MODEL has advanced its entry into Australia’s build-to-rent sector with the appointment of Multiplex under an Early Contractor Involvement agreement for two residential developments in Abbotsford, Victoria.
The projects, with a combined development value of approximately $330 million, are set to push new standards in construction methodology, architectural design and environmental performance within the emerging asset class.
The two sites, located on Johnston Street and Lithgow Street, represent distinct but complementary approaches to sustainable urban development.
The Johnston Street project, comprising around 240 apartments, is set to become Australia’s tallest timber residential building.
Its mass timber structure reflects a growing shift toward low-carbon construction materials, offering reduced embodied carbon alongside faster assembly and improved construction efficiency.
In contrast, the Lithgow Street development will deliver approximately 150 homes through the adaptive reuse of the historic Schweppes cordial factory.
The 100-year-old industrial building will be transformed into a contemporary residential community, preserving its heritage fabric while integrating modern building systems and sustainability measures.
This adaptive reuse strategy significantly reduces demolition waste and embodied emissions, while contributing to the retention of local architectural character.
Architectural design for both projects is led by Warren and Mahoney, supported by a multidisciplinary team spanning structural engineering, civil works, façade design, acoustics and sustainability consulting.
The integrated design approach aligns with ambitious environmental targets, including 6 Star Green Star ratings, 9 Star NatHERS energy performance and Certified Passivhaus standards.
Central to these outcomes is an all-electric building strategy combined with high-performance envelopes and passive design principles to minimise operational energy demand.
Multiplex, engaged as the Tier 1 construction partner, brings extensive experience in complex and sustainable building delivery.
The company has previously delivered mass timber and Passivhaus-certified projects such as Gillies Hall at Monash University and the ANMF Hotel in Melbourne.
Its broader portfolio includes major Australian landmarks such as Australia 108 and the new Sydney Fish Market, demonstrating capability across high-rise, infrastructure and technically demanding builds.
The Early Contractor Involvement model has enabled six months of pre-construction collaboration between MODEL, Multiplex and the wider consultant team.
This process has focused on resolving key factors, including buildability, cost planning, construction sequencing and carbon reduction before final design completion.
The approach also supports the integration of prefabrication, modularisation and a kit-of-parts construction methodology, aimed at improving efficiency, reducing waste and enhancing quality control across both developments.
MODEL, as developer and long-term asset holder, has structured the projects to prioritise durability, operational performance and resident experience.
The company’s development strategy emphasises early alignment between design and delivery teams to mitigate market volatility and ensure long-term value retention.
