Architecture firm Warren and Mahoney have released a deeper dive into the District Living Build to Rent development in Melbourne’s Docklands.
The 1ha development will provide village living for over 900 apartments across three towers surrounding a central plaza.
The scheme directly aligns with the vision and objectives of the Waterfront City East Development precinct plan.
Building forms have graduated heights, minimising shadow impacts on the adjacent Docklands Primary School, a new direct connection through the development to St Mangos Lane and the waterfront area has been established.
High levels of public interaction at the ground plane have been created, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for adjacent open spaces.
With over 6,500 sqm of shared spaces for activity, fun, and movement, District Living provides residents increased opportunities to meet and mingle comfortably with neighbours from all different backgrounds and family types.
The developments massing and materiality has been developed to strike a balance between coherence and diversity.
Thriving inner city communities are rarely monolithic, so creating a sense of visual diversity was critical. Articulated façades at street level further help to create a finer grain experience for people.
Amenities include a gym and wellness area, and a sky terrace with kitchen and dining areas. A focused, quiet indoor working environment – known as ‘The Studio’ – will also provide a place residents can work remotely but outside of their immediate living space.
Targeting 5 Star Green Star and a WELL community platinum rating, the development has set the target of a 30% reduction in embodied carbon compared to the market average.
Wellbeing initiatives for residents are provided throughout, with dedicated outdoor space including family spaces, playgrounds, childcare, and areas for residents to grow their own vegetables.
Solar panels and water reduction systems offer another layer of sustainable living that will have a real impact on the residential community.
Located on the outer edge of the CBD, Docklands is Melbourne’s port area with a strong sense of industrial heritage. The area has traditionally been characterised by a transient population, with 67% of residents currently renting.
Builder Kapitol and developer AsheMorgan began construction works on the $600m District Living precinct in December 2025. It is backed by global institutional capital led by Marubeni Corporation.
