Prima Tower

Prima Tower - 31 Queensbridge Street, Southbank

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<p>With highly prized land parcels in Melbourne's CBD becoming smaller and scarcer, how do you maximise their development values and are skyscrapers viable on these compact sites? As well as sites getting smaller, so are apartments. But do they need to? How do we maximise floorspace to improve returns without compromising design and comfort?</p>

<p>Incredible shifts are happening in technology and building practices; we have a new generation of technology pushing the limits of concrete and steel like never before. But for engineers to continue to lead, they must provide compelling answers to the question: ‘Can we take what you want, and give you more?’</p>

<p>For developers, it’s more sellable area. For architects, it’s more space with less structure. For builders, it’s increased speed of construction, while at the same time ensuring health and safety.</p>

<p>At their very core, structural solutions for skyscrapers have to be simple, innovative and cost competitive. Melbourne is in the midst of a skyscraper construction explosion with three of the five tallest under construction benefiting from Meinhardt's expertise. They are the 72-storey Prima Pearl on the South Bank, the 68-storey 568 Collins Street; and the 58-storey Abode 318 on Russell Street.</p>

<p>Abode 318 and 568 Collins Street both sit on compact sites.</p>

<h2>Abode 318</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/c8d4f3d67f050b21b492e71d270434cb.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Abode 318's unique facade. Image © Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/c8d4f3d67f050b21b492e71d270434cb.jpg?itok=MiL-VG2g" title="Abode 318's unique facade. Image © Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Abode 318's unique facade. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure><p>With a height to depth ratio of 9:1, Abode 318 on Russell Street in Melbourne’s CBD, could almost be classified as super skinny or pencil thin skyscraper (this is usually defined at a ratio of 11:1)</p>

<p>To achieve the requirements for 58-storeys on such a small site, optimising the building’s stability solution was critical. Wind tunnel testing and Finite Element Analysis were therefore conducted early in the project. This early analysis highlighted the challenges associated with wind acceleration and revealed an overall building natural frequency on the borderline for occupancy comfort.</p>

<blockquote>
<p>We incorporated provision for a tuned mass damper to be located at the top of the building, while at the same time optimising all of the building’s primary elements and lateral mechanisms, including car park ramps, lift cores and shear walls, in a computer model. When the structure was 80% complete the actual building frequency was measured using a ‘drop test’. One of the building cranes safely swung a weight above the structure and the building response was measured.</p>

<p>It was also important to not underestimate the importance of floor systems. When you have literally acres of the same footprint, it’s a significant cost to the overall project.</p>
<cite>Vincent Amato, Senior Structural Engineer, Meinhardt</cite>
</blockquote>

<p>This test revealed the dynamic response of the building to be acceptable without the need of the costly tuned mass damper, which could have cost the client $100k-$150k. The horizontal and vertical wave form of the Abode façade meant that every floor had a different geometry to the floor below and the floor above.</p>

<p>An economic floor plate design was achieved by seeking order in the waves and adopting a 10 floor repetition of the floor plate with the majority of the floor plate remaining consistent and variation being limited to the edge. This allowed the contractor to achieve economies of repetitive design with a bespoke outcome.</p>

<h2>568 Collins Street</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/img_1290.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="568 Collins Street. Image courtesy Mark Baljak"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1290.jpg?itok=tXoMtYrl" title="568 Collins Street. Image courtesy Mark Baljak" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>568 Collins Street. Image courtesy Mark Baljak</figcaption></figure><p>The 68-storey, mixed-use tower at 568 Collins Street meanwhile is set on a plan dimension of only 30m x 40m, which is very small for a building of this height. Traditionally in the Melbourne market high rise towers get their lateral stability solely by the central service core.</p>

<p>On this site, however with the limited space the client wished to maximise the sellable floor space while not impeding the views with bulky structure. By working closely with the architects and client in the early stages of the project a transfer-free structure has been created. This is rarely achieved in a mixed-use tower due to the floor plates requiring different functional grids for various uses.</p>

<blockquote>
<p>We were able to achieve this feat by use of advanced long term shortening and shrinkage modelling to predict and compensate for an uneven loading pattern to the structure. We called on our experience in the Middle East and Asia and adopted an outrigger system, which alleviated the core of all the work and kept the façade free of bulky structure.</p>

<p>With an outrigger system in two locations (top and bottom), we were able to shrink the core and give more sellable space back to the client. In addition, a retention system without temporary ground anchors accelerated construction and avoided potential damage to surrounding services.</p>
<cite>Vincent Amato, Senior Structural Engineer, Meinhardt</cite>
</blockquote>

<p>The whole approach also reduced the building’s overall height while keeping the desired number of floors and reduced the cost to the developer.</p>

<h2>Prima Pearl Tower</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/rb9ci5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The sky high Prima Pearl. Image courtesy Paul D"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/rb9ci5.jpg?itok=VnGMK4K5" title="The sky high Prima Pearl. Image courtesy Paul D" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The sky high Prima Pearl. Image courtesy Paul D</figcaption></figure><p>Located opposite Crown Casino, the prestigious 72-storey Prima Pearl apartment tower is nearing completion. The mixed-use building includes an indoor swimming pool, sauna, spa and gymnasium, private cinema, lounge and library, 8 –level podium car park, virtual golf driving range and level-67 sky lounge.</p>

<p>Unlike 568 Collins Street, this tower has the core doing all the work. Nevertheless, there are still opportunities to optimise space.</p>

<blockquote>
<p>We considered the impact of small internal core walls on the overall building stiffness. Despite receiving calls from the contractor’s steel scheduler to check what we had submitted was correct, we were able to reduce the required reinforcement and wall thickness of the main external core walls.</p>

<p>We have changed the shape of the floor plates above level 30 from concave to convex, which has created larger floor plates for the premium apartments. This structural floor plate design, which we developed, easily accommodated the changing building footprint without compromising a typical design philosophy for fast construction.</p>
<cite>Vincent Amato, Senior Structural Engineer, Meinhardt</cite>
</blockquote>

<p>This is clearly where the benefit to the project translates to added value back to the client.</p>

<p>It is literally possible to grab real estate out of the sky.</p>
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vincentamato

Skyscraper trends: Optimising sites and maximising floor plates

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<p>Rex Hunt once borrowed the German words and popularised the phrase "shizenhousen" and that's what the weather was on Thursday afternoon. But when an opportunity arises to visit the levels of <a href="/buildings/prima-tower-31-queensbridge-street-southbank">Prima Pearl</a> still under construction, you oblige.</p>

<p>In all fairness, a group of intrepid media types (and Urban.com.au) ventured up to level 63 for a birds-eye view of Melbourne. With perimeter safety screens encasing the floors above and facade attached to those below, level 63 provided uninterrupted views and the worst weather Melbourne had to offer.</p>

<p>Work on deck had ceased due to high winds, so much so this man's hard hat nearly ended up on Power Street far below. Hand on hard hat and camera in hand, enjoy the views from Prima Pearl.</p>

<p>Click the image below to expand.</p>
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silvermb

Hold on to your hard hats! Prima Pearl at level 63

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<p>As many readers and prospective apartment buyers are aware, masses of words are dedicated to the marketing of apartment projects. Generally emotive and altogether generic, it's the final product that truly defines a project.</p>

<p>Prima Pearl developer PDG have asserted their project "will be unlike any other residential development currently in Australia." While Urban.com.au provided an overview of Prima Pearl's <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/a-bronzed-icon-takes-its-place" target="_blank">current status</a>, we were fortunate to tour the tower's facilities last Thursday.</p>

<p>Words aside, the assembled media experienced first-hand the final product and gained an understanding of the project's intricate details. What is it that sets Prima Pearl apart?</p>

<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/2014-07-10_16.09.38.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="864" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2014-07-10_16.09.38.jpg?itok=HqOrzEUb" title="Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied</figcaption></figure><h2>Innovative living</h2>

<p>PDG Sales Manager, Mark Giuliano and architect Roberto Dreolini of Disegno Australia spared no detail in their description of the building. Chief amongst Prima Pearl's features is the use of an Australian-first residential tower technology, seeing eight high-speed, smart elevators employed to move individuals with maximum efficiency and minimal time.</p>

<p>When a resident activates a sensor by way of swipe stick, the system immediately dispatches an elevator to the corresponding pick-up point (car park/lobby/recreational) with the resident's living floor already pre-programmed; simply walk to the elevator and the lift will be waiting for you, with your floor already selected.</p>

<p>Technology also permeates through the podium-top communal areas. Smart Miele communal kitchen appliances, an automated gym with a myriad of program selections, or the private cinema which allows the user to insert their USB device - thus being able to watch the program of their choice - are a few of the highlights.</p>

<p>Most impressive is the golf simulation space, where Malvern firm X-golf have provided the means where a resident can have their swing evaluated off-site (in real time) and have the results fed back via a live Skype session.</p>

<h2>Quality in detail</h2>

<p>Hand in hand with Prima Pearl's technological advantage comes with a variety of custom finishes. Imported Tuscan stone surrounds the lap pool while an imported Italian mosaic frames the external terrace atop the podium.</p>

<p>What could be considered minor details have been considered design showpieces. Considered improbable, the poolside sauna for instance maintains a frameless glass frontage while the entire gym floor has been described as 'sprung' for user comfort.</p>

<h2>Comfortable in your own skin</h2>

<p>As for the facade, Roberto Dreolini described the towers external skin as one of the more difficult and time consuming project choices. Subject to much deliberation, bronze was chosen as the team felt it played on surrounding towers while being individual at the same time.</p>

<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_0955_-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The bronzed brute"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="869" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0955_-1.jpg?itok=pLF-_448" title="The bronzed brute" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The bronzed brute</figcaption></figure><p>A design strategy saw double-glazed facade panels chosen, which provide outstanding insulation performance by maintaining ideal internal temperatures for longer periods. Each of the 8,500 double glazed panels consist of two panes with argon gas inserted to fill the internal void, enabling sunlight to be reflected. Appearing as one unit, the two pieces of glass and an insulated frame are sealed together, maximising the panel's thermal properties.</p>

<p>Stay tuned, as later in the year PDG have invited Urban.com.au to the skylounge unveiling and completed apartments in the tower's upper levels.</p>

<p>Enjoy the PDG provided images below, which more than capably do justice to the amenity and quality available within Prima Pearl.</p>
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Beyond the hyperbole -  what really sets Prima Pearl apart

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<p>If one statistic brings into focus Melbourne's current development boom, it's this one; since Rialto's completion heralding Melbourne's first 200 metre plus tower in 1986, a total of six towers beyond 200 metres (not including antennas) have been built in the proceeding 28 years.</p>

<p>Melbourne right now has 23 towers beyond 200 metres ranging from proposed to under construction.</p>

<p>It's a gobsmacking figure representative of a perfect storm of circumstances both locally and abroad which based upon the evidence at hand will see the vast majority of these proposals delivered, rather than land banked or onsold. Counted within the ranks of the 23 listed below are four towers of 300 metres or greater, propelling Melbourne in the the ranks of other global cities with 'Supertall' towers.</p>

<h2>The 200 metre plus tower list as of August 2014</h2>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1">
<thead><tr>
<th>Address</th>
			<th>Height</th>
			<th>Developer</th>
			<th>Architect</th>
			<th>Status</th>
			<th>Apartments</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/568-collins-street-melbourne">568 Collins Street</a></td>
			<td>218m</td>
			<td>Stamoulis Property Group</td>
			<td>Bruce Henderson</td>
			<td>Under Construction</td>
			<td>588</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/prima-tower-31-queensbridge-street-southbank">Prima Pearl - 31 Queensbridge Street</a></td>
			<td>254m</td>
			<td>PDG Corporation</td>
			<td>Disegno Australia</td>
			<td>Under Construction</td>
			<td>667</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vision - 500 Elizabeth Street</td>
			<td>226m</td>
			<td>Brady Group</td>
			<td>Peddle Thorp</td>
			<td>Under Construction</td>
			<td>524</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/150-queen-street-melbourne">Tower Melbourne - 150 Queen Street</a></td>
			<td>226m</td>
			<td>CEL Australia</td>
			<td>Elenberg Fraser</td>
			<td>Delayed</td>
			<td>581</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/victoria-one-452-472-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Victoria One - 452 Elizabeth Street</a></td>
			<td>241m</td>
			<td>Golden Age</td>
			<td>Elenberg Fraser</td>
			<td>Sales</td>
			<td>622</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Light House - 450 Elizabeth Street</a></td>
			<td>218m</td>
			<td>Hengyi - Sixth Grange</td>
			<td>Elenberg Fraser</td>
			<td>Sales</td>
			<td>607</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/eq-tower-127-abeckett-street-melbourne">EQ Tower - 127 A'Beckett Street</a></td>
			<td>202m</td>
			<td>ICD Property</td>
			<td>Elenberg Fraser</td>
			<td>Sales</td>
			<td>632</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/elysium-54-clarke-street-southbank">Elysium - 54 Clarke Street</a></td>
			<td>244m</td>
			<td>Baracon</td>
			<td>BKK Architects</td>
			<td>Registrations</td>
			<td>270</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-townhouses/272-queen-street-melbourne">272 Queen Street</a></td>
			<td>210m</td>
			<td>Site for sale</td>
			<td>Peddle Thorp</td>
			<td>Approved</td>
			<td>624</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">70 Southbank Boulevard</a></td>
			<td>319m</td>
			<td>Aspial WCL</td>
			<td>Fender Katsalidis</td>
			<td>Approved</td>
			<td>1105</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">250 Spencer Street T1</a></td>
			<td>295-300m</td>
			<td>Far East Consortium</td>
			<td>Cottee Parker</td>
			<td>Approved envelope</td>
			<td>750</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">250 Spencer Street T2</a></td>
			<td>235-240m</td>
			<td>Far East Consortium</td>
			<td>Cottee Parker</td>
			<td>Approved envelope</td>
			<td>805</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">250 Spencer Street T3</a></td>
			<td>205-210m</td>
			<td>Far East Consortium</td>
			<td>Cottee Parker</td>
			<td>Approved envelope</td>
			<td>520</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">250 Spencer Street T4</a></td>
			<td>225-230m</td>
			<td>Far East Consortium</td>
			<td>Cottee Parker</td>
			<td>Approved envelope</td>
			<td>788</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/380-melbourne-380-lonsdale-street-melbourne">380 Lonsdale Street</a></td>
			<td>217m</td>
			<td>Hiap Hoe</td>
			<td>Elenberg Fraser</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>728</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/one-queensbridge-street-1-23-queensbridge-street-southbank">1 Queensbridge Street</a></td>
			<td>308m</td>
			<td>Schiavello - Crown</td>
			<td>Bates Smart</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>626</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/334-city-road-southbank">334-344 City Road</a></td>
			<td>270m</td>
			<td>Private</td>
			<td>Hayball</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>578</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/38-freshwater-place-southbank">25-35 Power Street</a></td>
			<td>274m</td>
			<td>ML Hospitality</td>
			<td>Metier 3</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>496</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/swanston-central-168-victoria-street-carlton">156-172 Victoria Street</a></td>
			<td>237m</td>
			<td>CEL Australia</td>
			<td>Elenberg Fraser</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>1037</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/97-franklin-street-melbourne">97 Franklin Street</a></td>
			<td>216m</td>
			<td>Artemis Group</td>
			<td>Hassell Studio</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>367</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/planning-application-180-russell-street-melbourne">180 Russell Street</a></td>
			<td>271m</td>
			<td>AXF Australia</td>
			<td>Bunchan Group</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>506</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/aurora-melbourne-central-224-la-trobe-street-melbourne">224-252 La Trobe Street</a></td>
			<td>267m</td>
			<td>UEM Sunrise</td>
			<td>Eleneberg Fraser</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>1139</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/avant-60-abeckett-street-melbourne">54-64 A'Beckett Street</a></td>
			<td>253m</td>
			<td>Aspial WCL</td>
			<td>Elenberg Fraser</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>750</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/cbus-property-seeks-a-sky-high-planning-scheme-amendment-for-447-collins">447 Collins Street</a></td>
			<td>300m</td>
			<td>CBUS Property</td>
			<td>Woods Bagot + SHoP</td>
			<td>Proposed</td>
			<td>400</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>All projects above include a residential component, with no purely commercial towers included. On that front QIC's 80 Collins Street comes closest with an overall height of 187 metres.</p>

<p>Given there are always minor fluctuations in apartment numbers per project, the above list would pump in the vicinity of 15,700 apartments or near on 30,000 permanent residents into the City of Melbourne. Factor in the thousands of hotel suites which are included within 10 of the 23 proposals and the transient population figure also rises sharply.</p>

<h2>One image says it all</h2>

<p>Below is a marketing image for ICD Property's EQ Tower located at 127 A'Beckett Street. If the opening Rialto statistic brings the matter into focus, the below image provides a visual aid as to the rapidly evolving nature of Melbourne's skyline.</p>

<p>In addition to EQ Tower, no less that 14 other towers of 200 metres or more would be visible in some way, excluding those already completed. A healthy number of these towers are located within the CBD's northern reaches surrounding EQ Tower; testament to the sudden explosion of apartments loosely surrounding Victoria Market.</p>

<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/v02_ext_skyline_aerial_view_lr.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One of many. Image courtesy eqtower.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="364" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v02_ext_skyline_aerial_view_lr.jpg?itok=LtOraKr3" title="One of many. Image courtesy eqtower.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One of many. Image courtesy eqtower.com.au</figcaption></figure><h2>Future towers on the radar</h2>

<p>Listed on Melbourne-based Altus Development's website is a forthcoming scheme fo A'Beckett Street. With an expected value of $395 million, the proposal will hold a nominal 1125 apartments and hotel suites.</p>

<blockquote>
<p>On the high ground of Melbourne’s CBD and close to its famed premier universities, hospitals, parks and cosmopolitan nightlife of the city’s northern precinct will rise a magnificent tower. Comprising 900 residential apartments, a 4-star hotel and dining this development represents unparalleled growth opportunities. Central to key Melbourne destinations and exceptionally well-served by public transport and arterials, it is a foremost opportunity.</p>
<cite><a href="http://www.altusdevelopment.com.au/melbourne-developments">Altus Development: Melbourne Developments</a></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/abeckett_crop.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A'Beckett Street Melbourne CBD. Image © Altus Development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="237" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/abeckett_crop.jpg?itok=9I_S9eHf" title="A'Beckett Street Melbourne CBD. Image © Altus Development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Concept snippet for A'Beckett Street Melbourne CBD. Image © Altus Development</figcaption></figure><p>Elsewhere Fragrance Group's 555 Collins Street has been reported as seeking a height of 305 metres AHD in an all-commercial development, although this will be confirmed when the relevant planning application is submitted. The good oil also suggests that Fragrance Group's Savoy Tavern site on Spencer Street and PJ Development Holdings' Kavanagh car park site on Southbank will also (very) comfortably exceed the 200 metre barrier.</p>

<p>Of course there are also those projects which arise unbeknown to the greater public, but for the immediate future it seems likely the number of 200 metre plus proposals will slow as developers seek to materialise the many projects listed above.</p>
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Melbourne's 200 metre club bursting at the seams

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<p>Crane your neck skyward toward Southbank and you'll see the final floors appearing on Melbourne's latest high-rise icon: Prima Pearl.</p>

<p>Site works began in February 2011, giving a fair indication as to how much time, resource and effort is required to realise a tower of Prima Pearl's ilk. Under the guidance of Brookfield Multiplex the tower recently reached its maximum height of 256 metres, officially making Prima Pearl the 2nd tallest residential tower in Melbourne after Eureka Tower and overall the city’s fourth tallest building.</p>

<p>With 50 owners already inhabiting their lower level dwellings, all site construction will be completed by early 2015 marking the tower as the third successful joint project between development entities PDG and Schiavello.</p>

<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/spp%2020140320.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Prima Pearl's lower levels looming over the Yarra earlier during 2014"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/spp%2020140320.jpg?itok=b-Tk4TaK" title="Prima Pearl's lower levels looming over the Yarra earlier during 2014" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Prima Pearl's lower levels looming over the Yarra earlier during 2014</figcaption></figure><h2>Design highlights</h2>

<p>Created by Disegno Australia and defined by its highly reflective bronzed glass façade, the 72 level edifice moves incrementally from a concave to convex form over the full tower height. While aesthetically pleasing to those who look from afar, the highly reflective substrate provides uninterrupted views when looking out from within while also providing the comfort of complete privacy.</p>

<p>No less than 8,500 high performance glazing panels are employed over the facade whereas concrete structure specialist Form 700 employed 2372 precast panels, 42,536m³ of concrete, 4,068 tonnes of reinforcement and near on 400 tonnes of post tensioning in delivering the structure.</p>

<h2>From the ground up!</h2>

<p>Prima Pearl comprises two lobbies, one catering for the 369 apartments within the Pearl segment (most of which have settled), while the balance of the 661 apartments are held in the Prima component above. The Pearl lobby via Power Street provides an immediate sense of space and luxury, punctuated by a green wall. Concierge, building management and/or security personnel will be based at reception and are available 24 hours a day as required.</p>

<p>Eight levels of podium parking sit atop ground level while level 9 features over 2,350sqm of dedicated residential amenity space. Designed to equal the facilities of a six star hotel, the double height space incorporates a 25m in‐ground pool with sauna, spa and steam<br>
room. A gym, residents’ lounge, private dining room, sun lounge and barbeque terrace over the northern and eastern sides are also included.</p>

<p>Accessible to all residents of Prima Pearl, other amenity area facilities include a virtual golf driving range, meeting rooms, private cinema and a games room. 57 levels of residential apartments ensue while level 67 features the Skylounge, exclusively for the use of residents living on levels 46 – 65. Commanding panoramic views, the area includes multiple sun decks, swimming pool, spa with adjoining steam room, sauna and change facilities, lounge space and private dining room with catering kitchen facilities.</p>

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
<p>Prima Pearl was such a unique opportunity for PDG and Schiavello to produce a world class residential tower which added significant value to Melbourne’s growing skyline. All apartments within Prima Pearl sold out within an 18 month timeframe. A prestigious position opposite the Crown Entertainment Complex with the associated five star fashion boutiques and restaurants was very appealing to a wide range of owner occupiers and investors.</p>
<cite>PDG Sales Manager, Mark Giuliano</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
<p>My goal was to ensure that the architectural intent was realised and that the most beautiful, liveable and unique residential tower currently in Australia would be created for PDG’s clients.</p>
<cite>Disegno Australia Senior Associate, Roberto Dreolini</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/Pool.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mesmerising comes to mind. Prima Pearl's pool. Image © PDG Corporation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Pool.jpg?itok=rxBrnQIU" title="Mesmerising comes to mind. Prima Pearl's pool. Image © PDG Corporation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mesmerising comes to mind. Prima Pearl's pool. Image © PDG Corporation</figcaption></figure><p>Schiavello originally purchased the Prima Pearl site in 1984. After a number of designs surfaced, Prima Pearl was chosen after Schiavello joined forces with PDG during 2009 with a vision to in their own words, "create a development without equal in inner Melbourne." Testament to their hard work and dedication Melbourne now has a new, high quality icon to gaze upon.</p>

<p>I'm happy to say Urban.com.au will tour Prima Pearl and provide a comprehensive pictorial review in the coming weeks.</p>
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A bronzed icon takes its place

<html><body>
<p>There is indeed a certain measure of prestige or stature when a tower of any description reaches 200 metres or above in height. Physically inconsequential yet impressive within the psyche, tall towers evoke a sense of grandeur. To that end Melbourne had up until this year six towers that measured to roof (not concerning ourselves with pesky spires) 200 metres or more in height. Impressive yes but only a shadow of what is in store for this fair city. Compiled below is a list of current 200 metre plus towers that intend to make their mark on the Melbourne skyline.</p>

<p>While there is a solitary office tower approved at <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/272-queen-street-in-depth" target="_blank">272 Queen Street</a>, from planning to currently under construction there are a staggering 14 residential skyscrapers of 200 metres or more in the pipeline. Add the initial information available on a number of other sites and that number may swell to a staggering 19. How is this remarkable number possible? It's essentially a combination of the continuing shift toward apartment living coupled with a booming population, amended planning policy/decision making and in part the constant flow of Asian property developers into the local market; all of which culminate to produce the 200 metre plus towers highlighted below.</p>

<p>See below a tabulated (left to right) description of the 14 towers that are currently in or have progressed through the official planning channels.</p>

<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/tall1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="568 Collins Street, Tower Melbourne, Prima Pearl, Vision"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/tall1.jpg?itok=Fx9sQ8_K" title="568 Collins Street, Tower Melbourne, Prima Pearl, Vision" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>568 Collins Street, Tower Melbourne, Prima Pearl, Vision</figcaption></figure><table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>Address</th>
			<th>Height</th>
			<th>Developer</th>
			<th>Architect</th>
			<th>Status</th>
			<th>Apartments</th>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>568 Collins Street</td>
			<td>218m</td>
			<td>Stamoulis Property Group</td>
			<td>Bruce Henderson</td>
			<td>Under Construction</td>
			<td>588</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tower Melbourne - 150 Queen Street</td>
			<td>226m</td>
			<td>CEL Australia</td>
			<td>Elenberg Fraser</td>
			<td>Site demolition</td>
			<td>581</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Prima Pearl - 31 Queensbridge Street</td>
			<td>254m</td>
			<td>PDG Corporation</td>
			<td>Disegno Australia</td>
			<td>Under Construction</td>
			<td>667</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vision - 500 Elizabeth Street</td>
			<td>226m</td>
			<td>Brady Group</td>
			<td>Peddle Thorp</td>
			<td>Under Construction</td>
			<td>524</td>
		</tr>
</tbody></table>
<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/tall2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="127 A'Beckett Street, 452 Elizabeth Street, Queensbridge Tower, 25 Queensbridge Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/tall2.jpg?itok=WbhKWCHx" title="127 A'Beckett Street, 452 Elizabeth Street, Queensbridge Tower, 25 Queensbridge Street" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>127 A'Beckett Street, 452 Elizabeth Street, Queensbridge Tower, 25 Queensbridge Street</figcaption></figure><table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>Address</th>
			<th>Height</th>
			<th>Developer</th>
			<th>Architect</th>
			<th>Status</th>
			<th>Apartments</th>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>127 A'Beckett Street</td>
			<td>203m</td>
			<td>ICD Property Group</td>
			<td>Elenberg Freser</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>632</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Victoria Tower - 452 Elizabeth Street</td>
			<td>241m</td>
			<td>Golden Age</td>
			<td>Elenberg Fraser</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>622</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>1 Queensbridge Street</td>
			<td>276m</td>
			<td>PDG Corporation</td>
			<td>Bates Smart</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>604</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>25 Queensbridge Street</td>
			<td>236m</td>
			<td>Suleman Group</td>
			<td>Bruce Henderson</td>
			<td>Approved, site for sale</td>
			<td>586</td>
		</tr>
</tbody></table>
<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/tall31.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="54 Clarke Street, Australia 108, 4 * 250 Spencer Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/tall31.jpg?itok=xhJ00SMb" title="54 Clarke Street, Australia 108, 4 * 250 Spencer Street" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

<figcaption>54 Clarke Street, Australia 108, 4 * 250 Spencer Street</figcaption></figure><table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>Address</th>
			<th>Height</th>
			<th>Developer</th>
			<th>Architect</th>
			<th>Status</th>
			<th>Apartments</th>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>54 Clarke Street</td>
			<td>238m</td>
			<td>Baracon</td>
			<td>BKK Architects</td>
			<td>Registration of Interest</td>
			<td>270</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Australia 108</td>
			<td>300m approx</td>
			<td>Fender Katsalidis</td>
			<td>Fender Katsalidis</td>
			<td>Registration of Interest</td>
			<td>500 approx</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>250 Spencer Street T1</td>
			<td>295-300m</td>
			<td>Far East Consortium</td>
			<td>Cottee Parker</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>750</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>250 Spencer Street T2</td>
			<td>235-240m</td>
			<td>Far East Consortium</td>
			<td>Cottee Parker</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>805</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>250 Spencer Street T3</td>
			<td>205-210m</td>
			<td>Far East Consortium</td>
			<td>Cottee Parker</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>520</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>250 Spencer Street T4</td>
			<td>225-230m</td>
			<td>Far East Consortium</td>
			<td>Cottee Parker</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
			<td>778</td>
		</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2>Additional towers on the horizon</h2>

<p>Only last week Malaysian-based property conglomerate UEM Sunrise announced Elenberg Fraser as the winner of an architecture design competition for the prized 224-252 LaTrobe St site, currently a multi level car park. Yet to be lodged with state government body DTPLI for approval, the star-shaped tower is expected to reach 78 levels, equating to roughly a 250 metre tower directly opposite Melbourne Central. With over 500 residential apartments, the tower is slated to commence its sales campaign during 2014 according to Malaysian property website propertyguru.com.my.</p>

<p>Not content with Tower Melbourne, Singapore-backed CEL Australia are in the process of creating another substantial tower on the portion of the former CUB site on Victoria Street which they purchased earlier this year from Grocon. Having used Elenberg Fraser for their two previous Melbourne projects, it's a fair assumption the architecture firm will be employed again. Documents within another planning application currently before DTPLI indicate Elenberg Fraser are creating a 66 level, 226 metre residential complex as one of two expected towers for the site.</p>

<p>Elsewhere Singaporean firm Hiap Hoe has also enlisted Elenberg Fraser to create a scheme for their recently acquired site at 380 Lonsdale Street, also a multi level car park. With towers of up to 60 levels anticipated this development may also nudge the 200 metre threshold, bringing considerable bulk to the CBD centre in the process. Expectations are also high with a Singaporean developer securing 38 Freshwater Place after Australand recently divested itself of the prime Southbank site. The recent sales campaign called for a minimum 70 level (equating to 210m) tower with in excess of 640 apartments possible. Another to watch for in the medium term is AXF Group's planned 60 plus level tower at Total House on Russell Street, creating a gateway to China Town.</p>

<p>There are of course additional projects not yet in the public eye.</p>

<h2>The Asian influence</h2>

<p>Many articles have been written of late via mainstream media covering the surge of Asian based property outfits into the Melbourne market. Seven towers listed above are backed by Asian developers, swelling by potentially another five if you count those on the horizon. Urban.com.au won't delve into the mechanics of this new wave of investment yet certain factors are worth mentioning.</p>

<p>The majority of these Asian developers proposing 200 metre plus developments within Melbourne are well established within their domestic markets, covering a number of countries within Asia. As such each have an established yet diversified customer base which are currently very willing to purchase offshore properties due to a number of factors such as prohibitive domestic ownership and long term investment horizons. Also worth considering are the differing sources and methods in which these firms can source funding for their Melbourne projects; generally sourced within Asia, lending criteria are not as stringent as in Australia.</p>

<p>Add a wealth of experience with overseas developments and the assertion is that many if not all major towers proposed by Asian developers will proceed as they are essentially independent of both Australian sales and Australian capital in order to proceed. This is of course a luxury most Australian-based property developers do not hold.</p>

<h2>Local architects lead the way</h2>

<p>Whether it be geographic isolation or domestic expertise, all the architects chosen to design Melbourne's growing crop of 200 metre plus towers are Australian firms, with only Cottee Parker based outside of Melbourne. Considering the mass of overseas work on the books for many Melbourne and Australian architecture firms, particularly into China, it's a safe assumption that local firms were chosen due to the high quality of their works and excellent local knowledge of what can and cannot be achieved in the environment in which they operate.</p>

<p>All towers for the most carry glazed curtain walls and are externally aesthetically pleasant. Offering my opinion 127 A'Beckett Street by Elenberg Fraser and 54 Clarke Street via BKK Architects are true imperious designs that would slot into any skyline worldwide. Defined by their transitional yet flowing lines and these two scions of Melbourne's development landscape will be well worth the wait.</p>

<h2>Finding a balance</h2>

<p>Are 200 metre towers the new norm for Melbourne? Arguments could be made either way with a myriad of factors such as vacancy rates, investor expectations, overseas student numbers, domestic and international economic conditions, capital lending criteria, population growth and government policy all playing their part.</p>

<p>Clearly a trend is appearing though and for those out there who correlate a city's success and grandeur to the height and breadth of its skyline, a golden era is in store for Melbourne.</p>
</body></html>

Prima Tower

Sales Status

Apartments

Year completed

Buildings

Development information for Prima Tower

Meet the team behind Prima Tower

Location of Prima Tower

News about Prima Tower

Skyscraper trends: Optimising sites and maximising floor plates

Hold on to your hard hats! Prima Pearl at level 63

Beyond the hyperbole - what really sets Prima Pearl apart

Melbourne's 200 metre club bursting at the seams

A bronzed icon takes its place

Are 200 metre residential towers the new norm for Melbourne?

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