A landmark Build-to-Rent (BTR) development at 405-421 Spencer Street, West Melbourne has received town planning approval from the City of Melbourne.
Designed by Plus Architecture for Lofts Property, Dalston House integrates heritage conservation with modern urban living, shaping Melbourne’s growing BTR sector.
Positioned at the intersection of Spencer Street and Batman Street, Dalston House will feature 190 apartments ranging from studio size to 4-bedrooms in a 20-storey residential tower, representing one of the last high-density projects of its scale in the precinct.
Located in one of the city’s most dynamic urban corridors, this prime site offers a unique balance between city vibrancy and neighbourhood intimacy, with the CBD, Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens and North Melbourne’s Errol Street all within walking distance.
The project’s design retains and celebrates the site’s industrial heritage through adaptive reuse by preserving significant key elements from its former life as a bakery, including the original facade, chimneys and historic brick ovens. A refined, minimalist tower, inspired by late modernism, rises above the preserved bakery, its clean material palette creates a visual emphasis on the site’s historical character.
Balconies punctuate the development, providing private outdoor space and contributing to the building’s layered appearance. The south-facing tower, located on the corner of a major arterial road, features a substantial solid facade which contrasts to the other predominantly glass-clad facades that provide views across the city.
Plus Architecture Principal Jessica Liew said the project showcases the practice’s expertise in heritage preservation and contextual design.
Plus Architecture Principal,Principal Jessica Liew. Photography courtesy MauCheng
“The retention of significant heritage elements was a key focus, allowing us to merge history with modern design in a way that enhances both the building and the surrounding streetscape. Working closely with Lofts Property, we’ve created a contemporary residential offering that balances preservation with innovation, while addressing the practical needs of modern urban dwellers.”
Dalston House is designed with wellbeing and community in mind through offering residents facilities including hot and cold plunge pools, steam and sauna spaces alongside dedicated co-working areas.
The development offers great accessibility with strong public transport connection links and proximity to Melbourne’s key employment and lifestyle precincts. Ground-floor retail and commercial spaces will further enhance the precinct and contribute to the vibrancy of West Melbourne.
“Dalston House reflects our continued commitment to creating high-quality residential spaces” says Peter Lofitis, Managing Director of Lofts Property. “Our partnership with Plus Architecture, has been instrumental in bringing this project to life. Together, we have successfully navigated complex planning challenges, including multiple VCAT processes, to create a development that thoughtfully responds to Melbourne’s evolving urban landscape.”
“This project has now transitioned to a build-to-rent development, aligning with the strong momentum of the Build-to-Rent sector. Dalston House is underpinned by a long-standing belief in the West Melbourne precinct — its rich character, established amenities and close proximity to the CBD.”
As Melbourne’s BTR sector continues to grow, Dalston House will offer high-quality, long-term rental living, with a premium experience and community-focused design in a sought-after location.
Dalston House marks the addition to Plus Architecture’s portfolio of six residential towers currently under design development within the City of Melbourne.