Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

When the opportunity arose for South Australian developer Palumbo to return to Kent Town, where it had previously delivered East Park Apartments and the East 
Rundle Apartments, it wasn't one the longstanding developer-builder was going to pass up.

The decision was quickly vindicated, with more than 30 apartments sold within the first month of launching <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/royal-apartments-kent-town-2-8-north-terrace-kent-town-sa-5067">Royal Apartments</a> to the market.

The 206-apartment development, which will bring significant new supply to Adelaide's tightly held eastern city fringe, also gives <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/palumbo">Palumbo</a> the opportunity to bring new life to one of Kent Town's most recognisable watering holes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376073]

Royal Apartments incorporates the historic Royal Hotel, a venue Palumbo Managing Director Daniel Palumbo said has a longstanding connection with the local community.

"Everyone in the area has history with the Royal Hotel," Palumbo told Apartments.com.au.

"It was quite an active pub and social gathering place for locals. We want to bring it back to its former glory."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376072]

The wider development will comprise two residential towers alongside the restored hotel, sitting on North Terrace opposite the Adelaide Park Lands.

For Palumbo, the project also marks a return to familiar territory.

The developer completed East Park Apartments next door more than a decade ago and jumped at the opportunity to develop in Kent Town again when the Royal Hotel site became available.

"The opportunity emerged, and we moved to secure the site," Palumbo said.

"We were approached by the previous landowner, who said they had extensive commitments in Sydney and weren't in a position to deliver the project.

"We took over the site and within six months recut the design scheme to be more in keeping with the type of development we want to bring to Adelaide.

"Now we're on the market and those changes have really resonated with local buyers."

That has translated into a strong start to sales, with 33 apartments transacting in the project's first 35 days.

Palumbo said the early purchaser profile had been consistent with the group's traditional focus on owner-occupiers rather than investor-led apartment stock.

"Local owner-occupiers have always been our market," he said.

"There are always some investors, but we've never developed what would be called traditional development stock. Owner-occupiers are very much our market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376068]

The buyer mix has been diverse so far, with downsizers and younger professionals both accounting for a significant portion of early sales.

South Australia's current stamp duty settings, which allow&nbsp;eligible homeowners in South Australia aged 60 savings of up to $103,830 on stamp duty when they downsize to a new property valued at up to $2 million,&nbsp;have helped encourage downsizer activity, while younger buyers in their late 20s and early 30s have been attracted to the opportunity to live immediately outside the CBD while still being able to walk into the city.



Location has been a major part of the proposition for both buyer cohorts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376075]

Royal Apartments sits on North Terrace directly opposite the Adelaide Park Lands, with residents able to walk through the parklands toward the East End, Rundle Street and Rundle Mall.

Apartments have been positioned to capture views across the parklands, Adelaide skyline, Botanic Gardens and Adelaide Hills.

Palumbo believes the scarcity of developable land along this section of the Park Lands makes the site particularly difficult to replicate.

"There's very few allotments on that side that can be developed," he said.

"If this location was in New York and you were sitting on Central Park, you'd be talking about a $60 million apartments."

Royal Apartments will offer a broad mix of residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.

Current listings include one-bedroom apartments from $680,000, while larger three and four-bedroom residences are priced around $2.5 million.

Residents will have access to a swimming pool, gym, barbecue and recreation areas, residents' lounge and dining space, and a communal deck.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376067]

The apartments will feature generous balconies, while secure parking, bicycle storage and storage cages will also be provided.

A porte-cochère-style arrival and drop-off area has also resonated with buyers, particularly those attracted to being able to walk into the CBD during the day while retaining secure vehicle access at home.

Palumbo is acting as developer, architect and builder on Royal Apartments, continuing the vertically integrated model it has used across its South Australian portfolio.

The group was also behind the $150 million Sofitel Adelaide, the 251-room five-star hotel and residential tower which opened in 2021.

Palumbo said Royal's launch had come at an interesting time for the broader Adelaide apartment market.

Buyer confidence had initially been impacted by uncertainty surrounding the Federal Budget and broader economic conditions, but Palumbo believes sentiment is beginning to improve against a backdrop of significant investment flowing into South Australia.

He pointed to increased activity across defence and resources, including Olympic Dam, as potential long-term drivers of the state's economy and housing market.

"Money is starting to flow into Adeliade, significant amounts as Adelaide bucks the trend of the rest of the country.," Palumbo said.

"There's a lot of activity in the economy over the next decade. I think more investment will come into this market."

Early works on Royal Apartments are expected to commence this year, with major construction activity and cranes anticipated on site from early next year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6109]

Palumbo's return to Kent Town strikes early chord with buyers

Go-to builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">GRAYA</a> is continuing to bulk out its already impressive and diverse apartment portfolio across South East Queensland. Their latest milestone is securing development approval for Silk, its boutique riverfront apartment development in St Lucia.

The approval clears&nbsp;the way for the team to begin construction planning for the 22-residence project.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/silk-st-lucia-16-18-sandford-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">Silk</a> will rise 15 levels from an 810 sqm site at 16-18 Sandford Street, occupying a prominent bend of the Brisbane River with a prized northern aspect across Orleigh Park toward the Brisbane CBD.

The approved scheme will comprise 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences, continuing GRAYA's move into larger-format apartment developments targeting Brisbane's prestige owner-occupier market.

The project has been designed around the site's broad river frontage and dual-direction views, with GRAYA prioritising larger residences, privacy and outlook over apartment yield.

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa5c2349-f96c-4914-a812-1f2cd6827af8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WY0vEU_7vYjeRJKQHiCwFdMxu8PvFh52" />

GRAYA Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Rob Gray said the project had been shaped around local homeowners wanting to remain in St Lucia without maintaining a traditional family home.

"St Lucia is one of those suburbs people do not want to leave," Gray said.

"They know the river, the trees, UQ, the golf course, Toowong and Indooroopilly, and that familiarity is hard to replace.

"True riverfront opportunities here are exceptionally scarce. What we have designed at Silk is a way to stay in the suburb people love, with the scale and privacy of a private home and far less to maintain.

"This is not typical apartment product. It is a proper home on the river, and that is exactly what this market has been missing."

The approval comes as new apartment development continues to increase across the St Lucia and neighbouring Toowong corridor, although direct riverfront sites remain considerably more tightly held.

GRAYA Co-founder and Managing Director Andrew Gray said securing the approval had removed a significant element of development risk from Silk.

"Genuine riverfront sites of this quality in St Lucia are not something that comes up regularly," Gray said.

"The approval removes a substantial layer of execution risk, and the location underwrites demand in a way very few inner-city sites can.

"The fundamentals here are as strong as anything we have assessed in Brisbane."

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d0f3d734-65e1-48e8-8ed3-2e0715ffcdd9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sOLSs_jdHkXLWbBKzRyayf5BfTb2vPsD" />

Silk will see GRAYA return to a stretch of the Brisbane River where it already has recent construction experience. The vertically integrated group recently completed ARC in neighbouring Toowong as builder for developer Spyre, delivering the riverfront project on a constrained site.

GRAYA will take a different role at Silk, controlling the project from design and development through construction and aftercare under its vertically integrated model.

The development will include a gym and resident leisure areas at ground level, integrated with the river's edge.

Silk joins a growing pipeline for GRAYA across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, which includes Enclave, The Gallery, Coral and Ripple.

The developer-builder has also recently lodged plans for its largest project to date, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-silo-19-chester-street-newstead-qld-4006">The Silo</a>, a proposed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/graya-buys-frasers-newstead-site-plans-the-silo-between-james-street-and-gasworks-precincts">$700 million mixed-use development</a> in Brisbane's James Street precinct.

Silk is expected to predominantly target local owner-occupiers and prestige buyers seeking a permanent riverfront home in Brisbane's inner west.

Registrations of interest are now open, with further details on the project and construction program to be released as it progresses.

<hr />
<h2>SILK PROJECT FACTS</h2>

Developer-builder: GRAYA

Project: Silk

Location: 16-18 Sandford Street, St Lucia

Apartments: 22

Built form: 15 levels

Site: 810 sqm riverfront holding

Mix: 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences

Status: Development approved

Next step: Construction planning underway

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152168]

GRAYA greenlit for riverfront St Lucia apartment development, Silk

Woods Bagot

<html><body>
The Penny Place display suite encapsulates the essence of what buyers want in a brand new apartment - sophisticated, low maintenance and high quality. Recently, Urban was invited to take a tour of the display suite, to find out what the apartments would look like upon completion. We were impressed by the attention to detail, quality of fittings and intuitive open plan layout of the living areas.

Check out our video tour:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ieBZfmQWM_4" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>PENNY PLACE AT A GLANCE </h2>

Developer: <a href="/developers/flagship-group">Flagship Property Group</a>

Architect: <a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>

Location: 17 Penny Place, Adelaide SA 5000

Number of apartments: 152

Construction slated for completion: Jul 2021

<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/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-0a5e6f4c2e4162e6bbde198a77d12c90.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="512" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-0a5e6f4c2e4162e6bbde198a77d12c90.jpg?itok=Y7tA6qGc" width="580"></a></figure>Designed by the award-winning architects at Woods Bagot, Penny Place is set to become a popular new apartment development in the heart of <a href="/new-apartments/adelaide-sa">Adelaide</a>, with unrivalled views and intuitive floor plan layouts.

Penny Place kitchens have been designed with culinary enthusiasts in mind. Featuring a Bosch gas cooktop and oven, Fisher and Paykel dish drawers, LED strip lighting and stunning Caesarstone benchtop, residents will love preparing meals in their fully-equipped entertainer's kitchen. 

<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/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-6f91e3bcf3a1daf76d3a82354a7ce0c7.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="644" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-6f91e3bcf3a1daf76d3a82354a7ce0c7.jpg?itok=QhqbykFI" width="580"></a></figure>The apartment bathrooms are minimalist and spacious, including large porcelain floor tiles and a semi-frameless alcove shower with a luxurious rainfall showerhead.  

The tiles in the bathroom are carried through to the kitchen and living areas, except they are a larger format (300 x 300), offering the perfect balance of style, comfort and low maintenance. In the bedrooms you'll find a modern grey loop pile carpet which is soft underfoot, and perfect for extra warmth in winter months. 

Integrated air conditioning is complemented by sunscreen and block out blinds in the living areas and bedrooms to provide residents with the perfect thermal insulation year-round. 

<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/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-9e47b344d5a5953e5caa523511b3d1a1_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="417" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-9e47b344d5a5953e5caa523511b3d1a1_1.jpg?itok=RQoGSqwI" width="580"></a></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/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-eb4d112042fb62dc16822d3d7796db08_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="259" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-eb4d112042fb62dc16822d3d7796db08_2.jpg?itok=rPaeWA3v" width="580"></a></figure>Residents will have the option of choosing an apartment with stunning views of the Adelaide Hills, the ocean or city skyline, which can be enjoyed through the expansive floor to ceiling windows, or on your private balcony. 

If you'd love to call Penny Place home by July 2021, then <a href="/buildings/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide">reach out to a sales agent</a> via Urban today, but hurry, as only a select number of apartments are remaining. 
</body></html>

Olivia Round

Urban’s tour of the Penny Place display suite

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The eagerly awaited <a href="/new-apartments/parramatta-nsw">Parramatta</a> development <a href="/buildings/west-village-88-church-street-parramatta">West Village</a> celebrated its grand topping out ceremony on Tuesday, reaching a towering 40-levels. The construction milestone was commended by Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer, who joined the <a href="/developers/ecoworld-international">EcoWorld International</a> and <a href="/builders/parkview">Parkview</a> management teams in a ceremonial tree planting.

<blockquote>
“West Village is our first Australian project to top out and it was an honour to celebrate the occasion alongside Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer. We have always held the view that Parramatta would be the next growth area for Sydney due to its central geographical location in New South Wales and its excellent infrastructure and amenities.”
</blockquote>

Yap Foo Leong, CEO of EcoWorld International Australia

<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/datoteowleongecoworld-tansriliewkeesinecoworld-bobdwyerlordmayor-tonytoumaparkview-yapfooleongecoworld.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dato Teow Leong (EcoWorld), Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin (EcoWorld), Bob Dwyer (LordMayor), Tony Touma (Parkview), Yap Foo Leong (Ecoworld)"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/datoteowleongecoworld-tansriliewkeesinecoworld-bobdwyerlordmayor-tonytoumaparkview-yapfooleongecoworld.jpg?itok=iQRm6zw8" title="Dato Teow Leong (EcoWorld), Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin (EcoWorld), Bob Dwyer (LordMayor), Tony Touma (Parkview), Yap Foo Leong (Ecoworld)" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Dato Teow Leong (EcoWorld), Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin (EcoWorld), Bob Dwyer (LordMayor), Tony Touma (Parkview), Yap Foo Leong (Ecoworld)</figcaption></figure>Designed by award-winning architecture firm <a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, with grounds by celebrity landscape architect Miles Baldwin, West Village has been a success among buyers with a 95% sale rate.

The tower features 398 luxury, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, which rise from a vibrant ground-floor retail precinct. Encompassed in a façade of elegant glazing, each apartment boasts ample natural light, grand balconies and stunning views across Parramatta.

<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/westvillage_home_greenspaces_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Village alfresco dining precinct. Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="595" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westvillage_home_greenspaces_01.jpg?itok=N-VwA6ql" title="West Village alfresco dining precinct. Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Village alfresco dining precinct. Image supplied.</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/westvillageparamatta_s030_int_penthouse-1030x686.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Village apartment. Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westvillageparamatta_s030_int_penthouse-1030x686.jpg?itok=E7zcutO-" title="West Village apartment. Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Village apartment. Image supplied.</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/westvillage_home_rooftopgarden_02-v1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Village resident garden podium. Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="595" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westvillage_home_rooftopgarden_02-v1.jpg?itok=RV1N5hZU" title="West Village resident garden podium. Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Village resident garden podium. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure>Atop the tower is a tranquil rooftop Skydeck and garden terrace, giving residents a space to relax and unwind. Other amenities include barbeque facilities, virtual golf simulator, a piano room and an on-site supermarket.

<blockquote>
“Parramatta truly suits our hallmark for rolling out quality developments in prime locations that can cater to the local needs of the residents and the success West Village has experienced confirms the prediction that Parramatta is set to become the new CBD.”
</blockquote>

Yap Foo Leong, CEO of EcoWorld International Australia

Situated in the heart of Parramatta’s growing urban village West Village sits alongside skyscrapers such as Altitude, Skyrise and the soon to be completed 4 Parramatta Square. The enviable location has been a hit among buyers who have been drawn to the area due to the prolific infrastructure projects set to commence within the area to cater to Parramatta’s growing population.

West Village is EcoWorld International’s first Australian project, with Yarra One in Melbourne also currently under construction and set to top out by February 2020.
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Parramatta’s West Village tops out at 40 levels

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Following a nine-year development period, the five-tower ‘Collins Square’ development in Melbourne's Docklands, has claimed the title of the highest concentration of environmentally sustainable buildings in the Southern Hemisphere.

The development has been awarded a Green Star Design, As Built v3 Rating and NABERS Energy 5 rating due to the use of eco-conscious technology including a Tri-Generation system, rainwater harvesting as well as energy efficient fixtures and fittings.

Walker Corporation’s $2.5 billion project features 250,000 sqm of commercial space across five towers; 10,000 sqm of retail and dining; childcare facilities; a supermarket and a health and wellbeing centre. The development also included the refurbishment of the 120-year-old Goods Shed South.

Spanning an entire city block, Collins Square was designed to fit seamlessly into the urban landscape, providing a transition in scale from the CBD down to Docklands Park and limiting overshadowing to surrounding public spaces and the Southbank of the Yarra.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/collins_square_2018.09_068.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Collins Square's 5th development. Credit: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/collins_square_2018.09_068.jpg?itok=RInGCvfH" title="Collins Square's 5th development. Credit: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Collins Square's 5th development. Credit: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>The fifth and final tower - aptly named Tower 5 and first covered on<a href="/news/and-then-there-were-five-tower-5-collins-square"> </a><a href="/news/and-then-there-were-five-tower-5-collins-square">Urban.com.au first reported on in 2014</a> - spans a total of 33-storeys and 117m. Designed by Woods Bagot and built by Multuiplex, the tower features a curved form with a tapered roof at its summit and provides spacious, light-filled workspaces, supported by ample carparking and end of trip facilities for its tenants which include Transurban.

The tower is interconnected within the precinct for easy access to the neighbouring towers. Bluetooth activated lifts also allow workers and visitors to reach their destination using their smartphone.

<blockquote>
“The smooth delivery of this major project is a reflection of our on-going collaboration with Walker Corporation, which has seen Multiplex deliver the last four towers at Collins Square.”

- Graham Cottam, Regional Managing Director of Multiplex Victoria
</blockquote>

In addition to Tower 5, <a href="/builders/multiplex">Multiplex</a> has completed a number of other commercial projects in Docklands in recent years, including Cbus Property’s Medibank office (720 Bourke Street) and National Australia Bank building (700 Bourke Street), and 727 Collins Street.

Lead image: Woods Bagot
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Collins Square reaches highest level of sustainable building density in Southern Hemisphere

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The City of Melbourne via its Future Melbourne Committee last night resolved to provide support for an amended design to Lendlease's Melbourne Quarter Tower in Docklands.

Replacing an earlier endorsed scheme for a 27-storey office building of 92,086 sqm (GFA), the revised design would instead rise 32-storeys above Wurundjeri Way for an overall height of 147.15m and a GFA of 101,998sqm, thus making it Docklands' tallest building.

Height and GFA aside, the form of the tower has also changed with Woods Bagot adopting a 'curved' sweeping form that is concave in plan to the west and a concave to the east. This replaces DCM's more rectilinear scheme which also included a protruding volume at its summit, known as the 'Sky Room'.

Internally the new scheme also features four x three-storey terraces above level 21, where the low-rise lift banks drop-off, though City of Melbourne believes these could be better expressed externally to aid in reducing the visual mass of the tower further.

<blockquote>
"Noting the visibility of the form particularly from across the Fairfax building, we encourage the more direct expression of the terrace and common areas where the low rise lift drops off above Level 21. The expression of 
these spaces in the elevation would greatly enhance the presentation of this long elevation through creating ‘moments’ of interest centrally within the façade, with depth, shadow play and vegetation visible. A shift to a legible winter garden or louvred glazing approach would be strongly encouraged."

- City of Melbourne's Urban Design team
</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/mqt_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A reimagined Melbourne Quarter Tower. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="884" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mqt_0.jpg?itok=512liRq0" title="A reimagined Melbourne Quarter Tower. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A re-imagined Melbourne Quarter Tower. Image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>The City of Melbourne's Urban Design team was otherwise supportive of the design changes highlighting the curvilinear form as adding to the diversity of the architecture in the area.  According to the Urban Design Team, the introduction of fins to add shade and depth and an ordering grid was also a welcome addition however, encouraged further development of this.

Meanwhile, work continues on another Woods Bagot-designed commercial tower in the precinct - the 25-storey Two Melbourne Quarter, with the first of the facade panels installed.

Two Melbourne Quarter joins Fender Katsalidis' East Tower which is shooting up to its eventual height of 143m and 41-storeys.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/redden_2mq.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="L-R: Two Melbourne Quarter | East Tower. Images: redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="216" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/redden_2mq.jpg?itok=3D2McpxK" title="L-R: Two Melbourne Quarter | East Tower. Images: redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>L-R: Two Melbourne Quarter | East Tower. Images: redden</figcaption></figure>Lendlease has already completed One Melbourne Quarter and stage 1 of the SkyPark, with the second stage to be delivered as part of Melbourne Quarter Tower.

With City of Melbourne's support in hand, the final planning hurdle to overcome remains Planning Minister Richard Wynne, although this would appear to be a mere formality.

It is expected Lendlease will look to secure an anchor tenant or significant pre-commitment for Melbourne Quarter Tower prior to commencing construction.
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Laurence Dragomir

City of Melbourne provides support for revised Melbourne Quarter Tower

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Victoria University has just announced the creation of a brand new learning hub in Melbourne’s west as part of a partnership with the Victorian Government and the Ian Potter Foundation. The exciting new addition to Ballarat Road in Sunshine has been designed by world-class architectural firm <a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, with a clear vision to combat a skills shortage across Melbourne and achieve a 5 Star <a href="/news/5-of-melbourne-s-environmentally-conscious-new-development-highlights">Green Star environmental rating</a>. 'Sunshine Skills Hub' will offer TAFE courses in disciplines such as health, community services and trades, with an outstanding selection of technology available to students.

A hands-on approach to learning has inspired the design team to create simulation experiences, utilising state-of-the-art technology such as 3D modelling software, virtual reality goggles, robots, computerised mannequins, simulation hospital wards, the latest coding software and more. 

<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/ssh5_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ssh5_1.jpg?itok=5IIO_F--" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sunshine Skills Hub. Credit: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>As the job market changes, Victoria University is continuing to develop new programmes to assist with the transition of workers into emerging industries. In 2018 the University launched a  digital technology qualification, which sparked the idea to create three innovation spaces: the ideation space, the software centre and the prototyping room. The rooms will be equipped with advanced technology with a goal to encourage the development of lateral thinking and problem-solving skills.

<blockquote>
“Teaching methodologies are shifting to problem-based learning and traditional space typologies are being challenged in the design response. The Skills Hub is a series of cross-sector spaces designed to help bridge the gap between education and industry."

- Sarah Ball, Woods Bagot Principal
</blockquote>

The three-story hub will feature a kitchenette for student use, a cafe, staff accommodation for 20 employees, ‘informal learning facilities’, IT and research support services, student services centre and a learning commons.

Sunshine Skills Hub's sawtooth design aims to maintain thermal comfort while reducing the need for air conditioning. It also acts as a reference to the harvester work factories previously found in the Sunshine area. 

Undertaking the build of the project will be ADCO Constructions (<a href="/news/deakin-burwoods-new-student-accommodation-building-embraces-the-space">who built Deakin Burwood campus' student accommodation</a>), with a goal to complete the facility by December 2019. Sunshine Skills Hub is Victoria University's second development to take place this year, following the partnership with ISPT to create <a href="/news/ispt-set-to-deliver-victoria-universitys-new-vertical-city-campus">the university's first vertical campus</a>.
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Victoria University announces innovative new vocational training facility targeting Melbourne’s skill shortages 

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UniLodge Park Central has opened its doors today and is the first of a trio of projects planned by Singaporean-based property developer Wee Hur Capital.

Woods Bagot was given a brief to create a ‘home away from home’ for international and inter-state students, to provide a seamless transition into tertiary student life in Buranda, Brisbane. 

<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/unilodge1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/unilodge1.jpg?itok=Pd1KnT-k" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>UniLodge, Brisbane. Credit: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>The purpose-built high-rise features 1,578 rooms and offers lifestyle, comfort and convenience, as well as catering to the current demand for more student housing in the city.

<blockquote>
“To create a welcoming environment for students from over 50 countries we researched how they rest, play, work and interact with one another at a time when they are just beginning their adult lives.”

- HangChung Ling, project architect
</blockquote>

Students can enjoy private zones for relaxation, communal spaces, sky garden common rooms and sustainable transport options such as a bicycle centre and car share facility. At street-level, a selection of retail stores will be available for the convenience of students and the wider Buranda community.

Prior to Uni Lodge Park Central, Woods Bagot completed the design for an 11-floor student living facility at <a href="https://www.studyinternational.com/news/ideal-student-accommodation-australia/">80 Stirling Street</a> in Perth, which has been noted as “blurring of the lines between traditional student accommodation and a co-living space”. 

Stay tuned for further updates on the second and third UniLodge developments later this year. 
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‘A home away from home’ - new UniLodge opens in Queensland

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The future of office workspaces is evolving as more businesses move from generic offices to more customised, worker-focused spaces.

This morning Woods Bagot Principal Bronwyn McColl gave a talk about what she believes the future holds for workplace design.

<blockquote>
“Never before have we seen so many generations sharing a workplace. Nor have we previously had the ability to collect and understand the data available in such detail. These factors contribute to making today an exciting point in time, where workplaces are developing into transformational spaces driven by user experience and workplace culture.”

- Bronwyn McColl, Woods Bagot Principal
</blockquote>

In 2016, Woods Bagot completed the largest government integration project at 1 William Street in Brisbane. The project involved co-locating nearly 5000 government employees from 16 sites. Following the transition, over 80% of employees shared that they were satisfied with their workplace. The design focused on maximising light flow into the office space, capitalising on the stunning 360° views, and creating open-plan social and collaborative spaces for workers. The office also has a 6 Star Green Star rating and 5.5 Star NABERS energy rating. 

<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/mini_magick20190130-24890-6vd0m620190130-24890-elw8ud.png" rel="gallery-all" title="1 William Street, Brisbane. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mini_magick20190130-24890-6vd0m620190130-24890-elw8ud.png?itok=jJJRDrC4" title="1 William Street, Brisbane. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1 William Street, Brisbane. Image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
“Workplaces of the future are heading towards a transformative collision point between the best part of all sectors,” said McColl. “Sectors are blurring and inspiring one another, and user experience and expectation are increasingly influential to design outcomes.”
</blockquote>

The Woods Bagot technique of approaching workplace design is to focus on the holistic business strategy rather than a simplistic accomodation brief. This can include collecting available data to inform designs for productivity, comfort and versatility. 

<blockquote>
“Businesses are far more innovative with the way they engage with their employees and deliver their services. In response, designers have become more knowledgeable about the psychology of space and how to use data collection to meaningfully inform our designs.” 
</blockquote>

After almost a decade with Woods Bagot in Brisbane, McColl has relocated to Melbourne to head up the studio’s workplace design team. McColl’s design experience spans across any sector where user experience is the focus.

<blockquote>
“Bronwyn’s experience is a tremendous asset and we will see that infuse through the Melbourne studio.”

- Rosina di Maria, Woods Bagot’s workplace design leader (Australia region)
</blockquote>

McColl has already begun work with the Melbourne team to deliver new accommodation for retail, property, government and legal clients.

Lead image: Bronwyn McColl, courtesy of Woods Bagot
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Woods Bagot principal Bronwyn McColl discusses the future of the modern workplace

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It’s a great accomplishment to win best design for Sydney CBD’s first new luxury hotel in two decades, but to receive the unanimous vote from a 6-jury panel of experts makes this accolade even more remarkable.

Woods Bagot were among six architectural design firms to be given a brief by Urbis (in accordance with the <a href="https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/128065/Competitive-design-policy-adopted-09-December-2013.pdf">City of Sydney Competitive Design Policy 2013</a>) to produce a design for a new luxury city hotel for the central Sydney site owned by Singapore-based investment company SC Capital Partners Group. 

<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/sydneyhotel6.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="365" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sydneyhotel6.jpg?itok=9qzTlDin" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Woods Bagot award-winning design entry for new Sydney hotel. Credit: Woods Bagot</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/sydneyhotel1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="590" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sydneyhotel1.jpg?itok=ZJ9Vos9e" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The hotel will be operated by Andaz Hotels by Hyatt. Credit: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
“The Woods Bagot entry displayed a masterful architectural clarity and precision throughout the scheme.”

- Graham Jahn AM, City of Sydney’s director of City Planning, Development and Transport
</blockquote>

The sleek 55-storey skyscraper will complement its neighbouring heritage buildings (Sofitel &amp; CML Building), and has been designed with a focus on embracing Sydney’s natural environment to obtain the title of Australia’s first WELL-rated hotel.

<blockquote>
“In Sydney, we feel that nature is only ever held back, and if it were left unchecked it would quickly reclaim its domain – oozing like jam or glue into every crevice. Green walls, unexpected roof gardens, trees and generous landscaping at street level are part of the building’s integrated sustainability strategy.”

- Ian Lomas, Principal and Sydney studio Design Leader of Woods Bagot.
</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/sydneyhotel2.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sydneyhotel2.jpg?itok=Pi3B0mNT" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level entranceway. Credit: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>At ground level, the hotel entry can be accessed via an elegant garden porte-cochére, where Sydneysiders and hotel guests are invited to enjoy retail stores and co-working spaces. The building also features a nine-level commercial office podium set within a tranquil garden and offering a clubroom with a pool, wellness centre and childcare facilities.

<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/sydney6.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sydney6.jpg?itok=KCGM1p8u" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sydney's Short Lane development. Credit: The Australian</figcaption></figure>Back in 2017, Woods Bagot completed Sydney’s <a href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/short-lane">Short Lane development</a>, a design that draws on a strong connection to nature, utilising innovative planning to create a lush environment. This idea has been mirrored in the hotel design, to create an ‘urban oasis’ in the heart of the city.

<blockquote>
“Ultimately, each solution is bespoke for its location and I think that's that 'magic' that gives it a real spirit as a place, rather than it being something that lacks any sense of identity and could be anywhere. For us it's fundamental that there's a strong contextual connection back to its neighbourhood”

- Peter Miglis, via Urban's <a href="/news/discussing-apartment-design-with-woods-bagots-peter-miglis">'Discussing apartment design with Woods Bagot's Peter Miglis'</a>
</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/sydneyhotel5.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="464" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sydneyhotel5.jpg?itok=DPXpB-PO" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Spectacular views of the city skyline. Credit: Woods Bagot</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/sydneyhotel3.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="848" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sydneyhotel3.jpg?itok=mmp2uRqC" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 226 meter structure contains 55 floors making it the city's tallest hotel. Credit: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Guest suites then rise up the building, boasting incredible city views from every angle. The hotel reception and public sky deck can be found on level 15, and at the crown, a rooftop restaurant, bar and garden provide spectacular 360º views of Sydney Harbour, the Heads and parks.

<blockquote>
“The building will be instantly recognizable from every angle, as the tower changes form and emphasis in response to context, orientation and internal function,”

- Ian Lomas, Woods Bagot Principal
</blockquote>

The build will take place at 4-6 Bligh Street, and is due for completion September 2022.
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Woods Bagot impresses judges with design for Sydney’s first new luxury hotel in 20 years

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As Melbourne's population continues to skyrocket, Australia’s top architects are coming up with environmentally conscious solutions to meet demand, while maintaining the city’s famously high standard of living.

<blockquote>
“Sustainability is the basis of all Future Melbourne goals. It requires current generations to choose how they meet their needs without compromising the ability of future generations to also meet their needs,” 
</blockquote>

- City of Melbourne 

From 2017 to date, here are 5 new-build highlights which have been designed with a green initiative for a more sustainable future.

#1 COLLINS ARCH

<figure><a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/collinsarch_0.jpg?itok=alE1N5rJ" title="Collins Arch, Melbourne CBD. Credit: Cbus Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Collins Arch, Melbourne CBD. Credit: Cbus Property</figcaption></figure>With construction well underway, Cbus Property have worked closely with Woods Bagot &amp; SHoP Architects to produce a world-class sustainable skyscraper due for completion this year. The dual 41-floor buildings will comprise of 202 residences, 294 resort-style hotel rooms, 50,000 square metres of premium grade office space and state-of-the-art communal spaces, including a tiered amphitheatre.

<a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne">Collins Arch</a> is the third development to receive a platinum level WELL Precertification, where nutrition, fitness, mood, sleep patterns and cognitive performance of occupants are highlighted as key considerations in the overall design. This has been accomplished through indoor air quality monitoring, superior natural lighting and ventilation, an emphasis on bicycle access, and more. To round off Collins Arch’s sustainability endorsement, the building has also been submitted for 6-star Greenstar accreditation and 5.5 star NABERS energy rating.

#2 SOUTHBANK BOULEVARD

<figure><a href="/news/stage-1-of-transforming-southbank-boulevard-and-dodds-street-commencing-this-month" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbankbvld.jpg?itok=lIXFJhv7" title="Southbank Boulevard and Dobbs Street. Credit: City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southbank Boulevard and Dobbs Street. Credit: City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>The transformation of <a href="/news/stage-1-of-transforming-southbank-boulevard-and-dodds-street-commencing-this-month">Southbank Boulevard and Dodds Street</a> is taking shape, and due for completion late 2019. As the gateway to Melbourne’s Arts Precinct, the plan is to create a Melbourne Experience for Southbank by constructing 2.5 hectares of new public space, including a new civic square for the precinct, more neighbourhood parks and the aim of prioritising pedestrians, cyclists and public transport. The project will also see 300 new trees planted (predominantly the Platanus X acerifolia), which will meet the City of Melbourne’s biodiversity and urban forest targets. 

#3 435 BOURKE STREET

<figure><a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/435bourke.jpg?itok=FFWzySUA" title="435 Bourke Street, Melbourne CBD. Credit: Cbus Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>435 Bourke Street, Melbourne CBD. Credit: Cbus Property</figcaption></figure>The 55-level commercial tower designed by Bates Smart in association with Cbus Property will add a striking new icon to Melbourne’s urban skyline by 2023. Located on the corner of Queen and Bourke Streets, <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">435 Bourke Street</a> boasts environmentally friendly features and is targeting a 5.5 Star NABERS Energy rating, a minimum 5 Star ‘Green Star’ Office Design and WELL Platinum Certification.

Cbus Property aims to invest in new technologies and materials to maintain its notable eco-conscious reputation for both new and existing buildings. With a sustainable focus in mind, the sculptural design will fit seamlessly into the city landscape, with six different landscaped terraces throughout for occupants to enjoy.

<blockquote>
“The building’s design references the neighbouring streetscape and is crafted to be more organic in form, aspiring to enliven the precinct and create a more people-friendly environment that stimulates the senses and imagination.”
</blockquote>

- Cian Davis, Director of Bates Smart

#4 LITTLE MILLER 

<figure><a href="/buildings/neighbourhood-10-16-little-miller-street-brunswick-east"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/littlemiller.jpg?itok=MosoOmoR" title="55-63 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East. Credit: Castran" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>55-63 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East. Credit: Castran</figcaption></figure>Developer Lucent teamed up with design trio ClarkeHopkinsClarke Architects, Breathe Architecture and Openwork Landscaping to put Brunswick East’s ‘<a href="/buildings/neighbourhood-10-16-little-miller-street-brunswick-east">Little Miller</a>’ on the map as one of Melbourne’s most sustainable residential developments to date. The sold-out apartment building has been awarded a 7.5 star average NatHERS thermal performance rating, and has been designed as a 100% fossil fuel free building. From induction cooktops and energy-saving LED light fittings, to rainwater tanks for irrigation and solar power, the environmentally conscious design makes use of natural resources without compromising luxurious living. Venture up to the rooftop and you’ll find a multi-functional garden featuring all kinds of plants and greenery, communal al fresco dining and even a ‘gin and tonic’ room surrounded by edible plants to make your own cocktails. 

<blockquote>
“What is labelled sustainable, is often just common sense. While we do design responsibly, we also design robust homes that just feel right.”
</blockquote>

- Toby Lauchlan, ClarkeHopkinsClarke

#5 THE GENERAL

<figure><a href="/buildings/the-general-421-high-street-northcote" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/thegeneral.jpg?itok=y6QNTC9S" title="421 High Street, Northcote. Credit: C.Kairouz &amp; Associates" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>421 High Street, Northcote. Credit: C.Kairouz &amp; Associates</figcaption></figure>What was once a small family butcher on Northcote’s High Street, has now become the site for '<a href="/buildings/the-general-421-high-street-northcote">The General</a>',  arguably one of Melbourne’s most exciting technological advancements in structural design to date. Architect Chahid Kairouz had a goal to transform the site of his family’s business into not only a sophisticated mid-rise apartment, but use the opportunity as a means to pioneer new technology with a sustainable focus in his late father’s honour.

<blockquote>
“It was extremely important to reflect my father’s values in the design of the general; not only for sentimental value but to stand the test of time in its design and its use of cutting-edge sustainable technology on the facade; a combination makes the building and the apartments be relevant for longer." 
</blockquote>

the general is Australia’s first ever residential building to use Onyx Solar photovoltaic glazing which works as both a balustrade and power source. The sustainable design also contains a 25,000 litre rainwater tank for flushing toilets, 137 bicycle parks and a green rooftop terrace.

THE  FUTURE

With temperatures on the rise and an endeavour to achieve a more sustainable society, the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects have called for increased investment in green infrastructure. <a href="/news/victorian-election-2018-aila-victoria-calls-for-increased-investment-in-green-infrastructure">Read the full article</a>. 

<blockquote>
“There is the need to prioritise landscapes and green infrastructure in the planning scheme to build a healthy, liveable city as Melbourne’s population grows steadily.”
</blockquote>

- Adrian Gray, Victorian Chapter president

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="312" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tallest-timber-tower-tokyo-japan-dezeen-col4.jpg?itok=SEiw0U5-" title="Timber high rise proposed for Tokyo. Credit: Dezeen" width="580"><figcaption>Timber high rise proposed for Tokyo. Credit: Dezeen</figcaption></figure>Could timber high-rises be a way forward? Following Japan’s proposal to build the world’s tallest wooden skyscraper, there has been discussion of the environmental benefits and low carbon footprint of building with wood. <a href="/news/the-cost-efficiency-of-mid-rise-timber-structures">Have your say here</a>.

 

<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/verticalgardens.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="Futuristic vertical gardens. Credit: MAD Architects" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/verticalgardens.jpg?itok=OvEWziKr" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Futuristic vertical gardens. Credit: MAD Architects</figcaption></figure>What happens when you plant 150 trees and plants haphazardly across the face of an apartment complex? You get 150,000 litres of oxygen each hour, and 200,000 litres of carbon dioxide is absorbed per hour by night. Are we likely to see more vertical gardens on the rise in Melbourne? <a href="/news/exploring-the-merits-of-a-vertical-forest-has-it-a-lasting-place-in-melbourne">Learn more</a>.

<h2>Some sustainable Melbourne properties on the market right now:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29358]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22699]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22803]
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5 of Melbourne’s environmentally conscious new-development highlights

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Developer Cbus Property has unveiled plans for a $300 million commercial project in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD which it says will become "a landmark addition to Adelaide’s skyline."

Located on the corner of Pirie Street and Freemasons Lane - on the former Planet Nightclub site - the 17-storey building has been designed by Woods Bagot who have employed a restrained approach to the architecture - complementing the existing streetscape and nearby heritage buildings.

 According to Cbus Property, 83 Pirie Street responds to the the strong market demand for new, A-Grade commercial workspace in Adelaide, introducing approximately 30,000 sqm of A-grade office space into what has been dubbed the new Central Lifestyle District (CLD) of Adelaide.

With an eye firmly on the future, 83 Pirie has been designed to provide large, flexible floorplates of 1,750 sqm to meet the demands of a "contemporary and future-looking workforce". These floors can be merged to create vertical communities, with a strong emphasis on collaborative 'third spaces', which include a 300 sqm landscaped rooftop terrace and an onsite well-being lifestyle centre. 

83 Pirie's central location provides tenants with easy access to Adelaide's traditional commercial district, as well as lifestyle amenity such as Rundle Mall and Hindmarsh Square park, which are only a few minutes walk away.

The development has been designed with an activated ground plane that includes 365 sqm of retail - further adding to Adelaide's emerging laneway culture - while the introduction of street level setbacks will contribute to a pedestrian-friendly experience. Connectivity and walkability in the area will also be improved via the key north-south pedestrian axis of Freemasons Lane and Flinders Link.

<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/83_pirie_cbus_property_facade51.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="83 Pirie Street will rise 17-storeys on the Adelaide skyline. Image: Cbus Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="869" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/83_pirie_cbus_property_facade51.jpg?itok=eXy9re9N" title="83 Pirie Street will rise 17-storeys on the Adelaide skyline. Image: Cbus Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>83 Pirie Street will rise 17-storeys on the Adelaide skyline. Image: Cbus Property</figcaption></figure>83 Pirie Street adds to Cbus Property's expanding project pipeline across Australia, with a number of commercial office projects under development in Melbourne including Collins Arch, 311 Spencer Street and 435 Bourke Street.

Cbus Property expects construction of 83 Pirie to commence once a pre-commitment is secured, with an expected construction programme of two years.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
“There is a distinct lack of supply for contiguous new built commercial stock in Adelaide’s city centre. This demand is driven by positive employment rates and sustained spending across defence, renewable energy and technology sectors, including the implementation of the 10 Gigabyte Adelaide initiative, which indicates demand will only increase.

We recognise that the workplace is changing and tenant requirements are evolving so it was an ideal opportunity to create a new benchmark for office design in Adelaide. Tenants are not only looking for 
innovative workspaces that offer flexibility and foster a collaborative and engaging work environment but also leading design incorporating innovative technology, sustainability and wellness initiatives which is exactly what 83 Pirie will deliver”

- Adrian Pozzo, Cbus Property CEO
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“The arrival of 83 Pirie to the Adelaide market symbolises a new era for the commercial sector in the Adelaide CBD. Over the past few years, we have seen an increased appetite from domestic institutional developers and investors in Adelaide, which was once traditionally dominated by private developers.

The shift from private to institutional investment has created new standards for building design and architecture and with only two new buildings to be completed this year and new supply for 2020 unlikely, tenant demand is strong. This combined with 83 Pirie’s highly efficient 1,750 square metres side core floorplates and exceptional views from the upper floors will appeal to a high calibre of commercial tenants, spanning major corporates and state and federal government.

Ideally located in the heart of Adelaide, Pirie Street has unrivalled links to culture and lifestyle amenity, including popular eateries, which has seen it become known as the CLD. While it has a strong lifestyle offering, Pirie Street still remains an important part of the commercial district with corporate occupiers keen to have proximity to other professional service firms, car parking stations and the nearby retail amenity."

-  Andrew Beasley, National Director of Office Leasing at Colliers International
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“83 Pirie’s bold form echoes the low-rise and heritage fabric of the high street architecture. Elevated above the podium, the tower rises to take its place in the city skyline, with repetition of angled glass panels across the façade creating an elegant and sophisticated design aesthetic. The tower will make an enormous contribution to the social and economic fabric of the precinct and our great city.” 

- Thomas Masullo, Director, Woods Bagot
</blockquote>

 
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