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<p>A boutique six-storey office building proposal has been filed for an infill site within the mixed-use zone of inner-city Brisbane’s popular James Street precinct.</p><p>It has been lodged with the Brisbane City Council by an entity linked to Lion Property Group co-founders Garry Pesochinsky and John Sader.</p><p>Earmarked for a 562sq m parcel at 43 Commercial Road, Newstead, the proposal would comprise a gross floor area of 2034sq m across five levels of office space, including a communal wellness floor, and a ground-level shop tenancy as well as a pocket park.</p><p>It would also incorporate a partially covered rooftop garden terrace designed as a breakout area for tenants with views of the CBD and Brisbane River.</p><p>The proposed commercial building would replace a block of four two-bedroom units that now occupies the site. Under the plans, however, some of the bricks from its demolition would be reclaimed and utilised as part of the development on the ground floor.</p><p>A submitted planning report noted the proposal exceeds the four-storey acceptable height outcome for the site under the Fortitude Valley Neighbourhood Plan within the James Street precinct.</p><p>But it deemed that a six-storey building would “not feel or appear out of place” and the plans aligned with community expectations as the James Street precinct “supports a range of building heights, depending on the zoning and location of a site”.</p><div id="3UTtk59Vb4i98mLdJGajrt"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7Hp0e2rjzDEpSm9dBCNa0k/bb4f3c9bba7e825d9b4ef0e1d99dcc54/newstead1__1_.png" alt="Render of the proposed boutique office building at Newstead." data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7Hp0e2rjzDEpSm9dBCNa0k/bb4f3c9bba7e825d9b4ef0e1d99dcc54/newstead1__1_.png"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ A render of the proposed boutique office building at Newstead.<br><br></span></div></div><p>“The proposal delivers a building that is of a height and proportion that responds to other emerging developments in the locality,” the report said.</p><p>“While it is acknowledged that the acceptable outcome for height is exceeded, a lesser height would not result in a superior built form or amenity outcome, particularly at the streetscape level.</p><p>“To this end the development has put greater emphasis on creating a superior ‘human scale’ and ‘activated frontage’ which is commensurate with a building of this scale.”</p><div id="1UQ2g8CPGXhuHdHkAQYea6"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/1z0JXpReFsJGfGsXQ6HLXB/a4cb1405db2e92d8e9b9817b44359066/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-29T144453.148.jpg" alt="Render of the proposed boutique office building at Newstead." data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/1z0JXpReFsJGfGsXQ6HLXB/a4cb1405db2e92d8e9b9817b44359066/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-29T144453.148.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ A render of the interior of the proposed office building on James Street.<br><br></span></div></div><p>The scheme designed by architecture studio Bayley Ward also includes car and bicycle parking spaces at ground level.</p><p>“The site benefits from being a part of an evolving suburb that showcases architectural excellence and is currently undergoing significant transformation and growth,” a design statement said.</p><p>“The subject site proposal upholds the ambitions of the mixed-use zoning, delivering a premium commercial workplace … [and] reinforces the varied and diverse architecture and urban form that distinguishes Fortitude Valley from the CBD and other parts of Brisbane, through innovative building construction, architecture and urban design that reflects its creative and heritage values.”</p>

A boutique six-storey office building proposal has been filed for an infill site within the mixed-use zone of inner-city Brisbane’s popular James Street precinct.

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<p>Third time’s the charm for a Gold Coast developer twice knocked back during a line-in-the-sand legal stoush over the refusal of changes to an approved beachfront tower.</p><p>The Gold Coast City Council has given the green light to the latest revised design for the controversial Main Beach tower proposal.</p><p>Its go-ahead ends a three-year battle by Upan Company Pty Ltd—an entity linked to developer Brian Heran—over its plans for a 1261sq m site on the corner of Main Beach Parade and Woodroffe Avenue.</p><p>Under the approved changes, the tower to be known as Ovation will maintain the previously approved 20 storeys—including 18 residential levels—but its height has been increased from 63 metres to 70.2 metres.</p><p>According to a submitted planning report, this is to enable greater ceiling heights “to respond to market demand” and the subtropical climate of the Gold Coast.</p><p>“Providing higher ceilings assists with ventilation and cooling of a dwelling,” it said. “Given the site location, being beachfront to Main Beach, this aspect of the design is fundamental.”</p><p>The report said the changes sought to “improve the quality of expressive and architectural form in accordance with public expectation and the planning scheme intent for Main Beach.</p><p>“The fundamental aspects of the [previously approved] development remain unchanged,” it said. “As part of the proposed change, significant consideration has been given to softening the built form and better reflecting the character of Main Beach.”</p><p>Overall, however, the number of apartments has been reduced from 55 to 31, with 26 mostly three and four-bedroom apartments occupying levels 2 to 14 and five full-floor, five-bedroom penthouses across levels 15 to 19.</p><p>Among the other major changes, communal recreational areas have been relocated and upsized from a total of 465sq m to 762square metres. Both the ground level and rooftop amenities are oriented towards the beachfront. They will feature facilities such as large pools and pool decks, beach lounges, a cinema, gym, sauna, yoga space and barbecue areas.</p><p>Reflecting the reduced number of apartments, the amount of both car and bicycle parking spaces across three basement have been decreased.</p><div id="carousel-root" data-reactroot=""><image-carousel-remove-button><div class="rm-carousel-wrapper"><button id="rm-carousel" class="rm-carousel-btn">Delete</button></div></image-carousel-remove-button><div class="slider-wrap"><image-carousel><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="4.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2v97XhDoXfB6YUUgOjfPvR/76d30bbc05b43415d1167577eb765036/4.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2v97XhDoXfB6YUUgOjfPvR/76d30bbc05b43415d1167577eb765036/4.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="3 (1).jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/45gArayA1m5njwGK3N0wE9/a4ea592a5a80cef5095300198924847c/3__1_.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/45gArayA1m5njwGK3N0wE9/a4ea592a5a80cef5095300198924847c/3__1_.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="2 (2).jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3jlaCrXiql7CSj7KWPitjR/7956560fa858b40f5d50a00aecb8911d/2__2_.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3jlaCrXiql7CSj7KWPitjR/7956560fa858b40f5d50a00aecb8911d/2__2_.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="1 (2).jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6owQhyog1IodM7t2Sp9WWe/9365120452dcd59088620a13ddfbf697/1__2_.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6owQhyog1IodM7t2Sp9WWe/9365120452dcd59088620a13ddfbf697/1__2_.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div></image-carousel></div></div><p><br>An approval to build a 20-storey tower on the site at 3547 Main Beach Parade was initially granted in 2018, a year after the council rejected a 50-storey proposal with 143 apartments and a mixed-use podium.</p><p>In 2020, a new tower design—with an increased overall height, reduced setbacks and number of apartments as well as revised external design—was submitted but refused by the council.&nbsp;</p><p>An appeal by Upan to the Planning and Environment Court was dismissed in 2021 with the second design deemed non-compliant with the City Plan as it would “crowd” the surrounding area.</p><p>It then took the fight to the Supreme Court but the council’s decision to refuse approval again was upheld.</p><p>Subsequently, the developer went back to the drawing board with architecture firm Jackson Teece engaged to undertake a third and final redesign.</p><p>“In response to the character of the surrounding area, the building’s design is ‘of the beach’ establishing a close relationship to the local natural context and further reinforcing the local identity of the suburb Main Beach,” a design statement said.</p><p>“The articulated form of the tower depicts a series of overlapping organic facade elements enveloping the apartment interiors, mimicking a sea shell’s role in protecting its resident sea creature.</p><p>“The interplay of these facade elements provides contrasting shadowing, light and movement at varying scales which will result in an expressive and activated architectural form.</p><p>“Emulating the ribbed texture of the common sea clam shells found on the local beaches, the building offers a rich palette of ‘sand coloured’ off-white battens, fluted and flat off-white pre-cast panels.”</p>

A 20-storey residential development on the Gold Coast has been approved five years after the development was first mooted…

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<p>The Murray River ambles slowly between the twin cities of Albury and Wodonga, demarcating the battle lines between New South Wales and Victoria.</p><p>And while the two states may enjoy a friendly rivalry, the twin cities are getting along swimmingly, chalking up solid migration and a slew of investment in the region as a lifestyle destination.&nbsp;</p><p>Albury was recently capped Wotif’s top town to visit in 2023, for its slower pace at the doorstep to wine country, the Murray River and ski fields.&nbsp;</p><p>And the regional hub is shaking off its pit-stop identity on the road between Sydney and Melbourne to become a bonafide destination, capturing the attention of foodies for its high-end restaurants, whisky and wine bars, and cultural experiences.&nbsp;</p><p>Albury’s first watering hole opened its doors in 1840–and hotelier Peter Griffiths is carrying on the city’s love affair with a cold beer and community.&nbsp;</p><p>Griffiths spearheaded the reinvigoration of the run-down Astor Hotel Motel (featured in the main image) in Albury’s Young Street.</p><p>Griffiths says he had bought another Astor at Goulburn and knew that there would be good bones to the rundown sister asset.&nbsp;</p><p>“We came down in 2019 when we purchased The Astor in Albury. There was a guy who built 17 hotel-motels, all called The Astor, in the 1960s, and then he went broke,” Griffiths says.</p><div id="1CDgDf3EJy47GqzZLYSqjw"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2Hzjnr0Jv79zWfv6nQLmSK/7e08e5c5fb0329043ef3ad98fdfdded6/Astor_Hotel.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2Hzjnr0Jv79zWfv6nQLmSK/7e08e5c5fb0329043ef3ad98fdfdded6/Astor_Hotel.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Peter Griffiths acquired the rundown Astor Hotel Motel at Albury and turned it into a destination. </span></div></div><p><a href="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2Hzjnr0Jv79zWfv6nQLmSK/7e08e5c5fb0329043ef3ad98fdfdded6/Astor_Hotel.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2Hzjnr0Jv79zWfv6nQLmSK/7e08e5c5fb0329043ef3ad98fdfdded6/Astor_Hotel.jpg"><br></a>“There are three left, at Goulburn, Wagga and Albury.</p><p>“We engaged Melbourne-based architects Techne (who have now opened a studio in Albury) to give the hotel an uplift. They did an amazing job and the hotel has never looked back.”</p><p>Griffiths says they were able to remove layers of detritus to reveal the modernist design of the 60s and restore it to create an iconic destination for travellers and locals. It can also be hired out as the perfect backdrop for a photoshoot.&nbsp;</p><p>“We’ve refurbished 1000sq m of space. The next stage of that is we’re looking to build on our 45 rooms here on the motel side. The rooms don’t reflect the finish or the quality that people are accustomed to now in the pub.</p><p>“We have acquired land behind the hotel and we are looking at doing 40 boutique rooms. It’s quite a sophisticated market and we were surprised at the volume of our occupancy after the renovation works.&nbsp;</p><p>“When we first took it on we were doing $150,000 in room revenue. We’re forecast to do $2 million this financial year. It’s a stopover point for people travelling from Melbourne, but it’s also a strong regional city for education, transport and tourism.”</p><p>Griffiths says his next venture is Kinross Hotel at Thurgoona, a residential growth area on Albury’s outskirts, which he acquired in November last year and plans to invest “many millions” in. &nbsp;</p><p>“What we try and do is pick up regional hotels that are struggling, and develop the upside,” he says.</p><p>The Kinross Hotel includes the 1890s woolsheds from the former Kinross Station, which were moved to the site in 1988. Many of the music industry’s biggest stars have performed at the Kinross including international 1980s stars Belinda Carlisle and Rick Astley as well as Australian acts including Jimmy Barnes, Vanessa Amorosi, Diesel, The Whitlams and Lisa Mitchell.</p><div id="1jRVS8JVZC8sufvmRC40RR"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/452qPWeR1sPZ00yORtTIjq/5b6630b3fb62750b57e2f2649065582d/Billsons_Albury_Wodonga_Plus_MID3.jpg" alt="Nick Travers founder of Techne with Billsons Brewery." data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/452qPWeR1sPZ00yORtTIjq/5b6630b3fb62750b57e2f2649065582d/Billsons_Albury_Wodonga_Plus_MID3.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Techne director Nick Travers says the new branch studio in Albury will tap the booming regional market, including the Billsons Brewery project at Beechworth. </span></div></div><p><br>Specialist hospitality architects Techne are tackling the project with a view to creating another destination pub with capacity to accommodate festivals and community events on the expansive site.&nbsp;</p><p>Techne director Nick Travers said the architecture firm recently set up a satellite studio in Albury to capitalise on the opportunity in the regional hub.&nbsp;</p><p>“It was a destination pub, but now it’s surrounded by about 10,000 houses,” Travers says.</p><p>“I think the reinvigoration of regional places is a real positive out of Covid lockdowns and the bump in domestic tourism.</p><p>“When Peter bought the Astor in Albury he recognised it as an undervalued asset, and realised that there’s a lot of pubs that no one historically has put a creative lens on, and that he could reimagine these pubs.”</p><p>Techne recently opened its Albury studio with Dana Hutchins as the lead. Travers says they had taken on a few projects in the area, including Beechworth, and they had been “pin-wheeling around Albury”.</p><p>“We had ambitions to open a branch studio, I didn’t exactly think it would be Albury. I’m really pleased with it, it’s turning out to be a really great market for us,” he says.&nbsp;</p><p>Techne is applying its placemaking hospitality architecture and interiors expertise, showcased in the likes of The Espy at St Kilda and Garden State in Melbourne’s CBD, to other regional offerings including Billson's Brewery in Beechworth and All Saints Estate winery in Rutherglen.&nbsp;</p><p>Travers says it’s about creating design-and-experience-led projects that cater to both the local community, while also driving inbound tourism and local visitation.&nbsp;</p><div id="4tTr17gLCZaOhkLwxgtXJg"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/enZOqDDYgwvWu01iAjxH0/e016a37d9511cb27a6106c76387910a2/Albury_Wodonga_MID1.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/enZOqDDYgwvWu01iAjxH0/e016a37d9511cb27a6106c76387910a2/Albury_Wodonga_MID1.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ While the Murray River divides the twin cities, their collective fortunes are rising with a flood of investment flowing to the region. </span></div></div><p><br>The region, originally home to a migration centre after World War II, is now on the charm offensive, luring would-be residents with a below-average median house price, a knowledge economy, a university campus, a train line connecting the region to Melbourne, and a proposed $558-million redevelopment of Albury's base hospital.</p><p>Albury Wodonga is now home to about 100,000 people and is listed as Australia’s 20th largest city. It was the focus of intense investment in the early 1970s when the Whitlam federal government identified it as a growth area to decentralise Australia’s capital cities. This was later abandoned.&nbsp;</p><p>But the reopening of borders and beefed up net overseas migration figures are sure to flow through to major regional cities, which remain robust housing and investment markets.</p><p>The median house price in Albury is $610,000, well below the New South Wales average of $725,000. Its rental vacancy is also relatively low at 1.4 per cent as of April this year with a forecast annual population growth of 1.3 per cent to 2036.&nbsp;</p><p>A feasibility study is under way on the former Albury Council depot site, which is slated for redevelopment as an in-fill greenfield site and could be home to “hundreds” of residents on the 1.8ha site.&nbsp;</p><p>The Albury Entertainment Centre is in line for a $30-million expansion, 305km of existing rail corridor between metropolitan Melbourne and the Victoria-NSW border at Albury Wodonga is being upgraded,&nbsp;</p><p>On the Wodonga side of the Murray, Aspen is expanding its retirement living portfolio with a $60-million, 173-unit development, and a $45-million, 104-bed private hospital has been proposed.</p><p>While it may be a tale of two cities, it’s clear that collectively the region is developing some pulling power.&nbsp;<br><br></p><hr><p><strong><br>You are currently experiencing <em>The Urban Developer</em> Plus (TUD+), our premium membership for property professionals. </strong><a href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/membership-plans" data-mce-href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/membership-plans"><strong>Click here to learn more.</strong></a></p><div id="2GhuueZl01Zwo2aFfjNVi2"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/12UMq5eMSEOh0QxJVBYaDt/d7507cf4ceb1365cc9ce7eaff84d06cc/tud___banner.jpg" alt="TUD + Banner" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/12UMq5eMSEOh0QxJVBYaDt/d7507cf4ceb1365cc9ce7eaff84d06cc/tud___banner.jpg"></picture></div>

The twin cities of Albury and Wodonga may sit on opposite sides of the NSW-Victoria border, but together they are chalking up solid migration and a slew of investment in the region as a lifestyle destination...

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<p>Developer Pellicano Group is plotting a $225-million four-tower build-to-rent play on the Gold Coast to bolster its growing pipeline in the burgeoning asset class.</p><p>The proposal is earmarked for a 1ha-plus site at Stadium Drive, Robina, and would comprise 418 one, two and three-bedroom apartments in a resort-style scheme designed by Rothelowman.</p><p>To be known as Paloma House, its four towers would rise 9 to 10 levels and include almost 8000sq m of resident amenities with a wellness centre, gym, steam room, sauna, cinema, residents’ lounge and work-from-home spaces.</p><p>It also would feature ground-floor recreational facilities&nbsp;including a pool, poolside pavilion, private lounges, alfresco kitchen, dining areas, a tennis court, yoga lawn, garden lounge and bocce court.</p><p>The proposed development is the latest addition to Pellicano’s rapidly expanding pipeline of 2000 build-to-rent apartment projects in Queensland and Victoria.</p><p>“Build-to-rent will continue to be a key area of focus for Pellicano moving forward,” Pellicano managing director Nando Pellicano said.</p><p>“We will continue to seek out well-located sites across Victoria and Queensland, where we can deliver high-quality residences to growing populations.”</p><p>&nbsp;On completion, Paloma House would be managed under the developer’s Pellicano Living platform, which currently includes 600 apartments across 10 locations.</p><div id="carousel-root" data-reactroot=""><image-carousel-remove-button><div class="rm-carousel-wrapper"><button id="rm-carousel" class="rm-carousel-btn">Delete</button></div></image-carousel-remove-button><div class="slider-wrap"><image-carousel><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-25T154159.858.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5rNqjIRqf7w7QUSbRnc3DV/5871fa1f79b8ee2c56a60f5eb766d70b/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T154159.858.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5rNqjIRqf7w7QUSbRnc3DV/5871fa1f79b8ee2c56a60f5eb766d70b/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T154159.858.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-25T154254.216.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/4RJV6GriO34XTpx8oEhsrv/73dc474a6effb0adbc1e23965caaf308/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T154254.216.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/4RJV6GriO34XTpx8oEhsrv/73dc474a6effb0adbc1e23965caaf308/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T154254.216.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-25T154233.848.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/HCptUPsFuVwevScq1bL1y/f15a7defe31669d05e400b11ee112912/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T154233.848.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/HCptUPsFuVwevScq1bL1y/f15a7defe31669d05e400b11ee112912/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T154233.848.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div></image-carousel></div></div><p><br>As well, Pellicano has a further 410 build-to-rent apartments under construction, which will be progressively completed over the next 15 months, in Woolloongabba, Fortitude Valley and Kangaroo Point in Brisbane, and Geelong in Victoria.</p><p>Rothelowman associate principal Lawson Royes said Paloma House would be “an exemplary project in the development of build-to-rent on the Gold Coast, particularly during the ongoing housing affordability crisis currently being felt across south-east Queensland”.</p><p>“Paloma House has been designed to seamlessly and sensitively integrate into the established Robina community and contribute positively to the evolution of its town centre, fostering a strong sense of community within a village atmosphere,” he said.</p><p>“We have embraced a strong agenda of liveability … rich, dense vegetation enhances the subtropical public realm experience, while resort-style living inspires well-being and an active lifestyle.”</p>

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<p>Plans have been filed for a 25-storey apartment tower to replace a low-rise 1980s-era holiday resort at the northern end of the Gold Coast.</p><p>The proposal would comprise 85 mostly two and three-bedroom apartments crowned by a whole-floor, five-bedroom penthouse plus a communal recreation rooftop terrace.</p><p>It is earmarked for a 1546sq m site at 210 Marine Parade, Labrador, currently occupied by the three-storey Golden Shores Holiday Club Resort, which would be demolished.</p><p>The development application has been lodged with the Gold Coast City Council by Golden Shores Holiday Club Limited, the ownership entity of the holding fronting the Southport Broadwater.</p><p>Under the plans, levels 2 to 22 would provide five units per floor on the lower levels, four units per floor on the mid levels and three units per floor on the upper levels.</p><p>“The tower’s form when viewed from Marine Parade is slender, with a series of horizontal and vertical elements,” the planning documents said. “This enables the building to fan out towards the rear, to allow all units to view glimpses towards the Broadwater.”&nbsp;</p><p>Communal recreation facilities on the 597sq m rooftop terrace would include outdoor barbecue and dining areas, residents’ lounge, pool and elevated deck, gym, sauna and an “intimate areas for lounging”.</p><p>Parking for 136 cars would be provided across two levels of basement, at ground level and the first level of the podium.</p><div id="carousel-root" data-reactroot=""><image-carousel-remove-button><div class="rm-carousel-wrapper"><button id="rm-carousel" class="rm-carousel-btn">Delete</button></div></image-carousel-remove-button><div class="slider-wrap"><image-carousel><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-25T140742.045.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6ElnNr2BDlsYmDn232jExE/26fe7e2e56449b64b5f779c29b550c47/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T140742.045.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6ElnNr2BDlsYmDn232jExE/26fe7e2e56449b64b5f779c29b550c47/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T140742.045.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-25T140813.076.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3NN3Q1dYohASfGtIps4nqY/fe560866334b243743d5aeb91c770e97/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T140813.076.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3NN3Q1dYohASfGtIps4nqY/fe560866334b243743d5aeb91c770e97/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T140813.076.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-25T140844.023.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/63GxOXNmwBvLMT4Ra2Swe4/49f78d4d7cc5c2f670cad7ef0bc2b61a/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T140844.023.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/63GxOXNmwBvLMT4Ra2Swe4/49f78d4d7cc5c2f670cad7ef0bc2b61a/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T140844.023.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-25T140922.831.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/qmmvXNeJHDfoABVPCUm5w/10953430deae193809002cc676f6c971/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T140922.831.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/qmmvXNeJHDfoABVPCUm5w/10953430deae193809002cc676f6c971/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T140922.831.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-25T140953.889.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/aNwK5zRLxr8FHeRMaWKWs/3c3f8a416168ad35f1977dc724a211c3/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T140953.889.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/aNwK5zRLxr8FHeRMaWKWs/3c3f8a416168ad35f1977dc724a211c3/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-25T140953.889.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div></image-carousel></div></div><p><br>Overall, the proposed development would reach a height of 79.5m, exceeding the site’s designated 53m building height, but a 50 per cent uplift would be sought under the city’s strategic framework.</p><p>Although a short-term accommodation component is included as part of the DA, it noted the proposed development would operate as a traditional apartment building not a hotel or tourist accommodation.</p><p>“The short-term accommodation component has been included in the application to provide future unit owners with the flexibility to rent their respective apartments out for shorter periods—up to three months,” it said.</p><p>The tower scheme has been designed by BDA Architecture to provide “an iconic architectural building” as well as contribute to the residential supply within the future growth corridor and “enhance the emerging Broadwater precinct”.</p><p>“The overall tower form is cohesive and an elegant addition to the Labrador skyline … [and] a positive outcome to the Labrador foreshore precinct,” a design statement said.</p><p>While not capturing the limelight to the same degree as the southern Gold Coast, developer interest in the northern end of the city remains solid.</p><p>Earlier this month, plans were filed for a 2-to-3-storey <a data-mce-href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/labrador-apartments-mulgrave-street-development-application" href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/labrador-apartments-mulgrave-street-development-application" target="_blank" rel="noopener">residential development for 79-81 Musgrave Avenue</a> by a Loganholme-based entity linked to Peter Smith. It would comprise 11 three-bedroom and six two-bedroom apartments.</p>

Plans have been filed for 25-storey apartment tower to replace a low-rise 1980s-built holiday resort at the northern end of the Gold Coast...

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<p>The Gold Coast’s micro high-rise tower trend is growing with plans filed for a 13-storey residential development in the exclusive beachfront enclave of Jefferson Lane at Palm Beach.</p><p>It is earmarked for a 1194sq m site spanning two properties linked to Brisbane-based Green Leaves childcare boss Michael Hovey and acquired for a combined $9.85 million.</p><p>Under the plans, the proposed tower comprising 10 apartments—including a two-level penthouse—would replace two “dated” two-storey homes at 71 and 73 Jefferson Lane.</p><p>Nine whole-floor, four-bedroom apartments would occupy levels 1 to 9 and be capped by the split level five-bedroom penthouse across the top two floors plus a private rooftop recreational terrace with a pool.</p><p>The development application noted the proposed 43.5m tower would exceed the site’s 29m height limit and a 50 per cent increase was being sought under the provisions of the city’s planning framework.</p><p>“The development provides a positive contribution to the urban fabric of Palm Beach, achieved through design excellence and thoughtful consideration in the way the development interacts with the pedestrian realm,” a planning report said.</p><p>It said recessing the floor plate of the upper two levels was designed so that the building would be only perceived as a 10-storey building when viewed from Jefferson Lane and was “both sympathetic to, and complementary of, the variety of built form evident within the established neighbourhood of Palm Beach”.&nbsp;</p><p>“The form and appearance of the development utilises natural tones that are textured and layered to provide a high quality street appeal to Jefferson Lane and the adjoining beach, adorned by tiered greenery at the lower levels and up the spine of the building.”</p><div id="carousel-root" data-reactroot=""><image-carousel-remove-button><div class="rm-carousel-wrapper"><button id="rm-carousel" class="rm-carousel-btn">Delete</button></div></image-carousel-remove-button><div class="slider-wrap"><image-carousel><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-23T151321.944.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/j2iYiu2Ui84xG8fAznuMj/2dcec7e1a5baf460a0338df255880458/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151321.944.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/j2iYiu2Ui84xG8fAznuMj/2dcec7e1a5baf460a0338df255880458/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151321.944.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-23T151154.680.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2w9JUjmZXm09DnHyBnOwBU/5624b2c364d1bc98cc25ab700e2775be/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151154.680.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2w9JUjmZXm09DnHyBnOwBU/5624b2c364d1bc98cc25ab700e2775be/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151154.680.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-23T151414.665.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/450QfIVhJgQbp47CSqcn9r/8b76eaf5f42cdd918cc9aa5d3204ad31/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151414.665.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/450QfIVhJgQbp47CSqcn9r/8b76eaf5f42cdd918cc9aa5d3204ad31/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151414.665.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-23T151259.566.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2u72QT7qJQcST7XnlZ2UtU/8d20401e0893490f4882f90ab08596d4/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151259.566.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2u72QT7qJQcST7XnlZ2UtU/8d20401e0893490f4882f90ab08596d4/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151259.566.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-23T151118.655.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7AoOyZLJGpjIWFGMs4FVQr/e304328fafaea820ca707259a99c49c5/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151118.655.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7AoOyZLJGpjIWFGMs4FVQr/e304328fafaea820ca707259a99c49c5/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151118.655.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-23T151457.140.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2NqDS9j4qD9voAKuqKINmF/7339100193f13439b905ce072a99297f/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151457.140.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2NqDS9j4qD9voAKuqKINmF/7339100193f13439b905ce072a99297f/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-23T151457.140.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div></image-carousel></div></div><p><br>Communal open space spanning 870sq m on the upper ground level would have direct connectivity to an outdoor lawn and dunal area fronting the beach. As well, it would comprise a gym, sauna, steam room, separated dining pockets with barbecue facilities, outdoor showers, pool, spa and deck area.</p><p>As well, there would be two levels of basement car parking.</p><p>A design statement by Plus Architecture said the tower was split visually into two vertical pieces to minimise the bulk of the building and break down the scale.</p><p>And the tower design aimed to “mimic the sculptural forms of sand shaped by water, with carved elements providing relief and protection to the apartments”.</p><p>“The building is visually divided into three horizontal sections, the lower levels reflecting the solidity of rocky shores and solid earth, while the typical apartment levels reflect the fluidity and delicacy of sand,” it said.</p><p>“The top penthouse levels are designed to feel as light and weightless as air, creating a sense of openness and freedom.”</p><p>Earlier this year, plans for <a data-mce-href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/seven-storey-beachfront-mansion-palm-beach-gold-coast-development-application" href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/seven-storey-beachfront-mansion-palm-beach-gold-coast-development-application" target="_blank">a slender seven-storey abode</a> were lodged for a 597sq m beachfront block up the road at 67 Jefferson Lane, Palm Beach. It would comprise a six-bedroom, 963sq m primary residence, 78sq m secondary home, 45sq m home office with a boardroom and a car lift to garage six cars on-site.</p><p>More recently, a <a data-mce-href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/coolangatta-skinny-beachfront-mini-high-development-application" href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/coolangatta-skinny-beachfront-mini-high-development-application" target="_blank">skinny, mini high-rise</a> proposal with four double-level apartments also was filed with the Gold Coast City Council for a beachfront site at 202 Marine Parade, Coolangatta. The 10-storey tower would have unimpeded views of the coastline from the famed Snapper Rocks to Surfers Paradise.</p>

The Gold Coast’s micro high-rise tower trend is growing with plans filed for a 13-storey residential development in the exclusive beachfront enclave of Jefferson Lane at Palm Beach...

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<p>New digital modelling tools, including AI-assisted design, are offering architects and developers faster and cheaper methods of achieving innovative buildings.</p><p>But the craft of traditional scale model-making is still an essential component of the architect’s skillset, proponents say.</p><p>Anycie Barakat, head of generative design at Archistar, told <em>The Urban Developer</em> that automating parts of the modelling process “is a game-changer”.</p><p>Archistar’s platform combines mapping technology with datasets covering every planning regime in Australia, as well as built-in generative design capabilities. Planners and developers can use it to find suitable sites quickly, and spit out a variety of automated designs to fit a set of parameters.</p><p>“Instead of just creating one building that complies with a certain set of rules, we create multiple buildings. And depending on how big the site is, that could be hundreds or thousands,” Barakat said.</p><p>“You can start analysing what’s currently around in this area, what kind of building designs that have been approved, and build those strategies into the system. So you can extend and really speed up that initial design process.”</p><p>The generative designs are concept stage, rather than final plans. Barakat says that developers and real estate agents are particularly excited about these tools, which allow them to get a rough estimate of what architects could possibly do.&nbsp;</p><div id="3JEQe3e4MdZoshc8coCp7S"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/8cFS3VSWTYj6KH2iu0xE5/becf6729ccd0d5aedf464ea6e7f72337/4.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/8cFS3VSWTYj6KH2iu0xE5/becf6729ccd0d5aedf464ea6e7f72337/4.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Anycie Barakat, head of generative design at Archistar.<br><br></span></div></div><p>Meanwhile, more polished digital 3D models can be used to communicate with clients what finished interiors will look like.</p><p>Dr Tuan Nguyen of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences agrees that digital modelling technologies can be used for the same design and communication purposes as traditional scale models, of which the Powerhouse has an extensive collection.</p><p>“We have several models of the Sydney Opera House, including a copy of the architect Jørn Utzon’s first model, a cross-sectional model that shows Utzon’s unbuilt interior design, a wooden model used for wind-tunnel testing, a model illustrating the roof geometry based on a sphere, and a finely detailed presentation model that was displayed for many years at the Opera House itself,” Nguyen says.&nbsp;</p><p>“They show that designs shown in models are not always realised, that their purpose runs the gamut from utilitarian to polished display models, and that models document the first to final stages in the design process.</p><p>“3D printing and CAD are the drafting table of today, allowing designers to iterate their designs rapidly. At the same time, models continue to have the promotional, persuasive and pedagogical power that they have always had.”</p><h2>Traditional modelling ‘still necessary’</h2><p><br>David Jaggers, of architects Durbach Block Jaggers, says that world-leading studios such as Rem Koolhaas, SANAA, or BIG, have “acres of models in their offices”.</p><p>“Models play a huge part in how all of those practices work … I think it’s because you can’t really push the envelope of what architecture is without a [physical] model.&nbsp;</p><p>“It’s such an important tool to experiment with space.”</p><p>While DBJ embraces digital tools for design and modelling, Jaggers says that the firm has a strong tradition of hand-cut balsa models as a core element of its design practice.</p><div id="1Ml2XDm0SLPul7P8PiMYch"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7yc9dgtgISbWvgsgJblnrF/82b48d28b0f8f97c534d3beb1227be67/2.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7yc9dgtgISbWvgsgJblnrF/82b48d28b0f8f97c534d3beb1227be67/2.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Acres of models: David Jaggers, of architects Durbach Block Jaggers, and a model by Kinkfab.<br><br></span></div></div><p>“I think the big difference is: we don’t jettison the tool. Maybe some practice has moved into [digital modelling] and thinks that you don’t need the traditional model-making in the back end.</p><p>“But we see that, from a design point of view, it’s still crucial…In the making of a model, the design develops.</p><p>“When you’re modelling on the computer, there’s a sort of neutralisation that occurs with the light levels and the materiality of things.&nbsp;</p><p>“And things can look quite seductive in a digital model, everything kind of looks okay, whereas with a physical model, you’re actually having to resolve how the elements of a building go together.&nbsp;</p><p>“That’s one of the big tasks of an architect, particularly if you’re trying to experiment with space.”</p><h2>Robots not ready to replace architects</h2><p><br>Physical models from hand-cut to 3D-printed will continue to play a role in architectural practice, particularly as many councils require them as a component of a DA.</p><p>“I don’t think this skillset has been lost,” Nguyen tells <em>The Urban Developer</em>.&nbsp;</p><p>“In terms of the number of practitioners, you might see its role as diminished but the capabilities have not been lost. It is typical for architectural and design students to still produce models.”</p><div id="68eig3nbHcvzsTgwqIDhCp"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/4tVpGwMtGNXmMRqDPVRop4/84653834b10e1ba850ffb0ab0567ce31/Mid_article_resizes__14_.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/4tVpGwMtGNXmMRqDPVRop4/84653834b10e1ba850ffb0ab0567ce31/Mid_article_resizes__14_.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Dr Tuan Nguyen of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences and a cutaway model of the Sydney Opera House from the Powerhouse collection.<br><br></span></div></div><p>Barakat says cutting-edge apps such as&nbsp; ChatGPT are making AI available to everyone, but more advanced tools require a user who knows the field.&nbsp;</p><p>Generative designers have to understand what’s being fed into the program, and must interpret and validate the outputs.&nbsp;</p><p>“You have to know what to ask it, and you need to roughly expect what you’ll get out of it, to use [AI tools] well,” Barakat said.</p><p>Rather than replacing architects, Barakat says, Archistar is speeding up and expanding some elements of their work. In a tight labour market, digital modelling can save time and costs.</p><p>Jaggers argues that iterative design moves between modes, and that the process of translating physical to digital models, or vice versa, can help progress the plan.&nbsp;</p><p>“You’re the most in touch with the development, the design, when you’re the one making the model, because you’re the one interpreting strategy, or the sketch, or the 3D computer model into the design,” Jaggers said.&nbsp;</p><p>“It’s a sort of privilege to be the one who gets to make the models, in some ways.”<br><br></p><hr><p><br><strong>You are currently experiencing <em>The Urban Developer</em> Plus (TUD+), our premium membership for property professionals. <a href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/membership-plans" data-mce-href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/membership-plans">Click here to learn more.</a></strong></p>

Digital modelling can speed up planning and sell a project, but traditional
model-making isn’t going anywhere…

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<p>Plans have been filed for a medium-rise residential development comprising 60 apartments opposite a railway station in Brisbane’s suburban north-west.</p><p>The six-storey proposal is earmarked for an amalgamated 2198sq m site at 3 McConaghy Street, Mitchelton, within a major centre zone.</p><p>It has been lodged with the Brisbane City Council by Carbone Developments with a view to being a “complementary project for future centre activity development of adjoining lands”.</p><p>The proposed development would sit opposite the Mitchelton railway station with a waterway corridor and open space to the rear of the site.</p><p>“The McConaghy Street south precinct is intended for medium-density, multiple dwellings and also for shops and office activity at ground level where fronting Mitchelton railway station,” a submitted planning report said.</p><p>“The proposal will support the creation of a walkable centre which is in proximity to high-frequency public transport, employment, entertainment and community facilities.</p><p>“The site currently enjoys proximity to all these services and facilities and the proposal provides for a higher density of residential land use to support these surrounding centre uses and nearby public transport services.”&nbsp;</p><p>The report noted the proposed development was one storey over the acceptable height outcome for the site.</p><p>“However, there is unlikely to be any adverse impact upon residential amenity as the building will be well setback from the street frontage and to existing residences to the east and has open space to the rear,” it said.</p><p>“The building will contribute towards the character of the centre and create a sense of place currently lacking.</p><p>“Thus, as the process of transition towards the ultimate major centre development form occurs across this locality, the proposal offers the opportunity to utilise the land for a higher order use which is compatible with future major centre use.”</p><div id="2VnPtg8v5PcYnSqE8hfgYq"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6Vkq2olBoYGAzFXRHAZWvI/155968ea8481a8eb53f30f0adb97c3ab/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-22T134533.428.jpg" alt="Render of the proposed six-storey Mitchelton apartment development." data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6Vkq2olBoYGAzFXRHAZWvI/155968ea8481a8eb53f30f0adb97c3ab/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-22T134533.428.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ A render of the proposed six-storey Mitchelton apartment development.<br><br></span></div></div><p>The scheme designed by Red Door Architecture includes a mix of 19 one and 41 two-bedroom apartments and would replace an existing house and associated outbuildings.</p><p>Ground-floor communal recreation space would be provided with a gym which leads out to a terrace and pool deck at the rear of the building, partially suspended above the waterway corridor and with direct access to the adjoining parkland.&nbsp;</p><p>“The building is designed to maximise the number of units with orientation to the north and east to maximise internal climate comfort and to maximise access to the outlook towards the parkland,” the documents said.</p><p>The proposal also includes two levels of basement parking for 102 cars and 15 visitor spaces as well as 76 bicycle parking spaces.</p>

Plans have been filed for a medium-rise residential development comprising 60 apartments opposite a railway station in Brisbane’s suburban north-west.

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<p>Kokoda Property has filed plans for a fluid-form residential tower shrouded in a mesh-screen facade with cascading greenery rising 22 storeys at Milton in Brisbane’s inner-west.</p><p>The Melbourne-based developer’s latest $160-million play in the Queensland capital is earmarked for a 1640sq m site at 12-18 Crombie Street.</p><p>It put its foot on the holding—currently occupied by a diesel engine workshop—spanning four lots in a deal worth about $11 million earlier this year.</p><p>The development application lodged with the Brisbane City Council comprises 145 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 16 tower levels sitting above a six-level podium including the lower ground level, ground level facilities and four storeys of mixed communal recreation space, residential apartments and car parking.</p><p>Under the plans, the tower would be capped with a rooftop communal recreation deck, including a lap pool, hot spa, deck areas, private bar and dining room, barbecue areas and lounges, gym, infrared sauna and plunge pool, many of which will be available for private bookings through a building management system.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>As well, four basement levels would provide 183 car parking spaces.</p><p>“The development has been designed to encapsulate high quality architectural design with a sculpted façade form that is integrated with landscaped elements to create recesses and protrusions along the building plane, resulting in a highly articulated and visually interesting tower,” the planning documents said.</p><p>The overarching maximum building height for the area’s core residential precinct is 20 storeys but because the site size is less than 2000sq m the prescribed height limit is reduced to 15 storeys.</p><p>“The site is in close proximity to the mixed use residential precinct within the neighbourhood plan, in which maximum building heights of up to 30 storeys are permitted adjacent to the railway corridor,” the DA noted. “Accordingly, there is an expectation that buildings up to 30 storeys in height will be developed in the Milton area.”</p><p>As well, it said the proposal would “deliver much needed infill home supply, which responds to the recent land supply and growth challenges experienced in Brisbane and wider south-east Queensland” and was aligned with the national target of delivering one million homes by 2029.</p><div id="3KbXwBKqI3AW6iOWoMcdeM"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/FfNZmgmncn3bQONoxUnAw/ce9c029259f7244a909fea77cdbb1e5f/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-19T153140.064.jpg" alt="Render of the proposed Crombie Street tower." data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/FfNZmgmncn3bQONoxUnAw/ce9c029259f7244a909fea77cdbb1e5f/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-19T153140.064.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ A render of the proposed Crombie Street tower.<br><br></span></div></div><p>“The proposed development facilitates an increased residential population … in a part of Milton that is in close walking distance to the Milton Railway Station and the Park Road retail and dining precinct,” the DA said.</p><p>The scheme’s sculpted and slender tower has been designed by Cottee Parker with its “fluid built form and perforated mesh screen facade representing the notion of ‘voile’,” a submitted design statement said. Voile is a soft, sheer fabric usually made of 99 per cent cotton.</p><p>“The idea derived from cotton production by a prominent business developer in Milton, Ambrose Elridge,” it said.&nbsp;</p><p>Eldridge was a Queen Street chemist in the 1800s who established Milton Farm after purchasing a 12ha allotment where he experimented with cotton growing.</p><p>The mesh screen facade would be balanced by the integration of green climbers and cascading planter beds.</p><p>Despite the flooding constraints associated with the site, the residential-led mixed-use design also incorporates an activated street edge with an entry vestibule, shopfront, outdoor dining and tiered planter beds connecting it to the public realm.</p><p>Kokoda’s Crombie Street proposal follows the success of i<a data-mce-href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/kokoda-brisbane-apartment-tower" href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/kokoda-brisbane-apartment-tower" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ts adjoining McDougall Street development</a>, The Ambrose—a $165 million, 19-storey tower with 181 apartments.</p>

Kokoda Property has filed plans for a fluid form residential tower shrouded in a mesh screen facade with cascading greenery rising 22 storeys at Milton in Brisbane’s inner-west...

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<p>Mid-rise development proposals are still seeking clearance for take-off along a beachside strip opposite the Gold Coast Airport.</p><p>The latest plans comprise an 11-storey tower with 20 three and four-bedroom apartments earmarked for a 1232sq m beachfront site at 367 Golden Four Drive, Tugun.</p><p>It is at the northern end of Golden Four Drive, which stretches from Currumbin to Kirra and has become a residential development hotspot over the past couple of years.</p><p>The proposal filed under an entity linked to Brisbane-based businessman Stephen Lambourne would replace an existing three-storey walk-up block of nine units.</p><p>Under the plans, levels 1 to 9 would accommodate two apartments per floor with the tower being capped by a penthouse and communal rooftop recreation area on level 10 that would include an outdoor barbecue and dining area, residents’ lounge, plunge pool and open terrace area.</p><p>On the ground-floor there would be a single three-bedroom apartment with a private pool and terrace.</p><p>Two basement levels are planned with resident parking spaces for 48 cars.</p><p>Rising to an overall height of 34.5m, the proposed tower would exceed the site’s building height designation of 23m but according to a planning assessment report the development would seek to use the 50 per cent uplift provisions contained in the city’s planning framework.</p><div id="carousel-root" data-reactroot=""><image-carousel-remove-button><div class="rm-carousel-wrapper"><button id="rm-carousel" class="rm-carousel-btn">Delete</button></div></image-carousel-remove-button><div class="slider-wrap"><image-carousel><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 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2023-05-18T142638.166.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3BsTjJcqn2vst741MTHrE4/26f577e88f6f44bcbd67f120459c25b4/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-18T142638.166.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3BsTjJcqn2vst741MTHrE4/26f577e88f6f44bcbd67f120459c25b4/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-18T142638.166.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-18T142710.725.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/bnlRNyRbzXcuUbTrGm2BP/8d911efb80a0f916d09c4747686638c9/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-18T142710.725.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/bnlRNyRbzXcuUbTrGm2BP/8d911efb80a0f916d09c4747686638c9/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-18T142710.725.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-18T142740.280.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5BWGcYncngjJcx2xkFEW4j/b7e3055f8d96d1f3f3af1765929e7e69/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-18T142740.280.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5BWGcYncngjJcx2xkFEW4j/b7e3055f8d96d1f3f3af1765929e7e69/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-18T142740.280.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-18T142834.505.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6XDfDk1IKNTQRg1euxSSMX/126db4b492f24633437d86b858c63ab8/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-18T142834.505.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6XDfDk1IKNTQRg1euxSSMX/126db4b492f24633437d86b858c63ab8/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-18T142834.505.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div><div class="slider-el"><img style="height: 100%;" title="Untitled design - 2023-05-18T143048.728.jpg" src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/4BzOmqeNW0XndSMRBFhNSA/c0f167248afc74697d46bc8ba69631e6/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-18T143048.728.jpg" data-mce-src="http://images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/4BzOmqeNW0XndSMRBFhNSA/c0f167248afc74697d46bc8ba69631e6/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-18T143048.728.jpg" data-mce-style="height: 100%;"></div></image-carousel></div></div><p><br>“The proposed development is considered to enhance the local skyline and achieve the City Plan’s intent for a medium rise spine along the eastern side of the Gold Coast Highway,” it said.</p><p>“The development provides a high quality architectural outcome that responds to the coastal character of the area.</p><p>“The scale of the development, owing to the generous setbacks and relatively modest site cover reinforce the appropriateness of the development in the context of the emerging mid-rise built form pattern emerging along Golden Four Drive.”</p><p>The scheme has been designed by BDA Architecture as “an innovative architectural building within the Tugun beach precinct”.</p><p>“The proposed residential building provides a coastal character that looks to create a strong architectural landmark along Golden Four Drive and the beachfront,” a design statement said.</p><p>“The tower’s form when viewed from Golden Four Drive is slender, with a series of floating triangulated boxes. </p><p> “[And] when viewed from the beach is similar to the front elevation, however, large balconies have been incorporated to promote connectivity to the beach and ocean beyond.”</p>

Mid-rise development proposals are still seeking clearance for take-off along a beachside strip opposite the Gold Coast Airport.

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<p>Plans have been filed for a 23-storey Gold Coast hotel and residential tower by wealthy Filipino tourism entrepreneur Manuel Osmena’s Manny O Group.</p><p>The Cebu-based group is a major player in the Philippines tourism sector and owns the five-star Mövenpick Hotel and Ibiza Beach Club on the island of Mactan.</p><p>It also owns and operates airport and airline services businesses as well as having wine production interests in France, Spain and Portugal.</p><p>Through the entity Legacy M Pty Ltd, the group made its strategic move into the Gold Coast market with the $2.125-million acquisition of a 508sq m site at 31 Surf Parade, Broadbeach, in early 2020 before the pandemic.</p><p>At the time, reports said Osmena had fallen in love with the city during a visit for a holiday and his group was working on plans for a boutique hotel despite the uncertainty caused by Covid.</p><p>Under the plans lodged recently with the Gold Coast City Council, the tower would comprise 12 levels accommodating 36 hotel suites topped by five whole-floor three-bedroom apartments, a two-level four-bedroom penthouse and rooftop terrace with a pool.</p><p>The scheme by Tonic Design includes a two-level podium with a hotel lobby on Surf Parade and residents’ entry on Margaret Avenue, both with concierges, as well as two retail tenancies to “assist in activating the street frontage”.</p><p>On the second level, the plans include a reception, club lounge, kitchen and buffet, gym, pool, pool bar and deck. The third level comprises an administration area and 120sq m function room.</p><p>Three basement levels would provide parking spaces for 35 vehicles.</p><div id="QRa8RocqM1RLCOwNYXz0f"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/4ZNPAckZAHNAvO5LzVlbYP/b7e258712e903842dd4a2e6617af5f9d/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-16T134225.531.jpg" alt="Render of the proposed hotel and apartment tower planned for Broadbeach. " data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/4ZNPAckZAHNAvO5LzVlbYP/b7e258712e903842dd4a2e6617af5f9d/Untitled_design_-_2023-05-16T134225.531.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Render of the proposed hotel and apartment tower planned for Broadbeach.<br><br></span></div></div><p>According to the development application, the mixed-use proposal was designed to “promote a slender and narrow tower form … consistent with that anticipated within the site’s high-density residential zone”.</p><p>“It will meet the intent of the zone and immediate area through an appropriate building height and attractive built form,” the documents said.</p><p>“The proposal provides a floor plate of approximately 450sq m on each level, resulting in a slender tower and a limited perceived mass when viewed from the public realm.”</p><p>The submitted plans indicated there would be three hotel suites per floor from levels 4 to 15, whole-floor apartments each spanning 217sq m on levels 16 to 20 and a 426sq m penthouse across levels 21 and 22.</p><p>As well, the rooftop would be split into a private terrace and a gym solarium for the penthouse residents and a common area with a hotel meeting room and pool.</p><p>“The proposal’s facade will be highly articulated through the use of external feature battens, glazing throughout, landscaping and breaks in elevations,” the DA said.</p>

Plans have been filed for a 23-storey Gold Coast hotel and residential tower by wealthy Filipino tourism entrepreneur Manuel Osmena’s Manny O Group.

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<p>As work ramps up for the coming Commonwealth Games in regional Victoria, a link to the state’s Olympic past has been getting attention.</p><p>Melbourne’s last remaining purpose-built building from the 1956 Olympic Games, the heritage-listed AIA Centre, has recently undergone critical maintenance works to preserve its original design.</p><p>Built to host the swimming, diving, and water polo competitions, and listed on the National Heritage Register and the Engineering Heritage register, it was the first building of its kind in Australia, and today remains the only post-tensioned steel building in the state.</p><p>The AIA Centre is now home to the Collingwood Football Club and Netball Club and is managed by the Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust.</p><div id="2jjrbMwsHzfZjMLlLaC8S3"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6AppWDYxMDbeMQVYRqQbcZ/8cbc4e163a4e1ad64b33c9c9b9879cd9/1.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6AppWDYxMDbeMQVYRqQbcZ/8cbc4e163a4e1ad64b33c9c9b9879cd9/1.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ The Olympic Swimming Stadium in 1956. Image: Wolfgang Sievers<br><br></span></div></div><p>Works were completed over three weeks to maintain the building’s stability, tightening the 26 vertical tie-down rods that pretension the steel superstructure and provide lateral stability.</p><p>“The AIA Centre is a significant building in our city’s history – not only as an architectural achievement but in having made an important contribution to Melbourne’s cultural and sporting landscape,” Melbourne and Olympics Parks Trust chief executive John Harnden said.</p><p>“From the 1956 Olympics to its life as the Melbourne Sports and Entertainment Centre, and now as the home of Collingwood, this building is unique, and we are proud to have it within the Melbourne and Olympic Parks precinct.”</p><p>The protocols for the retuning works were completed by engineering firm WSP, which incorporates the practice founded by engineer Bill Irwin who, along with local architects Peter McIntyre, Kevin Borland, and John and Phyllis Murphy, won the 1953 design competition.</p><div id="35zSkh7uM5sqlR4LvnwKMf"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/71IfVDfGhRbM24bK17Z5oX/4334832166fd75263f377505d7cabc11/3.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/71IfVDfGhRbM24bK17Z5oX/4334832166fd75263f377505d7cabc11/3.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ The pool in action for the games, and architects Peter McIntyre and Kevin Borland with engineer Bill Irwin present a model of the Melbourne Olympic Swimming Stadium. Architects John and Phyllis Murphy were also on the project team. Source: Archive of Peter McIntyre, courtesy of Open House Melbourne<br><br></span></div></div><p>During the 1956 Games, the Olympic Swimming Pool was the scene of the infamous “blood in the water” water polo match between Hungary and the Soviet Union following the Soviet Union’s violent suppression of the Hungarian Revolution.</p><p>“An award-winning design at the time, the AIA Centre was designed to be material-light, reflecting the challenging post-war times where materials were limited, but labour was abundant,” Principal Director WSP Phil Gardiner said.</p><p>In addition to the tensioning works, the AIA Centre is in the process of a $15-million redevelopment to set up a multidisciplinary medical and sports performance hub thanks to a partnership between Collingwood Football Club and Monash University.</p><p>The four-phased project is due for completion in this year.</p><div id="5poHOpkjpZci2PrS0zljPZ"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/lPiieQwC2Brz9XoAsdiCm/9087e3d2912400fca0c772afa0827432/2.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/lPiieQwC2Brz9XoAsdiCm/9087e3d2912400fca0c772afa0827432/2.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ The centre during construction.<br><br></span></div></div><p><span class="mce-preview-object mce-object-iframe" contenteditable="false" data-mce-object="iframe" data-mce-p-data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-p-allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-mce-p-frameborder="0" data-mce-p-src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/54123413?h=e6ec667aa5"><iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/54123413?h=e6ec667aa5" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-mce-src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/54123413?h=e6ec667aa5"></iframe><span class="mce-shim"></span></span></p><p><br></p>

As work ramps up for the coming Commonwealth Games in regional Victoria, a link to that state’s Olympic past has been getting attention…

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