Gamuda Land

Construction has now commenced on one of Fishermans Bend's most sustainable developments.

Developer Gamuda Land has appointed Crema Constructions for its 20-level apartment development, The Canopy on Normanby.

Jarrod Tai, General Manager of Gamuda Land in Australia said they chose Crema&nbsp;due to the complex needs of the build, particularly when bringing some Melbourne-first innovations to life.

"Its outstanding reputation in the industry aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering world-class sustainably led projects.

"Crema’s unrivalled knowledge of the local Fishermans Bend area and the conditions of the site further solidified our decision to appoint them. We are confident that this collaboration will result in a remarkable development that surpasses the expectations of the community."

Working alongside the team at Gamuda Land, Crema will develop a ground source heat pump, installed within the building's foundation piles. The innovative technology will store and pull thermal energy from underground to reduce power bills and provide sustainable energy for the building.

Never before seen in a <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne residential setting</a>, the ground source heat pump will allow the team the opportunity to further develop it while providing social and financial benefits to occupants not found in other developments.

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Crema brings with them a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in the construction industry. Known for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and quality craftsmanship.

Crema’s in-house team is bolstered by accredited professionals experienced in design optioneering to test the embodied carbon &amp; operational carbon implications of different solutions. Utilising early engagement within the design process will allow the team to target the optimisation of key trade packages representing significant carbon contributions to the building.

To further complement the project’s sustainability focus, Crema will utilise its in-house concrete supplier, Piave Premix Concrete, who have developed green concrete mixes to inject the same levels of sustainability in each foundational facet of the development.

The site was purchased by Gamuda Land in 2022 for $24 million and will bring Melbourne-first sustainable initiatives to the forefront. Earlier this year, Gamuda Land Australia appointed Mann as the demolition contractor on the project to assist the developer in safely and efficiently dismantling the existing structures onsite.

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Mann was tasked with working to a 95 per cent recycled materials target. To ensure this could be met, Mann incorporated meticulous measurement processes, tracking all materials that leave the site on a per-tonne basis and carefully monitoring which materials go to landfill and which direct to recycling facilities.

Mann aims for a 100 per cent recycling rate across all its projects in line with its strong commitment to environmental consciousness. The demolition contractor actively contributes to the conservation of natural resources and the reduction of pollution.

This commitment directly aligns with the work that Gamuda Land is setting out to achieve across its numerous projects and is a major reason why the group was appointed, all underpinned by its distinct sustainability and conservation principles.

The Canopy on Normanby marks the second time Gamuda Land and Crema have collaborated, previously delivering the developer's inaugural <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne project</a>, 661 Chapel Street. The development went on to win best Commercial &amp; Residential Design at Architectural Design’s 2019 Good Design Awards.

With demolition now complete, early works by Crema are due to commence this month

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Crema will be coming on board to assist Gamuda Land achieve its sustainably-led energy solutions at the project, bringing with it some Melbourne-first innovations

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Gamuda Land and Crema Constructions break ground at The Canopy on Normanby

International property developer Gamuda Land is bringing first-to-market sustainability innovations to its South Melbourne apartment development, The Canopy.

Built-in energy harvesting technology as well as a micro-forest urban park are set to redefine sustainable living as well as reduce hot water bills for its residents.

Located at 272 Normanby Road, The Canopy on Normanby will be home to Melbourne’s first Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) with an energy pile system in a residential setting. The GSHP is set to generate five to 10 per cent of the building's energy requirements.

The project will be home to additional carbon-reducing infrastructure such as the 86KW PV solar rooftop system, an on-site rainwater harvesting system including a 35kL rainwater tank, circular economy inbuilt recycling infrastructure, and EV charging with onsite car, scooter and bike sharing.

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Gamuda Land General Manager Jarrod Tai said the group is utilising the expertise of their global counterparts to bring sustainable energy solutions to Melbourne.&nbsp;

"Onsite renewables are predicted to save residents more than $27,156 cost saving per annum on electricity bills, a reduction of roughly $130 per apartment," Tai said.

"We understand the ongoing struggle for individuals and families as energy costs continue to rise. It is extremely important that we develop these ways to reduce costs for future residents, while significantly decreasing our carbon footprint,” Tai said.&nbsp;

Gamuda Land has appointed architectural firm Hayball Architects, landscape designers OCULUS, sustainability consultants HIP V HYPE, not-for-profit vegetation experts The Heart Gardening Project, Miyawaki forest makers SUGi and Indigenous urban design advisors MURRI : YUL to collaborate on the delivery of the project.

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The teams will assist in restoring the biodiversity of the original pre-urbanised site, including Melbourne’s first Miyawaki forest in a residential setting as part of a new 3,000 sqm community park that proposes the permanent closure of neighbouring Johnson Street. These innovations will further complement the development’s efforts of achieving a 5 Star Green Star Rating and 7.5 Average NatHERS rating.

Underpinned by its biophilic design principles, the project will feature three distinct green spaces that are seamlessly integrated through a central biophilic spine that connects the park frontage to its rooftop eco-deck. Japanese-inspired Onsen spas and alfresco entertaining will create a space for residents to relax and connect in their private oasis, indulging in the soothing warm waters while experiencing breathtaking views of Melbourne’s city skyline and Port Phillip Bay.

The reintroduction of endemic and native species throughout the development’s greenery will establish a resilient, climate-adaptive design that focuses on restoring the site’s pre-colonial ecology.

Incorporating elements of the typical Australian backyard, residents will have access to the podium levels lawns, garden beds and herbs grown in communal garden bowls.

Cascading terraces will flow down the space to meet the ground floor gardens and forest where a range of A-grade retail, food and beverage options will occupy the street level.

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The extensive commitment to green space also contributes to Gamuda Land’s environmental initiative to plant one million trees by 2023. To date, Gamuda Land has successfully nurtured 612,072 trees in its advanced tree-planting nurseries across the world.

The Canopy on Normanby’s 213 apartments will feature a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $475,000. Interior designs take their inspiration from nature and holistic wellness to create a calming neutral palette that incorporates stone, timber and rich textures.

Apartment depths have been consciously limited to allow for extra natural light and ventilation, which delivers high levels of daylight penetration to 95 per cent of apartment living and bedroom spaces. Private balconies will extend the open living areas with windows carefully placed to ensure crossflow ventilation and prioritise outdoor space for each resident.

Hayball Director Bianca Hung said they used a clean, calming palette of materials for the project.&nbsp;

“Our goal was to create the perfect balance between the natural and the built form, creating open, bright and functional spaces that complement the project's biophilic design with generous balconies that will provide panoramic views of the surrounding greenery”, Hung said.&nbsp;

The new development will help address Melbourne’s growing population and the increased demand for apartment living with 213 apartments across twenty storeys and will be in the rapidly evolving Fishermans Bend precinct, known as Australia’s largest urban renewal project.

Construction on the project is expected to commence in mid-2023 with anticipated completion by Autumn 2025.

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Gamuda Land General Manager Jarrod Tai said the group is utilising the expertise of their global counterparts to bring sustainable energy solutions to Melbourne. 

Gamuda Land bring first-to-market sustainability innovations to South Melbourne's The Canopy

Malaysian property developer, Gamuda Land, is set for just its second Australian development following its successful delivery of its 661 Chapel Street&nbsp;tower in South Yarra.

Gamuda Land, led by CEO&nbsp;Ngan Chee Meng, has spent $24 million on a prime site at 272 Normanby Road, South Melbourne, with the intention of delivering a 200-apartment, mixed-use tower.

The 2,600 sqm site, famously home to the Dunlop Rubber Co for over 70 years, is located within the Montague Precinct of Fishermans Bend.

Ngan Chee Meng said after the delivery of the company&rsquo;s maiden 661 Chapel Street, South Yarra project in 2018, Gamuda Land is focused on building a strong pipeline of residential projects in Australia over the next five years.

&ldquo;Since Australia&rsquo;s borders reopened for business, Gamuda Land has been actively looking to expand its foothold in all capital cities, in order to bolster residential supply by an additional 1,000 residences,&rdquo; Ngan said.

&ldquo;The South Melbourne site was immediately attractive to us, as it plays to Gamuda Land&rsquo;s global experience in developing sustainable communities and townships.

&ldquo;As a town maker, Gamuda Land is well positioned to apply our expertise in our international projects towards addressing challenges like climate change and housing affordability, which form the cornerstone of our scheme for South Melbourne.&rdquo;

<img alt="" height="722" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-14_at_6.42.38_am.png" width="1148" /> 
The former plans for the site had 260 apartments

Gamuda Land&rsquo;s vision is to re-instate local biomass on site, with extensive tree-planting and contributions to public green space included in the scheme.

&ldquo;Working with the traditional landowners as a first step, our design brief started with an understanding of the site&rsquo;s natural landscape and its indigenous heritage. We wanted to understand how we could restore part of the project to its pre-colonial state.&rdquo;

Partnering with Hayball Architects, Oculus and HIP V. HYPE, the project will deliver a biophilic outcome that incorporates native flora and &lsquo;re-wilds&rsquo; part of it to a pre-urbanised landscape.

In collaboration with the City of Port Phillip, DELWP and Fishermans Bend Taskforce, Gamuda Land will also deliver a new 3,000 sqm public park that will see a section of neighbouring Johnson Street permanently closed and transformed into open green space.

The architectural response by Hayball champions ecological design features like vertical greening that connects the park frontage with the building and private residents&rsquo; rooftop garden. Promoting the health and wellbeing of future residents has informed natural material selections, increased natural light in the development&rsquo;s design and enhanced connections to nature.

A lush biophilic spine through the building&rsquo;s 20 levels offers resident &lsquo;hide out&rsquo; areas for work and recreation amongst green spaces. Cascading green walls will feature prominently throughout corridors, lobbies and terraces.

An eco-deck atop the building will feature lush green planting and resident amenities like a Japanese inspired onsen, urban farming beds and a meditation and wellness studio.

&ldquo;It was important to us that the project made a significant contribution to enriching air quality and reducing heat island effect, delivering on Gamuda Land&rsquo;s goal to reduce its CO2 emissions by 40 percent by 2030,&rdquo;&nbsp;Ngan added.

&ldquo;The project will also see over 6,000 native plants and trees planted, furthering our goal to plant an additional one million trees across Gamuda Land&rsquo;s projects.&rdquo;

Additional amenities within the project will include an atrium retail space that will introduce 14 specialty retailers.

A mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments will be priced from $490,000 up to $1,450,000, with a sales launch planned for late 2022. Construction is anticipated to commence in June 2023.

The 2,600 sqm site, famously home to the Dunlop Rubber Co for over 70 years, is located within the Montague Precinct of Fishermans Bend

Joel Robinson

Gamuda Land set for Fishermans Bend, South Melbourne apartment development

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661 Chapel Street in South Yarra is the first Australian project of the Malaysian-based developer Gamuda Land.

Completed ahead of schedule in 2018, 661 Chapel comprises 116 one, two, three and four bedroom apartments across 30 levels and was designed by local architecture firm Bird de le Coeur.

We recently spoke with Gamuda Land’s chief executive officer Mr Ngan Chee Meng to discuss the luxury development.

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JR: What are the highlights of 661 Chapel and what attracted buyers to the project?

NCM: Like us, our buyers are enamoured with the unique panoramic views of Melbourne CBD and the Yarra river - all set behind the green of the Melbourne High Oval. It’s a view you can fall in love with a few times in a day.

But they are also keen-eyed buyers and are aware of the value that the heritage zone in front of 661 Chapel St plays in safe-guarding these unobstructed views.

Besides, buyers love the community spaces that are mindfully designed and placed within the development such as a grand library in the lobby, the lounges and cinema at level 6, private dining rooms as well as a wine room. In a lockdown, these community spaces provide extra convenience for residents to work-near-home without having to leave the development.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/661-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" height="1114" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661_chapel_copy_2_0.jpg" width="1200"></a>

JR: What was the brief for 661 Chapel St for architects Bird de la Coeur?

NCM: Creating a community is an important factor in all Gamuda Land projects so the brief to BDLC is that 661 Chapel St being a high-rise building, must be designed as a vertical village with common areas that enhances resident interaction.

The ground floor features generous shared communal spaces - including entry through a sculpture walk, a library with a dramatic onyx window wall, a shared kitchen table for coffee and newspapers, and a boardroom facilities.

Level 6 is a whole floor of mind and body fun including a lounge and deck, a wine room, two private dining rooms, gym, a cantilevered 25m pool with sauna and steam room, as well as a Richard Serra inspired cinema.

JR: Where did buyers come from, and who was the development appealing to?

NCM: Initially, we saw a strong 30 per cent take up from our followers from Malaysia because of Gamuda Land’s reputation for developing quality residences. But since completion, the majority of our buyers have been locals as seeing is believing. Our buyers are mainly down-sizers, 
affluent young professionals and successful business owners who appreciate the value that 661 Chapel St brings and the rarity of a quiet residence with a never-to-be-built-out view.

Our strategy to deliver a touch and feel product before traditional pre-sale requirements allowed us to reach these markets for which seeing is believing.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/661-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" height="1052" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661_chapel_copy_0.jpg" width="1200"></a>

JR: Where is current buyer enquiry coming from?

NCM: Due to the pandemic and lockdown duration, we saw a spike in enquiries via digital platforms such as Urban.com. We are expecting this trend to be dominant moving forward.

JR: Are there any other residential developments in the pipeline?

NCM: Gamuda Land is exploring new opportunities in Australia, particularly Melbourne and is actively canvasing. We’re working with local partners to identify projects to deliver high quality, liveable and future-focused products.
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661 Chapel in South Yarra is the first Australian project of the Malaysian-based developer Gamuda Land.

What buyers need to know about 661 Chapel Street South Yarra: Developer Q&A with Gamuda Land CEO Ngan Chee Meng

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661 Chapel Street is one of Melbourne’s latest luxury developments with 116 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across 30 floors.

Sales are well underway on the project, which was completed last year, with local and international buyers snapping up the apartments quickly.

Urban has put together five reasons why you should consider a home in the South Yarra tower before it's too late.

1. Located on Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River

Situated beside the Yarra River, 661 Chapel Street enjoys views of the river, Melbourne CBD and the Bay.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/661-chapel-street-south-yarra" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="2756" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661-chapel-street-south-yarra-1777db18d7d935120c5b23596298a5fc.jpg" width="4134"></a>

Its close proximity to Melbourne’s CBD, parklands and elite shopping precincts make it the ideal residence for young professionals and downsizers looking to capitalise on convenience and style. 
 

2. Designed by Bird de la Coeur Architects

The boutique Southbank-based architecture firm, Bird de la Coeur, designed the magnificent residence, winning the 2019 Good Design Awards in the category of commercial and residential architectural design.

Among their other designs include Fitzroy’s Roi project and South Yarra’s Claremont Manor.

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3. Its six-star hotel-like amenities

Among its extensive hotel-inspired resident amenity, 661 Chapel Street boasts a concierge, gym, winter garden and members’ lounge.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/661-chapel-street-south-yarra" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1200" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661-chapel-street-south-yarra-36e67bfd6e63c690d05a7556f3ae46cf.jpg" width="1800"></a>

But that’s not all, a 25-metre pool is cantilevered six levels above the streetscape, rivalling the neighbouring hotel pool at The Olsen and a grand library offers residents the opportunity to tuck away in their own home.

All these amenities are available from $546,000, the price of a one-bedroom, one-bathroom residence in the building. 
 

4. The soaring private lobby/ gallery

The soaring private lobby spans four-storeys, featuring a gallery-like space filled with artwork and lighting installation.

Inspired by international galleries, the development features a sculptural walk upon entry, showcasing work by Omar Arbel, as well as Damien Hirst, the creator behind the ‘For the Love of God’ skull, which sold for $100 million to an anonymous consortium in 2007.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/661-chapel-street-south-yarra" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="2756" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661-chapel-street-south-yarra-0c5862049583a4316e3a8719ba022c03.jpg" width="4134"></a>

5. Combine two apartments to create a single residence

Setting new benchmarks for luxury in Victoria, Gamuda Land’s Chapel Street project presents buyers with the rare opportunity to combine two apartments to create a single, large residence.

Some residents have already claimed entire floors within the complex, creating “super residences” in the sky.
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Urban has put together five reasons why you should consider a home in the South Yarra tower before it's too late.



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5 reasons to consider a home at 661 Chapel Street in Melbourne

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Gamuda Berhad through its local arm Gamuda Land has recently settled its first flagship Australian development at 661 Chapel St, South Yarra.

661 Chapel St represents the group’s first foray into the Australian market and the Bird de le Coeur designed development comprises 116 apartments across 30 levels with views tht extend over the heritage-listed Melbourne High School, the Yarra River and beyond to the Melbourne CBD skyline.

Believing in the quality of the project with its location, never to be built out views and strong design credentials, Gamuda Land bullishly began construction in April 2016 prior to launching the project, despite the usual 60% pre-sales required by Australian banks to commence construction.

The penthouse for 661 Chapel St is expected to fetch a record $22m and is being sold as a shell with David Hick’s engaged to design the fit-out, so the purchaser can completely customise the residence.

The penthouse is a 792 sqm residence over 3 levels and the design currently includes: 

<ul>
<li>3 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms</li>
	<li>Sauna</li>
	<li>Steam and shower room</li>
	<li>Gym and yoga room</li>
	<li>Cinema</li>
	<li>Study</li>
	<li>Wine cellar</li>
	<li>Butlers pantry (with secondary fully functional kitchen)</li>
	<li>Rooftop bar and private pool with courtyard</li>
	<li>Sweeping views from the CBD right out to the Dandenong ranges</li>
	<li>93 sqm of balcony space and 82 sqm of rooftop</li>
</ul>
<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/gamu9654_661_penthouse_in06_penthouse_retreat.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The fit-out for the penthouse is completely customisable and has been designed by David Hicks. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="271" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gamu9654_661_penthouse_in06_penthouse_retreat.jpg?itok=vH5sMpjj" title="The fit-out for the penthouse is completely customisable and has been designed by David Hicks. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The fit-out for the penthouse is completely customisable and has been designed by David Hicks. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au spoke to Gamuda Land CEO Ngan Chee Meng prior to the official launch party to discuss 661 Chapel St, the penthouse and the companies ambitions for further development opportunities in Melbourne.

Urban.com.au: What was the appeal of Melbourne to Gamuda Land and more specifically South Yarra as a suburb?

Ngan Chee Meng: We see Australia, particularly Melbourne as a highly sought-after destination given its long-standing reputation as the world’s most liveable city, quality education and economic stability.

Location is key in our selection for development. We have found South Yarra to be one of the suburbs that could provide a fulfilling lifestyle given its convenience to our residents, with its close proximity to the CBD, public transport network, surrounding areas of greenery such as Royal Botanical Garden, Yarra river; artisanal cafes, boutiques and restaurants all within walking distance.

South Yarra also has a long-standing reputation as a highly sought after suburb, being in the inner east pocket of Melbourne and surrounded by other reputable suburbs such as Toorak.

UM: 661 Chapel St has a strong theme of artwork embedded in the design of its spaces from the moment you arrive, with Gamuda working closely with Andy Dinan of Mars Gallery. What was it like working with Andy Dinan?

NCM: We selected Andy and her gallery to curate the artwork in 661 Chapel St given her experience and background in public spaces. We had also wanted a selection of artwork that showcases works from emerging Australian artists that we believe will be a value add and worthy investment for the development.

We worked hand in hand with Andy and her team, as well as Bird de la Coeur, the project architect in curating the artwork selection in 661. It was a carefully thought out process and it was a pleasure working with them, we are very pleased with the outcome.

UM: With the majority of 661 Chapel St selling locally and to owner-occupiers, what is the expectation for the sale of the penthouse?

NCM: With the sheer scale of the penthouse, we anticipate it will likely attract an owner-occupier, who may have business interests in Melbourne given its inner urban location, or use the penthouse as a secondary or additional residence for their interests/family use.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gamu9654_661_penthouse_in03_penthouse_kitchen.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="David Hicks has designed the penthouse which is being sold as a shell. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="272" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gamu9654_661_penthouse_in03_penthouse_kitchen.jpg?itok=iXEOo8sk" title="David Hicks has designed the penthouse which is being sold as a shell. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The penthouse has expansive views of the CBD skyline. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>UM: David Hick's will be on hand to customise the design of the penthouse which is currently being sold as a shell. What was the process for selecting David and what factors influenced your decision for selecting him?

NCM: We wanted David to design this penthouse as a ‘one-off’, one-of-a-kind penthouse for 661 Chapel St. While he is a local Melburnian, David’s vast international experience is also a key factor in our selection. We felt David understood what a 
penthouse of this calibre could look like for not just the local market, but also those from overseas, whether it is in Asia, Europe or America given his experience, diverse yet distinctive style.

UM: The views back towards the CBD over Melbourne High are unlikely to ever be built out? Do you see this as a major selling point of the development?

NCM: Definitely. Being in this pocket of South Yarra and Melbourne itself, not being built out is a rare luxury. There are not many developments that can offer never to be built out views and not have the residents look into the next building/apartment in their surrounds from the apartment. This has been one of our strongest selling points.

UM: Gamuda Land has already expressed a desire to develop further projects in Melbourne. Is a return to South Yarra on the cards or is Gamuda looking all over Melbourne for opportunities?

NCM: Being our maiden project in Australia, we wanted to build on our experience here. 661 Chapel St is a considerably smaller project for us when we compare it to what we have in our portfolio, but it is a good stepping-stone for us and allowed us to meet the market’s needs.

Moving forward, we will definitely continue to look for opportunities in Melbourne, and we are in the enviable position to handpick strategic landbanks with great potential to be transformed into value creating assets.
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Laurence Dragomir

Gamuda Land settles on 661 Chapel Street, launches penthouse

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Gamuda Land has overseen 661 Chapel Street's delivery and will this month welcome the tower's first residents.

The developer's first foray into the Australian market has seen 661 Chapel Street positioned as one of Melbourne's elite residential developments. The flagship project caters specifically for the owner-occupier market, with a pared-back number of apartments plus expansive communal facilities reflective of this.

Sales figures for the project reflect Gamuda Land's positioning of the project; owner-occupier overwhelmingly account for the majority of buyers with 15% of purchasers flowing from New South Wales.

<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_0398.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="661 Chapel Street standing above its neighbours"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="836" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0398.jpg?itok=Ltxw8r9U" title="661 Chapel Street standing above its neighbours" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>661 Chapel Street standing above its neighbours</figcaption></figure>Gamuda Land initiated its maiden Melbourne project by securing the site along with a permitted Bird de la Coeur Architects-designed scheme, and went about rejigging the internal spaces within the design. In the process, the development's permitted 169 apartments were amalgamated and expanded to yield a final figure of 116.

With the financial weight of parent company Gamuda Berhad behind the project, construction was initiated during April 2016 prior to development's sales campaign; head contractor Crema Constructions and project manager/superintendent PDS Group guided the project to completion one month ahead of schedule.

Gamuda Land's willingness to begin the physical delivery of the project early is now bearing fruit, racking up a string of sales in recent weeks as buyers now have the luxury of inspecting the final product.

Sales for 661 Chapel Street have now surpassed 70%.

<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_0402.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level lounge and library"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0402.jpg?itok=KGXCYUG2" title="Ground level lounge and library" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level lounge and library</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au toured the completed project last week just prior to the initiation of settlements.

A grand porte-cochère leads into the concierge area and a string of communal facilities across the ground floor. In line with the project's stature, the finishes are elegant and spacious, with a collection of artworks curated by Mars Gallery soon to take their place.

Urban.com.au <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/gamuda-land-engages-mars-gallery-to-curate-661-chapel-st">spoke with Mars Gallery Director Andy Dinan</a> earlier in the year regarding the growing trend of collaborations within shared spaces which has in turn created a growing number of opportunities for artists to be brought on for commissioned work in a curatorial, or consulting role.  661 Chapel Street is very much active in this sense.

The Grand Library, in particular, is an area "designed to capture light and create a sense of calmness." 'The Relic' - a cardboard sculpture with an industrial aesthetic by acclaimed artist Daniel Agdag who works entirely in cardboard and is known for his attention to detail, will feature in this space.

According to Dinan, it was critical that the artworks selected were 'an appropriate fit for the spaces.' In the context of the Grand Library this extended beyond The Relic to the adjoining wall, which will feature a print of a photo by Agdag while a catalogue of his work will also sit within the space.

<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_0408.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="661 Chapel Street's pool which cantilevers above the Port Cochere"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0408.jpg?itok=JwbE86T3" title="661 Chapel Street's pool which cantilevers above the Port Cochere" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>661 Chapel Street's pool which cantilevers above the porte-cochère</figcaption></figure>Beyond the statement Grand Library, further amenities include a meeting room, multiple dining areas, cinema, sauna and an outdoor barbeque area. Also present is an extensive wine cellar capable of holding thousands of bottles.

Most impressive though is the cantilevered pool which from below juts out above the project's entrance and frames the 30 level tower form above.

All communal areas and western-facing apartments will maintain unfettered view toward Melbourne's skyline, owing to the adjacent heritage-listed Melbourne High School and sporting oval. The apartments themselves are finished to a high quality and have extracted the most space from the tower's curving form which has resulted in almost triangular living areas.

<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_0412.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A completed apartment interior"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0412.jpg?itok=YOqJRuI9" title="A completed apartment interior" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A completed 661 Chapel apartment interior</figcaption></figure>Gamuda Land has flagged an announcement and further information regarding 661 Chapel Street's immense penthouse later this month. It is expected the crowning residence will be positioned as one of Melbourne's elite living spaces.

On the back of the success of 661 Chapel Street, Gamuda Land have confirmed they intend to seek out further Melbourne projects. Although no specific sites are in the developer's keep, they continue to run the ruler over prospective projects across Melbourne which would be in line with the standing of the completed South Yarra development.

A push into other Australian markets is also being considered.

<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_0413.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="661 Chapel Street's skyline view is equal to any "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0413.jpg?itok=YWwKrEkn" title="661 Chapel Street's skyline view is equal to any " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>661 Chapel Street's skyline view is equal to any</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Gamuda Land seeks further Melbourne development opportunities as 661 Chapel reaches completion

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Gamuda Land is set to unveil an impressive collection of artwork for the soon to be completed 661 Chapel St development in South Yarra.

Andy Dinan, Director of Mars Gallery which is renowned for exhibiting and promoting contemporary Australian artists, has been invited to specially curate the art collection throughout the development; included will be some of Australia’s most collected artists.

<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/2_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial view of 661 Chapel with the Melbourne skyline in the distance. Image: supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2_0_0.jpg?itok=3A5cEjk5" title="Aerial view of 661 Chapel with the Melbourne skyline in the distance. Image: supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial view of 661 Chapel with the Melbourne skyline in the distance. Image: supplied</figcaption></figure>Dinan's curation for the project adopted a slightly different approach, treating the shared spaces of 661 as part of a 'home' environment rather than as a ‘corporate curation' with the each of the chosen pieces reflecting the spaces which they occupy, as well as the relationship between the artworks themselves.

Andy Dinan recently took time out of her schedule to chat to Urban.com.au about Mars Gallery's curation of 661 Chapel St's shared public and resident spaces, and the growing demand for artist involvement in property development. 

According to Dinan a number of developers are realising the potential shared spaces have to add value to their projects, and this has in turn created a growing number of opportunities for artists to be brought on for commissioned work in a curatorial, or consulting role.  This growing demand for property development collaborations represents a key new pillar for Mars Gallery.

In commissioning artwork as part of their developments, the more culturally atuned and younger developers are providing a point of difference to their respective development in an increasingly competitive market, creating what Dinan terms as 'destination developments'. 

Dinan says that developers and developments are moving away from just street art to other media such as video and audio art to enhance and compliment their spaces. Marina Tower's artwork which comprises optic fibre light to create a giant glow worm is set to be unveiled in February, with an art installation as part of Golden Age's Opera development on St Kilda Road to be launched mid-year.

Previously Mars Gallery has been involved in creating a sound sculpture as part of an Elenberg Fraser development on Albert Road South Melbourne, which featured sounds that the artist recorded in Japan that was activated when the visitor sat down.

Another project <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/kennedy-nolan-create-a-new-melbourne-central-video-art-space">previously covered</a> by Urban.com.au and curated by Mars Gallery is Melbourne Central's Melbourne Art Loop on the lower ground level.

In explaining about how Mars Gallery won the curatorial commission for 661 Chapel St, Dinan says she was invited to submit via a tender process with a brief that called for a more 'homely' experience rather than something corporate.

<blockquote>
This is not a corporate curation, nothing is “plonked” into place. This project is highly considered.

We have curated this like a personal home using all Australian artists to evoke a sense of continued discovery.

- Andy Dinan, Director Mars Gallery
</blockquote>

The process to select the artists and curate the works was slow but considered says Dinan, largely in response to the brief, with each piece chosen for its suitability for a particular space with a lot of negotiating and consultation as part of an open dialogue between architects Bird de la Coeur, Gamuda Land and the builder, Crema Constructions.

This has resulted in a carefully curated experience for both visitors to the building, and its soon to be residents. A stainless steel sculpture in the form of the building address by sculptor Matthew Harding greets residents upon arrival at the porte-cochere, and visually introduces the art project to visitors of 661 Chapel St.

<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/661_plus_-_porte_cochere_-_2000_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Exterior render of the porte-cochere with the 661 Stainless Steel sculpture. Image: supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="454" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/661_plus_-_porte_cochere_-_2000_1.jpg?itok=-Mga6feO" title="Exterior render of the porte-cochere with the 661 Stainless Steel sculpture. Image: supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Exterior render of the porte-cochere with the 661 Stainless Steel sculpture. Image: supplied</figcaption></figure>Once inside visitors will find themselves within the high vaulted ceiling Grand Library - a space designed to capture light and create a sense of calmness. 'The Relic' - a cardboard sculpture with an industrial aesthetic by acclaimed artist Daniel Agdag who works entirely in cardboard and is known for his attention to detail, will feature in this space.

According to Dinan it was critical that the artworks selected were 'an appropriate fit for the spaces.' In the context of the Grand Library this extended beyond The Relic to the adjoining wall, which will feature a print of a photo by Agdag while a catalogue of his work will also sit within the space.

<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/david_agdag.png" rel="gallery-all" title="A sample of David Agdag's cardboard sculptures. Image: supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="459" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/david_agdag.png?itok=D2QiOklh" title="A sample of David Agdag's cardboard sculptures. Image: supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A sample of Daniel Agdag's cardboard sculptures. Image: supplied</figcaption></figure>Fabrice Bigot, a French-born photographic artist, will have a series of pieces centred around botanical studies located above the concierge desk, and throughout the building’s public spaces and private dining rooms.

Simon Finn has several works curated throughout the building, including a statement piece in the Grand Library, and three framed works entitled Liquid Tower in the meeting room which draw on his practices exploration of the synthesis between artist, environment and technology.

Woven polypropylene sculptures by Emma Davies are featured in the common spaces alongside Jenny Crompton’s acrylic ink on paper frames in the newspaper room.

The artworks will be officially unveiled in February as part of the official building opening.

Lead Image : Supplied
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