Robin Khuda's Ondas gets greenlight for $22 million St Kilda apartment development
Billionaire tech entrepreneur Robin Khuda's development arm Ondas has had plans approved for a shop-top apartment development in Melbourne's St Kilda.
The Sydney-based Khuda, the founder of data centre operator Airtrunk, submitted plans in late 2022 for 16 apartments above retail space across an amalgamated 1,603 sqm site on the corner of Fitzroy Street and The Esplanade.
There had been two objector parties which went to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), but negotiations meant there was no need for a formal hearing.
One of the four sites, which will be amalgamated to run from 3-15 Fitzroy Street, opposite Catani Gardens and just before The Esplanade bends around to St Kilda beach.
Designed by Warren & Mahony, the $22 million project will encompass 16 apartments, predominantly three-bedders, above 244 sqm of commercial space and 327 sqm of retail space across the four amalgamated sites which will span 3-15 Fitzroy Street.
In their Urban Context Report submitted to the City of Port Phillip Bay Council, Warren and Mahoney said the apartments are designed as "urban villas".
"Set beyond the bustle and energy of Fitzroy Street, accessed via a private concourse that leads to a secret garden, is a series of private and secluded villas that provide the recluse and quiet that we seek when we wish to wind down and reset, with close access to the lifestyle and vibrancy that this bayside location offers.
"The villas are all planned with private open spaces in mind; to host families, friends or colleagues.
"The interiors of these homes offer lush garden spaces where you can curate your own gatherings or simply rest.
"The surfaces that you touch are warm and textured, the wellbeing of inhabitants enhanced with an abundance of natural light and private outdoor spaces. The resort like volumes, planning and tactility are as restorative as being on holidays."
It was necessary for the development to preserve the heritage value of the site, which includes an Art Deco, heritage-listed building which dates back to the mid-1880s.
The facades of the existing buildings will be retained, while the original roofs will be reinstated.
Planning & Property Partners submitted the application on behalf of Ondas.