Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Woods Bagot

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Brisbane’s newest urban renewal masterpiece is the state's first to be named a <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/heritage-heroes-queensland/">Heritage Hero</a> by the National Trust of Australia.

Howard Smith Wharves is a culturally important precinct on the Brisbane River. Originally built in 1936, the site is a symbol for the city’s role as Queensland’s premier port. The National Trust of Australia honor acknowledges preservation efforts that reimagine historical sites so that patrons can further enjoy them and appreciate their significance. 

Recognising the fantastic opportunities for sustainable development, the precinct regeneration plan by the Brisbane studio of global practice Woods Bagot focused on creating a high-quality public realm that celebrates its history and dramatic waterfront location. The design approach has been to reinforce, amplify and reinterpret these elements in the masterplan for the 3.4 hectare historic wharf.

Woods Bagot director and project design leader, Mark Damant, said the precinct’s new buildings occupy less than 10 per cent of the site and are designed to complement the industrial language of the existing structures.

“The scheme is all about retaining views and celebrating heritage, with a generous and contemporary public realm environment knitting it all together,” said Damant.

<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/howard_smith_aerial.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Howard Smith Wharves. Image: Jad Sylla"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/howard_smith_aerial.jpg?itok=y0Fe-ODa" title="Howard Smith Wharves. Image: Jad Sylla" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Howard Smith Wharves. Image: Jad Sylla</figcaption></figure>The largest event space in the precinct is Howard’s Hall, also designed by Woods Bagot. It echoes the simple functionality of nearby wharf structures with a fully glazed exposed steel frame, a light, shed-like saw tooth roof and operable walls that can be manipulated for various purposes. Each material is humble and unpretentious, such as the timber decked arrival space and the rooftop terraces made from wood reclaimed from elsewhere on the site.

There are lofty ceilings to create a sense of airiness and light, retractable floor-to-ceiling windows (designed to capitalise on that prime riverfront location), and ultra-nimble, flexible space-in-spaces—including rooftop terraces and rooms of varying sizes—that allow multiple events to be hosted at once.

Retail and service pods at either end of the hall activate adjacent open spaces which themselves allow the interior event capacities to be extended.

“This will become one of the city’s most memorable spaces, set against one of its most heroic views,” said Damant. “The panorama it offers is absolutely incredible: the arches of Story Bridge, looking back at the city, across to Kangaroo Point and down the New Farm reach of the Brisbane River.”

Scott Bayne, general manager of events at Howard Smith Wharves, described Woods Bagot’s design ethos as instrumental to the space

“Woods Bagot understood, from the outset, that the space had incredible potential to be a first-class venue,” Bayne said.

<h2>Project details</h2>

<ul>
<li>Project: Howard’s Hall at Howard Smith Wharves
</li>
	<li>Location: Brisbane, Australia
</li>
	<li>Client: HSW Nominees Pty Ltd
</li>
	<li>Woods Bagot scope: Architecture / Interior Design
</li>
	<li>Status: Completed November 2018
</li>
	<li>Height: Howard’s Hall is one storey. The kitchen pod/lift lobby located at the eastern and western wing of the building is two storeys.
</li>
</ul>
Lead image: David Millar 
</body></html>

Howard Smith Wharves is Queensland’s first Heritage Hero

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A new, tree-lined public park1 on Market Street connected to the development’s publicly accessible and occupiable space via a large amphitheatre are key elements in the blueprint to transform an entire city block into a highly charged urban precinct activated to its core day and night.

Construction of the interconnected 164-metre dual towers – whose footprint will occupy less than the public open space – is more than mid-way and on track for completion in late 2019.

<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/130186_n63_shop.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130186_n63_shop.jpg?itok=AHblyEpO" width="580"></a></figure>Inspecting the progress on site last week with <a href="/architects/shop-architects">SHoP Architects</a> founding principal Bill Sharples, <a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> principal Kate Frear says the building’s ambitious program – 184 apartments, a new five-star hotel to be operated by W Hotel, 49,447 square metres of WELL-rated offices and 950 square metres of ground floor retail – has been addressed through the composition of the vertical stacking.

“We’ve optimised each floor plate and each typology to emancipate half of the site back to the city as public open space,” said Frear. “Through a huge engineering feat, we’ve unified the program which ties the whole scheme together and enables all-important sunlight to reach deeply into the site and into the building,” Frear said.

“The public space is defined by how people will move through the building, and from the top down. The building program at ground level completely informs what happens above,” she said.

<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/130186_n59_shop.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130186_n59_shop.jpg?itok=aPFeACpc" width="580"></a></figure>Critically, there are no roofs apparent in the building, only terraces. From the open crown at the apex, the building cascades down as a series of spectacular, stepped terraces allowing for most of the building program to be habitable by humans or plants.

Frear credited the collaboration with SHoP Architects and the courage of <a href="/developers/cbus-property">Cbus Property</a> and <a href="/developers/ispt">ISPT</a> for the Collins Arch development to so successfully connect Melbourne to special opens spaces and gardens. 

SHoP Architects Bill Sharples is confident <a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne">Collins Arch</a> will play a critical role in reconnecting the <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne CBD</a> to the Yarra River and <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>.

“Using the combined knowledge of what our studios have learned from work in cities around the world, we are creating the first true mixed-use building in Australia, with greatly expanded public spaces to be enjoyed by Melbourne’s residents. Collins Arch will help complete the transformation of the surrounding area into a vibrant urban community, further contributing to the city’s world-class image,” Sharples said.

Comprising a whole city block of Melbourne’s central business district, Collins Arch creates a new epicentre, linking Collins Street to a network of dynamic spaces back to the Yarra River. The project demonstrates how an under-utilised part of the city can be transformed into an internationally significant precinct that activates the central core with a 24-hour life.

“Collins Arch is a world-class project and our design collaboration with internationally regarded design teams, Woods Bagot and SHoP Architects, has enabled us to create a truly unique project for a future focused Australian city,” said Adrian Pozzo, CEO of Cbus Property.

Increasing connectivity, activating the western grid of Melbourne CBD’s and creating a globally renowned destination for one of the world’s most liveable cities were key drivers in the design process. With striking dual towers connected by a sky bridge, the form of Collins Arch will be instantly recognisable and have a significant place on Melbourne’s skyline.

<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/130186_n56_shop_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="323" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130186_n56_shop_1.jpg?itok=YJP4rUto" width="580"></a></figure><h2>Project details</h2>

<ul>
<li>Architect: Woods Bagot and SHoP Architects 
</li>
	<li>Landscape Architect: Oculus
</li>
	<li>Engineer: 4D Workshop
</li>
	<li>Location: Melbourne, Australia
</li>
	<li>Client: Cbus Property and ISPT
</li>
	<li>Cost: AUD 1.3b
</li>
	<li>Status: Under construction 
</li>
	<li>Scope: Architecture, Interior Design
</li>
	<li>Mixed use program: Residential, hotel, commercial office, retail, public open space
</li>
</ul>
<ol>
<li>The new park of 1,900-square metres comprises City of Melbourne land and a portion of land contributed by Cbus Property and ISPT. Cbus Property and ISPT are contributing to the development of the park, which will be vested back to the City of Melbourne for public use and management.</li>
</ol>
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“Unlike anything else in the grid” – Collins Arch public space and a building without roofs

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Having announced that it is partnering with Victoria University to deliver its vertical city campus earlier this month, ISPT is wasting no time in getting the project off the ground, appointing Probuild as the head contractor for the project. The 24,000 sqm NLA vertical campus will be developed at 364-378 Little Lonsdale Street site and will include office and teaching space for key academic activities in addition to the integration of heritage and archaeological elements.

<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/vu-1-621x1000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="VU Tower will enliven the north-west corner of Melbourne's CBD. Image: ISPT"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="934" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/vu-1-621x1000.jpg?itok=zn_tpR_o" title="VU Tower will enliven the north-west corner of Melbourne's CBD. Image: ISPT" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>VU Tower will enliven the north-west corner of Melbourne's CBD. Image: ISPT</figcaption></figure>The $200 million+ Daryl Jackson designed project includes the delivery of an integrated fitout by Woods Bagot, and upon completion will become Melbourne’s tallest vertical campus. Demolition works will commence in December this year, with project completion due prior to the end of 2021, in time for the 2022 academic year.

Probuild is currently applying the finishing touches to its other project for ISPT - 271 Spring Street and is also delivering some of Australia’s largest construction projects including The Towers and Ritz Carlton at Elizabeth Quay in Perth, Queens Wharf in Brisbane, Aurora Melbourne Central, West Side Place and The Greenland Centre in Sydney.

<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/271_spring_redden.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="271 Spring Street is approaching completion. Image: Urban member redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/271_spring_redden.jpg?itok=j0cammt8" title="271 Spring Street is approaching completion. Image: Urban member redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>271 Spring Street is approaching completion. Image: Urban member redden</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Significantly, this project signals Probuild’s re-entry into the University sector. This is our first vertical education campus and we’re looking forward to adapting our industry-leading expertise in high-rises to suit education needs.

Victoria University is expanding their CBD presence in order to provide industry-best learning spaces and attract the very best students. Probuild is excited to be working alongside ISPT to deliver the next generation in University development.

- Luke Stambolis, Probuild Victorian Managing Director
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
 
Following the successful ISPT acquisition of three Melbourne CBD properties offered to the market by Victoria University, ISPT is pleased to collaborate with Probuild to now deliver Melbourne’s tallest vertical campus, with a long term lease back to the University.

Once complete, the tower will anchor this burgeoning knowledge precinct and add to the growing portfolio of properties delivered by ISPT as the sole developer and long-term owner. This project is a key addition to our development workbook and represents an important extension of our investment into the education sector.

- Jason Lourensz, ISPT’s Senior Development Manager  
</blockquote>

<h2>Probuild's Construction Pipeline</h2>

<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?builder=Probuild&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>
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Laurence Dragomir

Probuild appointed for $200m Victoria University Tower

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

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The Englefield, a boutique collection of seven generously-sized apartments located along the tree-lined Chambers Street in South Yarra, was recently completed by builder VCON. The development which was designed to celebrate the relationship between nature and the built environment, is a collaboration between developer Perri Projects, architects Woods Bagot and landscape architect Paul Bangay.

According to Perri Projects, The Englefield will enjoy the benefits of tailored living that is reminiscent of a hotel rather than an apartment building, with only two residences remaining including a full floor penthouse. The design is characterised by a rich bluestone façade softened by verdant vines, with Woods Bagot drawing on its extensive experience across a range of sectors to provide The Englefield with a 'hotel feel'. 

<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/englefield-006.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The interiors of apartments benefit from seamless connections to the exterior. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/englefield-006.jpg?itok=ynpYIMN5" title="The interiors of apartments benefit from seamless connections to the exterior. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The interiors of apartments benefit from seamless connections to the exterior. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>Woods Bagot’s focus on design craftsmanship is evident, where the kitchen joinery and island bench as well as bathroom vanities and bedroom cabinetry, have all been custom designed to create a bespoke, one-of-a-kind design motif throughout.

<a href="/news/discussing-apartment-design-with-woods-bagots-peter-miglis">Speaking to Urban.com.au last month</a>, Woods Bagot's Peter Miglis noted the maturing apartment market and the importance of designing apartments based on the same principles of a more traditional home, with bespoke features which celebrate the craftsmanship and considered design of the apartment.

<blockquote>
...what we're finding is that there is a market that is maturing, that has become comfortable with the idea of living in apartments. But apartments not as we've traditionally known them, as these minimal requirements and getting the yield up. It's now about apartments that adopt qualities of living in a home, and what I mean by that is having more area internally, having a social network within the complex as well.

We always circle back when we look at apartment planning - how would a house perform and function? And how would we take those attributes and put that into an apartment plan. Maybe one day we don't call them apartments, maybe we adopt another name for them as a fusion between house and apartment coming together. 

...there's also the care to detail, even right down to the kitchen door handles. Moments like that where they are bespoke and they have a sense of individual character and care about them, people have an affinity to that level of detail. 

- Peter Miglis, Principal, Woods Bagot 
</blockquote>

This synergy between the contemporary and the traditional is reflected in the use of marble and bronze accents in the kitchen and living areas which are complemented by Chevron patterned Oak timber floors, while a Woods Bagot-designed timber display cabinet reinforces the attention to detail and craftmanship. 

Every room enjoys a green outlook, with windows and terraces opening out to Bangay’s European landscapes which have been designed to act as an extension of the living space, another Woods Bagot hallmark.Apartments are also fitted with smart technology that allows residents to control lighting, heating and blinds remotely through an app on their smartphones.

<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/englefield-050.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The 200sqm penthouse enjoys large outdoor terraces and city views. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/englefield-050.jpg?itok=pPzq00X-" title="The 200sqm penthouse enjoys large outdoor terraces and city views. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 200sqm penthouse enjoys large outdoor terraces and city views. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>A three bedroom penthouse spanning 200 sqm occupies the whole top floor, with terraces totalling 110sqm and floor-to-ceiling windows along three sides allowing sunlight access into the interior while also providing panoramic views across the city. The penthouse is expected to fetch between $3.8 - $4.1million and also includes three bathrooms, a powder room, a library, a 128-bottle wine cellar and three car lock up garage.

Woods Bagot and Perri Projects are also collaborating on 23-29 Victoria Street on the northern edge of the Melbourne CBD. The 25-storey apartment development will replace the CBD's last remaining service station with 90 apartments.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
The Englefield goes beyond traditional apartment living, where comfort, security and unparalleled design are offered in addition to the services and amenity of a hotel. With remote home automation and an abundance of delivery, cleaning and valet services at their disposal, residents can focus on relaxing when they are at home. We are proud to have partnered with an incredible team of architects to bring world-class design to this building, with all the benefits and opportunities that modern technology provides.

-  David Scalzo, Managing Director, Perri Projects
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The penthouse is an incredibly unique opportunity to enjoy the space and splendour of a high-end home with the convenience of contemporary living. There are very few purchasers who can say their home is designed by Woods Bagot, an award-winning architecture practice that has been responsible for some of the biggest luxury hotels, commercial buildings and mixed-use precincts in the world. The level of quality craftsmanship, design integrity and fastidious attention to detail of this apartment is unmatched by anything else I’ve seen in the market.

-  Marcus Chiminello, Director, Marshall White
</blockquote>

<h2>The Englefield Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Perri Projects</li>
	<li>Architect: Woods Bagot</li>
	<li>Landscape architect: Paul Bangay</li>
	<li>Sales agent: Marshall White</li>
</ul>
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The Englefield brings hotel-style living and craftsmanship to South Yarra

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Construction works on Western Sydney University's new purpose-built vertical campus in Liverpool wrapped up in the second quarter of 2018. The 10-storey build at 100 Macquarie Street was undertaken by Binah Constructions and can now accommodate thousands of students over the course of an academic year.

The latest in a national shift toward vertical education facilities, Western Sydney University's project was a joint design effort between Mosca Pserras Architects and Woods Bagot.

Part of the University’s ‘Western Growth’ initiative, 100 Macquarie Street is located within the fastest growing area in the Sydney region. In addition to providing learning outcomes, the 16,820 square metre facility will also providing opportunities for local enterprise and institutions to grow in conjunction with the university.

The weekend passed saw Western Sydney University hold an open day onsite, showcasing 100 Macquarie Street's focus on nursing, social sciences, social work, anthropology, community welfare, criminology and policing programs.  Learning spaces are also intertwined with ancillary facilities such as a library, student hub, symposium space and student services area.

<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/image36_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="100 Macquarie Street in an evening glow. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image36_6.jpg?itok=56nPeAyA" title="100 Macquarie Street in an evening glow. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>100 Macquarie Street in an evening glow. Image: Trevor Mein</figcaption></figure>Whilst Mosca Pserras Architects provided base building design input, Woods Bagot were tasked with creating a wider brief and subsequent interior design that "exemplifies a blended learning approach through a highly connected and collaborative environment, delivering a dynamic and brand-aligned City Campus for 2,500 students."

As Woods Bagot’s regional Education sector leader, Alan J Duffy provided in depth commentary on the new Liverpool landmark.

<blockquote>
The design delivers a vertical campus building that both enables and exemplifies creativity, choice and critical thinking for the next generation of social science and nursing and midwifery graduates.

Now that the building is open and in use, it is a privilege as designers to see the students using the space in a way that actually extends how it was intended – customising and using space in their own way.

Just as the Georges River connected communities over time in the Liverpool catchment area, the internal stairs connect campus occupants between floors, encouraging interaction and collaboration. The meandering activity along the bold, vibrantly red stair will be visible from the streetscape, exemplifying the idea of learning on display and creating positive presence.

This is a world-leading campus for Liverpool that not only gives our students an enriching and unparalleled learning experience, but one that is embedded in the economic, social and civic life of the city.
</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/image37_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The signature red staircase. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image37_11.jpg?itok=qojA9mSg" title="The signature red staircase. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The signature red staircase. Image: Trevor Mein</figcaption></figure>Woods Bagot's wider design concept for the new campus centered around the idea of “connectography”, the melding of globally-minded, technology-driven “connectivity” with that of “geography”, which in 100 Macquarie Street's case references the location of Liverpool and its relationship back to the City.

This notion of connectography permeates the design, with organic forms and circulation pathways key design focuses. Each floor contains flexible learning spaces, connected via a distinctive and voids which form a continuous meandering vertical link; this in turn encourages informal meetings and social congregation. 

The project's most visible design feature is the fire engine red angular staircase which sits directly behind the transparent double glazed facade. The stair in part emphasises the vertical nature of the design where "the community can visually connect with the internal activities occurring in the building." 

Wood Bagot's all-encompassing design approach extends to the ground plane where further flexible spaces can accommodate orientation days, public announcements, industry presentations and pop-up events, in turn fostering greater engagement with the community .

<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/image38_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Facility in use. Image: Trevor Mein"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image38_11.jpg?itok=OO1qPz8n" title="Facility in use. Image: Trevor Mein" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Facility in use. Image: Trevor Mein</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Profiling Woods Bagot's role in Western Sydney University's new Liverpool campus

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ISPT Property and Brookfield's joint venture development at 405 Bourke Street officially commenced construction yesterday, and Urban.com.au was onsite to witness this significant milestone.

Taking place on level six of the existing car park that forms part of the first phase of the site's development dubbed The Foundry, 405 Bourke Street's launch event offered attendees a glimpse into the heart of the construction site with footing works in full swing.

Also in attendance were representatives from the development partners which included Brookfield's Managing Partner Sophie Fallman, Brookfield's Head of Development (Australia) Carl Schibrowski,  ISPT CEO Daryl Browning plus Matthew Kandelaars,The Property Council of Australia's Acting Victorian Executive Director.

<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/20180828_102444.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="L-R: Matthew Kandelaars (PCA), Daryl Browning (ISPT), Sophie Fallman &amp; Carl Schibrowski (Brookfield)"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="428" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20180828_102444.jpg?itok=VKNRSu6c" title="L-R: Matthew Kandelaars (PCA), Daryl Browning (ISPT), Sophie Fallman &amp; Carl Schibrowski (Brookfield)" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>L-R: Matthew Kandelaars (PCA), Daryl Browning (ISPT), Sophie Fallman &amp; Carl Schibrowski (Brookfield)</figcaption></figure>Designed by Woods Bagot, 405 Bourke Street will eventually stand as a 39-storey building which encompasses 31 levels of A-Grade office accommodation. A side core configuration has allowed for 66,491 square metres of net leasable area, supported by three levels of retail and 177 car parking spaces.

ISPT Property acquired a 50% stake in the development - which will also feature a north-south retail laneway linking Bourke Street and Little Collins Street - in December 2017.

The development partners have already secured NAB as the anchor tenant, who committed to a minimum of 43,000 square metres of space, with an option to occupy the balance of floor space. NAB's flexibility option has yet to be acted upon.

<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/405_b_site_panorama1.png" rel="gallery-all" title="On site at 405 Bourke Street. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="312" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/405_b_site_panorama1.png?itok=QxbpMINM" title="On site at 405 Bourke Street. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>On site at 405 Bourke Street.</figcaption></figure>While official construction on the "transformative commercial project" was celebrated yesterday, ground works have been in motion over recent months. A major construction marker will occur this Thursday with a raft slab pour planned; 800 cubic metres of concrete - the equivalent of 200 concrete trucks - will form the major foundation point for the tower.

Typical office floors will be supported by steel-framed structure over the alternative concrete column and floor format. Another challenge looms in the form of the cantilevering floor plates 48 metres above ground, jutting over the adjacent 399 Bourke Street. 

405 Bourke Street is scheduled for completion in March 2021.

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Construction officially commences on 405 Bourke Street

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<a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-designs-revealed-at-future-cities-symposium">Following last Friday's big reveal</a> of the six competing designs for Southbank by Beulah at the 'Future Cities' Symposium, Apartments.com.au will this week focus on each individual entry.

First up is MVRDV and Woods Bagot who believe the competition represents a shakeup for development in cities which are under increasing pressure to deliver good higher density living.

For those unfamiliar with MVRDV, the practice was founded in 1993 by Winy Maas, Jacob van Rijs and Nathalie de Vries in the Netherlands. 

For their entry in the Southbank by Beulah competition, the MVRDV and Woods Bagot team have proposed "The Stack"  which has been designed as "a new kind of skyscraper” for Southbank. 

Disregarding the traditional tower and podium typology prevalent throughout Southbank, the Stack instead proposes a confident prism with public interface on all sides, according to the design team.

The strength of the MVRDV and Woods Bagot partnership has been described by the team as the main factor in the innovation and design quality of the Stack.

<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/mvrdv_wb_sbb_media_image_02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Stack's programme is expressed externally. Image: Woods Bagot + MVRDV"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="820" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mvrdv_wb_sbb_media_image_02.jpg?itok=eLjUHx4x" title="The Stack's programme is expressed externally. Image: Woods Bagot + MVRDV" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Stack's programme is expressed externally. Image: Woods Bagot + MVRDV</figcaption></figure>MVRDV and Woods Bagot assert that the “next” skyscraper should be beautiful, if not wonderful, with the Stack described by the team as “mind-blowing and elegant”.

From the edge of the Yarra River, Southbank Boulevard will be transformed into an urban promenade. A wide pedestrian area with greenery, cafes and terraces becomes the welcoming heart of the district. The new building, the Stack, is located right at the starting point of this urban promenade. Footpaths are wide so that people can walk, wait and sit on the terraces to become "....a nice street.”

From the street all the way to the seventy-sixth floor, the site will be developed as a lifestyle precinct, with apartments, offices, a hotel, entertainment centre, technological display centres, retail, cultural precinct and public green spaces.

<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/mvrdv_wb_sbb_media_image_04.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sky high amenities with the Stack. Image: MVRDV + Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mvrdv_wb_sbb_media_image_04.jpg?itok=feWzHqjE" title="Sky high amenities with the Stack. Image: MVRDV + Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sky high amenities with the Stack. Image: MVRDV + Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say:</h2>

<blockquote>
Stacked neighbourhoods are connected from the bottom to the top and vice versa by lifts, stairs and escalators – these interconnections create a true vertical city. It’s diverse, mixed, green, sustainable, human, open. The Stack is a manifesto that shows that urban density is great and can contribute to our planet's survival.

The single mono typology towers that have plagued Southbank don’t offer the richness that Melbourne is known for. We’ve endeavoured to unlock that, infusing the public offering as an extension of our city to dramatically enhance and future proof high rise living.

-  Winy Maas, Co-Founder MVRDV
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
What makes our proposal different is how we’ve created a Melbourne-centric vertical urbanity. All of Melbourne’s great qualities and amenities are integrated through a sequence of interconnected public spaces, from the ground level all the way to its 359-metre peak.

- Will Hosikian, Woods Bagot Principal 
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
In another magnificent example of international collaboration, our studios have worked together with a spirit of generosity and mutual respect.

-  Ivan Turcinov, Woods Bagot Design Leader
</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/mvrdv_wb_sbb_media_image_03.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Interior image of the public realm along City Road. Image: Woods Bagot + MVRDV"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mvrdv_wb_sbb_media_image_03.jpg?itok=pekffAxq" title="Interior image of the public realm along City Road. Image: Woods Bagot + MVRDV" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Interior image of the public realm along City Road. Image: Woods Bagot + MVRDV</figcaption></figure><h2>Project details:</h2>

<ul>
<li>Value: AUD 2 billion</li>
	<li>GFA/ Area: 265,000 sqm</li>
	<li>Height: 77-storeys / 359m</li>
</ul>
<h2>Consultant team:</h2>

<ul>
<li>Arup: Structures, Sustainability, Vertical Transportation, Traffic, Services, Fire Engineering, Wind, Geotechnical</li>
	<li>Ratio: Planning</li>
	<li>Slattery: Quantity Surveyor</li>
	<li>McGregor Coxall: Landscape Architect</li>
</ul>
The winning design for the “Southbank by Beulah” competition will be announced on August 8th, 2018.
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Southbank by Beulah: MVRDV & Woods Bagot - The Stack

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With its Southbank by Beulah ‘Future Cities’ Symposium sold out to a 1,000 strong crowd, <a href="/developers/beulah">Beulah International</a> handed over the stage to the 6 competing architectural teams to reveal their design responses for the <a href="/news">118 City Road</a> site.

Working to a maximum height of 360m above street level and accommodating a GFA of in excess of 250,000 sqm, each of the teams took a unique approach to site reflecting on its position adjacent to the soon to be greened Southbank Boulevard which links the Royal Botanical Gardens to <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank's</a> promenade and the river beyond.

The teams initially pitched their respective designs for the site to Beulah International across two days at the recently installed Beulah Pavilion situated at Queensbridge Square, Southbank.

Designed by Samson Tiew from <a href="/architects/one-design-office">One Design Office</a>, the pavilion will act as an exhibition space for all of the design entries now that they have been publicly revealed.

<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/southbank_pop_up_pavilion.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Samson Tiew's pop-up pavilion for Beulah International. Image: Beulah"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="228" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbank_pop_up_pavilion.jpg?itok=LKHAchxh" title="Samson Tiew's pop-up pavilion for Beulah International. Image: Beulah" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Samson Tiew's pop-up pavilion for Beulah International. Image: Beulah</figcaption></figure>Below is a summary of each of the designs;

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-big-fk-the-lanescraper">BIG + FK - 'The Lanescraper'</a></h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/54b6eb4e85df98fa8a5cf9a915846f0e.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Lanescraper by BIG + FKA. Images: BIG "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="580" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/54b6eb4e85df98fa8a5cf9a915846f0e.jpg?itok=PFnb8dRX" title="The Lanescraper by BIG + FKA. Images: BIG " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Lanescraper by BIG + FKA. Images: BIG</figcaption></figure>Celebrating <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's laneways</a>, 'The Lanescraper' introduces a series of laneways rising up the height of the tower providing spaces for various programmatic uses and assisting in reducing the visual mass while also providing areas of respite.

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-coop-himmelblau-architectus-the-beulah-propeller-city">COOP HIMMELB(L)AU + architectus - 'The Propeller City'</a></h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/57cd5cc9f84cc869dfa9edc0747109ac.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="COOP Himmelb(l)au + Architectus' The Propeller City. Images: COOP Himmelb(l)au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/57cd5cc9f84cc869dfa9edc0747109ac.jpg?itok=peJzkIqL" title="COOP Himmelb(l)au + Architectus' The Propeller City. Images: COOP Himmelb(l)au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>COOP Himmelb(l)au + Architectus' The Propeller City. Images: COOP Himmelb(l)au</figcaption></figure>The Propeller City concept is named so because of its propeller-like element which crowns the building and can be programmed as penthouses, or potentially a restaurant or function space.

At ground level on the corner of Southbank Boulevard and City Road's the BMW Experience centre draws on COOP Himmelb(l)au's BMW Welt in Munich as an invitation for the public to enter and explore the building.

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-mad-architects-elenberg-fraser-the-urban-tree">MAD Architects + elenberg fraser - 'The Urban Tree'</a></h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/03_mad_southbank-by-beulah-768x500.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Urban Tree by MAD Architects + Elenberg Fraser. Image: MAD Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/03_mad_southbank-by-beulah-768x500.jpg?itok=CHg1nBaW" title="The Urban Tree by MAD Architects + Elenberg Fraser. Image: MAD Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Urban Tree by MAD Architects + Elenberg Fraser. Image: MAD Architects</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Defying the typical glass, box-like buildings of Melbourne that appear detached from the city’s historic parks and natural local terrain, MAD’s organic design introduces a silhouette of natural forms – mountain, tree, cloud – into the dense city center, offering a distinct and iconic scheme for the skyline, that reconnects citizens with nature.

The pinnacle of the design is ‘the cloud’ – a cantilevered structure that houses the public amenities for the hotel (lobby, restaurant, bar, and observation deck), and offers 360° views of Melbourne. 

- MAD Architects
</blockquote>

 

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-mvrdv-woods-bagot-the-stack">MVRDV + Woods Bagot - 'The Stack'</a></h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/mvrdv_wb_sbb_media_image_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Stack by MVRDV + Woods Bagot. 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/mvrdv_wb_sbb_media_image_01.jpg?itok=5QAuHCCs" title="The Stack by MVRDV + Woods Bagot. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Stack by MVRDV + Woods Bagot. Image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
MVRDV and Woods Bagot have proposed a “new kind of skyscraper” for a landmark mixed-use site in Melbourne’s Southbank. The Stack is one of six invited entries in an architectural competition organised by the site’s owners Beulah International, a Melbourne-based developer known for its commitment to excellence in local design.

Eschewing Southbank’s typical model of podium and tower – a typology that has always promised but seldom delivered – the Stack is a confident prism with public interface on all sides.

- Woods Bagot
</blockquote>

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-oma-conrad-gargett-the-base">OMA + Conrad Gargett - The Base</a></h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/oma_conrad_gargett.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Base by OMA + Conrad Gargett. Image: Mr.P"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="549" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/oma_conrad_gargett.jpg?itok=60TfboMU" title="The Base by OMA + Conrad Gargett. Image: Mr.P" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Base by OMA + Conrad Gargett. Image: Mr.P</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
At a height of 345m and total GFA of 255,000 m2, the project would be the largest building that OMA designed after CCTV.  

OMA’s design proposes a tower stemming from a base that acts as a 24/7 mixed-use vertical city with cultural, commercial, educational and social program elements bound together with the more generic programs of retail, food and beverage.

In this vertical city, there are highways of movement through large express escalators, shortcuts by elevators, and laneways to wander on through normal escalators, stairs, and voids.

The Base follows the outline of the site and then tapers back to a slab 100m above the city

- OMA
</blockquote>

<h2><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-un-studio-cox-architecture-the-green-spine">UN Studio + COX - 'The Green Spine'</a></h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/unstudio_cox.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The Green Spine by UN Studio + COX. Image: COX "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="517" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/unstudio_cox.png?itok=jUDyOmQC" title="The Green Spine by UN Studio + COX. Image: COX " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Green Spine by UN Studio + COX. Image: COX</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Cox Architecture and UN Studio have imagined ‘The Green Spine’ for International design competition ‘Southbank by Beulah’.

The distinct design is the product of the two firms’ collaborative, conceptual thinking of future living. Characterised by twisting cascades of greenery that appear to be cut out from the tower forms, Cox Architecture and UN Studio’s submission considers nature, culture and well-being within the urban framework.

- COX Architecture
</blockquote>

The Southbank by Beulah designs will be exhibited at the Beulah Pavilion until August 1, located in front of the Red Stair Amphitheatre in Southbank.

The winning design for the “Southbank by Beulah” competition will be announced on August 8th, 2018.

Editor's note 06/08/2018: Links have been added to each individual entry as they are published on the site. Click on the heading of each to open the corresponding article.
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Southbank by Beulah designs revealed at Future Cities Symposium

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Parramatta's position as the nation's most dynamic satellite city continues to be underscored by an almost continuous flow of developments into the Greater Western Sydney locale.

Latest to the development surge is the nation's largest apartment developer, Meriton. Last week the outfit lodged plans valued at $228 million for their George Street site in the western reaches of Parramatta's CBD.

Called for are two towers of 210 and 186 metres that would, in addition to a Meriton serviced apartment component, the project will pump hundreds of new apartments into Parramatta. The CBD's expanding housing stock is expected to balloon form a 2017 figure of 6,108 to a projected <a href="https://forecast.id.com.au/parramatta/residential-development?WebID=270">2036 dwelling count of 15,474</a>.

Such is the popularity of Parramatta that the Apartments.com.au Project Database for the suburb has expanded rapidly to include thousands of planned and under construction apartments, particularly within Parramatta's CBD.

<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/image154_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Woods Bagot's envisaged design for the George Street site"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image154_2.jpg?itok=jqWjuARW" title="Woods Bagot's envisaged design for the George Street site" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Woods Bagot's envisaged design for the George Street site</figcaption></figure>The move to planning for 180 George Street will see the 7,978 square metre site currently controlled by the Meriton developed to its maximum potential. Earlier this year Meriton foreshadowed the redevelopment, announcing that Woods Bagot was successful in a design competition for the site.

At present five buildings across 180 George Street span up to fourteen levels and are held by the developer within its Meriton Suites serviced apartments portfolio.

Council note the delivery of 767 residential apartments as proposed, spread across the taller tower and the upper levels of the secondary tower. The 767 dwellings are loosely broken down into 486 apartments within the taller north tower, 131 apartments in the south tower, 12 podium level apartments and 142 apartments inserted across existing buildings onsite.

Meriton last year completed Altitude, its most recent Parramatta development at 330 Church Street which consists of dual towers holding approximately 375 apartments 254 serviced apartments.

<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/image158_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Probables and possibles. 8 Phillip Street alongside a scheme for 87 Church Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="424" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image158_1.jpg?itok=2Ah5NLhD" title="Probables and possibles. 8 Phillip Street alongside a scheme for 87 Church Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Probables and possibles. 8 Phillip Street alongside a scheme for 87 Church Street</figcaption></figure>The lockstep between population surge and a rapidly evolving skyline is evident when assessing Parramatta's major current apartment developments. 180 George Street aside, the 200 metre <a href="/new-apartments/8-phillip-street-2-10-phillip-street-parramatta">8 Phillip Street</a> includes 300 plus apartments, <a href="/new-apartments/south-quarter-parramatta-57-83-church-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">South Quarter</a> encompasses 700 plus apartments, <a href="/buildings/west-village-88-church-street-parramatta">West Village</a> almost 400, <a href="/buildings/observatory-place-parramatta-7-parkes-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">Solstice</a> 175 and <a href="/buildings/the-lennox-12-phillip-street-parramatta">The Lennox</a> with 440 apartments.

Of the above West Village and The Lennox are at construction.

It is through the next wave of residential towers that will continue to underpin Parramatta's explosive growth. 197 Church Street, 87 Church Street, 12 Hassell Street, 2 O'Connell Street and Westfield Parramatta Tower stand out as potentially sizeable towers capable of hosting major development in coming years.
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