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The Planning Minister, Matthew Guy, today released departmental officer reports relating to the decisions made regarding all central city planning applications.

An anaylsis supplied within a media release (see below) shows all permits approved by the minister were recommended by the department; the City of Melbourne supported 46 out of the 70 approved applications, and no permit has been approved where the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure (DTPLI) recommendation was to refuse a permit.

Perhaps most interestingly, and this is a good time to reiterate that the Government and Opposition are in unofficial campaign mode, the Planning Minister has said "If re-elected, the Coalition government will continue to release these reports to give greater weight to transparency and to give all Victorians confidence that rigorous advice is being provided on all central city applications."

Full media release:

<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="undefined" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_67091" scrolling="no" src="https://www.scribd.com/embeds/244689337/content?start_page=1&amp;view_mode=scroll&amp;show_recommendations=true" width="100%"></iframe>

The entire report suite is available from the <a href="http://www.dtpli.vic.gov.au/planning/planning-applications/ministerial-permits/release-of-officer-reports">DTPLI website</a>.

Lead image credit, <a href="https://twitter.com/DTPLI">DTPLI on Twitter</a>.
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Alastair Taylor

Planning Minister releases departmental officer reports

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Amber Camberwell located at 994 Toorak Road is the latest project to involve the in-depth brand expertise of Scharp Property Marketing - an Apartments.com.au Industry Hub member.

Developer Luvarc Property appointed Scharp to create a brand that captured the luxury and sophistication of the development's design and showcase its fine attention to detail.

"We came up with an inspirational, yet clever and memorable name of 'Amber' that sits within the spelling of the suburb name of Camberwell. Amber also conjures up emotions of beauty, warmth, and sophistication having alternate associations with the jewel and alluring orange-yellow colour. Creating a point of difference from other developments in the area was essential and the ideas behind Amber set the tone and message for all marketing collateral, from brochure to website to display suite," said Malcolm Schapel, Creative Director of Scharp.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/luv001_lifestyle_edit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The nearby Bakers Wife Cafe - image supplied by Scharp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="396" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/luv001_lifestyle_edit.jpg?itok=TezQ3-hk" title="The nearby Bakers Wife Cafe - image supplied by Scharp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The nearby Bakers Wife Cafe - image supplied by Scharp</figcaption></figure>Set amongst the leafy residential neighbourhood of Camberwell, Amber offers contemporary apartment living on the cusp of a village atmosphere. Appealing to investors and young-at-heart owner/occupiers, the Amber brand is understated, classic and timeless, embodying its beautiful finishes and light filled aspects. Paying homage to the lush environment of its surrounding tree lined streets and parks; Scharp developed an elm leaf motif and set it beside iconic portraits of neighbouring cafes and villages to evoke a sense of sanctuary within our busy city.

Nic Cuni, Director of Residential Projects at CBRE, who managed the project marketing and sales of Amber said, "I was immediately drawn to the project because of the considered design of the larger apartment layouts which are more akin to the local owner/occupier market. With Adele Bates on board it also added extra sophistication to the interior design that is synonymous with Camberwell's understated luxury.

Developing the campaign with Scharp was fluid and streamlined - not only are they the creative agency, they are the 3D artists as well. This not only affords many time efficiencies but also a deeper understanding of the total project which is key to the development's overall success. Amber provides the opportunity for many buyers who are vying for the opportunity to be a part of the illustrious suburb of Camberwell," said Mr Cuni.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/luv001_living_edit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amber Camberwell living area - render supplied by Scharp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="394" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/luv001_living_edit.jpg?itok=WSen-AS0" title="Amber Camberwell living area - render supplied by Scharp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amber Camberwell living area - render supplied by Scharp</figcaption></figure>Amber Camberwell is a three level building comprising a total of 22 apartments across one and two bed configurations. The project has been designed with flexibility in mind where prospective buyers have the option to combine units to create larger apartments to suit their lifestyle's needs.

To request more information on the project, see the <a href="http://www.amberapartments.com.au/?utm_source=Urban_Melbourne&amp;utm_medium=Editorial&amp;utm_campaign=Urban_Melbourne_Scharp">Amber Camberwell website</a>.

Scharp Property Marketing is an Apartments.com.au Industry Hub member.
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The exclusive Amber Camberwell

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Back in April of this year, a new map was drawn up and released for comment from Public Transport Victoria. <a href="http://www.danielbowen.com/2014/04/16/new-train-map-coming/">Daniel Bowen wrote</a> "PTV are trialling a new train network map. They’re seeking feedback on it, and you’ll see it at some stations now".

Since April a new revision was released and included some refinements as Daniel Bowen <a href="http://www.danielbowen.com/2014/10/12/ptv-rail-map-v3/">has documented</a>.

I broadly agree with the positive commentary that has been broadcast throughout the blogosphere and social media. The existing maps which adorn the insides of trains and on train platforms require a certain level of knowledge in how the train system operates and the new concept maps go a long way toward rectifying that situation.

For example the not-so-frequent user could be forgiven for thinking that trains ran direct from Upfield to <a href="/developments/sunbury-vic-3429">Sunbury</a> and that trains from <a href="/new-apartments/williamstown-vic-3016">Williamstown</a> terminated at <a href="/new-apartments/footscray-vic-3011">Footscray</a> (this potential for confusion is even more profound if you study the maps which are located on the side walls, opposite the platforms at any of the three underground stations).

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/current_melb_rail_map.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Current Rail network maps in use on Melbourne's rail network"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="663" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/current_melb_rail_map.png?itok=BQP3kkUO" title="Current Rail network maps in use on Melbourne's rail network" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Current Rail network maps in use on Melbourne's rail network</figcaption></figure>Enter the new maps, as linked above. The routes are grouped and arranged in a more realistic way in how the rail lines actually operate; for instance the <a href="/new-apartments/frankston-vic-3199">Frankston</a> and <a href="/developments/werribee-vic-3030">Werribee</a> lines are joined and the dotted lines show how the Frankston line at times runs through the City Loop.

The rail lines are better aligned with their geography and the inclusion of V/Line services - and the all important Myki boundary for regional services - starts to provide a better sense of the service tiers available throughout not just the metropolitan area, but the whole state.

In my view it was pretty much a rubber stamp; yes, absolutely, roll it out! That was until I stumbled across the following map by SkyscraperCity user Planks &amp; Sticks who has, again in my view, added a little stroke of genius to the new concept map, by adding key Smartbus &amp; high frequency cross-town bus routes.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ptvmap_02.gif" rel="gallery-all" title="New PTV concept map with bus additions by Skyscrapercity.com user Planks &amp; Sticks"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="606" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ptvmap_02.gif?itok=M-AdGBxj" title="New PTV concept map with bus additions by Skyscrapercity.com user Planks &amp; Sticks" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>New PTV concept map with bus additions by <a href="http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=118156282&amp;postcount=7079">Skyscrapercity.com user Planks &amp; Sticks</a></figcaption></figure>Rather than emphasise our public transport network, we - and I say we because I too am guilty as charged - tend to talk about different modes in use for public transport rather than the sum of all its parts. It would be quite overwhelming to put a map in every train, tram and bus which visualises every different route in the entire Metropolitan area (although, I am a fan of Railmap's long-running and frequently updated <a href="http://www.railmaps.com.au/melbourn.htm">tram+train map</a>), however these simple additions of key routes ought to be considered.

First and foremost, the routes depicted are the primary cross-town and major links between the arterial rail network and key patronage generators, such as shopping centres which are also present on the map. Just glancing at this map tells anyone that they can get to Northland Shopping Centre by utilising an Upfield or South Morang train and then the bus direct to the door of the northern hub.

Secondly, although the bus routes are clearly marked as a different tier of service, the links which these bus routes create depict a far more comprehensive network than without them. Any Melburnian heralding from or who regularly visits the vast mass which is South East Melbourne knows there are large suburban spaces between the rail lines as depicted in both the existing and new concept PTV maps; the simple act of adding the key bus routes helps to portray the sense that public transport has the ability to bridge geographic reality.

Likewise, is it time to add a condensed version of the heavy rail network to tram maps to show interchange opportunities thus resulting in the same "big picture" effect as adding key bus routes to the rail maps?

Lead image credit: <a href="http://wongm.com/2011/07/melbourne-city-loop-next-train-displays/">Marcus Wong</a>.
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Does Melbourne's rail map depict enough information?

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The journey will take roughly 25 minutes calling at two intermediate points; the services will operate every 15 minutes for 19 hours a day; and the vehicles will run on - for the most part - existing rail corridors. Sound even remotely familiar?

I'm not referring to a Melbourne Airport Rail Link, I'm in fact referring to Toronto's <a href="http://upexpress.com/en/">Union Pearson Express</a> project that is well underway and scheduled to be operating next year.

Over the weekend Urban Toronto published a piece asking "<a href="http://www.urbantoronto.ca/news/2014/10/lanes-melbourne-could-something-similar-happen-here">The lanes of Melbourne: could something similar happen here?</a>" and in the spirit of mutual recognition our eerily similar, arguably long-lost Doppelganger located on the other side of the planet, I'd like to take a look at what Toronto's doing with its airport transportation.

The Union Pearson Express project in a nutshell:

<ul>
<li>New terminus platforms at Union Station (Toronto's central station) and Toronto Pearson International Airport.</li>
	<li>Upgrade and re-use of existing rail corridors between the centre of the city and near the airport.</li>
	<li>New branch line to allow trains to enter the airport precinct from the nearby existing rail corridor.</li>
	<li>Upgrade of two existing intermediate stations, one at Bloor which connects with Toronto's subway and one in Weston.</li>
	<li>Capital expenditure of $456 million CAD ($490million AUD in 2010 dollars), broken down in Canadian dollars: $355million for infrastructure works and approximately $100 million for service development.
	<ul>
<li>The Ontario Provincial Government-owned Metrolinx <a href="http://www.metrolinx.com/en/projectsandprograms/upexpress/upexpress.aspx">website</a> goes on to state they have awarded contracts worth $128 million for new airport station and branch line connection, $75 million for train procurement and $24 million for the development of the Union station terminus.</li>
	</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/6wOnNt3WdDA" width="100%"></iframe>

This is where comparing the UP Express project with the many ideas that have been floated for Melbourne Airport Rail Link gets really spooky.

Toronto's airport is located in the über-burb of Mississauga to the west of central Toronto with a road distance (as measured by <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/dir/Union+Station+Rail,+Toronto,+ON,+Canada/Toronto+Pearson+International+Airport,+6301+Silver+Dart+Dr,+Mississauga,+ON+L5P+1B2,+Canada/@43.6524001,-79.5750703,18092m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m13!4m12!1m5!1m1!1s0x89d4cb2cb8f8d3cb:0xc859da5affa61138!2m2!1d-79.379456!2d43.645218!1m5!1m1!1s0x882b394ac02dd491:0xb41d5de9c4030ec5!2m2!1d-79.62482!2d43.677718">Google Maps</a>) of approximately 25km. Tullamarine is uncannily similar when you <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/dir/Southern+Cross+Station,+Docklands,+Victoria/Melbourne+Airport,+Departure+Dr,+Melbourne+Airport+VIC+3045/@-37.7865809,144.9010968,19762m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m13!4m12!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad65d4e2e5ae775:0xf6cc548ff3f8019c!2m2!1d144.953388!2d-37.81816!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad659a9ebaa3917:0xf045676052ff090!2m2!1d144.841027!2d-37.669012">measure road distance</a> from Southern Cross: 22km.

The Albion freight and interstate standard gauge rail corridor, the preferred alignment of State governments of both persuasions, <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Melbourne+Airport/@-37.7163219,144.8708364,2473m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m2!3m1!1s0x6ad659a9ebaa3917:0xf045676052ff090">passes to within 1km</a> of Tullamarine airport's southern boundary; the Kitchener GO Rail corridor which is to be used for Union Pearson express services, is <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/search/toronto+airport/@43.6975328,-79.6259714,2260m/data=!3m1!1e3">within spitting distance</a> of the northern corner of Pearson airport's boundary.

If you stick to limited-access roads, the road journey in Melbourne is more direct versus using Toronto's grid of inner city freeways. Conversely the rail journey in Toronto will almost be as direct as is possible versus, should a Melbourne Airport Rail Link use the Albion corridor, the rail journey to Tullamarine which will swing out west via Sunshine then turn north east towards the airport.

Perhaps most importantly in explaining how Toronto's UP Express project has come about so quickly as opposed to the stagnation confronted by the predicament we face in Melbourne, it's wise to look at how differently rail has developed in our respective regions.

Despite many similarities between Melbourne and Toronto - and perhaps Australian and Canadian cities in general - a stark difference lies in the way our respective rail networks have developed over time. Where many of Melbourne's current rail corridors began with private operators, nationalisation was all the rage from the 1870s onwards and it laid bare to the vast metropolitan rail network we now have reaching from the CBD to the suburban fringes in all directions.

With the colonial and post-Federation state government owned and operated rail networks acting as the backbone for suburban expansion throughout Australia well before anyone had even heard of an 'automobile, private companies pushed forward and continue to be a dominant owner and operator of rail corridors in Canadian cities. The Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Railway companies have played a part in suburban rail services in Toronto like private companies did in Melbourne a long time ago but it wasn't until (relatively) recently - in the 1960's - that the Ontario Government rolled out the 'GO Transit' services operating over private railways.

<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GO_Transit#Operations">According to Wikipedia</a>, GO Transit now owns 80% of the track in which it operates services over and given the relative lack of service frequency compared to most Melbourne Metro lines, Metrolinx (which owns and operates to the GO Transit brand for the Ontario Government) has a lot of flexibility to make projects like UP Express work.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/arl_spur_map-850x411.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alignment of new branch line to serve Toronto's Pearson airport"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="280" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/arl_spur_map-850x411.jpg?itok=5wlNme77" title="Alignment of new branch line to serve Toronto's Pearson airport" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alignment of new branch line to serve Toronto's Pearson airport</figcaption></figure>As I wrote last year, <a href="/news/half-of-the-melbourne-airport-rail-link-is-currently-under-construction">half of Melbourne's Airport Rail Link is already under construction</a> through the Regional Rail Link project.

In that piece I argued that the capacity which will be unlocked as part of the RRL project should be used to run rail services utilising an operator and a separate train configuration we already have to and from Tullamarine after expansion of the Albion corridor and a Tullamarine branch has taken place. I'm still very much of this view.

If you watch the current Spring Street Government's pre-campaign advertising about the Melbourne Airport Rail Link, the Government appears fixated on the notion the airport should be serviced with standard metro trains by making the Pakenham/Cranbourne corridor through-route to the Sunbury and a new airport line. The ALP's policy, stretching back to when they were last in government, is similar in that they originally proposed to have Pakenham/Cranbourne services run through the Melbourne Metro tunnel rather than the current Liberal Government's proposal to run it through existing track between South Yarra, Flinders Street, Southern Cross and North Melbourne.

Like the East West Link, this position has not be explained well, if at all.

Passengers heading to or from Tullamarine are going to have different needs than those who use the rest of the Metro network. Even a business day-tripper traveling with hand luggage to Melbourne will take up more space than the average Metro commuter.

In short, the vehicles which operate an airport service must take into account the extra spatial and luggage storage needs of airport passengers.

Any Tullamarine Airport rail link project should be an opportunity to break the "one train size/technology caters for all" mentality we have in Melbourne that so often produces great ideas but ultimately, at best, is severely delayed owing to enormous capital requirements or at worst enters the never-never. We must recognise that an airport rail link will be a premium service and therefore we should plan accordingly, just like Toronto has with the Union Pearson Express.

Image credit: <a href="http://upexpress.com/">UPExpress.com</a>.
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Is Toronto's airport rail link a model for Melbourne?

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The <a href="http://www.austapestry.com.au/">Australian Tapestry Workshop</a> and the Tapestry Foundation of Australia, in partnership with <a href="http://architecturemedia.com/">Architecture Media</a> and <a href="http://www.dentoncorkermarshall.com/">Denton Corker Marshall</a> have announced the inaugural ATW Tapestry Design Prize for Architects.

The new prize invites architects to use their knowledge and skills to create a tapestry design for a specific location: the hypothetical site is the Denton Corker Marshall-designed Australia Pavilion in the Giardini in Venice.

Australian Tapestry Workshop Chairman Peter Williams hopes to see architects embrace this competition as a chance to explore and deepen their understanding of the longstanding relationship between textile art and architectural space.

<blockquote>
This prize encourages architects to consider tapestry as an intrinsic component of their creations, not a peripheral concern. Architects responsible for some of Australia's most famous buildings such as Romaldo Giurgola, Jørn Utzon and Harry Seidler incorporated tapestry into specific spaces in their architecture. We hope to support architects to employ their conceptual skills to design textiles that enhance and define public space.
<cite>Peter Williams, Chairman, Australian Tapestry Workshop</cite>
</blockquote>

The competition will be assessed and the prize awarded by a panel of six judges, they are:

<ul>
<li>Professor Kay Lawrence AM (SA): Chair, Adjunct Professor, School of Art, Architecture and Design at the University of South Australia</li>
	<li>Professor Leon von Schaik AO (VIC): Professor of Architecture, Innovation Chair - Design Practice Research at RMIT University.</li>
	<li>Mr Brian Zulaikha (NSW): Director at Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects</li>
	<li>Ms Hannah Tribe (NSW): Principal Architect - Tribe Studios</li>
	<li>Mr John Gollings (VIC): Architectural photographer - John Gollings Photography</li>
	<li>Mr Jason Smith (QLD): Curatorial Manager, Australian Art - Queensland Art Gallery / GoMA</li>
</ul>
<h2>About the competition</h2>

The 2015 ATW Tapestry Design Prize for Architects is open to architects, multidisciplinary design groups (including at least one architect) and students in the field of architecture. Entrants are requested to provide a design or designs (limit of three) that celebrate contemporary architectural space through the placement of tapestry.

The design can be in any form: drawing, digital image, painting, collage etc. so long as the form is two dimensional. Entrants may submit their applications in digital format or physical format.

The hypothetical site as context for the tapestry design is the Denton Corker Marshall designed Australia Pavilion in the Giardini in Venice. Entries opened on the 7th of October 2014 and close on the 20th of February 2015.

The finalists will be selected for an exhibition in 2015 where the winner will be announced. The competition has a total prize pool of $10,000: first prize is $5,000, second price $2,500, third prize $1,500 and the people's choice prize will award the recipient $1,000.

For more information - including selection criteria and detailed biographies on the judging panel - see the competition's dedicated website: www.tapestrydesignprize.org

Lead image credit: Image Supplied. "The Games Children Play" 2009, designed by Robert Ingpen AO, woven by Sue Batten, John Dicks &amp; Emma Sulzer at the Australian Tapestry Workshop, materials: wool, cotton, size: 1.5m x 4.2m. Photo: in situ, Royal Children's Hospital by John Gollings. <a href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/20120628_jg_7336assem.jpg">View larger image</a>.
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Inaugural ATW Tapestry Design Prize for Architects announced

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Planning Minister Matthew Guy has announced the appointment of a new chair, one new member and the appointment of two formerly alternate members as full members to the <a href="http://www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/heritage/about/heritage-council-of-victoria">Heritage Council of Victoria</a>.

The ten member Heritage Council of Victoria is appointed by the Governor in Council upon the recommendation of the Planning Minister.

Legal member Mary Urquhart has been appointed the new Chair of the Heritage Council, replacing architect Daryl Jackson AO who retired in June after six years as Chair.

A Ministerial media release provided the following biographies on the appointees:

<blockquote>
Ms Urquhart has recognised skills in law and governance that will be well utilised in her role as Chair of the Heritage Council. A barrister and solicitor, she is currently a part time member of the Refugee Review Tribunal, and a member of the Migration Review Tribunal. Ms Urquhart was previously Deputy President of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal and Deputy Commissioner, Victorian Liquor Licensing Commission.

Callum Fraser is director of the prominent Melbourne firm Elenberg Fraser. He is a registered architect and previous Chapter Councillor of the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA).

Mr Tony Darvall has more than 35 years’ experience as a partner of law firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth. He is currently the chairman of the Audit Committee of VicRoads and deputy chairman of Linking Melbourne Authority and has previously served as chairman of VicUrban and the Werribee Park Advisory Board.

General member Trish Vejby has a demonstrated understanding of and interest in Victoria’s heritage. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Western Health and has substantial governance experience on many community committees and boards of management including the Board of Commissioners of Legal Aid.
</blockquote>

“These new appointments bring specialist skills and great passion to the task of protecting and conserving places and objects of cultural heritage significance to the state," Planning Minister Matthew Guy said.
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New appointments to the Heritage Council of Victoria

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Discretionary guidelines and prescribed planning rules - it's a discussion we need to have. That's the view I formed after attending the Melbourne Conversations Urban Heritage / New Architect - where to now? event held on Monday night at the Capitol Theatre.

In many more words that what I have used above, an audience member posed that question to the panel toward the end of the 90 minute session. It was prefaced by a discussion on the sheer number of development proposals which were called in for Ministerial approval along with widespread tut-tutting when a graphic produced in Monday's Age was also displayed.

It's fair to say there weren't many Matthew Guy fans in the audience yet conversely I thought it unfair that the audience - judging by the collective groan any time a reference to the current Planning Minister was made - appeared to categorise all development approved by Guy as somewhat sub-standard. Which is quite frankly - to use a fantastic Scottish vulgarity - pish.

In his answer to the discretionary guidelines versus prescribed planning rules question, Rob Moore from the City of Melbourne explained that much like the community, developers want certainty. That certainty wasn't necessarily just planning-related but also financial.

What is the core component a developer requires in order to do what they do? Buyers? Architects? Planning Consultants? Marketers? No, it's land - the acquisition and price of land is key.

Rob Moore told the audience a story of an experience he had in a meeting with a developer where they believed more defined planning controls would have a positive, stabilising impact on land prices and would help cut out wild land speculation which currently occurs.

There were a few awkward moments of disbelief from the audience after that story however as Professor Kate Darian-Smith appealed to the audience shortly thereafter, we should continue this conversation.

If we accept our current planning system won't dramatically change (who wants to go through yet another tear-it-up-and-write-another-strategy process?), how can it change to give both industry and community certainty?

Much criticism was heaped on Plan Melbourne for its lack of any controls to compel the inclusion of affordable housing in new development - is that the only area which needs to have serious debate prior to the first review of Plan Melbourne?

When is the best time to add planning controls so the market players can adjust their business models?

Should we give anti-change organisations like Planning Backlash a voice or treat them like a Sydney radio shock-jock (best ignored)?

Can we have our cake and eat it too?

The floor (and comment thread below) is open.

Lead image credit: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Hoddle_Map_1_1837.JPG">Wikipedia</a>.
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Prescribed rules and discretionary guidelines: it's the discussion we need to have

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There are very limited spaces available for architects, developers and project managers to attend a tall buildings seminar in Melbourne’s CBD next week.

“Skyscraper Trends In Melbourne: From Super Skinny To ‘Prefabulous’” is part of Meinhardt’s imagin8 seminar series and is presented in partnership with Apartments.com.au.

Melbourne has become a hotbed for tall building development, with the Planning Minister dubbed ‘Mr Skyscraper” following a raft of development approvals. So what’s next?

<ul>
<li>Where are the hotspots for new towers?</li>
	<li>What is the market looking for?</li>
	<li>How do we optimize development sites, maximize floor plates and improve returns?</li>
	<li>How can we build better, faster and more safely?</li>
</ul>
The speaker line-up includes Andrew Leoncelli, Managing Director – CBRE Residential Projects and ex-Melbourne Demon, George Argyrou, Managing Director and co-founder of builders Hickory Group and Jon Brock, Meinhardt’s National Director of Land Development.

The event, on Wednesday 1st October at 4.30pm, will be held at Meinhardt’s 501 Swanston Street offices and is free to attend.

The last remaining spaces will be allocated on a first-come, first served basis.

To register your interest, email Justin.farmer@meinhardtgroup.com with your name, company and contact details. More information can be found at http://practicalimagination.info/imagin8/skyscraper-trends-in-melbourne-from-super-skinny-to-prefabulous/

UPDATE: Friday 26/9/14 11am:  Justin reports that all seats have now been filled - thank you to everyone who has expressed an interest in attending.
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Meinhardt and Urban.com.au present a seminar on skyscraper trends in Melbourne

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Places Victoria received three new independent board members on Monday with the appointment of Tamara Brezzi, Robert Goudswaard and Graeme Parton.

The Planning Minister Matthew Guy said of the new board members "the Board and management team at Places Victoria, led by CEO Gregory Anderson, has continued to drive the organisation’s transformation. I am delighted to announce the appointment of three new independent board members, Tamara Brezzi, Robert Goudswaard and Graeme Parton".

A media release from the Planning Minister provided a short biography on the three new board members:

<blockquote>
Tamara Brezzi is a planning and environment lawyer and qualified town planner with over 22 years’ experience in all aspects of planning and environmental law. Ms Brezzi is also President of the Victorian Planning and Environmental Law Association.

Robert Goudswaard has extensive financial and business experience, having held a number of senior executive roles within the ANZ Bank and having managed risk for the institutional division of Institutional Global, during the global financial crisis.

Graeme Parton has over 35 years’ experience in the property development and construction industry, as a consultant providing strategic property advice to State and local government, and in project development management and economic and market feasibility services for major projects. He has previously served on the Places Victoria board.
</blockquote>

The Planning Minister went on to say: "Places Victoria is now in strong position to focus on its core urban renewal mandate. It has been tasked with the important role of working closely with both government and the private sector to unlock the potential of urban development sites and revitalise neighbourhoods".

The appointments come six months after the Napthine Government axed the previous board.

Lead image credit: <a href="http://www.australiandesignreview.com/designwall/1524-architecture-goods-shed-north">Architecture Design Review</a>.
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Places Victoria board expands by three

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Late on Friday afternoon <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-09-19/melbournes-historic-forum-theatre-to-get-a-32-storey-revamp/5756802">the ABC reported</a> that Planning Minister Matthew Guy had approved the Forum Theatre restoration and Hotel development which Apartments.com.au previously <a href="/news/progressive-development-or-cultural-vandalism">reported on back in March</a>.

The 32 level tower will include boutique hotel suites, retail and office spaces with a pedestrian link through to Hosier Lane. Crucially it's been reported there are substantial changes to the Hosier Lane site boundary, which have been implemented in order to lessen the development's impact upon the venerable art and tourist area.

Quoted in the ABC report, Matthew Guy said "people shouldn't be concerned about any encroachment on street art, because it will virtually all remain - 99 per cent of it will still be there as it is now". The approved development has reduced the impact on Hosier Lane, and its street art precinct, from 16 metres to 3 metres, the Planning Minister said.

A subsequent report in <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/planning-minister-matthew-guy-signs-off-on-controversial-hosier-lane-hotel-20140919-10jhoj">The Age</a> commented that <a href="http://www.townplanners.com.au/">Clement Stone Town Planners</a> had successfully argued to have the Planning Minister designated as the responsible authority when the Forum Theatre and tower proposal's gross floor area is combined. City of Melbourne had opposed the plans in May this year.

Incidentally expressions of interest have been called for <a href="http://hosierrutledge.wordpress.com/">Paint UP Round Two</a>, which will see a second building along Hosier Lane adorned with a large-scale painted image. While revised plans for the Forum Hotel's interaction with Hosier Lane have yet to be spotted, the original planning application provides some indication as to what can be expected, as seen below.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image7_24.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Original plans for an altered Hosier Lane - images courtesy of Scharp."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_24.jpg?itok=EoDgN__n" title="Original plans for an altered Hosier Lane - images courtesy of Scharp." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Original plans for an altered Hosier Lane - images courtesy of Scharp.</figcaption></figure>
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The forum finds favour

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Alastair Taylor

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