Escala, mixed-use development in Docklands by MAB
MAB Corporation has now launched its latest $130 million project, Escala. Located in NewQuay, Docklands, this mixed-use development presents lofts and apartments for flexible living, as well as triple-level homes with a downstairs work studio, custom-designed for the new generation of workers.
Escala is comprised of four buildings with a mix of residential, retail, hospitality, and commercial offerings. Esteemed Six Degrees Architects, who are behind Escala’s impressive design, take inspiration from Melbourne’s iconic urban design culture, using creativity to strategically build a sustainable urban development.
The red brick façade and arched windows reflect the charm of Collingwood warehouses, a striking gold art piece will weave through the centre of the buildings, and the lobby’s stained-glass windows will cast soft hues over lush outdoor greenery.
Set to become a unique addition to Dockland’s skyline and streetscape, Escala boasts a bespoke T-formation. MAB Corporation’s General Manager of Residential, David Allt-Graham, said, “Unlike traditional apartment buildings, the tower is a T-shape design to maximise the northern light, city and water views, and create more corner apartments.”
One bedroom apartments are available from $432,000 to $590,000 and range from 51-66 square metres. Two bedroom apartments ranging between 64 and 97 square metres cost between $603,000 and $895,000. The three bedroom apartments with two bathrooms, as large as 104 square metres, cost between $1,090,000 and $1,180,000.
Allt-Graham commented on the apartments’ generous living spaces saying, “Escala is the Spanish word for ‘scale’ – lofty concrete ceilings and double height living spaces are signatures of this development.”
The range of living options at Escala is designed to appeal to a specific set of buyers who value the calculated benefits of the residential designs. One of the options is an evolved version of the highly-successful loft-style apartments from nearby Elm & Stone. “The scale of the loft offering will attract young families seeking spacious inner city living,” explained Allt-Graham. “The mezzanine can be an elevated children’s play area and the living spaces are generous for hosting friends and extended family.”
The lofts are available in one bedroom and two bedroom layouts, ranging in price from $550,000 to $960,000, the most expensive lofts being 111 square metres.
Arguably the most innovative lifestyle offering at Escala is the triple-level SoHo option, with direct street frontage and the flexibility of a downstairs work studio. The one bedroom SoHos are 121 square metres and are available from $1,060,000, while the two bedroom SoHos range between 88 and 132 square metres, costing between $780,000 and $1,210,000.
“Thanks largely to digital transformation and tech-savvy millennials, flexible working arrangements are becoming the norm for most Australian businesses,” noted Allt-Graham, “and we were keen to offer a practical and inspiring place for people to live and work.”
Six Degrees Architects’ expertise in creating sustainable, design-led environments comprising of workspace, boutique apartments, and hip restaurants and bars will bring to life the vision for this prominent site.
“In Melbourne’s CBD, you don’t see cafes, shops, apartments and offices divided – it’s all a big melting pot. With this mixed-use development, with residential, commercial and retail floor space interwoven in four buildings, we wanted to create a vibrant community with opportunities for people to come together,” explained Six Degrees Director, Mark Healy.
Reflecting on what will be the last stage of development in the eastern part of NewQuay, Mr Allt-Graham added: “Through creating Escala, our 13th boutique apartment complex in NewQuay, we’ve learnt a great deal about apartment living. Undoubtedly, Escala is our most diverse and sophisticated project to date.”
To find out more about Escala, enquire now.
Originally published in Apartment Developments on 18/03/2018. Prices correct as of 17/04/18.