Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Spotlight on the database

<html><body>
In recent days the Apartments.com.au Project Database has been subject to a number augmentations, with a healthy number of additions making their way into the database pages. Purely residential entries ticked over 400 during the weekend, with many more due to be entered.

Fresh entries and updated listings - here's a selection of what's new regarding the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

<h2>New apartment releases keep coming</h2>

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image4mixa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" style="font-size: 12px;" title="Image © Preview Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="355" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4mixa.jpg?itok=QPc0Ygml" title="Image © Preview Property" width="580"></a>

<a href="/buildings/the-corner-store-103-dundas-street-preston" target="_blank">The Corner Store</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/mayven-st-georges-56-st-georges-road-northcote">Mayven</a>, <a href="/buildings/1-shamrock-st-abbotsford">Playhouse</a> and <a href="/buildings/this-is-collingwood-60-66-islington-street-collingwood">60 Islington Street</a> together represent roughly 460 new dwellings in the pipeline. Having a working relationship of some description with MAP Architecture and Blue Earth Group, the trio are forging ahead with these developments.

<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/Image6compa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © PDG, Ho Bee Land &amp; Goldfilelds"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="253" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image6compa.jpg?itok=vkiS-tKU" title="Images © PDG, Ho Bee Land &amp; Goldfilelds" width="580"></a>

Elsewhere PDG have launched <a href="/buildings/royal-elizabeth-151-berkeley-street-melbourne" target="_blank">Royal Elizabeth</a> at 151 Berkeley Street Carlton while a new Asian-based developer has entered the local market. Singaporean firm Ho Bee Land quietly purchased a controversial slice of land adjacent to Westfield Doncaster and under the name <a href="/buildings/pearl-1-grosvenor-street-doncaster" target="_blank">Pearl</a>, has launched 1 Grosvenor Street to market.

Finally Goldfields and Maple Living find their <a href="/buildings/the-village-cheltenham-1228-nepean-highway-cheltenham">Village Cheltenham</a> complex entered into the database with apartments due to be released for sale within weeks.

<h2>Freshly approved</h2>

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image8compa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" style="font-size: 12px;" title="Images © Fraher Design 3D, Metaxas &amp; Interlandi Mantesso"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image8compa.jpg?itok=kcbyjST1" title="Images © Fraher Design 3D, Metaxas &amp; Interlandi Mantesso" width="580"></a>

Showing as approved within the database are three medium-sized apartment developments located in Thornbury, Carlton and Hawthorn East, together yielding 179 apartments in total. 688-690 High Street and 18-22 Lilydale Grove have the tick of approval whilst Platanus at 152 Queensberry Street in Carlton is the stand-out design of the three, highlighted by its folded green metal facade.

<h2>Under Assessment</h2>

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image9compa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © Hayball, BG Architects &amp; CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="532" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image9compa.jpg?itok=rB2Kq3q8" title="Images © Hayball, BG Architects &amp; CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

Whilst they may only be three, the above projects still under consideration would yield an accumulated 1008 apartments. Conceived by Hayball, above left sees the first public viewing of MAB's tri-tower proposal for 15-87 Gladstone Street, Fishermans Bend which will be subject to a more detailed article next week.

Elsewhere City of Stonnington are dealing with two separate proposals located within two established apartment zones. BG Architects have designed a dual building complex at 14-18 Porter Street Prahran while CHT Architects have conceived a 15 level apartment complex opposite the Jam Factory at 8-12 Garden Street, South Yarra.

More projects will be added soon.
</body></html>

silvermb

Urban.com.au's Project Database pushes past 400

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It's that time again where Apartments.com.au delves into the project database and shines a spotlight on 5 projects which we think are worth highlighting. Since our previous look into projects currently under planning assessment in July 2013, Apartments.com.au has seen many interesting projects that have come to our attention, particularly from within the <a href="/news/fishermans-bend-to-become-australias-most-densely-populated-area">Fishermans Bend urban renewal zone</a>. Our chosen Top 5 residential projects that are currently under the status of Planning Assessment are as follows. Enjoy!

 

5. 464 Collins Street, Melbourne 

 

Why do we like this? Apartments.com.au highlighted this project in an article in September 2013 under the moniker of the "<a href="/news/the-pencil-skyscraper-464-collins-street-in-depth">Pencil Skyscraper</a>" which is exactly what it is. The render for the tower shows how astonishingly slender it is and with a height of nearly 200 metres, this tower has the potential to be an engineering marvel if built. The sleek, glassy design and the tower's location planted firmly in the legal district of Melbourne's CBD is sign of developer Equiset's aspiration to achieve something special with this building whilst standing out amongst the crowd.

<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/%235%20464%20Collins_BatesSmart%20new.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="464 Collins © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/%235%20464%20Collins_BatesSmart%20new.jpg?itok=yLzhlVCy" title="464 Collins © Bates Smart" typeof="Image"></a>

 

4. <a href="/new-apartments/60-82-johnson-street-south-melbourne">60-82 Johnston Street, South Melbourne (aka Montague)</a>

 

Why do we like this? <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothe Lowman architects</a> have been busy lately putting together some fantastic schemes for a number of proposals dotted around town. This particular project really stood out for Apartments.com.au with its close proximity to South Wharf, Docklands and Port Melbourne within the proposal <a href="/news/fishermans-bend-to-become-australias-most-densely-populated-area">Fishermans Bend urban renewal area</a> of Montague. In light of this, it will be interesting to see if this project does go ahead as it may set a precedent for the area in terms of mass and style. We shall wait and see.

<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/%234%2060-82%20Johnston%20Street%20South%20Melbourne_Rothe%20Lowman.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="60-82 Johnston Street © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/%234%2060-82%20Johnston%20Street%20South%20Melbourne_Rothe%20Lowman.jpg?itok=asWIkZVi" title="60-82 Johnston Street © Rothe Lowman" typeof="Image"></a>

 

3.<a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/projects/melbourne/2-78-bouverie-street-carlton"> </a><a href="/new-apartments/carlton-vic-3053">2-78 Bouverie Street, Carlton </a>

 

Why do we like this? Since the <a href="/news/grocons-cub-site-takes-the-next-step">former CUB brewery site</a> at the northern apex of Swanston Street was first earmarked for redevelopment by Grocon during 2006, many folks on Apartments.com.au have waited eagerly for this site to be redeveloped to provide a QV-esque vibrancy to the area considering the sites prominence and proximity to nearby universities and the Queens Victoria Market. Seven years down the track and progression is gathering pace, particularly with this proposal being submitted in recent times. A fascinating façade along Bouverie Street which appears to mimic a waterfall, this proposal adds visual interest to the area, colour and texture. The more the merrier we say.

<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/%233%202-78%20Bouverie%20Street%20Carlton_Studio%20505.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2-78 Bouverie Street © Studio 505"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/%233%202-78%20Bouverie%20Street%20Carlton_Studio%20505.jpg?itok=vf9wvxA9" title="2-78 Bouverie Street © Studio 505" typeof="Image"></a>

 

2. 193 Buckley Street, Essendon 

 

Why do we like this? Apartments.com.au aims to encourage good architecture and design to help facilitate urban densification across metropolitan Melbourne. This project is a great example of a small to medium sized project which is located in an up and coming urban redevelopment pocket along Buckley Street in Essendon. The hexagonal panels on the street facing façade provides nice visual interest whilst adding to population density close to essential services and amenity in a middle ring suburb. Something that Apartments.com.au will always champion.

<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/%232%20193%20Buckley%20Street%20Essendon_John%20Demos%20Architects.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="193 Buckley Street © John Demos Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/%232%20193%20Buckley%20Street%20Essendon_John%20Demos%20Architects.jpg?itok=0Y8OM7KY" title="193 Buckley Street © John Demos Architects" typeof="Image"></a>

 

1. <a href="/new-apartments/228-238-normanby-road-southbank">228-238 Normanby Street, South Melbourne (aka Montague) </a>

 

Why do we like this? Another proposal situated within the Fishermans Bend urban renewal area, Normanby Street screams all glass and all class. <a href="/news/so-very-melbourne-228-238-normanby-road-south-melbourne">A very Melbourne style</a> which, if built, will stand the test of time and set the bar high for other projects in Fishermans Bend. Height and aesthetics aside, the true success of this project and others like it, will not be a question of how good the glass is but how the podium interacts at street level and whether it works within the Fishermans Bend urban renewal scheme. Time will tell, but one thing is for sure, you will not see many people on Apartments.com.au decry a project which has the potential to add to Melbourne’s already classy skyline.

<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/%231%20228-238%20Normanby%20Street%20South%20Melbourne_Rothe%20Lowman.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="228-238 Normanby Street © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/%231%20228-238%20Normanby%20Street%20South%20Melbourne_Rothe%20Lowman.jpg?itok=dACfw4dZ" title="228-238 Normanby Street © Rothe Lowman" typeof="Image"></a>

 

What do you think?  Did we get it right?  Have your say by Registering or by Logging In to Apartments.com.au.

 
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flame

Urban.com.au's Top 5 Picks: Planning Assessment November 2013

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A stone's throw from the sacred cow that is Camberwell, a subtle yet concerted change has taken effect over both Hawthorn and Hawthorn East. While all three suburbs fall within the city of Boroondara, Camberwell remains staunch in its opposition to any development with the likes of Geoffrey Rush and Barry Humphries leading the charge, with the failed Camberwell Station development firmly in mind. Both Hawthorn and Hawthorn East have in recent years headed down a different path with apartment developments slowly, and now rapidly gaining a foothold.

Five large apartments developments are currently under construction in Hawthorn, they being <a href="/new-apartments/atria-291-burwood-road-hawthorn">Atria Apartments</a>, <a href="http://www.emblemapartments.com/welcome">Emblem Hawthorn</a>, Riva Hawthorn, The Collective and <a href="http://www.sconstruction.com.au/22-wattle-road-hawthorn/">22 Wattle Road</a>. Together these five projects will deliver an impressive 491 apartments into an area well served with Public Transport links, retail and commercial space, Swinburne University and a 119 room hotel run by Asian Pacific Group. Clearly the infrastructure exists for substantial apartment development and developers have come knocking, so in no particular order we will look at what's upcoming for the area.

<h2>Hawthorn Hill - 410-420 Burwood Road, Hawthorn</h2>

Set behind a historic mansion, Hawthorn Hill apartments is the latest project from developer Equiset. Designed by Bates Smart, the nine level building is currently at registrations via the project website. The building will carry 64 apartments and 62 car parking spaces in what will be a high-end apartment building with expansive views owing to its heightened location. A public launch is pending.

<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/EXT4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hawthorn Hill. Image courtesy 360 Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/EXT4.jpg?itok=_9pKZLQE" title="Hawthorn Hill. Image courtesy 360 Property Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Hawthorn Hill. Image courtesy 360 Property Group</figcaption></figure><h2>The Independent - 124-130 Burwood Road, Hawthorn</h2>

The Independent will be the latest offering from ICD Property. Turning to Orbit Architecture once more, the design supersedes a previous scheme and instead will seek to deliver this fetching project. Details are sketchy but the six level project will avail itself soon enough.

<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/Image55652.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Orbit Architecture have conceived The Independent. Image © Orbit Solutions"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image55652.jpg?itok=E9QYeNlI" title="Orbit Architecture have conceived The Independent. Image © Orbit Solutions" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Orbit Architecture have conceived The Independent. Image © Orbit Solutions</figcaption></figure><h2>My Place Hawthorn - 10-12 Albert Street, Hawthorn East</h2>

One of the growing throng of apartment projects within close proximity to Auburn Station, My Place Hawthorn won approval via VCAT last year. A fully functional display suite is onsite yet the project has not launched publicly. The seven level, L-shaped project which also fronts Lilydale Grove has been designed by Carabott Holt Turcinov and will hold 151 apartments according to its planning application. The building will include an expansive courtyard designed by Jack Merlo.

<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/Image7441.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Renders of My Place Hawthorn. Images © Scharp Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image7441.jpg?itok=H6xrcviI" title="Renders of My Place Hawthorn. Images © Scharp Design" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Renders of My Place Hawthorn. Images © Scharp Design</figcaption></figure><h2>Alta Apartments - 456 Barkers Road, Hawthorn East</h2>

With a sales campaign held early last year Alta Apartments seemingly faltered. Quite honestly we don't know too much about this project but a number of online sources say the project will be launching soon - time will tell. Designed by Crosier Scott the project fits in 41 apartments in a project fitting in both scale and design quality.

<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/ALTA1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alta Apartments. Image © Crosier Scott"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/ALTA1_0.jpg?itok=SG2RWsdZ" title="Alta Apartments. Image © Crosier Scott" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Alta Apartments. Image © Crosier Scott</figcaption></figure><h2>Leo Apartments - 18 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East</h2>

70% sold at launch last weekend. Not too shabby at all for the team from Kokoda Property Group who with Artisan Architects have conceived Leo. The project will take its place on the ever popular Camberwell Road where projects up to six levels are/will be the norm. 88 apartments in total meaning roughly 26 still at market as of earlier this week - snap to it!

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image66563.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Going strong at Leo. Image © Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image66563.jpg?itok=lh3QDWNE" title="Going strong at Leo. Image © Artisan Architects" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Going strong at Leo. Image © Artisan Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Hawthorn Black - 5-7 Montrose Street, Hawthorn East</h2>

A product of ITUM Property and BG Architects, Hawthorn Black will contain 55 apartments in an altogether decent looking building. Platinum Construction have been engaged to build the project so a start seems imminent. ITUM's website describes the project as "An economic and eco-friendly building, inflected with a touch of the area's history and an aesthetic affinity to its environment. The apartment complex features Hawthorn Black Brick which pays homage to the visual style of bygone Hawthorn."

<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_6728.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hawthorn Black by ITUM Development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_6728.jpg?itok=87EJzwGl" title="Hawthorn Black by ITUM Development" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Hawthorn Black by ITUM Development</figcaption></figure><h2>Syracuse - 8 Queens Avenue, Hawthorn</h2>

Syracuse Hawthorn has ringed up 60% sales according to the projects website. Slowly but surely the little apartment project that could has moved the majority of its 27 apartments on offer. Apartments still available but this project in a quiet pocket off Burwood Road will move to construction seemingly quite soon.

<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/Image54524.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Syracuse Hawthorn has made steady sales progress. Image courtesy Beller Marketing"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image54524.jpg?itok=YwVMrLGl" title="Syracuse Hawthorn has made steady sales progress. Image courtesy Beller Marketing" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Syracuse Hawthorn has made steady sales progress. Image courtesy Beller Marketing</figcaption></figure><h2>Brilliant Hawthorn - 30-32 Lilydale Grove, Hawthorn East</h2>

66 apartments are up for grabs within Brilliant Hawthorn. A product of Topgan Group and Interlandi Mantesso Architects, the project has gone through the standard channels for construction tender with Hacer, Becon,Construction Engineering, Buildcorp Commercial and Harris HMC jostling to deliver the apartment project. A mix of one and two bedroom apartments are available with an overall sales worth of $45 million plus.

<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/Image8_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Brilliant Hawthorn. Image © brillianthawthorn.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image8_10.jpg?itok=lvQDIScH" title="Brilliant Hawthorn. Image © brillianthawthorn.com.au" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>Brilliant Hawthorn. Image © brillianthawthorn.com.au</figcaption></figure><h2>Solstice Apartments - 138 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East</h2>

The website has yet to divulge much information but Solstice looms as one the area's premier apartment developments with Fender Katsalidis and Benson Property Group teaming up to conceive this 108 apartment project. Visually top notch with a large internal courtyard, Solstice will carry 31 one bedroom apartments and 77 two bed options. Last night (21st August) Marshall White and Australian Finance &amp; Property Solutions Group (AFPS Group) held an information night onsite at 138 Camberwell Road, so a public launch is imminent.

<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/Imagevc9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The curves of Solstice. Images © Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Imagevc9.jpg?itok=2GkOGMU_" title="The curves of Solstice. Images © Fender Katsalidis" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>The curves of Solstice. Images © Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

While the nine above projects are set to add approximately 640 apartments to the area's stock, they also ensure that Hawthorn/Hawthorn East will be home to a number of tower cranes for the foreseeable future. Coupled with the cluster of projects mentioned at the head of the article already under construction and over 1000 new apartments will be added to the area in the short/medium term with a broad choice of designs, layouts and amenity available.

Impressive yes, but in an upcoming article, we will look at a number of planning applications/projects within Hawthorn/Hawthorn East that have yet to make their mark.
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Hawthorn apartment market: the quiet achiever

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A piece today highlighting the march of apartment living into areas you may not expect. Bay Road joins both Sandringham and Cheltenham with Sandringham Station and Southland Shopping Centre notable markers at either end. With an abundance of vacant blocks and dilapidated light industrial structures, Bay Road lends itself to intensive redevelopment given the abundance of nearby services/amenity.

And so a number of apartment projects have begun in recent months, the most notable being Sandy Hill and The Bay located next to one another, spanning 218-228 Bay Road, Sandringham.

<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/Image5621.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sandy Hill &amp; The Bay side by side. Images © respective websites"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5621.jpg?itok=vYRpAQe8" title="Sandy Hill &amp; The Bay side by side. Images © respective websites" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Buxton Constructions website news feed for <a href="/buildings/sandy-hill-penthouse-222-bay-road-sandringham" target="_blank">Sandy Hill</a> reads as follows;

Sandringham's skyline set to change The $50 million stage one of the imposing Sandyhill Apartments in Sandringham comprises 187 of the 495 apartments scheduled to be constructed on the expansive Bay Road site. Rising to eight levels on the south section and six on the north, the complex consists of reinforced concrete post-tensioned slabs, columns and pre-cast panels over a three-level basement incorporating car parking and residents' storage areas. 

Excavated to a depth of almost seven metres, the basement – with a drained sub-slab – descends below the water table, requiring the installation of concrete diaphragm retaining walls below ground level. “When the more than 25,000 cubic-metres of soil has been removed and the retention walls are completed, the two tower cranes required for materials handling will be installed and dominate the local skyline for almost two years,” Buxton project manager Lucas Forsyth said.

<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_5376.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One of two expected tower cranes in action on Sandy Hill Apartments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_5376.jpg?itok=ItgVLWVe" title="One of two expected tower cranes in action on Sandy Hill Apartments" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Next door, <a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/projects/bayside/the-bay-sandringham-218-bay-road-sandringham" target="_blank">The Bay</a> with 112 apartments is also under construction, with Ione Property's description reading as follows

The bay is a unique apartment building built in the hub of Bay St Sandringham, located within a recently remodelled district surrounded by new office buildings. Only 500m to Bluff Rd Medical Centre, 3km to Linacre Private Hospital, 1.2km to Sandringham Memorial Hospital and 100m from Sandringham East Primary &amp; Sandringham College. Shops 1.5km to Bay Rd Shops and Cafes, 2.7km to Southland Shopping Centre and Transport 2km to Sandringham Station.

<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_5270_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Bay under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_5270_0.jpg?itok=Rx8pxJiA" title="The Bay under construction" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

These two developments combined will yield an impressive 607 new apartments for the area, yet they may be a precursor to what Places Victoria has in store. Currently holding a site at 329 Bay Road Cheltenham, sized at 15,000sqm, the Government agency is also negotiating with the Commonwealth Government to <a href="http://www.theweeklyreviewbayside.com.au/story/1387475/bayside-council-battles-to-retain-control-over-highett-csrio-site-redevelopment/" target="_blank">purchase the CSIRO site</a> adjoining 329 Bay Road. At 90,000sqm the CSIRO site is mind-boggling, these two sites combined would deliver a development site of 105,000sqm !

329 Bay Road alone is now subject to an initial Places Victoria proposal, with apartment buildings up to eight levels included amongst the sites mixed uses. Should the CSIRO site fall under the auspices of Places Victoria, Bay Road will definitely be an apartment hotspot of the future.

 

 
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Hotspots - All the way along the Bay?

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A busy weekend has come and gone with 18 new projects appearing in the database, some of which are highlighted below. We still have a multitude of projects yet to be entered, with some of the new residential tower designs (most of which are at the planning stage) quite outstanding...but they are for another day.

We'll also be rolling out some new features through the database in coming weeks, including making it easier to find projects which are at a Registration and Sales stage. Further the database will be expanded to cover all building over all stages (proposed to completion) and all uses, thereby providing the most complete and up-to-date Melbourne building database there is. This will be yet another long-term project and the new data will be gradually added.

As for the most recent database additions, they cover wider Melbourne with suburbs such as Carnegie, Essendon, Maribyrnong, Nunawading, St Kilda and the CBD scoring additional projects. If nothing else it shows now how entrenched apartment living has become through metropolitan Melbourne.

<a href="/buildings/summus-2-wests-road-maribyrnong" target="_blank">2 Wests Road, Maribyrnong</a> is a new planning application before Maribyrnong City Council. Put forward by Pace Investment Group and designed by Doig Architecture, the scheme covers three buildings with 192 apartments expected. Within close proximity to the approved 19 level, 62 Wests Road complex, this new application enforces the already impressive number of new apartment proposals that have encircled Highpoint Shopping Centre, the areas main draw card.

<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_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2 Wests Road, Maribyrnong. Image © Doig Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image9_0_0.jpg?itok=MmvabbhH" title="2 Wests Road, Maribyrnong. Image © Doig Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<a href="/buildings/200-204-wells-street-south-melbourne">200-204 Wells Street, South Melbourne</a> is an approved residential tower prepared for 15 Park Street Pty Ltd. Taking up a corner location on Wells Street &amp; Park Street, the 22 level complex will hold 261 apartments and 194 car parking bays. It's expected to abutt the proposed <a href="/new-apartments/50-park-street-south-melbourne" target="_blank">50 Park Street</a> apartment complex.

<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/artisanarc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="200-204 Wells Street, South Melbourne. Image © Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/artisanarc.jpg?itok=khCYc-Kr" title="200-204 Wells Street, South Melbourne. Image © Artisan Architects" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

FRD - 2 Morton Avenue, Carnegie is currently at sales. Put forward by high-end developer Fridcorp, the development will contain 40 apartments over 5 levels and is opposite Carnegie Train station. <a href="http://frd.fridcorp.com.au/" target="_blank">See the website</a>.

<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_3_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="FRD - 2 Morton Avenue, Carnegie. Image © Fridcorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_3_0.jpg?itok=SLkVlTaI" title="FRD - 2 Morton Avenue, Carnegie. Image © Fridcorp" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

1048 - 1060 Mt Alexander Road, Essendon has been proposed for some time, and is currently mired in legal proceeding relating to site ownership. At nine levels and containing 101 apartments, it would be Essendon's largest apartment development. Designed by Jackson Clement Burrowes, the design may take its place amongst other buildings on the already established apartment strip.

<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/Image11_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1048-1060 Mt Alexander Road, Essendon. Image © Jackson Clement Burrowes"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_0_0.jpg?itok=IxGM1VtD" title="1048-1060 Mt Alexander Road, Essendon. Image © Jackson Clement Burrowes" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<a href="/buildings/leroy-40-packington-street-st-kilda" target="_blank">Packington Apartments - 44 Packington Street, St Kilda</a> is an intended residential development by fast expanding Melbourne developer Urban Inc. Highlighted on their <a href="http://www.urbaninc.com.au/places/packington-street" target="_blank">website</a>, the six level project expects to house 83 apartments, and is close by to a number of large residential projects about to commence their sales campaign.

<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/56_19-04-2013_1403.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Packington Apartments - 44 Packington Street, St Kilda. Image © Urban Inc"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/56_19-04-2013_1403.jpg?itok=pHC9297O" title="Packington Apartments - 44 Packington Street, St Kilda. Image © Urban Inc" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

These projects are but a few of what can be expected in the near future. Stay tuned as UrbanMelbourne.info brings into focus a number of visually exceptional apartment developments in coming weeks, starting with the redesigned Queensbridge Tower proposal later this week, a Bates Smart classic in the making!
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Alastair Taylor

New projects in the Urban.com.au database

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On a monthly basis a Apartments.com.au will publish our Top 5 picks of buildings Under Construction, Proposed.  To start us off, we are publishing our Top 5 projects which are currently under construction in our city for June, and counting down from number 5, here they are!

Tip: open the project database link and forum link in a new window to view the renders for each project.

 

5. Tip Top, East Brunswick

Why do we like it? Lygon Street in East Brunswick has been identified by Apartments.com.au as an urban development <a href="/news/hotspots-lygon-street-east-brunswick">hotspot</a>.  The Tip Top project, currently under construction on the former Tip Top bakery factory site will add a significant amount of new residents to Lygon Street.  With very high frequency tram routes into and out of the city and multiple cross-town bus routes, Tip Top will have some of the best public transport access outside the inner city.  A strong restaurant and cafe scene, bars such as <a href="http://www.eydies.com.au/" target="_blank">Eydies</a>, <a href="http://www.atticusfinch.com.au/" target="_blank">Atticus Finch</a> and <a href="http://www.thealehouseproject.com.au/" target="_blank">The Alehouse Project</a> (Northsiders don't have to travel to the Southside for good beer anymore!) - Tip Top is going to have access to all of it, most of which within a 100m walk.

<div>
<a href="/buildings/tip-top-brunswick-170-edward-street-brunswick-east">Project database</a> and <a href="/news">Forum thread</a>
</div>

<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/number%205_%20tip%20top.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Tip Top apartments on the way up."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/number%205_%20tip%20top.jpg?itok=TUCPIGPx" title="Tip Top apartments on the way up." typeof="Image"></a>

 

4. Swanston Square, Carlton

Why do we like it? Swanston Square is being built on arguably one of the most important redevelopment sites in Melbourne. Located at the former CUB brewery site on the corner of Swanston Street &amp; Victoria Parade peering directly down Swanston Street to the Shrine of Remembrance, the developers and architects were entrusted to create an iconic building. Once complete, Swanston Square will boast a distinctive facade depicting the face of the aboriginal elder from the Wurundjeri tribe, William Barak.  The stretch of Swanston Street between La Trobe and Victoria Streets is no stranger to bold architectural statements and Swanston Square will enrich the precinct even more.

<a href="/buildings/swanston-square-551-swanston-street-carlton">Project database</a> and <a href="/news">Forum thread</a>

<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/Number%204_swanston%20sq.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Early construction progress at Swanston Square "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Number%204_swanston%20sq.jpg?itok=QedtoI0G" title="Early construction progress at Swanston Square " typeof="Image"></a>

 

3. Prima Pearl, Southbank

Why do we like it? Besides the fact it will stand 254 metres once completed and that it is the tallest tower under construction in Australia at present, Prima Pearl apartments are being constructed in an area of Southbank which will soon boast even more 200m+ towers.  Even at an early stage of construction, the quality of the glass and the form of this building will ensure that it will really stand out amongst the crowd in years to come.   

<a href="/buildings/prima-tower-31-queensbridge-street-southbank">Project database</a> and <a href="/news">Forum thread</a>

<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/Number%203_prima.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Prima Pearl under construction."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Number%203_prima.jpg?itok=NH4g6bWg" title="Prima Pearl under construction." typeof="Image"></a>

 

2. The Commons, Brunswick

Why do we like it? In terms of sustainable living in Melbourne or anywhere in the world for that matter, this building certainly pushes the boundaries, and we <a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/development/2013/04/01/is-this-melbournes-best-new-residential-development#content">love</a> it! The Commons sits in a current hot bed of <a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/development/2013/05/14/anstey-in-development">development</a> and is being developed by Small Giants who have incorporated the expertise of Breathe Architects to produce a building with an incredible 8 star energy rating! Great effort! 

<a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">Project database</a> and <a href="/news">Forum thread</a>

<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/number%202_the%20commons.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Commons and a new horizon."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/number%202_the%20commons.jpg?itok=odrYJ6eW" title="The Commons and a new horizon." typeof="Image"></a>

 

1. The Quays, Docklands

Why do we like it?  Well.... what's not to like about The Quays. The developer, MAB Corporation and architects McBride Charles Ryan started with a tricky site to work with, but they have managed to deliver an astonishing pair of towers and podium that complement the site effortlessly for today and into the future. The flowing podium &amp; tower form builds on the Conder's curves and provides a nice contrast with the existing block-centric towers of the original NewQuay towers to the West.  We will never get sick of MCR's use of purple! Our Number 1.

<a href="/buildings/the-quays-231-harbour-esplanade-docklands">Project database</a> and <a href="/news">Forum thread</a>

<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/number%201_the%20quays.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Quays, almost completed."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/number%201_the%20quays.jpg?itok=bWHcA6Hd" title="The Quays, almost completed." typeof="Image"></a>

 

What do you think of our Top 5? Did we get it right, or are we horribly wrong? Tell us what your Top 5 residential projects under construction are at the moment by using our <a href="/developments">Project Database</a> as a reference.
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Urban.com.au's Top 5 Picks: Under Construction June 2013

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If I were to simply mention Lygon Street, most would automatically assume I was talking about Little Italia in Carlton. Approximately 2km North of the cafés, pizzerias and gelato shoppes of Carlton, Lygon Street, East Brunswick has turned into a nightlife and development hotspot. Truth be known Lygon Street is the border of Brunswick and East Brunswick however many of the locals simply refer to both sides of the street as East Brunswick, much like Smith Street is the border between Fitzroy and Collingwood and "Smith St Collingwood" is the generally accepted locale reference, 

The 1.2 km stretch of Lygon Street intersecting with Brunswick Road to the south and Albion Street to the north is a hotbed of bars &amp; pubs, wholesale outlets, restaurants, brothels, unique retailers, derelict buildings, some remnant light industry - you name it, it's got it. Of particular interest to the myself and other UM staff members are the breweries and craft beer venues that have recently flourished, yet the area is also seeing substantial interest from developers keen to leverage off this neighbourhood's appeal and as UrbanMelbourne does, we've tracked all major projects from proposal through to construction.

UrbanMelbourne earlier this year touched upon the <a href="/news/transforming-australian-cities-a-must-read" target="_blank">Transforming Australian Cities</a> strategy that aims to focus higher-density development along existing public transport corridors and the strategy maintains new development should be low to mid-rise.  Blessed with 2 tram routes running on the one track - the #1 and #8 - Lygon Street sees very high frequency of service between Moreland Road (further north) to  Swanston Street where the two lines merge with others tram services at Melbourne University.  Throw in a healthy mix of cross-town bus routes on key East-West arterials, <a href="/news/bus-routes-which-need-improvement-the-506" target="_blank">although many of the individual bus routes could be improved</a>, an existing &amp; thriving retail sector and you have a recipe which can sustain a higher residential and working population.

As the gallery (page bottom) shows, many recent builds and new apartments are forming a street wall approximately 3-4 levels high, with setbacks forming small-scale towers beyond - this is important as it demonstrates we can build more density into existing areas whilst maintaining streetscape sun penetration.

To date Lygon Street has mainly attracted residential development, but one wonders if this will always remain the case given the excellent connectivity and general appeal of the area.  Below is a list of the projects UrbanMelbourne is monitoring and no doubt there'll be many more to come over the years.

<a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">Upper Lygon - 457-459 Lygon Street.</a>

Under Construction

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/Building%20Exterior%20-%20Low%20Res.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 487px;">

 

<a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/projects/moreland/kale-apartments-455-lygon-st-brunswick#content" target="_blank">Kale Apartments - 455 Lygon Street.</a>

Registration &amp; Sales

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/2010294544_1_FS.JPG" style="width: 710px; height: 600px;">

 

<a href="/buildings/stratus-360-lygon-street-brunswick-east" target="_blank">Stratus - 360 Lygon Street.</a>

Under construction

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/00-RENDER001-Exterior_Crn-Victoria-Lygon_001.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 611px;">

 

The East - 280 Lygon Street.

Registration &amp; Sales

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/front%20facade%20web.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 449px;">

 

<a href="/buildings/joulia-200-lygon-street-brunswick-east" target="_blank">Joulia - 200 Lygon Street</a>

Under Construction

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/22_F1002064C_119.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 473px;">

 

<a href="/buildings/tip-top-brunswick-170-edward-street-brunswick-east" target="_blank">Tip Top - 170 Edward Street</a>

Under Construction

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/image-tools.php__3.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 473px;">

 

<a href="/buildings/seamstress-11-13-lygon-street-brunswick-east">11-13 Lygon Street</a>

Approved

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/Lygon_03_4ea5eff92f20f.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 395px;">

 

<a href="/buildings/8-lygon-street-brunswick-east" target="_blank">6-20 Lygon Street</a>

Approved

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/residential-multi-2_src_3_0.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 459px;">

 

Below is a gallery of some recent construction images taken by UrbanMelbourne.info staff on Lygon Street, East Brunswick
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Hotspots: Lygon Street, East Brunswick

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Consider Wilson Street, South Yarra a snapshot of Melbourne at large. For so long a light commercial area typified by a multitude of single level factories, Wilson Street like Melbourne all over has seen an ever increasing number of residential projects take root as developers ride the increasing popularity of apartment living. There are now five apartment buildings at different stages of the development cycle along Wilson Street.

As old factories disappear, medium rise apartment buildings take their place in what seems to be South Yarra's back blocks of strength. Nearby Garden Street and Simmons Street are also subject to mid-rise proposals. While this pocket may not have the size and glitz of a Forest Hill precinct address nearby, they're equally well if not better positioned in accessing Chapel Street's many offerings.

Pure, Kudos, WLSN and Mode shown below will together yield 111 new apartments and conceivably 200+ new residents to the area.

<a href="/buildings/pure-apartments-42-wilson-street-south-yarra" target="_blank">Pure Apartments - 42 Wilson Street</a>. Registration &amp; Sales

<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/Image1_16_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pure Apartments - 42 Wilson Street, South Yarra. Image © pureapartments.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_16_0.jpg?itok=1VwEgdrG" title="Pure Apartments - 42 Wilson Street, South Yarra. Image © pureapartments.com.au" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<a href="/new-apartments/kudos-26-wilson-st-south-yarra">Kudos - 26 Wilson Street</a>. Registration &amp; Sales

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image10_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kudos - 26 Wilson St, South Yarra. Image courtesy moneychoice.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image10_0_0.jpg?itok=9WZTSAtF" title="Kudos - 26 Wilson St, South Yarra. Image courtesy moneychoice.com" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<a href="/buildings/the-wlsn-7-wilson-street-south-yarra" target="_blank">WLSN Apartments - 7 Wilson Street</a>. Under construction

<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_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The WLSN - 7 Wilson St, South Yarra. Image © thewlsn.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image9_4.jpg?itok=PGp1Xxe9" title="The WLSN - 7 Wilson St, South Yarra. Image © thewlsn.com.au" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<a href="/buildings/mode-25-wilson-street-south-yarra" target="_blank">Mode Apartments - 25 Wilson Street</a>. Under construction

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mode - 25 Wilson St, South Yarra. Image courtesy Proalliance"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/1_1.jpg?itok=mpHeKnlF" title="Mode - 25 Wilson St, South Yarra. Image courtesy Proalliance" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Add to these the latest and largest development nearing the starters gun with images below depicting 31-43 Wilson Street. Abutting Mode Apartments the site is currently under control of Valeo Construction and under demolition. Details are limited but images via Fraher Design 3D show a large nine level apartment complex with active street frontage to Wilson Street. Underground carpark access is seemingly via Garden Lane to the rear of the building while a north-south passage and lobby is also visible. Looking remarkably similar to A Place To Live apartments on Burnley Street, Richmond one could make the assumption that SJB Architects may well be responsible for the design.

Projects such as those above certainly don't garner the media attention (or hysterical response for that matter) of the high rises through Melbourne's CBD and Southbank, yet are no less important to the overall apartment stock. What is happening in Wilson Street is happening Melbourne over, the rapid increase in mid-rise apartment buildings during the past few years has been impressive, and shows no sign of abating.
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The Wilson Street microcosm

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As a follow-up piece to my recent <a href="/news/anstey-in-colour" target="_blank">Anstey in Colour</a> piece, today we'll dissect the growing number of apartment buildings surrounding Anstey Station and the subsequent change in the area's urban character. Below the reader will find more questions than answers, designed to provoke thought more than anything else.

Firstly though a brief outline of the area's recent and ongoing renewal into an apartment enclave.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="375" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com.au/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=211205020527797360410.0004dc970867eec7df460&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=-37.762437,144.961295&amp;spn=0.005937,0.00912&amp;z=16&amp;output=embed" width="100%"></iframe> View <a href="https://maps.google.com.au/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=211205020527797360410.0004dc970867eec7df460&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=-37.762437,144.961295&amp;spn=0.005937,0.00912&amp;z=16&amp;source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">Anstey in Development</a> in a larger map

Completed (Yellow)                                         Under construction (Red)                                            At sales (Green)

20 Breese Street - Anstey Square                 <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">7 Florence Street - The Commons </a>                            <a href="/buildings/the-wilkinson-33-breese-street-brunswick" target="_blank">33 Breese Street - The Wilkinson</a>

10-12 Breese Street                                        <a href="/buildings/geox-37-breese-street-brunswick" target="_blank">37 Breese Street - Geox Apartments</a>                          <a href="/buildings/host-of-brunswick-8-hope-street-brunswick" target="_blank">10-14 Hope Street - Shimalli</a>

32 Breese Street                                              <a href="/buildings/westside-4-west-street-brunswick" target="_blank">4 west street - Westside Apartments</a>

28 Breese Street                                              8 Hope Street                                                                  Impending development (Purple)

3 Florence Street                                                                                                                                         26 Breese Street

208 Albion street                                                                                                                                         16 Hope Street

Revisiting Anstey in Colour, I noted that light industrial inner city areas such as Anstey are ripe for higher density apartment living. Sandwiched between Sydney Road and the Upfield rail line in an already highly desirable area to live, Anstey is dominated by single level factories and presents a golden opportunity to implement a sustainable higher density outcome while still being sympathetic to the area's urban character.

Currently the area has a very much unscripted feel about it. Florence and Breese Street below typifies the contrast of older dwellings heavy with charm and newer, albeit far more sterile apartment complexes. Given these new developments carry little of no retail offering and seemingly shun street activity, the average passer-by is left with little to no stimulus.

<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_7873.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The contrast of Florence Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_7873.jpg?itok=frgq0Wqm" title="The contrast of Florence Street" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

The under construction Westside Apartments (below Left) is very much symptomatic of the new wave of apartment developments in the area. A small block leads to full site utilisation with little room for other features or meaningful street activation. Aesthetically OK when viewed in isolation, the issue arises when multiple versions of developments such as Westside meet wall to wall and maintain the same lack of street level acknowledgement.

Enter the current eastern side of Breese Street (below right). The sum of the whole seems to be a far worse outcome than what each development brings in isolation. No setbacks, narrow footpaths, wide roads (in parts) and no street level activation - is smart urban design present here?

<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_4997_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Westside apartments (left) with Breese Street. Render © westsideapartments.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_4997_1.jpg?itok=2ulvHBUs" title="Westside apartments (left) with Breese Street. Render © westsideapartments.com.au" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

What could have been achieved though with minor changes at minimal expense? The image below shows the Anstey Square redevelopment with 10-12 Breese Street to its right. Simple changes or Council clauses could have been incorporated during the design and approval process to make this a far superior outcome to what was built in recent years.

Given the areas impressive catalogue of street art which will diminish over time as more sites are developed, the precast panels for instance facing Breese Street would have represented a perfect opportunity to allocate each panel to an artist for a tasteful mural, possibly recognising the site or the immediate area's history. This would have brought vibrancy and an element of interest to the street scape.

<a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/development/2013/04/01/is-this-melbournes-best-new-residential-development" target="_blank">7 Florence Street</a> aside, the lack of incorporated greenery through these new apartment developments is highly noticeable. Coupled with an already desolate streetscape, these new apartment developments add very little greenery resulting in a somewhat hostile environment at ground level. Creepers over the fence line or vertical gardens heading up the buildings precast concrete elements would have provided immense urban returns for minimal outlay. And what of simple fixed planter boxes along the roof line of these buildings?

<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_4990.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="20 Breese Street / Anstey Square with 10-12 Breese Street to the rear"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_4990.jpg?itok=yUkbQXJ1" title="20 Breese Street / Anstey Square with 10-12 Breese Street to the rear" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Where does City of Moreland stand in this? This area demonstrates rapid-fire development without a cohesive, overarching structure plan. It may well have one, but if it does it's average at best. Herein lies the worth of development structure plans, height limits aside they should seek to enrich the urban character of an area, to make an area better than what is was prior . Is it worth Council imposing a minimal levy per every apartment sold from this point on in order to fund improvement works? Simple and relatively cheap options such as removing every fifth parallel carpark and replacing those spaces with water sensitive raised garden beds doubling as seating allows the built form to be broken up,  increases amenity/shade and a provides place for individuals to congregate and interact.

Ultimately the purpose of this article is to portray the notion that minor changes, even retrospectively can lead to major urban gains. Anstey Station's surrounds still has tremendous scope for development, here's hoping that's matched with an shift in attitudes by developers, architects and council alike.

To that end Laurence will reveal a spectacular Blockhead concept for the redevelopment of Brunswick Market tomorrow. Central to the Anstey area and the primary driver in attracting people traffic through the immediate area, the concept will try to balance commercial realities with heightened environmental, urban and design principles.

 

Further images of Anstey below
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Anstey in Development

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When people say "Lygon Street", many will automatically think of Melbourne's Little Italy, just beyond the CBD and Trades Hall in Carlton.  Indeed many residents of our city don't really associate Lygon Street with Brunswick, let alone are aware of the change that it is rapidly coming to the fore on this inner north urban thoroughfare.

Lygon Street East Brunswick is also rapidly gaining a reputation for being one of Melbourne's craft beer hubs. Temple and Thunder Road breweries are now located and producing either side of the street; The Alehouse Project, Atticus Finch, Eydies, Mr Wilkinson and many other bars in the area place a strong emphasis on sourcing their beer from micro breweries, be they Victorian or interstate.

The same stretch of street is starting to feel like it is urbanising faster than you can order 2 pints of Holgate Temptress @ The Alehouse.   From Brunswick Road in the south to Albion Street in the North, Lygon St East Brunswick is fast becoming the poster-child of appropriate retrofitting of existing urban areas to increase urban density with a genuine focus on Public and non-motorised Transport. 

The Stratus project, located at 360 Lygon Street in Brunswick East, is a perfect example of how the principles in the <a href="/news/transforming-australian-cities-a-must-read" target="_blank">Transforming Australian Cities</a> strategy are more or less being implemented outside the City of Melbourne LGA.

The new development is currently under construction, designed by <a href="http://maparchitecture.com.au" target="_blank">MAP Architecture</a>, developed by <a href="http://www.blueearth.com.au/">Blue Earth Group</a> with interiors by <a href="http://eadesandbergman.com/project/stratus/" target="_blank">Eades &amp; Bergman</a>. 

<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/00-RENDER003-Exterior_Victoria-Look-Down_001_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Fraher Design 3D"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/00-RENDER003-Exterior_Victoria-Look-Down_001_0.jpg?itok=MoAk9bwd" title="Image © Fraher Design 3D" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<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/00-RENDER001-Exterior_Crn-Victoria-Lygon_001_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Fraher Design 3D"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/00-RENDER001-Exterior_Crn-Victoria-Lygon_001_0.jpg?itok=PXQ5UeH8" title="Image © Fraher Design 3D" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>Ticking the Transforming Australian Cities strategy boxes:

<ul>
<li>The building is 7 floors high and therefore is roughly the same height as Lygon Street is wide.  </li>
	<li>The building is higher at the street boundary and is set back further from the street, minimising impact on the residential areas beyond the main thoroughfare</li>
	<li>Strong active frontages on Lygon Street.</li>
	<li>Vehicular access is from the rear of the building.</li>
</ul>
Kudos to MAP for also integrating a stand-out green to both the awning (where many existing buildings generally have ordinary awnings, Stratus does not!) above the Lygon Street footpath and the picture frame-like crown facing Lygon Street.  

Editorial deadline constraints prevented me from contacting Blue Earth for comment in time (I'll try for a follow up in the next week or two), however UrbanMelbourne will endeavour to frequently highlight how the urban small is just as important, if not just as exciting, as the urban tall.  

Based on the sheer volume of projects currently either gearing up or in full swing all around metropolitan Melbourne, which you can all witness for yourselves in our <a href="/developments" target="_blank">Project Map</a>, it is pleasing to see the principles of the <a href="/news/transforming-australian-cities-a-must-read" target="_blank">Transforming Australian Cities</a> strategy are being implemented by the organisations which are key to building Melbourne's urban future. 

 
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