<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/draycon">Draycon Building</a> is nearing completion of Boutique Chevron Island, a 42-apartment development on the northern end of Chevron Island at 17–19 Parneno Street, with a limited-time offer of fully furnished apartments available.

Now more than 90 per cent complete, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/boutique-chevron-island-17-19-parneno-chevron-island-qld-4217">Boutique</a> has been shaped by one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held island addresses, where riverfront outlooks and walkable access to Surfers Paradise converge.

For Draycon Building Managing Director Howard Dabit, the appeal of the site was immediate.

“I knew it was a good site as soon as I saw it,” Dabit said.

“The position and location on the north end of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>, the way the river swirls around the site basically from the north to the east, it feels like the site is surrounded by the water. The height that we’ve got and the aspect looking north is beautiful. Eighty per cent of the apartments are looking north so they get that drenching sunlight coming in.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89709 project_image_fid=360922]

That northern orientation places the development within a stretch of Chevron Island defined by open river aspects and skyline views, while remaining embedded in the suburb’s established village setting.

Chevron Island has increasingly drawn owner-occupiers seeking centrality without the intensity of high-rise beachfront living. Positioned at the geographical centre of the Gold Coast, the island offers direct access to both the beach and key cultural infrastructure while retaining a neighbourhood-scale character.

Connected by bridge to Surfers Paradise, Chevron Island offers walkable access to beaches, riverfront parklands and a revitalised foreshore boulevard animated by walkers and cyclists throughout the day. The Pacific Ocean is only minutes away, reinforcing the suburb’s dual river-and-surf identity.

At the same time, Thomas Drive forms the spine of the island’s village life, delivering cafés, wine bars, casual dining and everyday services within easy reach. Independent grocers, wellness operators and neighbourhood retailers contribute to a community atmosphere that remains distinct from the vertical scale of the beachfront.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89709 project_image_fid=360915]

In the opposite direction, the Green Bridge links directly to HOTA – Home of the Arts – placing galleries, performance venues and parklands within walking distance. Weekly markets and major exhibitions draw visitors from across the region, while residents return to a quieter residential pocket at day’s end.

Public transport, including nearby bus routes and the G:link light rail corridor along the coastal spine, strengthens connectivity north and south. Griffith University, the Gold Coast University Hospital precinct and established private schools such as The Southport School are all within a short drive.

Ongoing investment across Surfers Paradise, HOTA and the broader Southport corridor has elevated amenity while preserving Chevron Island’s comparatively low-rise residential character. It is this balance, walkable village atmosphere paired with metropolitan-scale infrastructure, that continues to differentiate the suburb from higher-density beachfront precincts.

Boutique comprises just 42 residences, designed to maximise river and skyline outlooks within this tightly held island setting.

Boutique Chevron Island is slated for completion in April 2026, with prices starting from $1,220,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=89709]

Joel Robinson

Draycon Building’s Boutique Chevron Island places 42 residences at the heart of the Gold Coast

Sydney developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a> has secured planning approval for a $300 million residential development in Lindfield, marking the company’s second project on Sydney’s North Shore and its first on the Upper North Shore.

Located on Beaconsfield Parade and designed by DKO Architecture, the state significant development comprises three buildings of up to 10 storeys and will include 399 residences, including 59 affordable homes and 40 adaptable homes.

Residences will range in size from one, two and three bedrooms, with two-bedroom apartments accounting for over 60 per cent of the product make-up. Residents will have access to a broad suite of amenities, including a wellness area, indoor and outdoor recreational spaces, a pool, a gym, a community room and a golf simulator.

In line with Deicorp’s long-standing focus on creating transit-oriented communities, the project is located just 260 metres from the Lindfield Train Station, reinforcing its role in delivering well-connected housing close to established infrastructure, retail and local services.

The inclusion of affordable and adaptable housing supports greater diversity within the local market, while the mix of apartment types responds to demand from downsizers, young professionals and families seeking access to the Upper North Shore.

Deicorp Founder Fouad Deiri OAM said the approval represents an important milestone for both the company and the suburb

“This approval allows us to deliver well-designed homes in a location that is already supported by strong transport and community infrastructure," Deiri said.

"Our focus is on creating places that integrate into their surroundings and provide long-term value for residents, and the broader Lindfield community. Being within walking distance of the station ensures this project supports sustainable growth in the right locations."

Across its portfolio, Deicorp currently has 4,703 apartments under construction, playing a leading role in shaping connected, liveable communities across Sydney.

Its expanding portfolio of Metro-linked developments includes Tallawong Village, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kings-bay-village-five-dock-53-75-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">Kings Bay Village</a> in Five Dock, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hyde-metropolitan-sydney-133-141-liverpool-street-sydney-nsw-2000">Hyde Metropolitan</a> in Sydney CBD, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/falcon-alexander-crows-nest-8-alexander-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Falcon &amp; Alexander</a> in Crows Nest and Showground Village, Castle Hill.

Deicorp purchased the Beaconsfield Paradise site last year. Construction is scheduled to commence in Q2 of 2026 and will be completed in 2029.

Deicorp expands portfolio to nearly 5,000 apartments with Lindfield project

In a joint venture with The Trump Organization, Australia developer Altus Property Group has announced plans to bring a Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower to the Gold Coast, marking the first Trump-branded project in Australia.

"Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower, Gold Coast is our first official project in Australia and reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class luxury experiences in iconic locations around the world," Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organization, said.

"This development exemplifies the Trump brand’s dedication to quality, sophistication, and unmatched service, and we are thrilled to bring this vision to the vibrant Gold Coast community."

The 91-storey building, which will become the tallest in Australia at 335 metres, will feature a&nbsp;285-room luxury hotel bearing the trademark Trump logo. It will also include 272 luxury residential apartments, a three-level podium with an exclusive Beach Club, and over 3,400 sqm of premium commercial, retail, and dining space, revitalizing the central Surfers Paradise precinct.

“Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower, Gold Coast will be a truly unique offering in the Australian market, bringing the prestige and allure of a world-class luxury brand,"&nbsp;Altus founder and chief executive David Young said.

"Altus Property Group is proud of its track record in delivering landmark developments across Australia, and our expertise ensures this project will be an outstanding success."

Trump Hotel heads for the Gold Coast to become Australia's tallest building

More than a century after the Corrimal Coke Works first opened in 1912, the industrial landmark that helped shape the suburb is being reinterpreted as a walkable residential neighbourhood, with Stage One of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-works-stage-one-27-railway-street-corrimal-nsw-2518">The Works</a> now underway at 27 Railway Street.

For 102 years, the site was central to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/corrimal-nsw-2518">Corrimal</a>’s economic and social identity before operations ceased in 2014. Rather than erasing that legacy, developer Legacy Property has embedded it into the masterplan, retaining and reinterpreting elements such as the iconic 1912 brick chimney and sections of the original C1 Coke Oven Battery, alongside the adaptive reuse of the former powerhouse building.

Stage One will introduce 181 apartments across low-rise buildings, offering predominantly two and three-bedroom residences with completion targeted for mid-2027. The scale and configuration reflect a deliberate focus on owner-occupiers, targeting those seeking a lower-maintenance home in a prime location within the northern suburbs of Wollongong.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143415 project_image_fid=359833]

Apartments have been designed to maximise natural light and cross-ventilation, with floor-to-ceiling glazing extending living areas onto generous balconies. Engineered timber flooring, induction cooktops and 900mm ovens in larger residences support everyday functionality, while two interior palettes allow buyers to tailor finishes to their preferences. The material selection draws on a restrained coastal language, intended to connect homes to their surroundings rather than compete with them.

The Works forms part of a broader 18-hectare masterplan that will ultimately deliver around 550 dwellings, new parks, and a heritage precinct celebrating the site’s past. More than seven hectares are dedicated to open space, including Southern Park and a Village Green with community gardens and recreation areas. The creek corridor is being rehabilitated with 150,000 native plantings, restoring biodiversity to the site and softening landscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143415 project_image_fid=359841]

Positioned adjacent to Corrimal Station and within walking distance of Corrimal Town Centre, the precinct places daily essentials, rail connections and local retail within easy reach. Wollongong CBD, including the hospital, university and entertainment venues, sits approximately 6.5 kilometres to the south.

For buyers more familiar with North Wollongong, Corrimal offers a different proposition: a well-established coastal suburb framed by beaches to the east and the escarpment to the west, with a strong sense of local identity shaped in part by the former Coke Works. The Works seeks to reinforce that identity by creating a connected, walkable neighbourhood between coast and escarpment, rather than a standalone apartment complex.

Sustainability underpins the development approach. The Works is targeting Wollongong’s first 5-Star Green Star-rated community, with water-sensitive urban design, recycled materials and energy-efficient buildings integrated across the masterplan. For residents, these measures provide not only environmental benefits but also reduced operational costs and future resilience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143415 project_image_fid=359842]

With construction commenced and display materials available to view, prospective buyers can now engage more directly with the project’s vision, reviewing floorplans, material selections and the broader masterplan in detail. For many local homeowners weighing a move, the opportunity to experience how heritage, landscape and contemporary design intersect may help bridge the gap between familiarity and the next chapter.

As Stage One progresses toward its mid-2027 completion, The Works represents a significant chapter in Corrimal’s evolution, transforming a site that once powered local industry into a walkable residential precinct designed for its next generation of residents.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143415]

Legacy Property’s The Works reimagines Corrimal’s century-old Coke Works

When it comes to developing in Melb​ourne's Bayside region, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lowe-living">Lowe Living</a> knows exactly what buyers want.

With a longstanding presence in the area and a string of sell-out projects, Lowe Living consistently delivers developments that are as sought-after as their predecessors.

Their latest instalment is in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-east-vic-3188">&nbsp;East,</a> the same postcode where they have previously delivered Hampton Hill and Oceano. The developer-builder recently commenced construction on its newest project,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marella-hampton-31-35-alicia-street-hampton-east-vic-3188">Marella</a>, a collection of 32 apartments just five minutes from the beach.

Site acquisition is paramount to success. Lowe Living rarely brings a building to market that isn’t within walking distance of essential amenities, whether it be the beach, a prominent retail strip, or a train station. Marella is no exception, located at its Alicia Street address, less than a kilometre from the retail heart of Hampton Street and Hampton Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146197 project_image_fid=358495]

Equally important to Lowe Living is the architecture.

For Marella, they appointed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, who explains that the architectural vision was to create a contemporary reinterpretation of the Californian bungalow, a style that’s iconic to Hampton’s heritage.

"By borrowing, abstracting, and reinterpreting elements of this quintessential style, such as strong datum lines, articulated columns, exposed structures, and roof tiles, our design strikes a balance between modernity and familiarity," says Cera Stribley.

"This approach ensures that the development is not only visually appealing but also contextually sensitive, resonating with Hampton's existing architectural landscape."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146197 project_image_fid=358499]

The building features terracotta brick, soft cream masonry, and exposed metal detailing, giving it a tactile presence that is intended to weather gently over time.

Internally, the focus on lasting quality continues, with two and three-bedroom residences anchored by sculptural stone kitchen islands, natural light, and clearly defined transitions between living, dining, and outdoor spaces.

The layouts have been carefully designed. Open-plan zones extend to private balconies, with light-filled interiors and generous kitchen proportions, supported by Miele wall ovens, induction cooktops, and integrated fridge-freezers. These are not small apartments rebranded as luxury; they have been designed at scale, with ample storage, hotel-style entry access, and secure basement parking provided as standard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146197 project_image_fid=358492]

At the uppermost level, Marella’s Signature Collection penthouses offer city or bay views, large entertaining terraces (some with outdoor spas), and elevated finishes, including fully wrapped stone kitchen benches and a Liebherr wine fridge.

Flexible room arrangements allow for a fourth bedroom or secondary living space, sought-after by both empty nesters who want the space when family visits and families with older children.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146197 project_image_fid=358498]

A residents’ lounge on the ground floor reinforces the project’s small-community feel. With a fireplace, private dining area, and adjoining terrace, it’s one of several shared spaces that balance amenity with privacy and scale.

Construction has commenced, with completion expected in early 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146197]

Lowe Living continues Bayside legacy as Marella rises in Hampton

University of Melbourne

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After already passing the halfway mark of 2019, it’s an apt time to reflect on the incredible progress architects and construction firms have been making to shape the cities around us. The University of Melbourne will be opening it’s doors next weekend to invite the general public to take tours of the brand new transformative redevelopment projects which have been completed across 16 sites at both Southbank and Parkville campuses. 

<h2>Here’s a snapshot of some of Southbank Campus’ highlights this year</h2>

IAN POTTER SOUTHBANK CENTRE (IPSC) 

<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/ianpottersouthbankcentre.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ian Potter Southbank Centre. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="342" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ianpottersouthbankcentre.jpg?itok=qYphhDeQ" title="Ian Potter Southbank Centre. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ian Potter Southbank Centre. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Earlier this year, more than 1000 staff members and students moved into the brand new $109 million ICSP building designed by award-winning firm John Wardle Architects. 

The new building will house the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music and has been classed as a “once in a generation transformation” featuring state-of-the-art teaching, learning, rehearsal and performance spaces. The conservatorium also houses one of the world’s largest oculus windows at 6 metres in diameter, including a 400 seat cantilevered auditorium, a 180 seat ground floor studio and plenty of multi-use spaces.

<hr>
THE STABLES

<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/thestables.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Stables. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/thestables.jpg?itok=hyL38Omn" title="The Stables. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Stables. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>The Stables is a world-class arts facility located within the heart of the Melbourne Art’s Precinct. Historically, the building was formally home to the Victorian Police Riding Brance, however, it has now undergone a complete transformation with design lead by Kerstin Thompson Architects and conservation works directed by Lovell Chen. The building is rich in history and provides a unique space for students to create art within the 170 studios, and perform at the new 260 seat multipurpose arts theatre for dance, theatre and music performances.

<hr>
THE HUB

<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/uoms04_01_hub_csav_schulman.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Hub. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/uoms04_01_hub_csav_schulman.jpg?itok=I8NIhjey" title="The Hub. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Hub. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Another newly-completed space is known as The Hub, designed by Lyons Architects. The Hub is a dynamic space which is home to the largest performing arts and music library collection in Australia.

Other buildings which will be open for tours will be the ABC Southbank Centre designed by Cox Architecture and completed in 2018; Australia 108 designed by Fender Katsalidis; Boyd Community Hub and Testing Grounds.

<hr>
<h2>A few highlights from the Parkville Campus include:</h2>

OLD QUAD

<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/cmus-melbourneuniversity-oldquad_008.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Old Quad. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cmus-melbourneuniversity-oldquad_008.jpg?itok=gtIFmKX3" title="Old Quad. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Old Quad. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>After a two-year restoration project, the University’s north wing quadrangle has been revitalised with the introduction of a towering stained-glass work by artist Tom Nicholson, and stained glass artisan Geoffrey Wallace. 

<blockquote>
"The renovations in the Old Quad are uncovering the history that the University of Melbourne is built upon. Literally and figuratively."
</blockquote>

- University of Melbourne 

<hr>
WESTERN EDGE BIOSCIENCES

<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/westernedge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Western Edge Biosciences. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westernedge.jpg?itok=zFdFUm3X" title="Western Edge Biosciences. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Western Edge Biosciences. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>As the university prepares for the next wave of scientists, doctors and veterinarians, a brand new Life Sciences precinct has been added to the University of Melbourne’s masterplan, with design lead by award-winning firm, Hassell. The aim was to produce a facility which could house a 140 pax cohort with a range of laboratories, informal and collaborative learning spaces, workshop classrooms and storage facilities.

<hr>
ARTS WEST

<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/artswest.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Arts West. Credit: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/artswest.png?itok=tukbC9bU" title="Arts West. Credit: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Arts West. Credit: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Arts West is the new home to the Bachelor of Arts course and has been designed by ARM in collaboration with Architectus. The new facility is the most significant purpose-build education centre for the Faculty of Arts in 50 years, and offers a diverse range of facilities including digital, object-based and interactive classrooms, as well as informal spaces for discussion and quiet study alcoves.

 

<hr>
<h2>Events of note:</h2>

<ul>
<li>The First Commissions exhibition will be shown in the Martyn Myer Arena during the Open House weekend</li>
	<li>Kerstin Thompson will be delivering the 2019 Heritage Address, Monday 15 July at Federation Hall in Southbank</li>
	<li>Bauhaus Now! exhibition will open on Saturday 27 July with commentary from Dr Ann Stephens and Professor Philip Goad, Redmond Barry Distinguished Professor and Chair of Architecture, The University of Melbourne</li>
	<li>Fender Katsalidis will lead an exclusive architectural tour on Sunday at 1 pm</li>
	<li>Designing Cultural Spaces and Precincts will feature an intriguing discussion Melbourne architects Meaghan Dwyer (John Wardle Architects) and Ian McDougall (ARM Architects) hosted by journalist Ray Edgar, Southbank Theatre </li>
</ul>
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Olivia Round

Open House Melbourne: Explore the University of Melbourne’s new buildings

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Construction has commenced on the University of Melbourne's Melbourne Connect - a pedestrian friendly innovation precinct located on the site of the former Royal Women’s Hospital, and connecting Carlton with the University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus. This follows the demolition of the existing structures on the site and ground works.

Developed by the University of Melbourne in partnership with a consortium led by Lendlease, the precinct will provide facilities where university staff and students, researchers, local and international businesses, government and start-up companies are encouraged to connect, collaborate and execute breakthrough new ideas. Woods Bagot have designed the precinct in collaboration with Hayball and ASPECT Studios, with the aim of establishing a new benchmark in industry collaboration upon completion in late 2020.

The design features a 3,260 sqm ‘Superfloor’ on the mezzanine level which Woods Bagot says "embodies the value of collaboration in a very physical sense." The Superfloor connects the buildings that comprise Melbourne Connect, forming the interior 'heart' of the project and providing a contiguous, physical space for tenant partners and visitors to congregate and exchange ideas.

<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/130395_n30_printhicmyk.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The ensemble of buildings are arranged around a central 'Oculus.' Images: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130395_n30_printhicmyk.jpg?itok=_sJEGtBX" title="The ensemble of buildings are arranged around a central 'Oculus.' Images: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The ensemble of buildings are arranged around a central 'Oculus.' Images: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Woods Bagot says it is committed to ensuring the project continues to be an exemplar of design and sustainability, highlighting this as a key driver since the consortium won the design competition in 2016. This intent is expressed in the mass timber structure of the smallest building in the precinct ensemble. According to Woods Bagot, the use of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) demonstrates the aspirational, future-focussed nature of the project. 

Designed to be bright and open, the building will play host to pitch nights, hackathons and masterclasses, workshops – providing opportunities to actively engage with government and industry. Childcare facilities will span the upper floors to the rooftop terrace. The lower levels of the CLT building form a centre dedicated to enriching the culture of entrepreneurship within the university and creating the future’s leading entrepreneurs.

The precinct will provide public spaces, retail, cafes, accommodation for more than 500 students and visiting academics, a childcare centre, a co-working and commercial office space, a fabrication laboratory and Science Gallery Melbourne, which will deliver cutting-edge exhibitions, events and experiences. The public realm is enhanced by a range of fixed and loose outdoor furniture elements, power outlets and WI-FI to support working and studying outdoors.

The ensemble of buildings are arranged around a central and publicly-accessible open space known as the 'Oculus', which has been designed by ASPECT Studio in conjunction with Hayball and Woods Bagot. The Oculus features vertical green “living louvres” that connect with the upper floors of the buildings as part of the visually identifiable ESD features within the precinct. 

The Oculus is supported by three laneways and a plaza which connect pedestrians and cyclists through to Swanston, Grattan and Cardigan streets. Public urban furniture is dispersed throughput these public spaces and form part of the precinct-wide way finding strategy.

ASPECT Studio's design approach for the public realm sought the adaptive reuse of materials from the former Women’s Hospital. This strategy was adopted to provide a visual reference to the history of the site in an innovative and environmentally sustainable manner.

The consortium delivering Melbourne Connect comprises Lendlease as developer, builder, co-investor and investment manager of the commercial space; GIC the major co-investor in the commercial space; Spotless as the facilities manager; and Urbanest as investor and manager of the student accommodation. The Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre and Science Gallery Melbourne will each be located at Melbourne Connect, with the Melbourne School of Engineering co-located in the precinct.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/130395_n32_printhicmyk.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Connect will transform the streetscape when completed in 2020. Images: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="332" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130395_n32_printhicmyk.jpg?itok=ik4MKMZs" title="Melbourne Connect will transform the streetscape when completed in 2020. Images: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Connect will transform the streetscape when completed in 2020. Images: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
CLT stands out for its sustainability, versatility, strength and aesthetic. Long championed by Lendlease, its benefits translate to safer working environments, improved quality and faster construction time on site due to prefabrication. It’s inspiring to use a technologically innovative product in an equally ground-breaking project.

Connected to the other buildings via a bridge link in the Superfloor, the building has been designed to maximise wellbeing by welcoming as much sunlight inside as possible. As inviting and innovative as the young entrepreneurs that will occupy it, it looks outward over the green space and creates a visually permeable environment that encourages spontaneous networking and alliance

- Hazel Porter, Principal and Project Architect, Woods Bagot
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
An extension of the workplace for meeting, workshopping, socialising, exhibiting and hosting events, the Superfloor sits at the heart of Melbourne Connect. Taking cues from the central Oculus space below, the interior spaces create an interior ‘landscape’ that allows for serendipitous peer-to-peer meetings and promotes innovation and knowledge exchange for the whole precinct.

The Superfloor ensures that visitors can easily and naturally move between a variety of enclosed and open spaces in a way that encourages connection with others via permeability, visual connection and prioritising human comfort. The flexible spaces have been designed in a way that considers how the area will be occupied at different times throughout the year –focussing on how people meet and like to work together.

- Sue Fenton, Senior Associate and Interior Design lead, Woods Bagot
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
The laneways create moments of curiosity, discovery, warmth, contemplation and occupation for those coming to Carlton Connect. We designed with the pedestrian at the forefront of our mind. Comprehensive site studies of wind and light ensure that the space is welcoming, social and inviting.

Carlton Connect is a great example of cutting edge collaborative design where our advice and input as landscape architects is integral to the precinct as a whole. We’re informing a lot of the decisions. Our design for the public realm is responsible to every person using it; not just one user group.

- Terrence Stapleton, landscape architect, ASPECT Studios
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
We’re thrilled to be involved in this flagship initiative, to develop Australia’s leading innovation precinct to facilitate the connection between researchers, industry, government bodies and community.

What’s exciting about this precinct is that it’s not just offering a post-graduate living quarter – it’s a completely integrated, mixed-use offering that combines spaces for industry, research and development, academics, public showcase and community facilities like childcare and retail all in one.

Students are part of a world-class academic precinct, a hub where everything is happening on their doorstep. It’s innovation immersion at another level.

Hayball is leading the design for the student accommodation offering at the precinct, working in partnership with Urbanest as the developer and operator of this space and as part of the Lendlease-led consortium to develop the precinct. One of the biggest design considerations was ensuring the 527 beds and communal spaces cater to the post-graduate market and visiting academics, while bringing the enthused and active academic culture into the common spaces.

Because of this, it was important to create spacious rooms that go above and beyond, homes that are equipped with amenities and offer plenty of breathing space. Likewise, with the communal spaces, there was a strong emphasis on creating a mix of meaningful spaces that are open, welcoming and inclusive to encourage students to mix with others, as well as have opportunity for quiet reflection.

- Thomas Gilbert , Principal at Hayball 
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Melbourne Connect is a project that will make a significant contribution to the city’s reputation as an international research and innovation leader. The precinct will make a real difference, delivering innovative solutions to major societal challenges.

- Duncan Maskell, Vice-Chancellor, University of Melbourne  
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Melbourne Connect brings together university led research, industry and elite thinking in a purpose-built innovation precinct, and demonstrates how the combined expertise of industry and academia can be harnessed to achieve great outcomes.

- John Burton, Managing Director Urban Regeneration, Lendlease
</blockquote>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C_B0TuoYkwc" width="560"></iframe>
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Laurence Dragomir

Construction commences on University of Melbourne's Melbourne Connect

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Further details for Hayball's latest student accommodation project, which will form part of the University of Melbourne’s Carlton Connect innovation precinct, have been released. 

Located on the corner of Swanston and Grattan streets in Carlton, the new precinct will be a completely integrated development providing spaces for industry, research and development, academia, accommodation for postgraduates, a public showcase and community facilities such as childcare and retail.

As part of the Lendlease-led consortium delivering the project, Urbanest Australia will operate the on-campus student accommodation component of the development, its first foray into campus housing.

The Hayball designed project will be centrally located, forming the heart of the precinct, and will deliver 527 beds and extensive multi-purpose spaces to cater to the postgraduate market as well as visiting academics.

<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/len0678_carltonconnect_s050_ext_grattancardigan_streetview_r02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hayball's design for Urbanest will include 527 beds and multi-purpose space. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/len0678_carltonconnect_s050_ext_grattancardigan_streetview_r02.jpg?itok=oSsG88w6" title="Hayball's design for Urbanest will include 527 beds and multi-purpose space. Image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hayball's design for Urbanest will include 527 beds and multi-purpose space. Image: Hayball</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Innovation districts are becoming more popular across the globe, but what makes this Melbourne example so special is that it will also be a home for students and academics. Postgraduate students and visiting academics will experience true immersion in the precinct, living and breathing their research or studies while making the most of countless networking opportunities and Melbourne’s vibrant culture on their doorstep.

With contribution to the design process from leading student accommodation provider, Urbanest, design decisions reflected the maturity of the provider and were made with a focus on quality and functionality, while equally ensuring relevance to market, particularly regarding affordability.

A crucial consideration was bringing the enthusiasm and activity unique to academic culture into the common spaces and use this to extend and enhance engagement.

The spatial manifestation of this initiative is the vertical street: an interconnected staircase, directly adjacent to the communal spaces, and opposite the lift core. No walls, no glazed partitions and no doors – a true atrium, open, connected and inclusive.

- Thomas Gilbert, Hayball Principal
</blockquote>

<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/len0678_carltonconnect_s060_courtyard_r01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Open space particularly in a tight urban context was a critical part of the design. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="463" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/len0678_carltonconnect_s060_courtyard_r01.jpg?itok=OOQl9L3G" title="Open space particularly in a tight urban context was a critical part of the design. Image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Open space, particularly in a tight urban context, was a critical part of the design. Image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>The basis for Hayball's design was for space which encourages and facilitates students and academics to meet, interact, exchange views and generate ideas within a flexible, and connected precinct.

The design features an expansive mixed-use space within an atrium which is accessed via an open and transparent ground floor foyer and connects to a verdant podium terrace. The major focus of activity is centred around the external oculus space.

According to Hayball, for the current generation of students work, life and study are all intertwined. This was the key driver behind dedicating a third of the vertical street as an informal social precinct with both informal and formal multipurpose areas and outdoor terraces. The intent is that these spaces will assist students in building connections and developing a community.

A series of intimate lounges are scattered over several floors to facilitate socialising in addition to a rooftop level featuring a diner, cinema and expansive outdoor lounge/exercise area.

Urbanest Carlton Connect is one of a handful of student accommodation projects Hayball is designing, with a number of others in collaboration with the University of Melbourne within the wider precinct. 
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Further details of Hayball's design for Carlton Connect emerge

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On Friday April 6th, Minister for Planning Richard Wynne approved an amendment to the Melbourne Planning Scheme, allowing construction to commence on Carlton Connect - a major University of Melbourne project being developed in partnership with Lendlease at the site of the old Royal Women’s Hospital in Carlton. 

The recent approval follows on from the University of Melbourne announcing a partnership with a consortium led by Lendlease in November 2017, to develop a new innovation precinct on the former site of the Royal Women’s Hospital, located at the corner of Swanston and Grattan streets in Carlton.

The precinct will be located adjacent to the University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus, which hosts some of the world’s top researchers and forms part of the Parkville National Employment and Innovation Cluster that will be serviced by the future Parkville Station as part of the Metro Tunnel Project.   

National Employment and Innovation Clusters are a key feature of Plan Melbourne with the clusters located across Melbourne, in an effort to drive down congestion and ensure people spend less time commuting.

Carlton Connect will create more than 3,000 direct jobs and more than 5,000 indirect jobs within close proximity to the Melbourne CBD, providing the tools, platforms and services to create an ecosystem where start-ups emerge and cutting-edge products and services are developed.

The 74,000 sqm precinct will feature a series of connecting buildings arranged around a central and publicly-accessible open space. In addition to co-working and commercial office space, the precinct will feature a Fab Lab, student accommodation and a ‘Superfloor’ dedicated to collaboration and fostering the exchange of ideas.

It will also provide shops, cafes, public spaces, accommodation for more than 500 students and visiting academics, a childcare centre and Science Gallery Melbourne, which will deliver cutting-edge exhibitions, events and experiences.

<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/artist-impression_science-gallery-melbourne_grattan-swanston-street-corner-1024x884.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The new Science Gallery Melbourne will be located on the corner of Grattan and Swanston Street. Image : University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="501" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/artist-impression_science-gallery-melbourne_grattan-swanston-street-corner-1024x884.jpg?itok=8oGHcn_T" title="The new Science Gallery Melbourne will be located on the corner of Grattan and Swanston Street. Image : University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The new Science Gallery Melbourne will be located on the corner of Grattan and Swanston Street. Image : University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>Project partner Lendlease's ambitions for the development are to regenerate the former Royal Women’s Hospital site into an open, light and modern precinct, delivering a bold new architectural statement.

The consortium delivering the innovation precinct in partnership with the University of Melbourne comprises Lendlease as developer, builder, co-investor and investment manager of the commercial space; GIC as major co-investor of the commercial space; Spotless as the facilities manager; and Urbanest as investor and manager of the student accommodation.

Early works on site commenced on November 21, 2017 with hoardings installed around the perimeter of the building site. With planning approval in hand, construction is expected to commence in mid-2018 with a 2020 completion anticipated.

<h2>WHAT THEY SAY</h2>

<blockquote>
 This project ticks all the boxes. It’s making good use of a flagship site, it’s driving our reputation as a world leader for education and innovation, it’s creating thousands of jobs and will contribute billions to our economy.

- Richard Wynne, Minister for Planning
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
This development will set a new benchmark in education and industry collaboration in a purpose-built facility that meets the highest standards of design and sustainability, while also honouring the site’s heritage and history.”

- Mark Menhinnitt, Managing Director for Lendlease Urban Regeneration
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Innovation emerges from vibrant and collaborative environments where people are encouraged to share skills and ideas as they work and socialise together, and we hope the mix of people and ideas will spark new knowledge and new ways of doing things.

- Dr Julie Wells, University of Melbourne Vice Principal of Policy and Projects 
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Innovation emerges from vibrant and collaborative environments where people are encouraged to share skills and ideas as they work and socialise together.

-  (Research) Professor Jim McCluskey, University of Melbourne Deputy Vice-Chancellor
</blockquote>

 

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Carlton Connect Initiative Approved - construction to begin mid-year

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Alastair chats with Laury about The University of Melbourne's new student precinct, commercial development and proposals in Melbourne and is Malcolm Turnbull really the Prime Minister for Sydney?

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/410294355&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=false&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Alastair Taylor

Weekly Podcast: Episode 6 - UoM, Melbourne's commercial pipeline, and is Malcolm Turnbull Sydney-centric?

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The University of Melbourne has announced the appointment of the team of architects and designers for its $229 million New Student Precinct on the Parkville Campus.

Led by Lyons Architecture, the successful team was chosen from a shortlist of five design groups.

The New Student Precinct will be located on the corner of Grattan and Swanston Streets, and is bound by Monash Road to the north, and the Melbourne School of Engineering Precinct to the west.

Locating the centre adjacent to the University’s traditional college accommodation to the north and new purpose-built student accommodation to the south will ensure it provides a successful platform for the University’s 60,000 students to easily connect.

Additionally, the project will neighbour the University’s innovation precinct - the Carlton Connect Initiative being designed by Hayball and Woods Bagot and to be delivered by Lendlease.

<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/image32_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The New Student Precinct joins the Carlton Connect Initiative as Campus transforming projects. Image : Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="398" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image32_14.jpg?itok=3rN6H54e" title="The New Student Precinct joins the Carlton Connect Initiative as Campus transforming projects. Image : Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The New Student Precinct adjoins the Carlton Connect Initiative. Image : Hayball</figcaption></figure>The New Student Precinct is being co-created, with over 5,500 students partnering with the project as active contributors and decision-makers. The project aims to deliver a new series of student spaces that will include a diverse range of social spaces, mixed-use retail, food and beverage outlets, and increased contemporary study spaces for the whole campus community.

Encompassing nine buildings, the Precinct will bring together the University’s student unions, academic services, and the Institute for Indigenous Development, Murrup Barak for the first time; significantly reshaping and revitalising the landscape and built environment of the site. 

Much of the development will be through the adaptive re-use of existing buildings, including extensive refurbishments and façade treatments.

The New Student Precinct intends to "make a significant contribution to the transformation of the on-campus student experience at Parkville by delivering a world-class student hub for the whole campus community."

Design lead Lyons Architecture will collaborate with a team of specialists and fellow designers to create the Precinct, including Koning Eizenberg Architects from the USA (led by alumni Julie Eizenberg and Hank Koning). Aspect Studios, Breathe Architecture, NMBW Architecture Studio, Greenaway Architects, Glas Urban and Architects EAT are also present.

The design team has been tasked with creating a vibrant centre of activity that will co-locate student services and activities closer to the new heart of the campus, and to primary transport links.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
The selection process fostered and supported submissions from some of the most speculative and innovative design and spatial practitioners in Australia and overseas. The finalists each provided a unique vision for how the University of Melbourne embraces the changing role and experience of education, research and community engagement.  The winning team fulfils the ambitious goals of the New Student Precinct process to produce a lasting legacy in the new centre for the campus.

- Professor Donald Bates, Melbourne School of Design Chair of Architectural Design and member of the selection panel
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Our design team, who are all university alumni, are looking forward to working closely with students so that the design positively reflects their aspirations for a campus experience.

- Carey Lyon, Founding Director, Lyons 
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The Precinct, which will be co-created with students, will transform the cultural, social and engagement opportunities for students and set a new benchmark.

- Paul Duldig, New Student Precinct Project Sponsor and Head of University Services  
</blockquote>

Works commenced on site in January 2018 with a completion scheduled for 2021–2022.

An exhibition of the architectural Concept and Design Responses from the five shortlisted architect teams is currently on display in the Basement Foyer of the Melbourne School of Design until Friday 23 March.

The teams will also make a presentation on Friday 16 March as part of Melbourne Design Week.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/231031907" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="100%"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://vimeo.com/231031907">New Student Precinct at the University of Melbourne</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/user70233184">New Student Precinct - Uni Melb</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.
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Design team for University of Melbourne's Student Precinct announced

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In recent times it has been a race of sorts between the University of Melbourne's Parkville campus and the Clayton domicile of Monash University to see which institution can deliver the most impressive new build facilities across their respective campuses.

Urban.com.au last month highlighted Monash University's <a href="/news/monash-clayton-facilitates-another-grand-design-gesture">grand design gesture</a>, the new Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building, which will begin construction shortly. Not to be left behind, University of Melbourne have also moved to create a new design showpiece, titled the Western Edge Biosciences (WEBS) building.

Kane Constructions have begun early works on WEBS which includes the demolition of the current Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences Building, and subsequent site works. Construction proper is expected to begin later this year, post-Kane Constructions' targeted October 2017 completion of the early works.

<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/image208_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Western Edge Biosciences. Image: University of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image208_0.jpg?itok=Yp4p2p2u" title="Western Edge Biosciences. Image: University of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Western Edge Biosciences. Image: University of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>According to the builder, other firms involved in the delivery of WEBS at the tertiary provider's Parkville campus include Aurecon, Hassell, Donald Cant Watts Corke, Irwinconsult, Norman Disney &amp; Young and McKenzie Group Consulting.

Along with design lead Hassell, Semaphore provided a wayfinding strategy for the project which will be the first stage in a larger master plan to be rolled out over the years to come.

Within the distinctly green facade, the intention is to create an environment designed to foster world-class outcomes for biosciences teaching, research, and training.

According to <a href="https://ourcampus.unimelb.edu.au/western-edge-biosciences-program">University of Melbourne</a>, "It will improve research performance and learning experience in the biosciences, and help train the next generation of bioscientists, vets, and doctors. The program will also meet requirements for the global accreditation of the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program in 2020, safeguarding the only accredited veterinary course in Victoria."

<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/image214_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Adding to Melbourne design fabric. Images: UoM, Ben Kreunen &amp; John Wardle Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="234" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image214_2.jpg?itok=BQU2okqp" title="Adding to Melbourne design fabric. Images: UoM, Ben Kreunen &amp; John Wardle Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Adding to Melbourne design fabric. Images: UoM, Ben Kreunen &amp; John Wardle Architects</figcaption></figure>WEBS joins a strong list of buildings that University of Melbourne have either developed directly or have had a hand in developing over recent years. Builds such as the Business and Economics building, Peter Doherty Institute, Bio 21 and the Melbourne School of Design are prime examples.

Most recently completed was the Arts West Redevelopment building designed by ARM Architecture and Architectus; it too was built by Kane Constructions to a value of $66 million.

WEBS will join two further projects University of Melbourne currently has in development. Builder Cockram is working on the latest addition to the Bio21 medical research precinct whilst the future home of the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music on Southbank is cleared and awaiting construction commencement.
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