Previously named one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world, Melbourne’s Footscray is once again on the front foot with the recent opening of its first purpose-built build-to-rent (BTR) development.

With 702 apartments over three unique buildings and a shared amenity-filled podium, Indi Footscray brings together architecture and interiors by local multidisciplinary studio SJB and landscape design by Arcadia. The development transforms a vacant brownfield site, previously state-owned railway land, into a vibrant new place to live in Melbourne’s west. Developed by Investa, the 69,835-squar metre property is managed by Indi, the company’s BTR management platform.

Offering studios through to three-bedroom apartments, Indi Footscray features a wide range of amenities designed to extend residents’ living space beyond their apartment and enhance the urban living experience. These include rooftop dining and entertainment spaces, co-working areas, wellness amenities, resident lounges, landscaped communal spaces and a commissioned 75-metre public art mural celebrating Footscray’s cultural and creative identity.

SJB designed the three towers to have distinct albeit cohesive visual identities, using textured pre-cast concrete and façade fins to differentiate the towers. At the ground level, the three buildings are united by a shared podium wrapped in detailed brickwork, which references local heritage buildings such as Footscray Town Hall. Planned around a heritage-listed Moreton Bay fig tree, the ground plane reinforces the site’s walkability and public realm while strengthening the council’s broader urban repair strategy.

Not your average rental building, the lobby features architectural arches and double-height ceilings that create an atmosphere more akin to a hotel than a suburban residence. The attention to material detailing is evident throughout, as is the commitment to creating community and connection with the wider neighbourhood.

“The first purpose-built BTR development in Footscray, Indi Footscray sets out to demonstrate design excellence to its future neighbours,” says Nigel Morris, director at SJB. “Our ambition was to contribute meaningfully to the evolving urban tapestry of area.”

“Indi is renting built around you. At Indi Footscray, that’s backed by a long‑term commitment to quality, consistency and care. By investing in elevated shared spaces, on-site services and community experiences, we’re creating a connected living experience that contributes positively to the evolving Footscray precinct,” says Courtney Raven, operations director Indi at Investa.

Photos: Tom Roe.

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