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

Rothelowman

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The recent news of local developer OpenCorp's acquisition of a Hawthorn East development site coincides with the firm's push into Melbourne's apartment sector, as evidenced by another upcoming project slated for Ivanhoe.

With a presence spanning three states and in excess of $500 million in development nationally, Apartments.com.au recently spoke with OpenCorp Director Matthew Lewison regarding their their new direction into Melbourne's inner-city market after thus far only being active in Melbourne's peripheral suburbs.

While still seeking strong prospects for the suburban land market, in which OpenCorp is active with Umbra in Melbourne's northern suburb of Greenvale, the change of tact into apartment developments is one of acting when the time is right.

<blockquote>
The changing demographics of our cities is increasing the proportion of multi-residential dwellings being purchased and constructed. We anticipate this trend to continue and certainly see ourselves as being a key player, long term, in the inner-urban form of our major cities.
<cite>Matthew Lewison</cite>
</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/imagepreview.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Savills' imagery for 757-763 Toorak Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imagepreview.jpg?itok=2eqxCala" title="Savills' imagery for 757-763 Toorak Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Savills' imagery for 757-763 Toorak Road</figcaption></figure>First cab off the rank was the recently purchased 757-763 Toorak Road which was secured via a competitive tender process for $6.5 million. The former VicRoads land holding is now in the hands of RotheLowman with a planning application set to be lodged this month. The quick turnaround time will continue with sales anticipated to commence on the high-end project during early 2017.

The 1,595sqm block holds a frontage of 39.65m and was offered for sale with a development concept for 52 apartments and two retail tenancies.

Matthew Lewison expects an end value of approximately $48m for the Hawthorn East project which will target owner-occupiers and sit aside a fellow upcoming RotheLowman-designed apartment project at 771 Toorak Road.

Keeping within Boroondara, OpenCorp have another project planned for Ivanhoe with initial concept plans expecting 55 apartments or thereabouts. Mid-2017 is the targeted launch for the project.



<blockquote>
We recognised when the Boroondara Council changed their planning scheme there would be a limited supply coming into the market as a result, so we have been aggressively chasing opportunities in that area.
<cite>Matthew Lewison.</cite>
</blockquote>

As for aspirations on a grander scale, OpenCorp do plan to establish a presence in Sydney during coming years, although "We have missed the market cycle in Sydney this time around." Diversifying into different markets is on OpenCorp's agenda with a geographical spread key to taking advantage of different market cycles.

OpenCorp future strategy will see the firm limit itself to Australia's major markets.

<h2>Investing in success</h2>

757-763 Toorak Road is expected to be made available to investors via OpenCorp's Open Access Fund. Essentially a crowd-funded Property Development Fund, the Open Access Fund allows anyone from first-time to elite investors to have a hand in property development.

OpenCorp's crowd-funded model is applied across a host of projects, with a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) in the works for their Hawthorn East acquisition and expected to be ready by April 2016.

This method of development differs from the traditional developer model, allowing participants in the project to receive a share of profits from the development of the project.
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silvermb

OpenCorp enters Melbourne's apartment market with two projects

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The Hawthorn/Hawthorn East duo continue to bubble along as apartment hotspots with a raft of fresh planning applications before City of Boroondara. Leading the next wave of apartment projects for the popular postcodes is a sleek application headed by Shanghai-based Dahua Group.

Under affiliate Dahua Australia, the leading Chinese developer is pursuing its second sizeable Melbourne apartment project in the form of a 356 dwellings spread over a 12,289sqm site in Hawthorn East.

Following on from Dahua Australia's Noir in South Yarra, 33-53 Camberwell Road would see the demolition of six lowrise commercial and retail buildings. With similar design traits to another of their upcoming projects nearby at 196-202 Burwood Road, RotheLowman have created a flowing lowrise complex with the standout feature a seemingly suspended swimming pool which spans two buildings.

Snapped up by Dahua Australia during mid 2015, the development of 33-53 Camberwell Road would add to the many apartment projects that continue to consume prime development sites along the Burwood Road/Camberwell Road corridor.

<h2>33-57 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East application summary</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/image153_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level perspective. Image courtesy RotheLowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="332" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image153_0.jpg?itok=djeTrC55" title="Ground level perspective. Image courtesy RotheLowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level perspective. Image courtesy RotheLowman</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application submitted December 2015</li>
	<li>Site area: 12,289sqm</li>
	<li>356 dwellings spread over five buildings</li>
	<li>37 x 1BR, 50 x 1BR plus, 63 x 2BR, 169 x 2BR plus, 20 x 3BR, 1 x 4BR, 5 x duplex, 11 x townhouses</li>
	<li>Provision for 474 car parking spaces, 251 bicycle bays &amp; 375 stores</li>
	<li>2,025sqm of retail space split between two large tenancies</li>
	<li>Amenities include: rooftop area, lap pool, sundeck, internal courtyard and public plaza</li>
	<li>NSA residential: 24,659sqm</li>
	<li>GFA: 53,480sqm</li>
	<li>Estimated project cost: $80 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Designed up and down</h2>

The expansive site is partly zoned CZ1 and carries a 14.5 metre height limit. To counter the architects have chosen to sink the site below ground level, allowing for seven levels of residential living when only five are discernible from the street.

Combined with the intense site landscaping and public plaza combined into the design, the design firm is hopeful that the proposal will create a strong benchmark for future developments in the Hawthorn area.

<blockquote>
The primary design driver for the internal faces of the development was the creation of a crafted valley landscape, with a soft tiered edge and a sense of scale within the central zone. Imagery was inspired by the stepped landforms of rice paddy fields and the stone terraces of Machu Pichu.

This concept informed the notion of a central courtyard space, and the facade treatment created by tiered and contoured forms. Horizontal concrete bands with a textured finish are evocative of stone terraces, creating a series of strata like levels, while green glass and external walls in a colour pallete of soft natural tones are drawn from a natural pallette.
<cite>Urban context report, RotheLowman</cite>
</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/image160.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed feature stair leading to the lower courtyard. Image courtesy RotheLowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="313" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image160.jpg?itok=ODzpFfwR" title="The proposed feature stair leading to the lower courtyard. Image courtesy RotheLowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed feature stair leading to the lower courtyard. Image courtesy RotheLowman</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Public piazzas at entry points to the site off Burwood Road and Camberwell Road create openings into the site. Feature stairs cut a pathway into the open contoured space. The sunken courtyard garden within creates a layered spatial experience and provides visual connection, interest and recreation.
<cite>Urban context report, RotheLowman</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Boroondara contends with a number of significant proposals</h2>

33-57 Camberwell Road is by some way the largest current planning application on Boroondara's agenda, but a number of other noteworthy applications are also filtering through.

17-23 Lynch Street is VicTrack's latest disposal of an unwanted land holding. The JAM Architects-designed building would see 107 dwellings created adjacent to the Belgrave/Lilydale Line on what is now a hardware outlet and vacant land. Sales for the project are poised to commence upon approval.

<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/image165_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="17-23 Lynch Street, 2 Queens Avenue and 29-31 Queens Avenue"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="606" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image165_0.jpg?itok=y2uzNVuR" title="17-23 Lynch Street, 2 Queens Avenue and 29-31 Queens Avenue" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>17-23 Lynch Street, 2 Queens Avenue and 29-31 Queens Avenue</figcaption></figure>Nearby Queens Avenue in Hawthorn also continues to garner the attention of developers with two projects under consideration. 29-31 Queens Avenue is awaiting a planning permit after receiving a notice of decision for its 72 apartments while Ascui and Co. have lodged plans for 563-565 Burwood Road which also maintains a Queens Avenue frontage.

Combined the four major developments outlined above could add as many as 550 apartments to Hawthornn and Hawthorn East, without factoring in the many smaller active apartments projects in the area.

<h2>33-57 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Dahua Australia Hawthorn Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: RotheLowman</li>
	<li>Town Planning: Contour Consultants</li>
	<li>Project Manager: PDS Group</li>
	<li>Development Manager: United Property Corporation</li>
	<li>Landscape Architects: Jack Merlo Design</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Services and ESD: ADP Consulting</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Bosco Jonson</li>
	<li>Acoustic Consultant: Acoustic Logic</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Grimbos Building Surveyors</li>
	<li>Accessibility: Morris Access Consulting</li>
	<li>Engineering Consultant: Mordue Engineering</li>
	<li>Fire Consultant: Omnii</li>
	<li>Arborist report: John Patrick Pty Ltd</li>
</ul>
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Dahua Group and RotheLowman look to impress as Hawthorn marches on

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Signifying the rebirth of one of Melbourne’s most expansive regeneration sites, developer <a href="http://www.futureestate.com.au/">Future Estate</a> is pressing ahead with plans for the former Pentridge Prison, soon to be known as <a href="http://www.coburgquarter.com.au/">Coburg Quarter</a>.

The $1 billion Pentridge masterplan received approval from the Victorian Government and local Council late last year. With the approved masterplan also came the expectation that Future Estate could deliver a higher calibre of public space apartment living relative to that which has been completed onsite in recent years.

First to reach sales will be One Coburg Quarter, consisting of 150 apartments and set to be launched officially next month. Created by <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a>, the design references the colourful industrial past of Coburg, particularly the old Pentridge prison and its signature bluestone edifice.

<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/12705561_1115088325192632_5634902824801960387_n.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A refashioned bluestone entrance. Image courtesy Future Estate"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="725" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/12705561_1115088325192632_5634902824801960387_n.jpg?itok=AXTYxZx8" title="A refashioned bluestone entrance. Image courtesy Future Estate" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A refashioned bluestone entrance. Image courtesy Future Estate</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au recently sat down with Future Estate Founder and Managing Director, Ben Anderson to chat about the Coburg Quarter masterplan and vision, acknowledging the shortcomings of the previous owners' plans for the site and the opportunities presented by the site.

<blockquote>
Coburg Quarter will have a village feel in an urban context. It will be a natural extension of Melbourne's celebrated northern suburbs such as Brunswick, Northcote and Fitzroy. Its identity will be truly Northside, yet proudly and distinctly Coburg.

Civic quarters around the world are known for their unique character. Coburg Quarter will follow this tradition, as an exciting urban community that will enhance the area by bringing together people, art, design commerce and culture.
<cite>Ben Anderson, Founder and Managing Director, Future Estate</cite>
</blockquote>

Anderson explained to Apartments.com.au that Future Estate bought the Pentridge land holding out of receivership, a similar strategy previously employed by the developer. He says part of what Future Estate does best is "buying things that are broken and fixing them" where others may struggle to see the potential.

The 4.2ha site has approval in place for over 1,400 apartments and townhouses that will accommodate 3000-4000 residents, with a development schedule stretched over a 10 year period and with an estimated project value of more than $1 billion. This ranks Coburg Quarter as one of the largest urban infill sites in Melbourne.

Future Estate are considering opportunities to re-skin some of the built form which was developed on site by the previous owners, which Anderson describes as "underwhelming" as he does the existing outdoor communal spaces onsite. Working with largely the same envelopes as the previously approved master plan and seeking to improve rather than beginning from scratch, one of the biggest changes revolves around creating a village centre for the development, drawing inspiration from the great squares in Europe, essentially forming a heart for the development.

This would act as a drawcard to the site, not just for residents but the community at large.

Another opportunity being explored is a Farmer's Market which would include a significant amount of micro retail, by locally-based boutique operators who can't necessarily afford to lease a large retail space. These would be based around food, craft and even furniture, and would spill out onto the new community square.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image137.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Technē's new interpretation of Pentridge"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="204" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image137.jpg?itok=px4cKGM_" title="Technē's new interpretation of Pentridge" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Technē's new interpretation of Pentridge</figcaption></figure>Anderson acknowledges the community's frustration with the site's lack of progress thus far:

<blockquote>
We understand the community is frustrated, which is why we believe actions speak louder than words. We have already commissioned the transformation the old laundry building into a micro-brewery and bar, with work commencing on this and the proposed Coburg Public Square later this year.
<cite>Ben Anderson, Founder and Managing Director, Future Estate</cite>
</blockquote>

As part of Coburg Quarter, Future Estate are also investigating potential uses for the former D Division prison block, while architects Techne are incorporating key heritage features including the bluestone walls, solitary confinement cells and historic laundry equipment into the micro-brewery design. Coburg Brewing Co. will be headed by Danial Caneva, owner of the nearby Post Office Hotel, with the launch date currently slated for July this year.

In addition Future Estate plans to have the café and dining precinct open and operational before the end of 2016.

Of the living options, One Coburg Quarter will be launched next month and consist of 150 apartments. Created by <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a>, the design references the colourful industrial past of Coburg, particularly the old Pentridge prison and its signature bluestone edifice.

<blockquote>
Announcing entry into Coburg Quarter from the wider precinct defined by Sydney Road and Bell Street, One Coburg Quarter sits proudly above the historic walls with a strong yet respectful presence. Seen in the round the building presents at the civic scale as a singular and sculptural form, its curved and modulated facades establishing a sophisticated dialogue with the robust and linear nature of the old heritage fabric.

Inspired by its context, the strong horizontal manifestation of the bluestone and mortar courses is reflected in the articulation and expression of the new facades. The primary expression of One Coburg Quarter is of a composition of larger horizontal elements, orchestrated in a way which alludes to the stack bonding of the bluestone walls.
<cite>Shane Rothe, Director, ROTHELOWMAN</cite>
</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/v03_exterior_hover_reduced.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One Coburg Quarter, hero perspective. Image courtesy of Future Estate"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="846" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v03_exterior_hover_reduced.jpg?itok=vPJSigQF" title="One Coburg Quarter, hero perspective. Image courtesy of Future Estate" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One Coburg Quarter, hero perspective. Image courtesy of Future Estate</figcaption></figure>Future Estate asked ROTHELOWMAN to conceive a building that made a strong unique statement, distinguishing it from the earlier buildings on site. Anderson says that in response, Future Estate has made a commitment to not compromising on the quality of the facade, estimated to cost in the vicinity of approximately $1000 per square metre. This is in keeping with the company's ethos of developing buildings which look just as they are depicted in the marketing material, if not better.

One Coburg Quarter will feature a 'living lobby' entered via a courtyard, which gives the impression of entering a home, rather than a commercial type foyer that other developments provide. Also included is a library, free wi-fi plus a residents' bar and communal kitchen with Future Estate looking to encourage Friday night drinks by the owner's corporation to promote and facilitate the idea of a community within the building.
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Laurence Dragomir

Pentridge reborn: what Coburg Quarter holds for the public

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Apartments.com.au recently paid an evening visit to Melbourne's most technologically advanced construction site. La Trobe Tower within the <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's CBD</a> is the first project to employ Hickory Building Systems (HBS) integrated structural methodology; builder Hickory Group's new method that accelerates construction of high-rise towers.

Guided through the active construction site by Hickory Joint Managing Director George Argyrou and Site Manager Ben Turner, Apartments.com.au was afforded full access to the budding residential tower which will be the first of many utilising Hickory Building Systems (HBS).

<h2>The rationale</h2>

Asked who was the main driving force behind HBS, George Argyrou unashamedly described the method as his 'baby'. After exploring the merits of Unitised Building with projects such as Little Hero and <a href="/buildings/one9-apartments-19-hall-street-moonee-ponds">One9 Apartments</a>, Hickory found unitised construction to have limitations in both application and delivery.

While effective in low-rise scenarios, Unitised Building was not directly applicable to high-rise towers or buildings with curtain glazed facades. George Argyrou explained that Hickory as a true builder maintains an intrinsic interest in innovative construction solutions with time, cost, sustainability and quality at the forefront of their thoughts.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9480.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Old and new construction methods share the skyline"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9480.jpg?itok=bqzEgVdC" title="Old and new construction methods share the skyline" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Old and new construction methods share the skyline</figcaption></figure>Thus Hickory Building Systems was born with the intent of creating a fast and effective construction delivery method using a more conventional on site approach, with tall structures specifically in mind. This was shown to be the case with the La Trobe Tower construction contract secured principally upon the time savings associated with HBS.

<h2>The process</h2>

La Trobe Tower's initial two floors are of a traditional form and pour variety with subsequent floors consisting of integrated HBS structural units.

The process begins within Hickory's offsite facility where individual structural units are created beginning with an engineered concrete floor. Thereafter the slab is turned with load bearing steel columns, fully fitted wet areas and a building façade applied over and within the steel frame.

Rather than the one-size-fits all approach of traditional modular approaches, HBS uses interchangeable, scalable componentry used in conventional projects and assembles theses elements in an innovative way. Using Hickory’s established construction resources including formwork, façades, joinery and bathroom pods has enabled HBS to outshine traditional structural construction in terms of accuracy and quality with build tolerances brought down to within millimetres.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9483.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A HBS unit being secured into position"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="692" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9483.jpg?itok=WT6zkmRV" title="A HBS unit being secured into position" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A HBS unit being secured into position</figcaption></figure>Trucked to site, the structural units are lifted into place and locked together by a team of riggers dedicated solely to this task. Seven structural units constitute one floor on this particular project, with the largest central unit spanning the girth of La Trobe Tower.

In layman's terms once the structural units are locked together to create a completed floor, further units can be stacked above owing to the inherent strength of each HBS unit. Visually this presents as 'pancaked' concrete floors atop one another with a maze of vertical steel reinforcing between each floor.

These vertical reinforced steel cages are dropped in order to tie in with those of the previous floor. When joined the reinforced cages are subsequently shotcreted to create a traditional concrete floor and column structure, yet in a much quicker timeframe and at a lighter weight; without compromising structural integrity.

<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/image17_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Internal walls prior to shotcreting"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="193" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17_2.jpg?itok=kdOlI82O" title="Internal walls prior to shotcreting" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Internal walls prior to shotcreting</figcaption></figure>Additionally the pre-attached façade enables fit-out to progress almost immediately after installation. Factor in the preconstructed bathroom pods within each dwelling and typical construction time of a project of La Trobe Tower's size can be up to 60% faster.

<h2>Challenges</h2>

With a condensed construction time frame and the majority of deliveries running to a tight evening schedule, Ben Turner explained that the implementation of HBS is very much an exercise in time management and communication.

After initial discussions with Melbourne City Council, noise and traffic were identified as areas of concern. To counter this Hickory have employed a Titan Cranes electric luffing tower crane that has considerably less noise output than a typical diesel-powered unit.

In addition noise measuring equipment which has been fitted to surrounding buildings has shown that noise levels are below initial benchmarks set by both Hickory and Melbourne City Council.

HBS unit delivery is a task in itself, with Hickory liaising with both VicRoads and Yarra Trams on any given evening where components are being craned into position. Initially constrained to three nights per week, Hickory hope to move oversize HBS deliveries to five nights per week, thus in theory allowing five floors to be added to La Trobe Tower per week.

After initial apprehensions, council are now at the point where they've requested that all site deliveries are done so during evening hours. This permit was granted following extensive community consultation and acoustic validation by Hickory and opens up new opportunities for construction in the city.

Can this methodology enable quieter construction to be done after hours and accelerate the completion of building projects in the city?

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9503.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Delivery of the the largest HBS unit during evening hours"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9503.jpg?itok=0F3uVUzA" title="Delivery of the the largest HBS unit during evening hours" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Delivery of the the largest HBS unit during evening hours</figcaption></figure>There has been a high concentration of construction activity in this small pocket of La Trobe Street in recent years, impacting businesses and neighbouring residents. Hickory are monitoring the success of after hours works closely on the La Trobe Tower project, as this model may well provide a long-term solution to easing construction congestion by cutting months off each construction program.

<h2>Collins House</h2>

Underlining the potential of HBS, the day of Apartments.com.au's visit to La Trobe Tower also happened to be the day that Hickory signed off on the construction contract for their next HBS project, <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">Collins House</a>.

On a mere 465sqm site, the <a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a>-designed Collins House will rise 57 levels or near on 200 metres above ground. With its super slim profile and extensive glazed facade, Collins House is very much the tower project Hickory had in mind when conceiving HBS.

Construction of Collins House is expected to begin in shortly.

See below a short video created by Hickory highlighting HBS installation at La Trobe Tower

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JUHBX4SgMck" width="100%"></iframe>
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Up close with the Hickory Building System

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Can vertical zoning save Chapel Street’s retail precinct? Stuart Marsland says no, but that’s okay.

Responding to a downturn in retail activity along Melbourne’s famous Chapel Street, Stonnington Council will enforce ‘vertical zoning’ in new developments. Vertical zoning will lock developers into having the first three floors of new developments vacant for commercial use, unless they apply for a residential permit.

While vertical zoning may appear to improve the commercial opportunities along Chapel Street, there are alternatives that will better support the area’s revitalisation.

At ROTHELOWMAN, we view the Chapel Street activity centre as a vibrant and varied district, and argue its planning laws should reflect this diversity. Vertical zoning does not take into account that some sites have a very different street context and are therefore inappropriate locations for commercial use.

<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/image26_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Away from the promotional images, Chapel Street is not without its challenges"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image26_0.jpg?itok=O7AiQKgi" title="Away from the promotional images, Chapel Street is not without its challenges" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Away from the promotional images, Chapel Street is not without its challenges</figcaption></figure>Looking around the world there are many good examples of regeneration that don't rely on vertical zoning, but on the creation of well-considered public spaces. Chapel Street has the potential to adopt this same model, focusing on publicly funded projects such as gathering spaces and new civic and communal buildings.

There are also effective methods to create new commercial spaces from a planning perspective that don’t require mandating their use. Financial incentives, decreased car parking requirements and increased allowance to build larger envelopes could all stimulate increased commercial development without vertical zoning.

The underlying message is that Chapel Street is changing, and vertical zoning alone cannot change this. Historically it has been shown that planning controls that seek to rigidly apply rules (rather than serving as a guide) are more problematic than beneficial, and can unintentionally stifle innovation.

<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/image-tools_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="ROTHELOWMAN's current South Yarra project, Essence."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="319" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image-tools_1.jpg?itok=otmoTCD0" title="ROTHELOWMAN's current South Yarra project, Essence." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>ROTHELOWMAN's current South Yarra project, Essence.</figcaption></figure>Looking to the future, Chapel Street and its users must be willing to embrace change, encourage innovation and develop an urban fabric that enables residential, retail and commercial offices to co-exist.

If the market is calling for a variety of uses, and the incentives are in place, the development community will respond accordingly.

Stuart Marsland is Principal at ROTHELOWMAN's Melbourne office and has had extensive experience with projects within South Yarra.
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stuart marsland

Planning for a productive Chapel Street activity centre

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The increasing density of Australian cities calls for innovative apartments that cater to the market’s diverse range of buyers.

Australia’s ageing population is seeing a maturation of apartment buyers, along with a sustained interested from first home buyers wishing to remain close to city centres.

Acting on strong market demand, ROTHELOWMAN in conjunction with developer Hamton have succeeded in creating Australia’s first ever-convertible apartments. These spaces form part of stage three of the wider Sanctuary on the Park development, located in Abbotsford, Melbourne.

From the beginning, the aim of this project has been to establish an exemplar model for higher density design in inner urban developments. As our population continues to grow, big houses are being traded in for cleverly designed apartments with excellent amenities and proximity to existing infrastructure, entertainment and employment hubs. The goal of Sanctuary has been to meet the needs of modern buyers, with beautiful, functional living spaces, while also establishing a sense of community in the new vertical neighbourhood.

Prior to the design development of the wider project, Hamton commissioned our practice to research small living spaces, in order to develop a truly innovative outcome inspired by global design initiatives.

Our team came to the conclusion that the physical imposition of walls used to subdivide space into different zones was one of the primary constraints in most small living spaces. While defined living spaces have long been a feature of the typical Australian apartment, we were keen to see if this physical space could become more pliable.

These investigations focused on generating a layout capable of expanding and contracting as required, while managing to enhance liveability both spatially and psychologically.

A major concern was how we could achieve movable components that require only minimal effort to transition. Whatever the solution, we knew its success depended on its simplicity. Residents couldn’t be daunted by the task of changing the configuration of their apartment; the process of transforming the space had to be one they were happy to go through regularly.

<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/jdb_2015-06-10_0081.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Inside a completed convertible space apartment. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jdb_2015-06-10_0081.jpg?itok=I2FmKmR-" title="Inside a completed convertible space apartment. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Inside a completed convertible space apartment. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>Honing the living space down to its essentials, we created the convertible spaces model from the ground up, incorporating multiple space-saving solutions to present a holistic, cohesive design. The end result is a convertible design, capable of increasing living space by up to 70 per cent.

The convertible spaces are designed so that bedroom space can be incorporated into living space as required, and functional areas such as corridors can become usable in living and bedroom areas without compromising on access through the apartment.

By expanding the storage space, introducing a foldup bed and movable joinery, these spaces offer residents the flexibility to extend and define their living space to best suit their lifestyle. Whether it’s socialising or solitude the owner seeks, these spaces can be moulded to suit every mood or occasion.

The interiors of the convertible apartments follow a contemporary design aesthetic, with beautiful finishes that create a light, inviting atmosphere. The finishes are robust with durable moving components and detailed corners chosen specifically to withstand repeated movement and prevent chipping.

Also key to this development was creating a sense of community and fostering social connections within the area. Whilst extensive communal facilities are provided for residents, the masterplan encourages an active dialogue between the development and its wider context.

A new public spine bisects the site, connecting the urbanism of Victoria Street to the tranquil natural landscape of the river corridor. The architecture acts as an emulsifier between the two juxtaposed environments and in doing so promotes accessibility, interaction and engagement on both a resident and public level. As a result, the development has become embedded itself into the local fabric, giving life to a new vertical neighbourhood.

The $412 million project features a total of 567 apartments over 220 metres of mostly north-facing river frontage on a unique bend of the Yarra River. Each of the three main buildings (Eden, Haven and Sanctuary) has 12 storeys, but decrease in height (and storey numbers) like a natural geological formation towards the river and public spaces. The curved outline of the buildings further reflects the contours of riverbanks.

A third of the site has been given over to public spaces and the apartment buildings also feature gardens, lobby bars, a pool, gym, a health and wellbeing centre and even a rooftop cinema.

A dynamic walkway and retail precinct with cafes and boutique retail and office spaces winds between the three buildings and connects Victoria Street with the river. All 16 of these retail spaces have already been sold or leased.

Recognising the varied market of buyers in the Abbotsford area, the development brings together a diverse of housing typologies at a price point that caters to first home buyers and luxury investors alike, ranging from $300,000 to $3.96 million. The mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments are sized between 36 and 425 square metres and appeal to single professionals, downsizing couples and growing city families.

Chris Hayton is a principal at <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a> with 20 years of experience working on major projects in Australia and Europe.

See "<a href="/news/inside-australias-first-convertible-apartment">Inside Australia's first convertible apartment</a>" published in July for more images.
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chrishayton

Planning Australia’s first convertible apartments

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The recent appointment of Stuart Marsland to the position of ROTHELOWMAN Principal coincides with a fresh wave of projects to be submitted to town planning over the coming months.

Following eight years with the South Melbourne-based firm, Marsland has now assumed a pivotal role within the practice. In a climate of changing perceptions around higher density living, he has assisted ROTHELOWMAN in gaining a reputation for their expert delivery of apartment developments. Apartments.com.au spoke with Marsland about his expertise.

<h2>About Stuart Marsland</h2>

Growing up in Britain, Marsland attended the Metropolitan University of Manchester before establishing his architectural career in London. Working for local firm Child Graddon Lewis, Marsland gained experience working across warehouse conversions, apartment developments and infrastructure projects including various projects for the London Underground.

After making the choice to immigrate to Australia, 2016 will mark Marsland’s ninth year working with ROTHELOWMAN. Over that period, Marsland’s project catalogue has included all facets of residential design, master planning and urban design.

Marsland has been heavily involved in advising the Stonnington City Council with their Chapel Revision Structure Plan. This advisory role saw Stuart provide a planning guideline framework for design factors such as development, land use, movement, public realm, strategic opportunities, sustainability and economic and social planning.

<h2>A principal within ROTHELOWMAN</h2>

Marsland explains that a principal's role within ROTHELOWMAN is to lead the vision of the practice. The firm currently has seven principals, while associates are entrusted with day-to-day management of projects.

Marsland takes a keen interest in current issues facing the development industry, including the ongoing debate of apartment design guidelines. He is focused on collaborating closely with industry and government to achieve world-class and commercially viably project outcomes.

Design direction within ROTHELOWMAN is described as organic and site-responsive, best known for creating appealing, contemporary and enduring architecture. Marsland echoes this approach, believing in a level of simplicity and purity in design, while striving to find new ways to innovate.

<h2>Business is booming</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/image57_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A selection of projects recently completed by ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="329" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image57_3.jpg?itok=dvUaeQER" title="A selection of projects recently completed by ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A selection of projects recently completed by ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>The appointment of Marsland as principal has coincided with a surge in the practice’s work nationally. In Melbourne alone, no less than 20 notable projects are slated to reach town planning in the coming months. Encompassing everything from high-rise projects, mixed-use and master planned developments, the number of upcoming projects reinforces ROTHELOWMAN's position as one of Australia's most prolific firms. Melbourne office staff numbers have surpassed 75, with the Brisbane and Sydney offices totalling 52 personnel.

The strategy of geographic diversification has paid dividends, with ROTHELOWMAN content in solidifying their Sydney and Brisbane offices.

<blockquote>
In an increasingly crowded global marketplace, the design excellence of ROTHELOWMAN is pertinent as we strive to help our clients differentiate their product offering,

Our focus is to effectively service a national client base from our Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne studios, delivering world class projects working with each client within the time frame they require it, no matter where they are located.
<cite>Stuart Marsland, ROTHELOWMAN</cite>
</blockquote>
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ROTHELOWMAN enters a new phase of expansion

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Australia’s first convertible apartment spaces have been revealed, designed by architecture practice ROTHELOWMAN and developed by Hamton.

The multifunctional spaces are prime examples of the innovation that can be achieved in small apartments despite current debate surrounding the implementation of minimum size standards.

Currently under construction, the spaces form part of the final stage in the master-planned Sanctuary on the River development, located in Abbotsford.

The apartments include moveable walls, pull down beds and integrated joinery, offering residents the flexibility to extend and define their living space as necessary.

The multifunctional capabilities of the compact design include cupboards that move to create a divider between a separate kitchen and bedroom, or removed for a studio-style apartment feel.

A bed folds out from the wall and an extra room can be created through a separate divider.

Australia’s first convertible spaces illustrate the exciting possibilities for flexible thinking around the way we perceive small living 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/image61.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A convertible apartment in action"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="220" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image61.jpg?itok=JBOwDaXp" title="A convertible apartment in action" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A convertible apartment in action</figcaption></figure><h2>A case for innovation</h2>

Convinced of the benefits a convertible space can offer, ROTHELOWMAN went on to test potential mechanisms for creating maximum spatial flexibility.

In an Australian first, ROTHELOWMAN were able to hone the living space down to the essentials.

They have created the apartment design from the ground up, incorporating multiple space-saving solutions to present a holistic, cohesive layout.

"Intelligently designed with meticulous attention to detail, the convertible spaces allow you to make the most of your space,” says ROTHELOWMAN principal Chris Hayton.

“By day you can have a studio apartment and by night you can maximise your entertainment capacity by increasing your living areas."
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Amelia Barnes

Inside Australia’s first convertible apartment

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There's been some interesting citations in recent times regarding design generators/inspirations for skyscrapers here in Melbourne. Perfume bottles, Beyonce's curves and now can we assert… the classic wrist watch!

ROTHELOWMAN's latest design on behalf of Sydney-based Besgate Group for 140 King Street is very much reminiscent of a luxury watch, or more specifically a solid link wrist band. Arranged in an interwoven pattern, 140 King Street's continuous 188 metre facade is designed to provides a unified and formal response to the site's surrounds.

Forming one of three sites which constitute Besgate Group's Melbourne portfolio with a combined yield of 1,300 dwellings, 140 King Street was the first to hit planning and now rests with the State Government.

<h2>140 King Street application summary</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/image47.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of 140 King Street. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="355" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47.jpg?itok=xZA65-OO" title="Aerial perspective of 140 King Street. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of 140 King Street. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Planning application lodged May 2015</li>
	<li>Existing 3 level office complex over the 793sqm site to be demolished</li>
	<li>Approval sought for a 57 level skyscraper at 188 metres above King Street</li>
	<li>271 apartments included: 103*1BR / 6*1BR + Study / 162*2BR</li>
	<li>Level 13 podium rooftop residential amenities area</li>
	<li>117 car spaces and 81 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>107sqm retail space over two tenancies</li>
	<li>GFA: 25,090sqm</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design statement</h2>

<blockquote>
The podium form blends with the tower to achieve a unified formal response.

A building of this scale has to work on two very distinct levels, firstly at streetscape pedestrian scale with a finely detailed facade at a human scale and secondly on a citywide level, with clean large gestures clearly legible from distant vantage points. The nature of the scalable facade pattern allows these two very different scales to seamlessly coexist and work with each other from ground floor to roof.

The streetscape has been addressed with the patterned facade coming to ground, creating large elegant framed windows allowing glimpses and access to the activity behind.
<cite>ROTHELOWMAN, town planning submission</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Facade nous</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/image49_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Form and function. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_1.jpg?itok=OVaVJyRV" title="Form and function. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Form and function. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>According to the application the east and west facades are comprised of lightweight modular metal panels which are fixed between slabs at regular intervals. The employed link pattern allows for adequate light penetration and ventilation to apartments, while also acting as shading due to the depth of each module.

East and west facades aside, the southern aspect is finished with curtain wall glazing, only broken by intermittent bands of charcoal metal cladding. Glazing and dark grey concrete panels complete the northern exterior.

Ground floor to King street will feature exterior marble cladding which masks a through link between King Street and Gallagher Place.

<h2>Besgate Group settles in</h2>

As was <a href="/news/besgate-group-readies-their-surge-into-the-melbourne-apartment-market">foreshadowed by Urban.com.au during May</a>, 140 King Street represents the vanguard project for Besgate Group in the Melbourne residential market, with two additional developments in the pipeline. 640 Bourke Street has also been submitted for approval while 558-566 Swanston Street in Carlton is set to pass through the approvals process shortly.

<a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/besgate-times-entry-perfectly-into-hot-melbourne-market-20150721-gih176">Fairfax Media have today ran a piece on Besgate Group</a>, outlining ROTHELOWMAN's design for 640 Bourke Street, or more appropriately dual designs. An 85-storey tower with 980 apartments has been put forward pending feedback from aviation authorities, while a smaller 66-storey tower which would slip in under the OLS ceiling has also been included within the 640 Bourke Street application.

<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/1437475304437.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Indicative render of 640 Bourke Street at a lower height. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="342" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1437475304437.jpg?itok=u5GPDcUZ" title="Indicative render of 640 Bourke Street at a lower height. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Indicative render of 640 Bourke Street at a lower height. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure><h2>140 King Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Besgate Group</li>
	<li>Architecture: ROTHELOWMAN</li>
	<li>Town Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Project Manager: KM Develop</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: Wood and Grieve Engineering</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Services Engineer: Wood and Grieve Engineering</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: AECOM</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer: Vipac Engineers &amp; Scientists</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Gardner Group Pty Ltd</li>
</ul>
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ROTHELOWMAN's solid link skyscraper: 140 King Street, Melbourne

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Having secured planning permits for towers within Melbourne’s Fishermans Bend, architects at <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a> forecast significant potential for the area to host Melbourne’s rapidly growing population.

Urban.com.au recently spoke with ROTHELOWMAN’s Managing Principal Nigel Hobart regarding Fishermans Bend and its projected progress in the coming five to ten years, with Hobart emphasising the opportunity the area presents for the people of Melbourne.

According to Hobart, parallels which have been drawn between the Urban Renewal Area and Docklands are largely unjustified. The vast majority of land in Fishermans Bend is privately owned, unlike Docklands which started its life as large tracts of government owned land that was subdivided and sold to developers.

Despite Fishermans Bend’s already evident potential, Hobart notes what the area requires is more engagement between the community and industry to strike the right balance and deliver a quality outcome for Melbourne.

Nigel Hobart believes the area calls for is a set of planning rules which aren't overly prescriptive, in order not to result in a contrived outcome. While there is a place for planning rules and regulations, he remarks it’s ultimately communities that create these various housing typologies, not legislation.

"Communities create variety, legislation doesn’t," Hobart says.

The area’s reasonably established street network and urban fabric will provide an organic framework for diversity of scale.

It is fundamental however that transport becomes a priority for authorities as the area begins to develop and take shape. Alternates to mass transit should be considered and explored, factoring in how new infrastructure will tie into the existing infrastructure, particularly Melbourne's tram network.

<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/image-tools_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="60-82 Johnson Street, South Melbourne. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="309" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image-tools_3.jpg?itok=szgQMruX" title="60-82 Johnson Street, South Melbourne. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>60-82 Johnson Street, South Melbourne. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>Discussing the practice's experience in consulting with the Melbourne Planning Authority and City of Port Phillip on their <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/projects#projects/project/118/johnson-street">Johnson Street project</a>, Hobart considers the creation of active, vibrant streetscapes being a greater concern for authorities than density and height.

The practice sought to address this desire on their Johnson Street scheme via the introduction of a through block link (street level lighting to the building perimeters allows for a sense of security and creates a more comfortable and welcoming pedestrian environment). Additionally, resident amenity is provided for the development through the podium rooftop that’s shared across the four towers to create a sense of community.

A proportion of the three-bedroom apartments designed with families in mind are focused towards the podium levels to provide a sense of being more grounded and closer to the street than apartments within the towers. Each tower has an overly large lobby space and each will have a unique identity, providing each building with its own distinct character resulting in a legible wayfinding experience for residents and visitors.

The podium also contains a mix of retail outlets, supplemented by bicycle parking, car parking and other service and ancillary requirements.

At one stage during the design process, a community hall was proposed within the development that would have been managed by the City of Port Phillip. However, the complexities around the provision of public and community infrastructure within a privately owned development saw that idea scrapped from the final submission.

In terms of community infrastructure and the need for schools, Hobart believes there is an opportunity for the delivery of schools and parks, if a compromise is struck with authorities to allow more height to buildings.

<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/image4rl.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="ROTHELOWMAN's Thistlethwaite Street design."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="477" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4rl.jpg?itok=9klnKI99" title="ROTHELOWMAN's Thistlethwaite Street design." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>ROTHELOWMAN's Thistlethwaite Street design.</figcaption></figure>Discussions between the office and the relevant authorities implied that height wasn't as sensitive as it is in established residential suburbs. There is no river, shrine or other sensitive areas in close proximity to the site to overshadow or have influence on the height. The interim height controls as applied require a 40-storey maximum for Montague Precinct and 18-storey maximum for Sandridge Precinct.

While there should be an overarching plan in place, Hobart believes there should still be provisions for innovative ideas and design outcomes to emerge. He makes the point that Melbourne developed and evolved organically, with no overarching masterplan for the city.
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