The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Woods Bagot

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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. 
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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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