of existing structure." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mock-up of relocated Crowne Plaza and demolition of existing structure.</figcaption></figure>The removal would also allow for the provision of yet another public open space or park, bringing together the various elements along the Yarra's Northbank. Together with Seafarer's Rest and Batman Park, this would provide a green buffer between the glass and steel of the CBD's high-rises and the tranquility of the Yarra.

<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/7-23_spencer_street_aerial.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Indicative aerial showing riverfront park in-lieu."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/7-23_spencer_street_aerial.jpg?itok=wQ8uSuBU" title="Indicative aerial showing riverfront park in-lieu." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Indicative aerial showing riverfront park in-lieu.</figcaption></figure>Such a proposal however, is not without its drawbacks and would pose some issues such as the amount of solar access provided to any form of open space, and would no doubt inform the type of space that could potentially be built there.

Secondly most developers wouldn't really entertain the idea of losing a built asset that provides a steady income for an open space whose control would be transferred to the City of Melbourne, particularly when any development of similar scale and proximity, with the odd exception at Docklands would likely never be supported.

Removing Crowne Plaza is ultimately just a pipe dream, but I think it provides some food for thought. Apartments.com.au will provide an in-depth look at the site's development plan in due course.
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Laurence Dragomir

An unconventional opportunity for 7-23 Spencer Street

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Media circles last week reported that Melbourne CBD's tallest tower (to date) had received planning approval. With news of the revised planning application <a href="/news/the-dawn-of-a-new-age-and-melbournes-new-tallest-building" target="_blank">first broken by Urban.com.au</a> during November last year, recent reporting of approval for 250 Spencer Street relates to the site masterplan. In effect, approval for an overarching development envelope rather than the final design.

Indeed approval has been given for four towers of between 205 and 300 metres in height, although the ultimate design for each has yet to be submitted. What is known is architecture firm Cottee Parker will deliver near on 3,000 apartments and two hotels of some 488 rooms over the four towers.

<a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/new_melbourne_skyscrapers_approved_2FE9rMf2vSkp83L8dLVOYI" target="_blank">As reported</a> in the Australian Financial Review last week, Far East consortium have secured Ritz-Carlton to anchor the premium hotel space, located within the top 15 levels of the tallest, 300 metre tower.

With the final design not yet submitted for approval, a grainy yet excellent indicator was included in developer Far East Consortium's newly published 2014 Annual Report. The hulking towers seen below dwarf neighbouring northern residential developments, and bare a strong resemblance to the <a href="/news">endorsed masterplan concept</a>.

<figure><img alt="" height="572" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/pictures/article-images/image2250s.jpg" title="The expected development? Image sourced via the FEC Annual Report" width="454"><figcaption>The expected development? Image sourced via the FEC Annual Report</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
In June 2013, the Group acquired another piece of land (known as 250 Spencer Street Site), located next to the Upper West Side development with site area of approximately 1.176 hectares. 250 Spencer Street Site is currently with a planning permit for residential development with a total sellable area of approximately 2.2 million sq. ft.

The project is expected to consist of approximately 3,000 residential apartments and will be developed in phases.
<cite>Far East Consortium 2014 Annual Report</cite>
</blockquote>

As outlined within the statement above, Far East Consortium aren't strangers to delivering large-scale projects as directly opposite the company has recently released for sale <a href="/news/the-fifth-605-613-lonsdale-street-melbourne" target="_blank">The Fifth</a>. Its 399 apartments join the 2,207 existing/under construction apartments of Upper West Side for a staggering total of 2,606 dwellings over five towers. All five residential buildings were also conceived by Cottee Parker.

<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_6987.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Piling work along the southern boundary"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6987.jpg?itok=wUdnC0ev" title="Piling work along the southern boundary" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Piling work along the southern boundary</figcaption></figure>Currently 250 Spencer Street resembles a bomb site of sorts as Guilfoyle Demolition reduce The Age's former citadel to little more than dust. While demolition continues, a piling rig has also been plying its trade onsite implying that at the very least Far East Consortium intend to waste no time emulating the success of Upper West Side.
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silvermb

Far East Consortium's massive 250 Spencer Street design unveiled?

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Proponents of a high-rise development located at 371 Spencer Street, West Melbourne will pin their hopes on State Government approval following City of Melbourne once more indicating they will reject the dual tower scheme. Melbourne-based Bennelong Group via subsidiary Bennelong Value Funds Pty Ltd have pushed for approval since early 2012 for the 749 apartment project.

Amended plans put forward earlier in 2014 featuring shortened towers and fewer apartments have failed to curry favour with City of Melbourne, leaving the approval decision in the hands of State planning body DTPLI and Minister Matthew Guy.

<h2>As described by the architect</h2>

<blockquote>
Bruce Henderson Architects’ design response establishes a strong podium base, responsive to the context but modern in its interpretation. This podium supports slender tower forms that respond to the opportunities of the site which include ‘unobstructed’ views in all directions, variation in existing and evolving built form, multiple points of accessibility and good solar exposure.

The design of the towers de-emphasises vertical elements, instead relying on strong horizontal banding via exposed slab edges and smaller scale facade elements set within the horizontal bands. The random arrangement and mixture of facade materials provides a dynamic solution and varies the appearance of the building from surrounding viewpoints.
</blockquote>

<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/371spencer.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The revamped design. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/371spencer.jpg?itok=vT3crVOm" style="height:599px; width:580px" title="The revamped design. Image © Bruce Henderson Architects"></a>

<h2>Major changes from the initial application</h2>

Visually, the amended 371 Spencer Street seen above carries a highly similar facade to the initial design, perhaps with the exception of blue glass over earlier renders which were dominated by grey tones. The podium has been refined with the addition of a high awning and additional glazing addressing the Spencer and Batman intersection.

Both towers have been lowered in height considerably with the western tower subject to seven fewer levels or 30 metres. Floor to floor heights have also been reduced from 3.5 metres to 3.1 metres, bringing the intended apartments down to a more conventional dimension.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:100%">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col"> </th>
			<th scope="col">2012 Plans</th>
			<th scope="col">2014 Plans</th>
			<th scope="col">Comment</th>
		</tr></thead>
<caption>Summary of changes (courtesy City of Melbourne)</caption>
	<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Gross Floor Areas</td>
			<td>85,000 sq m (Approx)</td>
			<td>79,206 sq m</td>
			<td>Floor space removed at the upper levels is in part off-set by increased floor area in the west tower.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Number of residential units</td>
			<td>749 (225 x 1-bed and 524 x 2-bed)</td>
			<td>704</td>
			<td>Reduction of 45 units.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>East Tower</td>
			<td>120m (32 levels) and 107.2m (28 levels)</td>
			<td>104.6m (28 levels) and 95.5m (25 levels)</td>
			<td>Reduction of four levels and three levels.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>West Tower</td>
			<td>152m (41 levels) and 139m (38 levels)</td>
			<td>123.4m (34 levels) and 114.1m (31 levels)</td>
			<td>Reduction of seven levels on both parts.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>West tower setback from Batman Street</td>
			<td>6m</td>
			<td>6m</td>
			<td>No change.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Minimum separation between towers</td>
			<td>13.85m</td>
			<td>11.7m</td>
			<td>The average separation is maintained.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Retail floor area</td>
			<td>235 sq m</td>
			<td>235 sq m</td>
			<td>No change.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Car spaces</td>
			<td>548</td>
			<td>537</td>
			<td>Reduction of 11 spaces.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bicycle spaces</td>
			<td>223</td>
			<td>222</td>
			<td>Reduction of one space.</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Floor to floor</td>
			<td>3.5m</td>
			<td>3.1m</td>
			<td>0.4m reduction.</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>City of Melbourne says</h2>

Taken from the City of Melbourne's report to Future Melbourne Committee, Council's final recommendation that City of Melbourne advise the Minister for Planning that they continues to object to application based on four principal factors:

<ol>
<li>The height and massing of the proposed building is inappropriate having regard to the built form outcomes and decision guidelines of Design and Development Overlay Schedule 33.</li>
	<li>The lack of activation and design of the ground floor frontages particularly at the north-east corner of the building will have an adverse impact on the public realm and is contrary to the policy objectives of Clause 22.17 Urban Design Outside the Capital City Zone and the built form outcomes and decision guidelines of Design and Development Overlay Schedule 33.</li>
	<li>The height and massing of the proposed building will adversely affect the heritage significance of the adjoining heritage buildings (Sands and McDougall Building) and is inconsistent with the built form outcomes and decision guidelines of Design and Development Overlay Schedule 33.</li>
	<li>The proposed building is expected to generate additional vehicle movements which will have a detrimental impact on the Batman Street, Spencer Street and Franklin Place.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Comment</h2>

This particular pocket of West Melbourne serves to illustrate the gulf between the positions taken by City of Melbourne and the State Government. City of Melbourne have been nothing if not consistent in their disapproval of 371 Spencer Street and surrounding projects that have well and truly breached local built form guidelines.

The State Government on the other hand has earmarked the area is a natural extension of the CBD, with high-rise towers in tow. That there is no consensus between both bodies leads to a bureaucratic back and forth that ultimately will achieve little as State Government maintains final say over any project exceeding 25,000 sq.m in area.

This in turn will encourage developers to super size their proposals to over 25,000 sq.m as evidenced by the recent application at 15-31 Batman Street, with the knowledge that the State Government will be more likely to green light their project. What does this all mean for 371 Spencer Street?

Given the State Government approved 420 Spencer Street diagonally opposite earlier this year at 38 levels and 131 metres, a precedent has been set. I can't see how 371 Spencer Street would gain anything but approval.
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371 Spencer Street finds no favour with City of Melbourne

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Just when you thought you had seen it all, along comes a scheme of epic proportions relative to anything previously seen in Melbourne; it simply leaves you gobsmacked!

Following on from their successful <a href="http://www.upperwestside.com.au/">Upper West Side</a> multi-tower project on the former Lonsdale Street Power Station site, developer <a href="/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> has once again engaged <a href="/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>. The architecture firm has recently lodged an Application for Modification to Master Plan for the 1.2ha site at <a href="/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">250 Spencer Street</a> - directly opposite Upper West Side and formerly home to The Age newspaper. The proposal continues the current trend of tall, slender towers appearing within Melbourne's CBD and Southbank, while simultaneously taking urban density to a whole new level - 2,853 apartments and 488 hotel suites in total.

<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/250%20spencer.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The revised 250 Spencer Street concept. Image © Cottee Parker"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/250%20spencer.jpg?itok=azlFq_U1" title="The revised 250 Spencer Street concept. Image © Cottee Parker"></a>

Cottee Parker have once more employed the podium and tower typology - considered standard practice in the CBD - to create a vertical village comprising 4 residential towers ranging in height from a minimum 205 metres to a maximum of 300 metres, potentially usurping Eureka Tower to become Melbourne's tallest building given that other towers seeking the crown have stumbled. The individual tower envelopes present as a series of extruded irregular floor plates, defined by sculpted crystalline shards at their pinnacles. The two tallest towers are located to Spencer Street with the 295-300 metre Tower 1 occupying the prominent corner with Lonsdale Street.

Previously held by <a href="/developers/ispt" target="_blank">ISPT Super Property</a> who in turn gained planning approval for a <a href="/architects/bates-smart" target="_blank">Bates Smart</a> designed, six tower master plan, it emerged mid year that 250 Spencer Street had been sold to Far East Consortium.

<h2>Master plan changes</h2>

Changes to ISPT's endorsed master plan are listed in the application and are as follows:

<ul>
<li>A proposal for four towers above a podium. The endorsed scheme has six towers. With four towers there is greater amenity internally with increased setbacks between the towers.</li>
	<li>A proposal for higher towers to maintain a similar density of apartments. Towers range from 62 to 85 storeys. Towers in the endorsed scheme range from 39 to 78 storeys.</li>
	<li>The potential inclusion of two hotels occupying opposite corners of the development.</li>
	<li>Greater activation of the ground plane due to minimal penetration of the building face for vehicular access.</li>
	<li>Additional retail and hotel facilities at Level 1 above ground.</li>
	<li>All loading and delivery facilities are below ground in Basement 1 accessed via a vehicular ramp off Little Lonsdale Street. The endorsed scheme has all servicing at ground level off a service road through the site.</li>
	<li>Inclusion of a central open landscaped spine running north/south through the site. This is principally a pedestrian zone, but part of it is shared with a one way vehicular route for drop-off to hotels and residential buildings. A proposed park area will be integrated into the northern part of the open space with frontage along Little Lonsdale Street. The endorsed scheme does not allow this level of amenity.</li>
	<li>Additional implementation of east/west pedestrian access through the site to enhance activation and connectivity to the north/south spine.</li>
	<li>A reduction of the number of car spaces above grade by providing basement parking. The endorsed scheme has no basements and provides all car spaces above grade. The proposed scheme has 4 levels of basement with the balance of car spaces above grade.</li>
	<li>Greater activation of the podium by providing more apartments to the perimeter face extending to the top of the podium. The endorsed scheme has apartments to level 3 and open (screened) car parking levels beyond.</li>
	<li>The development will be designed and delivered as a wholistic precinct. There is no intention of selling off separate development lots. The endorsed scheme was planned for 6 individual lots to be sold separately.</li>
	<li>Residential traffic is separated from service vehicle traffic with vehicular access consolidated to 2 entrances, one up to podium levels and one down to basements, from Merriman Lane.</li>
	<li>There is active frontage of various uses to all faces at ground.</li>
	<li>There is active frontage to the majority of the podium form from Level 1 to the podium roof top.</li>
	<li>Where podium car-parking levels are proposed these floors are used to help ameliorate wind issues. Car-parking is screened or hidden from street view.</li>
	<li>The proposed scheme has podium heights from 8 to 11 storeys. The endorsed scheme has podium heights from 9 to 10 storeys.</li>
</ul>
Overall the modifications and variations result in positive outcomes for potentially dwellers via fewer but taller towers with greater separation between them (10m setback), allowing increased natural light penetration. Cottee Parker's scheme also provides what should be an exceptional experience to the pedestrian at street level - a huge improvement over the endorsed scheme which offered a fairly mediocre pedestrian experience internally by way of provision of a network of laneways which acted as vehicular thoroughfares, only because it was easier to carve up and sell the site.

Luckily that didn't eventuate and a superior response has been developed. Varied heights suggest that hopefully depending upon the facade strategy employed, the towers will read as individual elements rather than one great wall which is one of Upper West Side's shortcomings.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image2_21.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground floor plane. Image © Cottee Parker"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2_21.jpg?itok=GeX7_W2P" title="Ground floor plane. Image © Cottee Parker"></a>

<h2>Features of the master plan</h2>

<ul>
<li>4 levels of basement parking, with 1816 spaces in total</li>
	<li>The ground floor plane will be activated by foyers for apartment towers, separate foyers for both hotels, retail tenancies and a 1,350 sqm internal plaza featuring a food court</li>
	<li>Active uses to podium frontages in the form of hotel rooms, function areas, apartments, a ball room and retail tenancies.</li>
	<li>Tower 1, corner of Spencer Street &amp; Lonsdale Street : 85-storeys (295-300m) tower featuring a 228 suite, 5-star hotel, hotel facilities and amenities such as bar and restaurant facilities, a spa centre, pool, gymnasium occupying the top 14 floors. A sky lobby check-in tops it all off on level 84 with the balance of floor space dedicated to 750 apartments. There is provision for 465 resident parking spaces and 30 for the hotel.</li>
	<li>Tower 2, corner of Little Lonsdale Street and Spencer Street : 74-storeys (235-240m) - 805 apartments and 500 parking spaces.</li>
	<li>Tower 3, corner of Merriman Lane and Little Lonsdale Street: 62-storeys (205-210m) - a 260 suite, 3-4 star hotel within the podium levels and lower levels of the tower with 520 apartments above and 321 parking spaces overall.</li>
	<li>Tower 4, corner of Lonsdale Street and Merriman Lane: 68-storeys (225-230m) - 778 apartments.</li>
	<li>The widening of Merriman Lane increasing the overall area to 380 sqm.</li>
	<li>A 450 sqm north facing park in addition to the landscaped podium rooftops.</li>
</ul>
<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/Podium%20levels1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium level activity. Image © Cottee Parker"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Podium%20levels1.jpg?itok=yzCrfJ2n" title="Podium level activity. Image © Cottee Parker"></a>

<h2>Brief timeline</h2>

<ul>
<li>
<a href="/developers/ispt">ISPT</a> and JV partner at the time, Perth-based <a href="http://www.axiompl.com.au/">Axiom Properties</a> purchased the site in 2008 for $66.1m. After an invited competition <a href="/architects/hassell-studio">Hassell</a> were engaged to prepare a master plan for the 1.52ha site.</li>
	<li>The development partners then sought approval for a Hassell-designed twin-tower scheme of 52 &amp; 40-storeys respectively, on the eastern most portion, including the retention and adaptive re-use of the Reidy's building with retail spilling out onto Elliot and Merriman Lanes.</li>
	<li>Upon gaining approval the JV partners promptly put the site with Planning Permit on the market before it was snapped up by <a href="/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> for $17m who engaged <a href="/architects/doig-architecture">Doig Architecture</a> to devise a new two tower scheme, the first stage of which is open to registrations</li>
	<li>After 40 years, The Age vacated 250 Spencer Street in October 2009 - relocating to their shiny new digs down the road at Media House, thus releasing the remainder of the site for development. Axiom sells it's share of the site to ISPT.</li>
	<li>ISPT received approval for the <a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a> conceived residential master plan - comprising approximately 3,000 apartments across 6 towers ranging in height from 135-220m - in January 2013 before putting the site up for sale.</li>
	<li>
<a href="/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> snapped up the site mid-year with anticipated settlement in 2014.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Far East Consortium</li>
	<li>Architects: Cottee Parker</li>
	<li>Structural Engineers: Winward Structures</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineer: Cardno</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: Wood &amp; Grieve</li>
	<li>Services, Fire &amp; Lift: Wood &amp; Grieve</li>
	<li>Hydraulics: Hydrautech</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Philip Chun</li>
	<li>Town Planner: Fulcrum Planning</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer: Melconsultants</li>
	<li>Facade Engineer: BG &amp; E Consulting</li>
</ul>
It will be intriguing to see how the mainstream media approaches the revised 250 Spencer Street submission. Will they rail against the towers increased height or will they acknowledge that at face value, Cottee Parker's scheme seems to have numerous public realm benefits over the previously approved master plan while maintaining a similar number of apartments. We can't answer that but one things for sure, you read it on <a href="/">Apartments.com.au</a> first.
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