<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/capital-corporation">Capital Corporation</a> has announced that its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lovedale-farm-1054-1184-wine-country-drive-lovedale-nsw-2325">Lovedale Farm</a> residential, resort and golf project has secured $24.6 million in sales in just three weeks since the opening of its display home, underscoring the appetite for premium lifestyle property in the Hunter Valley countryside.

The sales milestone has been driven by a diverse mix of buyers, including owner-occupiers and investors from Sydney, Newcastle and the local Hunter region, purchasing both land-only lots and house and land packages across the development.

<img alt="Lovedale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e173edc9-e60e-4f19-a060-9dc4421a3233" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/LovedaleFarm_20250215-1.jpg?VersionId=1LY6CvOaD.Dzrt8tWpWxXtPyfchixNIo" />

&nbsp;

The result builds on the momentum generated at the display home opening on 22 March, which attracted more than 460 attendees.

With house and land pricing from $1.14 million, Lovedale Farm continues to attract strong interest from buyers seeking a premium lifestyle offering at a compelling price point. The development’s vision, a championship golf course, future epicurean village and access to the Hunter Valley’s celebrated wine country, has resonated with a broad buyer profile, from first-time investors to those looking to make the move and call the Hunter Valley home.

<img alt="Lovedale Farm records $21.4 million in sales in three weeks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b358e789-e1eb-40ed-8105-ed5c8297136f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/20260321LovedaleFarmDisplayHomeOpening--6.jpg?VersionId=6GUO8TNnxuELONrsM6n9imDB6oc82Bor" />

Jim Hunter, Managing Director of Capital Corporation said the response since opening the display home has been encouraging.

"To reach $24.6 million in sales in just three weeks speaks to the genuine demand for a lifestyle community of this calibre in the Hunter Valley," Hunter says.

"We’re seeing buyers from across the region and beyond, including investors who recognise the long-term value, and owner-occupiers who simply want to live somewhere truly special.

“Lovedale Farm is two decades in the making, and the market’s response is everything we hoped for. We’re excited to see these first buyers become part of the Lovedale Farm story from the very beginning."

<img alt="Lovedale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="54d985cf-2ac2-400b-ac02-4401f3421ac7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/20260321LovedaleFarmDisplayHomeOpening--5.jpg?VersionId=3866bPoqpLZsm.3ACg9EafAr1W3miC_f" />

&nbsp;

Spanning 240 hectares on Wine Country Drive in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/lovedale-nsw-2325">Lovedale</a>, the $1 billion development is expected to deliver around 1,250 jobs during construction and inject more than $300 million into the local economy. The first 200 homes and championship 18-hole golf course are anticipated for completion in late 2027.

Capital Corporation has also lodged development plans for the Lovedale Farm clubhouse, set to become a vibrant hub for residents and the wider Hunter Valley community. Further releases are planned for later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=14476]

Joel Robinson

Lovedale Farm display home opening triggers $24.6 million in sales in three weeks

Prominent Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a> has unveiled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aura-at-melbourne-square-7-hoff-boulevard-southbank-vic-3006">Aura</a>, the next stage of its $3.5 billion Melbourne Square precinct in Southbank, continuing its push into wellness-led, amenity-rich apartment living.

The $800 million tower, planned for 7 Hoff Boulevard, will rise 67 storeys and deliver 673 apartments, with COX Architecture drawing on both Japanese design principles and Australia’s natural landscape to shape the building’s identity. A rectangular grid aesthetic defines the building’s exterior, with COX drawing design cues from New York high-rises and Tokyo’s skyline.

Aura builds on a growing trend in high-density living, where wellness is no longer an add-on but central to the product. The development is structured around four key pillars, combining calm, minimalist residences with layered communal spaces, landscaped gardens, and a suite of wellness amenities designed to support both physical and mental wellbeing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367465]

At the core of the project is what OSK describes as a vertical wellness ecosystem, a multi-level approach to amenity that integrates health, lifestyle, and social spaces throughout the building rather than confining them to a single level.

The main resident hub, the Aura Club on level seven, will include a pool, cold plunge, spa, gym, Pilates and yoga studios, alongside more lifestyle-driven inclusions like a golf simulator, music rooms, library, and work-from-home spaces. Above, a series of higher-level amenity zones, including the Meridian Club and Cumulus Club, introduce more refined, social and retreat-style environments, with private dining, lounges, and premium wellness spaces positioned to take advantage of city views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367467]

The residences themselves will largely include balconies, a key design move in a market increasingly focused on natural light, airflow, and connection to the outdoors. Views will extend across the CBD, the Arts Precinct, Royal Botanic Gardens, and beyond.

Aura also introduces approximately 1,600 sqm of retail across the lower levels, further activating the Melbourne Square precinct, which already includes Kennedy Park, a Woolworths, childcare, and a growing mix of hospitality operators.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367474]

“Aura stands tall as an exemplar of holistic wellness – its focus on social, physical and mental health culminate in a building that is calming, restorative and relaxing, where residents will have their own sanctuary within the well-connected and sought-after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>," says&nbsp;OSK Property CEO Chong Boon Woon.

“We have been very encouraged by the market’s response to the BLVD offering, and we know there is a strong demand for the level of amenity, service and design that the Melbourne Square precinct is known for.

“Complemented by work-from-home lounges for professionals, family friendly outdoor garden spaces, and state-of-the-art fitness and wellness facilities, Aura will continue our focus on maximising physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing,” he said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367475]

The project follows the strong performance of BLVD, which is now around 80 per cent sold, and reinforces OSK Property’s long-term commitment to Melbourne Square as a fully integrated, mixed-use precinct.

Construction is expected to commence in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151921]

OSK unveils AURA, the latest stage in Southbank's $3.5 billion Melbourne Square precinct

National developer Time &amp; Place appears to have settled on a design for its long-anticipated Potts Point project.

After several years of back and forth with local council and the NSW Government, the developer, which has spent seven years targeting the former The Chimes site on Macleay Street, has now progressed its plans.

Following a concept design submission last year by SJB, Time &amp; Place has lodged a full State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government, this time for a scheme designed by Kerry Hill Architects.

<img alt="Time &amp; Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="504d2a27-d65f-4227-8189-1e35e3376e62" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-20%20at%209.38.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_XqFKATYHF30KnVByPxhaI9UBzmkmfn7" />

The 16-storey proposal includes 44 apartments, 21 of which will be build-to-sell. These will comprise 19 three-bedroom apartments and two four-bedroom units.

More than 50 per cent of the development will be dedicated to affordable housing, with 23 studio apartments to be delivered in line with the NSW Government’s Housing SEPP.

Kerry Hill Architects said the proposal is driven by a strong response to place.

“Our proposal for a new residential building for Potts Point in Sydney is driven by a deep consideration of place,” the practice said in its submission.

“This operates on multiple levels, including a landscape approach that reinstates endemic flora of the Sydney peninsula and provides a ground-floor garden for residents, reconnecting the site to its pre-European history. A brick podium further strengthens this relationship to context, integrating planting and fine bronze detailing that references the predominant material language of Macleay Street.”

The three-level podium will be topped by a communal resident space, featuring a covered pool designed to receive direct afternoon sun in winter, a neighbouring reflection pool, dining and event areas oriented to maximise sunset views, and an outdoor exercise zone.

<img alt="Time &amp; Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d3eedc1-babb-44a3-bd96-d8a42f3adf1f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-20%20at%209.37.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Ii7.4dvqNatu5GQi6bhqNjAswrMB998." />

The design also incorporates highly crafted shopfronts and a clearly defined residential entry to activate the street. Juliette balconies to the podium residences will provide passive surveillance and a strong sense of habitation.

Above, the larger apartments are housed within a light-coloured masonry and bronze tower.

“The tower steps back in a series of gently curved volumes that reference the rich Art Deco context of Macleay Street,” the architects said. “Carefully calibrated vertical fins frame the views while providing privacy and a sense of refuge.”

<img alt="Time &amp; Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6fab60f4-3140-4469-b47a-48c781e0a30b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-20%20at%209.28.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=e5XxrM3kzdASdKlcIACHAHbOSZhSKC9O" />

Time &amp; Place has been one of the most active developers nationally in the last 12 to 24 months. Late last year they completed&nbsp;The Queensbridge in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>, a mixed-use tower with 353 apartments and a hotel. They are currently selling Park Modern, 246 apartments near the famous Botanic Gardens in South Melbourne.

The developer has approval for The Burke, a mixed-use project in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>&nbsp;being delivered in partnership with Woolworths. The 60 apartments, positioned above a new Woolworths supermarket, are expected to launch in the coming months. Time &amp; Place is also progressing plans for the redevelopment of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/northcote-vic-3070">Northcote</a>&nbsp;Plaza, and have recently submitted plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/time-place-unveils-plans-22-storey-south-melbourne-tower">22-storey tower</a>, another in South Melbourne.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/sydney-nsw">Sydney</a>, the developer has two projects in Manly: Two Tides, which is currently under construction, and an ultra high-end building on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/shoreline-manly-beach-89-90-north-steyne-manly">North Steyne</a>, fronting the beach. It is also continuing to work through the redevelopment of The Chimes building on Macleay Street in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/potts-point-nsw-2011">Potts Point</a>, as well as Marlborough House, the redevelopment of the original David Jones warehouse building in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/surry-hills-nsw-2010">Surry Hills</a>.

First look: Time & Place settles on design for The Chimes, Potts Point redevelopment

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/develotek">Develotek</a> is joining the likes of TOGA, Deicorp, and One Global Capital, betting on a boom in Five Dock ahead of the 2032 mooted opening of the Five Dock Metro Station.

Develotek, which is currently developing Bianca on the Drummoyne waterfront and has plans approved for a tower in Chatswood, has filed a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">two-building project in the evolving Kings Bay precinct</a>.

The buildings, one more boutique just five storeys and the other 26 storeys, will rise from an 3,158 sqm site across&nbsp;79–81 Queens Road and 2–8 Spencer Street, will home 134 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, above ground-floor retail and five basement levels of parking.

A key component of the proposal is the inclusion of 15 per cent of residential floor space as in-fill affordable housing, unlocking additional height and density under the Housing SEPP.

<img alt="First Look: Develotek lodges State Significant shop top housing project in Five Dock precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ee31bf7-75ba-4bc5-b190-49885193219f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium_2.png?VersionId=730UbrduuwK3C1sO28RHjiLPUPqXqjkh" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, the scheme adopts a podium-and-tower configuration, with a five-storey street wall along Queens Road transitioning to a 26-storey tower set deeper into the site. The ground plane prioritises activation and permeability, with retail frontages and a new through-site link connecting Queens Road to Spencer Street.

At the upper levels, the tower façade has been conceived using a modular system to support prefabrication and reduce construction waste, while improving build efficiency. The splayed form draws on the geometry of surrounding industrial rooftops, reinterpreting the area’s heritage in a contemporary expression while also helping to reduce solar heat gain to east and west-facing apartments.

“This project aspires to transform a former industrial site into a connected, resilient and people-focused urban community, grounded in Country, shaped by history, and designed to enrich everyday life within the evolving Kings Bay Precinct,” said John Walsh, Principal at Plus Studio.

The proposal reflects the broader transformation of the Kings Bay Precinct under the Parramatta Road Corridor Urban Transformation Strategy, marking a shift from its industrial past to a higher-density, mixed-use urban neighbourhood.

<img alt="First Look: Develotek lodges State Significant shop top housing project in Five Dock precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abde734c-1e31-4a97-a1d2-fa9bcf31c380" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/building%20podium.png?VersionId=fNUupP6u146yEytQT31kKVRxwtACgPpP" />

Develotek is emerging as an active participant in the state’s affordable housing-led uplift pathway. The developer recently secured approval for a 34-storey mixed-use tower in Chatswood, where it similarly leveraged the in-fill affordable housing provisions to increase scale and deliver a 101-unit scheme with dedicated affordable apartments.

Their entry into Five Dock places them alongside a growing list of developers targeting the suburb ahead of its anticipated transport uplift, with Sydney Metro set to extend into the area. Major players including TOGA, Deicorp, and One Global Capital are all progressing large-scale precinct-style developments nearby, collectively reshaping the low-rise industrial fabric into a higher-density mixed-use corridor.

The Five Dock site sits within the Kings Bay Precinct, a key renewal area under the Parramatta Road Corridor Urban Transformation Strategy, where planning controls support significant uplift tied to affordable housing delivery. The consolidated 3,158 sqm site is currently occupied by low-rise industrial uses, including warehouses and vehicle workshops, earmarked for transition.

First Look: Develotek joins in Five Dock apartment boom

Ascot’s Racecourse Road continues to be a hive of activity for Brisbane developers.

Following Fortis and GRAYA, which are both preparing new projects along the key strip connecting Kingsford Smith Drive and Eagle Farm Racecourse, local developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skyhold">Skyhold</a> is the latest to lodge plans for its own development.

The group is proposing One One Two Residences, a boutique project comprising just seven apartments, named after its address at 112 Racecourse Road.

The proposal outlines a five-storey building on an 810 sqm site. The built form slightly exceeds the four-storey expectation under the neighbourhood plan, aligning instead with the emerging character of the strip. As the planning report notes, “the locality is characterised by a transition toward medium-rise residential development, with a number of recent developments… above the stipulated height limits.”

<img alt="First Look: Skyhold lodges plans for boutique Ascot apartments as Racecourse Road revival gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec577631-8c51-4163-960e-e7b3a77d655b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Ascot.png?VersionId=iAzQ46D4Uu1UqiS0mVnlcy9jeFKBpJIj" />

Designed by 111 with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/paul-bangay-garden-design">Paul Bangay Studio</a>, the scheme adopts a layered architectural approach with strong articulation and a subtropical response. Deep balconies, integrated planters, and a mix of masonry and textured finishes define the façade, while upper-level setbacks reduce perceived bulk. The architectural statement describes “a series of horizontally expressed layers, defined by deep balconies and a consistent robust material palette,” aimed at delivering a refined streetscape presence.

Apartments are configured as large-format residences, including multiple three-bedroom layouts and a full-floor penthouse, supported by ground-level parking. A rooftop terrace will provide communal amenities including a pool and landscaped recreation areas. The design prioritises privacy, natural ventilation, and greenery, with planting integrated across all levels to soften the building form and contribute to the public realm.

<img alt="First Look: Skyhold lodges plans for boutique Ascot apartments as Racecourse Road revival gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1e1219bd-b45a-4d7f-bbc7-7207d7b2fc94" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Ascot%20entry.png?VersionId=JIoUOLMgQ5xWpEF0etEI3ffIoIVjD7gO" />

The proposal sits within the Racecourse Road precinct, a key mixed-use spine in Ascot that continues to attract renewed development interest.

Later this year national developer Fortis will launch its own boutique development, which, pending council approvals, will be 16 apartments designed by Koichi Takada Architects, just down the street.

“Racecourse Road is going through a massive revitalisation and we’re proud to be a part of that transformation,” said Fortis's QLD General Manager, Dan Boman.

Nearby, GRAYA is advancing its larger-scale The Gallery, a mixed-use shop-top housing project designed to act as a “catalytic project for Racecourse Road.”

First Look: Racecourse Road, Hamilton revitalization to continue as Skyhold joins the party

White Night Melbourne

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Once again Melbourne’s all night festival of art, music and light projections has delighted hundreds of thousands in Melbourne’s CBD. The 2016 edition of White Night is the fourth time that it has been run in Melbourne. After only a few years the cultural event has clearly been readily accepted as an important part of Melbourne’s busy events calendar

The biggest highlights this year were dominated by Melbourne’s top architectural masterpieces. Whilst some expressed disappointment at the limited number of projection art pieces between these landmarks, the quality of work at these key locations held up as some of the best produced so far.

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<h2>National Gallery of Victoria</h2>

In past years, visitors have been treated to an array of work from international artists. This year however the curatorship looked to internationally recognized Australian artists for some of the most important pieces.

Projected upon the monumental bluestone of the National Gallery of Victoria, indigenous artist, Josh Muir, along with Ample Projects produced a beautifully animated story of Melbourne’s indigenous people. Entitled ‘Still Here’, this piece perfectly resonated with the time and place that it was created for. The imagery of animated trams rolling along the St Kilda Road facade, reflected off the pools of water was truly a memorable experience.

<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_7291.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="National Gallery of Victoria. Image © Michael Smith"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7291.jpg?itok=t-fQyFhz" title="National Gallery of Victoria. Image © Michael Smith" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>National Gallery of Victoria. Image © Michael Smith</figcaption></figure>Inside the gallery, behind the water wall, the NGV was open for exploration the entire night. The extraordinary exhibits, which are still available for viewing, included the Ai Weiwei and Andy Warhol exhibition, a couple of extraordinary inflatable rabbits by Michael Parekowhai, and the NGV pavilion by John Wardle Architects.

<h2>Federation Square</h2>

In past years it was the Forum Theatre, and adjoining buildings on Flinders Street which were given the ‘flashy treatment’. This year it was Federation Square’s turn. Again it was fantastic to see that an indigenous artist had been commissioned for this technically challenging task. Reko Rennie with The Electric Canvas produced an artwork of vibrant patterns specifically tailored for the complex geometry of Federation Square.

<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_7347.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Federation Square. Image © Michael Smith"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7347.jpg?itok=IT38jH6F" title="Federation Square. Image © Michael Smith" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Federation Square. Image © Michael Smith</figcaption></figure><h2>State Library of Victoria</h2>

As we have come to expect from White Night, the State Library of Victoria was a dazzling spectacular both inside and out. From Swanston Street the Library dazzled in rich graphics, architectural sketches and photographic imagery. The facade illumination and animation experience entitled ‘Landscaping Architecture’ was put together by Amanda Morgan and James HH Morgan with music by DJ JNett.

Within the iconic reading room, visitors were taken on a journey through the spheres of human knowledge, in a celebration of the wonders available through libraries. This brilliant piece entitled ‘Ideation’, was the creative work of Nick Azidis, Lisa Greenway, Adem Jaffers and Bentley Dean.

<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_7491.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="State Library of Victoria. Image © Michael Smith"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7491.jpg?itok=Zra6CVMk" title="State Library of Victoria. Image © Michael Smith" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>State Library of Victoria. Image © Michael Smith</figcaption></figure><h2>Royal Exhibition Building</h2>

Perhaps the most successful piece of this year was the full facade masterpiece on the Royal Exhibition Building. This work was a collaboration between an indigenous group from Ballarat known as the Pitcha Makin Fellas and the Portuguese creative studio OCUBO. The result was a masterful piece of storytelling, animation and soundscape upon the backdrop of Australia’s first World Heritage listed building.

For those who attended White Night in 2015, there was a similarity between this piece and the piece entitled 4 Elements. Both pieces described the changing of the seasons and yet the power of the Australian story told by Australians, with the animation created specifically for this building, made this an even more compelling installation.

<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_7450.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Royal Exhibition Building. Image © Michael Smith"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7450.jpg?itok=a2Sc5FpO" title="Royal Exhibition Building. Image © Michael Smith" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Royal Exhibition Building. Image © Michael Smith</figcaption></figure><h2>An event like no other</h2>

White Night is a Melbourne event like no other. It is a celebration, which is not based on sport, but instead upon art and architecture. With a record attendance this year of well in excess of 500,000 people, White night 2016 is a testament to Melbourne’s credentials as a city that values creativity and diversity. As always thanks must go to former Premier Ted Baillieu who had the foresight to make White Night Melbourne possible back in 2013, as well as those like current Premier Daniel Andrews for crucial support in backing this cultural behemoth.

Michael Smith is a principal at Ateiler Red+Black. This article originally appeared on the <a href="https://theredandblackarchitect.wordpress.com/2016/02/22/white-night-melbourne-2016/">Red and Black architect blog</a>. Michael also operates the <a href="https://ratemybuilding.com.au/">Rate My Building website</a>.
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redblackarchitect

White Night Melbourne 2016

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Over the weekend Melbourne’s biggest celebration of art, music and architecture delighted a massive half a million people. White Night Melbourne, a one-night-only sensory spectacular, saw a diverse crowd of people flood into the central business district for the serious business of soaking up all the cultural events on offer. With over 70 events spaced over a large area it was impossible to meaningfully visit every site within the 12 hour festival, however here is a selection of the delightful experiences of 2015.

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<h2>Keyframes</h2>

This lighting exhibition used stick figure like lighting sculptures and carefully programmed lighting sequences to animate and imply movement. Watching the figures move across the NGV reflection pond brought to mind flip book style animation. The piece was put together by Groupe LAPS under the artistic directorship of Thomas Veyssiere. The quick movement and at times comedic sound track made this a crowd favorite at the southern end of the festival.

<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/keyframes.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Keyframes"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/keyframes.jpg?itok=AqtRGTml" title="Keyframes" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Keyframes</figcaption></figure><h2>4 Elements – Royal Exhibition Building</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_4086.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Royal Exhibition Building as never seen before"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4086.jpg?itok=ZTxN29vm" title="The Royal Exhibition Building as never seen before" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Royal Exhibition Building as never seen before</figcaption></figure>This was really the biggest highlight of White Night 2015. Projected upon the World Heritage listed Royal Exhibition Building, this multimedia experience perfectly blended the art forms of animation, dance, music and architecture to create a truly memorable event. At times the facade appeared to have been overgrown by vines which then catch fire as a figure dances across the massive canvas. With artistic direction by Nuno Maya, and an original sound composition by French composer Sylvain Moreau this carefully curated projection piece was a big crowd favorite.

The Royal Exhibition Building is arguably the most significant building in Melbourne. It was design by prolific architect Joseph Reed and construction was completed in 1880. It is the only still surviving Grand Hall to house a 19th Century International Exhibition. This building was also used for the opening of the first Federal Parliament of Australia in 1901.

The original exhibition of this piece was in Cascais, Portugal on a much smaller and less ornate buildings. It is interesting to see what a difference the change in architecture makes to this piece. The scale and monumentality of The Royal Exhibition Building makes it the perfect canvas for projections. If you wanted to see 4 elements, it was best to see it in Melbourne.

<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_4111.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Royal Exhibition Building as never seen before"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4111.jpg?itok=-SSXSRPB" title="The Royal Exhibition Building as never seen before" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Royal Exhibition Building as never seen before</figcaption></figure><h2>Old Melbourne Gaol</h2>

A trip to the Old Melbourne Gaol impresses upon the visitor the power that a space can possess over an individual. Matched with a sinister history of captivity and executions this building oozes an uneasy atmosphere. This atmosphere and history overwhelmed the temporary and slightly out of place art exhibition of ‘Seven Deadly Sins’ by artist Terry Taylor.

<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/seven-deadly-sins.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Seven Deadly Sins within the Old Melbourne Gaol"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/seven-deadly-sins.jpg?itok=L2fpijlZ" title="Seven Deadly Sins within the Old Melbourne Gaol" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Seven Deadly Sins within the Old Melbourne Gaol</figcaption></figure><h2>Eat Me</h2>

Inspired by the 150th anniversary of the publication of Alice in Wonderland, this multimedia projection was located within the State Library Reading Room. The striking visual experience was created by renowned French artists Antoine + Manuel and set to a beautiful soundtrack by Sui Zhen. Like the Royal Exhibition Building, the State Library of Victoria was also designed by Architect Joseph Reed. His work on the reading room created a spectacular space. To transform this iconic chamber with a projection of millions of stars is something that had to be seen to be believed.

<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/eat-me.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="‘Eat Me’ Inspired by Alice in Wonderland"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="394" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/eat-me.jpg?itok=q5rzN9YM" title="‘Eat Me’ Inspired by Alice in Wonderland" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>‘Eat Me’ Inspired by Alice in Wonderland</figcaption></figure><h2>Draw/Delay</h2>

This event explored the artistic methods of drawing as a performance piece. The collaboration between artist Kellie O’Dempsey and musician Mick Dick, was an action collage with sketches on paper projected on to a wall merged with simultaneous paint brushed directly upon the ‘canvas’, all set to a moody soundtrack. The live nature of this event showcased the creative process of the artist rather than just the ‘finished product’ making it an ideal inclusion in the White Night programme.

<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_4151_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Draw / Delay saw traditional drawing artwork colide with multimedia to create a performance piece"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4151_0.jpg?itok=L11pcvEJ" title="Draw / Delay saw traditional drawing artwork colide with multimedia to create a performance piece" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Draw / Delay saw traditional drawing artwork colide with multimedia to create a performance piece</figcaption></figure><h2>Ghostly Machines</h2>

The experience of visiting Hamer Hall is in itself something special. The ‘Ghostly Machines’ performance was conceived by the production technicians at Arts Centre Melbourne who use the high tech Sound lighting and scenery mechanisms to deliver the venue as performance art.

<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/ghostly-machines.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ghostly Machines"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="647" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ghostly-machines.jpg?itok=N9ZOtsVq" title="Ghostly Machines" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ghostly Machines</figcaption></figure>With approximately half a million people flocking into the Melbourne CBD this event really challenges the notion of what Melbourne culture is. Yes we have our sporting events, such as the Melbourne Cup or the AFL Grand Final but this event is something different. Unlike most of our sporting carnivals with long histories, this is only the third Melbourne White Night. It is also refreshing to have an event which is not associated with alcohol consumption or gambling.

White Night in many ways marks a significant step in the evolution of Melbourne from a single purpose commercial precinct to a 24 hour multipurpose hub. As a city – through creative pursuits of art, design, architecture, dance and music – Melbourne has shown of its credentials as an international city with a creative soul.

<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_4161.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Illumination and imagination"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4161.jpg?itok=EBrdpWCw" title="Illumination and imagination" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Illumination and imagination</figcaption></figure><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_4271.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Crucible, fire breathing dragon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4271.jpg?itok=mWZbpFq5" title="The Crucible, fire breathing dragon" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Crucible, fire breathing dragon</figcaption></figure><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/flinders-st-wonderland.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Flinders Street Wonderland"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flinders-st-wonderland.jpg?itok=8Yydhl9M" title="Flinders Street Wonderland" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Flinders Street Wonderland</figcaption></figure>Michael Smith is Director of Melbourne architecture firm Atelier Red + Black. This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theredandblackarchitect.wordpress.com/2015/02/23/white-night-2015/">The Red + Black Architect blog</a>.
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White Night 2015

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White Night was a celebration of Melbourne’s Urbanism and culture on an unprecedented scale. From the National Gallery of Victoria in the South, to the Melbourne City Baths in the North, the city was turned over to the people to explore, feel, participate and spectate over 100 separate activities and installations. Estimates suggest that half a million people flooded in to the Central Business District to take in the festival. At its peak, Swanston Street seemed to have narrowed with the sheer volume of people taking over the street.

<a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-26.jpg"><img alt="White Night Melbourne 2014" height="478" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-26.jpg?w=640&amp;h=478" width="640"></a>

<h2>Flinders Street Illuminated</h2>

Perhaps the most iconic aspect to White Night was the Flinders Street Projections. The artwork created by Electric Canvas transformed the Flinders Streetscape into an intense canyon of colour and movement.

<dl>
<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-11.jpg"><img alt="Flinders Street Station Illuminated" height="406" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-11.jpg?w=640&amp;h=406" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>Flinders Street Station Illuminated</dd>
	<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-13.jpg"><img alt="Flinders Street Illuminated" height="856" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-13.jpg?w=640&amp;h=856" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>‘Wonderland’ Flinders Street Illuminated</dd>
	<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-14.jpg"><img alt="The Forum Illuminated" height="856" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-14.jpg?w=640&amp;h=856" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>The Forum Illuminated</dd>
	<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-12.jpg"><img alt="Drawing on Architecture in Chapter House Lane" height="838" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-12.jpg?w=640&amp;h=838" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>Drawing on Architecture in Chapter House Lane</dd>
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<h2>The State Library of Victoria</h2>

The State Library was projected upon both inside and out. From the outside images of roman antiquities artificially aged the neoclassical facade back 2000 years. Moments later a brilliant projection of macro scale plant forms transform the facade into something else entirely.

<dl>
<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-10.jpg"><img alt="State Library Illuminated" height="478" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-10.jpg?w=640&amp;h=478" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>State Library Illuminated</dd>
</dl>
Once within the reading room, the viewer is exposed to a 360 degree projection entitled Molecular Kaleidoscope ‘Virus One Billion Times’. The animation features super sized virus cell structure and DNA chains that pulsate colour around the room to an intense soundtrack composed by Franc Tétaz. The reading room is a perfect location for this expression which mixes science and art so successfully.

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<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-29.jpg"><img alt="State Library, MOLECULAR KALEIDOSCOPE – ‘VIRUS ONE BILLION TIMES’" height="779" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-29.jpg?w=640&amp;h=779" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>State Library, MOLECULAR KALEIDOSCOPE – ‘VIRUS ONE BILLION TIMES’</dd>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" scrolling="no" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/U7pAbsJEXsk" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>Melbourne Central Shot Tower</h2>

Of all the fantastic projection and illumination pieces on offer during White Night, one of the most eye-popping pieces was I Heart Melbourne by Kollide Projections. The way that the artist used the brick canvas to create an illusion of folding and sliding bricks was brilliant.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" scrolling="no" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/FJpa8ahkCek" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>National Gallery of Victoria</h2>

One of the most popular attractions of White Night was National Gallery of Victoria. The iconic stone facade designed by Roy Grounds provided the perfect canvas for elaborate projections of tattooed bodies by Nicole Reed and The Electric Canvas. The piece entitled Tattooed City played upon the link between street art on our buildings and tattoos on our skin.

<dl>
<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-25.jpg"><img alt="Tattooed City, National Gallery of Victoria Illuminated" height="478" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-25.jpg?w=640&amp;h=478" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>Tattooed City, National Gallery of Victoria Illuminated</dd>
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Within the gallery, The Melbourne Now exhibition was in full swing with some additional events such as a silent disco and a RRR Radio Live broadcast.

Aside from the beautiful Roy Grounds masterpiece, a clear highlight is the much publicised <a href="http://cargocollective.com/roryhyde/Bin-Dome" target="_blank">‘Bin Dome’ by Dr Rory Hyde</a>. Constructed primarily from plastic rubbish bins sourced from Ikea, the geodesic dome sits boldly within the space. It is a sublime piece of design which highlights the confidence and competence of Melbourne’s architectural industry.

Naturally for a night like White Night it would not suffice for the dome to be used as a chill out space. Instead a mini dance party was taking place in front of a live DJ to ensure a dynamic audio and visual experience was combined.

<dl>
<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-28.jpg"><img alt="Bin Dome by Dr Rory Hyde" height="856" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-28.jpg?w=640&amp;h=856" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>Bin Dome by Dr Rory Hyde</dd>
	<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-27.jpg"><img alt="From within the Bin Dome by Dr Rory Hyde" height="856" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-27.jpg?w=640&amp;h=856" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>From within the Bin Dome by Dr Rory Hyde.</dd>
	<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-30-copy.jpg"><img alt="NGV Ceiling Reflection" height="668" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-30-copy.jpg?w=640&amp;h=668" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>NGV Ceiling Reflection</dd>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/gidFvjSwfk4" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>Purple Rain</h2>

Who would have thought Melbournians would queue for up to an hour, just to see rain. Who would have thought that this wait would be well worthwhile? Purple Rain was an installation art piece by Pierre Ardouvin which creates a truly remarkable sensory experience. Set against the backdrop of the Old Melbourne Gaol, participants are equipped with transparent umbrellas and then enticed into a purple mist. Naturally the experience is capped off by the amplified soundtrack, Purple Rain by Prince.

<dl>
<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-32.jpg"><img alt="Purple Rain experience" height="478" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-32.jpg?w=640&amp;h=478" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>Purple Rain experience</dd>
	<dt><a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-31.jpg"><img alt="Purple Rain backdrop" height="478" src="http://theredandblackarchitect.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/photo-31.jpg?w=640&amp;h=478" width="640"></a></dt>
	<dd>Purple Rain backdrop</dd>
</dl>
White Night 2014 was an experience like no other Melbourne has seen. Part arts festival, part street party, part exhibition, Melbourne has never looked more like a cultural hub. Key to this is the world class architecture, the cornerstone of Melbourne’s cultural expression.

Architecture is for Everyone.

Michael Smith is Director of Melbourne architecture firm <a href="http://redblackarch.com.au/">Atelier Red + Black</a>, and this article originally appeared on The Red and Black Architect <a href="http://theredandblackarchitect.wordpress.com/2014/02/25/white-night-melbourne-2014/" target="_blank">blog</a>.
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