Star of the Commonwealth on Melbourne Skyline
In October 2015 in Melbourne commenced the construction of Australia 108, a highly sculptural residential tower, unlike any other in Australia. Its slender form is highlighted by a golden starburst expression which then morphs into a curvaceous profile against the sky. The Starburst, inspired by the Commonwealth Star on the Australian flag, is a celebration of the sense of community within the building.
Located on Melbourne’s Southbank, Australia 108 will become the tallest building to roof in the Southern Hemisphere, at 319 metres. Prior to its current form, plans were initially for a 226-metretall residential building with 72 floors. In 2012, these plans were revised and resubmitted in favour of a design with a height of 388 metres (1,273 ft) and 108 storeys. This proposal was approved by the State Government in March 2013; however, it was shelved four months later after it struggled to meet conditions imposed by government authorities including VicRoads and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
But despite the rather significant changes in decreasing height, this building is still going to be the tallest in the southern hemisphere; it will surpass by 22 meters office and residential skyscraper Eureka Tower, which leaders today the altitude ranking.
The building will contain 1,105 apartments over 100 floors, and unprecedented resident facilities including dining and function spaces, theatrettes, gymnasiums, pools, spas and an extensive barbeque terrace. Two of the amenities levels are located within the Starburst, where swimming pools cantilever six metres out into the sky, and residents can enjoy a double-height sky garden.
Offering an unmatched level of luxury, the $25 million penthouse at Australia 108 is located across the entirety of level 100. Remarkably located above plant and damper tanks, the penthouse – which offers 360 degree views of Melbourne – is entered through a private lift and triple-height lobby, and has access to a sky courtyard. Fender Katsalidis Architects were commissioned to design Australia 108 in 2014. Within 12 months, it was designed, received Town Planning Approval and 80% of the apartments had been sold.
Fender Katsalidis Architects