A converted biscuit factory in Prahran has been listed for sale. 
&nbsp; 
The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/property/3-38-charles-street-prahran" target="_blank">converted biscuit factory in Prahran</a> has an&nbsp;asking price of $1.59 million. 
 
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom, plus study property is located at 3/38 Charles Street Prahran in the famous Greville Street precinct. 
 
Originally home to the Table Talk Biscuits company the two storey warehouse conversion retains the best parts of its industrial factory heritage and provides superb modern living and entertaining spaces. 
 
The lower level comprises open-plan living and dining, two bedrooms with built in robes, a separate laundry and central bathroom, as well as a fully equipped kitchen, which opens onto a Westerly courtyard. 
 
With high ceilings, exposed timber beams and hydronic heating throughout, the property also boasts a large cellar or storage space and two generous tandem car spaces. 
 
Upstairs is the master suite complete with built in robes, ensuite bathroom and a study nook. 
 
With Greville and Chapel Street shopping precincts at its doorstop and Prahran train station just across the road this property offers all the conveniences of inner city living, with the privacy of its location at the rear of the block.

jrobertson-4NasGYvWhc

Prahran's Table Talk biscuit factory trophy home listing

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Global Commercial real estate and investment management firm Jones Lang LaSalle has appointed its new NSW Head of Industrial.
Michael Wall will be based in the firm’s Parramatta office having previously worked for Kingsmede and Colliers.  
Mr Wall has 12 years experience across sales, investments and property management.
Jones Lang LaSalle’s managing director, NSW and Australian head of industrial, Michael Fenton says Mr Wall is “highly regarded" in the industry.
The previous NSW head of Industrial, Andrew Maher, was recently appointed to the newly formed national role of director of industrial corporate solutions.
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Jones Lang LaSalle appoints NSW head of industrial

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You don’t have to be a millionaire to own property in Queensland's most prestigious suburbs.

Affordable properties can be found across the state, even in the most expensive and prestigious suburbs, according to a study by the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ).
“Hidden treasures can still be found, even in our most expensive suburbs, if you are prepared to look – and potentially wait – for them,” REIQ CEO Anton Kardash says.
Brisbane's Hamilton had a seven-bedroom Eblin Drive house (pictured below) sold at $6.5 million in February, but elsewhere in the prestige suburb there was a $405,000 sale.
<img height="280" width="472" src="/images/stories/2013/07/QueenslandJuly10one.jpg" alt="QueenslandJuly10one"><a target="_blank" href="https://rpp.rpdata.com/rpp/property/detail?propertyId=4937704&amp;index=0&amp;q=27+Eblin+Drive+Hamilton+QLD+4007&amp;qt=address&amp;_qt=address&amp;offset=1&amp;sort=address&amp;limit=20&amp;view=property&amp;mode=&amp;street=All&amp;suburb=All"></a>
It was a two-bedroom Kingford Smith Drive house (pictured below) which had been listed for $450,000.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/07/hamiltonjuly10one.jpg" width="470" height="277" alt="hamiltonjuly10one">
The suburb's median house price sits at $1.46 million, according to the REIQ, showing there are opportunities for a variety of buyers in the area.
Hidden gems have also been upturned in popular tourist destination Surfers Paradise where, despite a five-bedroom house (pictured below) selling for $6.35 million in March, a more modest three-bedroom house sold for $454,000 in December.
<img height="279" width="472" src="/images/stories/2013/07/QueenslandJuly10two.jpg" alt="QueenslandJuly10two"><a target="_blank" href="https://rpp.rpdata.com/rpp/property/detail?propertyId=7727732&amp;index=0&amp;q=31+The+Corso+Surfers+paradise&amp;qt=address&amp;_qt=address&amp;offset=1&amp;sort=address&amp;limit=20&amp;view=property&amp;mode=&amp;street=All&amp;suburb=All"></a>
The property (pictured below) was originally listed for $495,000, well below the area's median house price of $1.06 million.
<img alt="surfersjuly10one" height="275" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/07/surfersjuly10one.jpg">
In Minyama a five-bedroom house (pictured below) sold for $6.75 million in December, despite an asking price of $8.25 million.
<img height="276" width="472" src="/images/stories/2013/07/QueenslandJuly10three.jpg" alt="QueenslandJuly10three"><a target="_blank" href="https://rpp.rpdata.com/rpp/property/detail?propertyId=6004999&amp;index=0&amp;q=7+Minyama+Island+Minyama+QLD+4575&amp;qt=address&amp;_qt=address&amp;offset=1&amp;sort=address&amp;limit=20&amp;view=property&amp;mode=&amp;street=All&amp;suburb=All"></a>
The sale of the mansion was a far cry from a three-bedroom house (pictured below) on Chelsea Crescent, which sold for just $360,000 in September.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/07/minyamajuly10one.jpg" width="470" height="277" alt="minyamajuly10one">
Mr Kardash says while these cheaper properties may not be as luxurious as their more expensive counterparts; they represent a smart way to break into QLDs most prestigious markets.
“Of course the old adage of buying the worst house in the best street, or the best suburb, still applies but buying in these prestigious locations will help to underpin capital growth,” he says.
The lowest price recorded in the report was a low $162,000 for a house in Augustine Heights in October.
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Cheapies can still be found in Queensland's prestigious suburbs: REIQ

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Popular Perth nightspot the Claremont Hotel could be getting new owners.
Its current owner Barry Jones, director at Gretna Nominees, is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-wa-claremont-500800879?listingType=buy">seeking expressions of interest in the property</a>, with a view to either leasing or selling it.
The original hotel dates back to 1886 and then became a grocery store and later a bakery, before being turned back into a hotel in 1902.
In the 1920’s the hotel traded as McManus’ Hotel and Fink’s Hotel. In recent times its been the Continental Hotel and Redrock hotel, before becoming the Claremont Hotel after a refurbishment in 2002.
The building is situated in a prime location on the corner of Bayview Terrace and Gugeri Street, just nine kilometres from the Perth CBD. Its adjacent to the Claremont Quarter Shopping Centre and opposite the Claremont Train Station.
The 1,263 square metre property sits on 1,659 square metres of land. It comes with a tavern licence.
The two-storey hotel offers a variety of indoor and alfresco areas, which can be used for private functions or public dining.
Colliers International agents Mark Werrett and Ben Tana have advertised it as being suitable for refurbishment or redevelopment.
Expressions of interest close on August 16.
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Perth's historic Claremont Hotel seeking expressions of interest

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Melbourne’s cheapest auction sale price last weekend was in the northern suburb of Dallas. 

The four-bedroom, one-bathroom Barry Road house was listed by the mortgagees with a $220,000 to $240,000 price expectations.
It for $243,500 after Barry Plant Real Estate marketed the property to first homebuyers, investors and clinic operators.
The <a href="https://www.barryplant.com.au/glenroy/index.cfm?pageCall=property&amp;propertyID=2383151&amp;realestate=541_Barry_Road_DALLAS_VIC_3047" target="_blank">original 1960s brick veneer property</a> (pictured below) was previously listed for sale in July 2011 with a guide price of $280,000 to $290,000, but did not sell.
<img alt="dallasjuly10one" height="233" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/07/dallasjuly10one.jpg">
Its feature built in robes in two bedroom, a large living area with open fireplace, modern kitchen, central bathroom, separate laundry and toilet, gas ducted heating, single car garage and wide side driveway. 

It last sold for $215,000 in mid-2008, reflecting 2.5% annual growth during the past five years. 

The median sale price for houses in Dallas is $270,000, down 8.9% in the past year, <a href="/news">according to RP Data</a>. 

Other recent sales include a five-bedroom property on Phillip Street selling for $365,000 in June and a three-bedroom house on Merino Avenue selling for $260,000 on 3 July this year.
Barry Plant Real Estate selling agent Halil Okur says while there was a lot of interest in the Barry Road property, it would need significant renovations to make it liveable.

“When we took over the marketing campaign, the house was vacant.

“It’s a run-down house. It needs a lot of renovation. When you walk into it, it literally stinks,” he said. 

The buyer was an investor and Mr Okur expects it will return a rental income around $300 per week once its renovated. It would then reflect a 6.4% yield

The contract for the sale had a Victorian Legal Aid caveat on its title.
It was the home of Charbiel Fram who was sentenced to three and a half years jail for attacking his former brother in-law at a Thomastown pool hall in 2010 and is currently awaiting sentencing over an assault at Crown Casino’s Fusion nightclub. 

He committed the second offence while on bail for the first.
 

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Mortgagee sale at Dallas was Melbourne's cheapest weekend sale

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Property developer Greg Shand has purchased the NSW Leagues Club building in the Sydney CBD for $15.5 million.
The building runs between Phillip and Elizabeth streets and will retain current tenant, Travelodge until 2050, with a 49-year option.
The club originally took two strata to the market, floors six to nine and levels B1, B2, three, four and five and had intended to retain Ground Elizabeth Street, Ground Phillip Street and levels one and two.


Due to strong interest it sold the entire building and leased back Ground Elizabeth, Ground Phillip and levels one and two for a term of three years. 

Collier’s International agent Jon Chomley said they faced many challenges in the sale of the building.

 
“The marketing process was challenging due to the long term lease back to the Travelodge, the club wanting to remain in the premises and preferably own their floors and the issues around the age of the building,” he said.

The club received four offers for the strata and five for the entire building, with two bids being false starts as the groups could not support their prices.


Greg Shand is chief executive of the Barana Group real estate and investment company, which currently has an investment portfolio of $450 million, with investments in Australia, the UK, Japan and Continental Europe.
  

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/novotel-st-kilda-snapped-up-by-greg-shand-s-barana-group/2012090656449">In September last year</a> the group purchased the Novotel St Kilda hotel in Melbourne for $55 million, at a yield of 8%.
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Property developer Greg Shand's Barana Group makes $15.5m Sydney CBD purchase 

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The ACT suburb with the fastest selling houses is Higgins, according to RP Data.
 
Houses in Higgins are listed for an average of 32 days, followed by Gilmore at 36 days.

The capital's slowest selling houses are in Forde, with an average listing time of 144 days.

Forde is followed by Campbell and Farrer, each at around 126 days on the market. 
 
ACT fastest selling
Higgins: 32.3 days

Gilmore: 36.4 days

Latham: 41.9 days

Hughes: 43.3 days 

Waramanga: 50 days 

Macgreggor: 52.3 days
 
ACT slowest selling 

Forde: 144 days 

Campbell: 126.8 days 

Farrer: 126.0 days 

Casey: 121.8 days 

Bonython: 118.2 days

Franklin: 108.3 days 


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The ACT suburbs where houses sell fastest and slowest

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Celebrity couple Tom Williams and Rachel Gilbert have announced they are expecting a baby, and have listed their Freshwater home for sale.  
The four-bedroom home is listed with Clark and Humel Property at a guide price of $1.7 million plus.  
Williams, who worked as a builder before beginning a career in radio and television, purchased the property in 2010 for $1.29 million and renovated it himself.  
It now boasts high ceilings, timber floorboards, plantation shutters, a deluxe kitchen with European appliances and a solar heated pool.  
The property comes complete with storage under the house, a wine cellar, security cameras, and even a panic room.
After years doing up home on the northern beaches, Williams said the couple were selling because they wanted to live closer to Gilbert’s family in Cronulla.
Ofcourse plans to renovate their next property are on the radar.  After listing the property for sale last week, Williams let the couple’s baby news slip during his radio show The Daily Edition, on Tuesday.  
Williams and Gilbert were married in November last year and met at the Cleo Bachelor of the Year party in 2011. 
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Tom Williams and Rachel Gilbert are expecting and have listed their Freshwater home

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A $107 million residential development in the Victoria Harbour precinct of Docklands is now complete, with 95% of its apartments sold by the developer.
The Exo apartment building was announced in July 2011, by developer Lend Lease, and snappily <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/docklands-development-half-sold-in-two-weeks-on-market/2011082251238">sold 50% of its apartments</a> (pictured) in its first three weeks.
<img src="/images/stories/exo1.jpg">
In May last year, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/prices-start-at-%24395000-in-lend-lease-docklands-development-exo/2012052854675">Property Observer reported</a> that 70% of the 96 apartments had sold.
The apartments were listed at prices starting at $395,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and $699,000 for a two-bedroom apartment.
There are currently three apartments in the complex listed for sale on realestate.com.au, at between $410,000 and $699,000, most likely onsales.
<img src="/images/stories/exo2.jpg">
Several are also listed for lease on the website, ranging from $400 per week for a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment, to $550 per week for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with car space.
<img height="369" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/07/exosketchjuly3one.jpg" alt="exosketchjuly3one">
State manager for Lend Lease’s apartments business in Victoria, Ben Coughlan says the apartments have attracted a mix of buyers.
“It has attracted a mix of buyers from first homebuyers and young professionals to investors.
"The proximity to the CBD, waterfront and lifestyle it offers is second to none,” he says.
<img src="/images/stories/exofacade.jpg">

On level eight, the residential hub of the building, the apartments surround <a target="_blank" href="https://www.exoapartments.com.au/">an open-air atrium </a>with landscaped garden.

Exo is part of Lend Lease’s $4.5 billion Victoria Harbour, the epicentre of Docklands, and is expected to contribute to the growth of the area with nine retail shops at the base of the building and a 642-bay commercial car park for use by residents and visitors.
<img src="/images/stories/exo3.jpg">

Located on the corner of Collins and Merchant Streets, Ben Coughlan says it aims to “honour the fine architectural tradition of Collins Street in a modern context.”
<img height="553" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/07/exosketchjuly3two.jpg" alt="exosketchjuly3two">

The complex takes its name from the word ‘exoskeleton’, which refers to its unique sculptural form, and it is expected to become a Melbourne design icon.
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Exo, the Melbourne development based on an exoskeleton design, is complete

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Sydney remains Australia’s most expensive city for office occupancy, but a significant value shift towards the Perth market has decreased the gap between the two cities, according to a survey by CBRE Global Research and Consulting.
The semi-annual prime office occupancy costs survey ranks 127 cities throughout the world according to the cost of office occupancy, including rent plus local taxes and service charges.
Hong Kong was ranked the most expensive at US$235.23 per square foot, per annum, followed by London and Beijing.
As for Australian cities, Sydney ranked 13th in the world at US$119.23 per square foot, per annum (just behind 10th placed Manhattan), followed by Perth, in 21st place, at US$97.09, Brisbane in 29th at US$79.10, and Melbourne in 49th at US$61.89.
The cheapest Australian capital cities for office occupancy were Adelaide, in 71st place and Canberra, in 93rd place.
<img height="296" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/larry_uploads/most_expensive_office_markets.jpg" alt="most_expensive_office_markets"> 
Source: CBRE
Sydney also topped the list for the most expensive market for office space in the Pacific Region.
Perth was ranked 16th in the list of cities that experienced the highest growth in the cost of office occupancy.
CBRE’s head of research for Australia, Stephen McNabb says this shows a “value shift” to the Perth market.
“The increase in terms of trade driven by high commodity prices has boosted income in the WA market relative to other Australian states.
“This has supported capacity to pay higher rents in Perth,” he says.
The survey shows the office occupancy rates for prime office spots in 127 cities worldwide, as of March 31, 2013.
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Sydney remains Australia's most expensive office market, but Perth catching up: CBRE

Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374394]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374399]

Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152069]

Joel Robinson

Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Jennifer Robertson

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