Melbourne's inner-east suburb of&nbsp;Burnley has long been played second fiddle to its more prominent neighbours of Cremorne, Richmond and Hawthorn.

Since the 1850s, <a href="/developments/burnley-vic-3121">Burnley</a> has been considered as one of Melbourne's premier garden suburbs,&nbsp;with over half of its 112-hectares dedicated to parks and gardens. Where adjoining suburbs have seen an influx of investment in both commercial and residential development, Burnley has flown under the radar and retained a nature-first feel.

But now the small suburb on the Yarra is set for a transformation of its own.

Some 3,600 new workers will be flooding into Burnley daily later this year when Australia Post shifts if HQ to a new $450 million purpose-built office building on Swan Street which is being developed by ASX-listed commercial property giant Charter Hall. Next door Bamfa is also readying a $350 million, Cox Architecture-designed glass office building which will trigger a further 2,500 workers daily. Both offices are located next to the Burnley Station, which sees arrivals from four of Melbourne’s busiest train lines and trams.

The two major commercial office buildings have&nbsp;opened the door to the possibilities of Burnley. What Burnley doesn't have going for it, in terms of those wanting to move into the suburb, is an abundance of housing. Property data analytics firm CoreLogic says there are less than 500 houses and apartments in Burnley, and only five of those have sold so far in 2024.&nbsp;

Between the most recent census collections, Burnley's population has only grown from 769 people to 794, just over 20 people in five years.&nbsp;

Comparatively Cremorne, which is around 40 hectares smaller than Burnley, has a population of well over 2,000.&nbsp;

Contributing to it is the fact that nearly half of the whole suburb is occupied by parks, while the Burnley Golf Course, which is temporarily closed as the 18-hole course undergoes a major redesign, contributes to over 10 per cent of Burnley's entirety.

On the other side of Swan Street is the six-hectare Burnley Park, home to Burnley Oval, Burnley Park Playground, and The&nbsp;Burnley Circus,&nbsp;the largest designated event site within the City of Yarra.

There's even more greenery surrounding The University of Melbourne Burnley Campus, where it's no surprise the horticulture classes are taught. The campus is surrounded by the heritage-listed Burnley Gardens, a nine-hectare open green space that features over 1,000 different species of plants as well as some of the oldest trees in Melbourne.

Burnley Gardens is also home to several sporting fields and clubs including Richmond Junior Football Club, Richmond City Cricket Club, Collingwood City Soccer Club and&nbsp;FC Melbourne Srbija who play in the NPL.

Opportunities to develop both residential and commercial property in the suburb have always been few and far between. While Burnley is known for its gardens, it has a significant industrial heritage too. Many of the old industrial buildings still line the streets.

Melbourne developer <a href="/developers/developed-by-urban">Developed by Urban</a>, who specializes in restorations of old and heritage-listed buildings, have looked to Burnley for its latest adaptive reuse project. In a joint venture with JAK Investments, Urban will be redeveloping the heritage-protected landmark&nbsp;Barrett &amp; Burston Maltings, a historic malting factory that started life in the late 1800s as Terry's Burnley Brewery.

"Burnley has been on our radar for some time” explains Urban Director Bart O’Callaghan.

”It is closer to the amenities of the Yarra River, better serviced by public transport and employment opportunities and has better access to both primary and secondary schools than neighbouring suburbs of Richmond and Cremorne.

"One train stop from Burnley Station on the Glen Waverly line puts you at Heyington Station St.Kevins College and St Catherines School Toorak. Two stops on the Belgrave and Lilydale line puts you at Glenferrie Station a short walk to MLC, Xavier College and Trinity Grammar. &nbsp;Richmond Primary School, Melbourne Girls College and Richmond High School are all a short walk. There is direct access to the Yarra, the Monash Freeway and Melbourne’s sporting Precinct is a walk away.&nbsp; "

O’Callaghan says for years Burnley's main&nbsp;detraction had been the operating heritage maltings which finished operations in 2018.

"We have put a tonne of work into the heritage restoration and reimagining of the c.1885 space to now incorporate 1,000 sqm of gardens and beautifully designed new homes, perfect for Families and downsizers alike.

“So often Melbourne families living in the inner suburbs are forced further away from the CBD in pursuit of space and a larger family home close to Schools. Burnley Maltings townhomes include lock-up garages, oversized bedrooms rooftop terraces and oodles of family living space.”

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The new development, <a href="/new-apartments/burnley-maltings-richmond-45-gibdon-street-richmond">Burnley Maltings</a>, incorporates much of the industrial building into the 37 two and three-bedroom townhouses which will surround the heritage silos and over 1,000 sqm of lush, green space landscaped by the renowned <a href="/architects/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>. All but one townhouse has a private rooftop terrace with views over the Yarra River and out to the city skyline.

The 3,568 sqm site is located toward the northwest corner of Burnley at 45 Gibdon Street, 400 metres from the golf course and next to&nbsp;Twickenham Crescent Reserve and Golden Square Bicentennial Park. The&nbsp;Yarra River Parklands-Loys Paddock and the Main Yarra Trail are just 400 metres south of Burnley Maltings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14401 project_image_fid=258922]

Serotonin Café (200m), Friends of Mine (300m) and over 1,000 sqm of new hospitality offerings are soon to be opened at 480 Swan Street, only a 400 sqm walk from the project. An unlimited offering of food, hospitality and shopping options along Swan Street is only a short ride away.

Burnley Maltings is now under construction and slated for completion in late 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=14401]

Joel Robinson

From garden suburb to commercial hub: Burnley's next phase of transformation

Almost every Sydney suburb, at one time or another, will go through its gentrification phase.

Surry Hills was traditionally a working-class area in the 1980s and 1990s before it gentrified to the point that buying into the suburb has become out of reach for the majority.

The likes of the adjoining Redfern, Newtown and Darlinghurst have all been subject to gentrification over the last few decades, resulting in significant growth in property values.

Now seems to be the turn of Merrylands, the small suburb next door to Parramatta.

Research from property data analytics firm CoreLogic suggests property in <a href="/new-apartments/merrylands-nsw-2160">Merrylands</a>, and the adjoining Guilford, has been the strongest performing suburb in any Sydney suburb, at the top of the food chain with the southern end of the Eastern Suburbs.

Their data suggests dwelling values, which incorporate both houses and apartments, have risen just shy of 15 per cent in the 12 months to April, significantly higher than the 9.6 per cent growth Sydney-wide over the same period.

Buoyed by their involvement in the growing area is diversified property developer <a href="/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property Group</a>, who is well advanced in the construction of their $650 million Merrylands masterplan, <a href="/buildings/mason-main-merrylands-245-merrylands-road-merrylands-nsw-2160">Mason &amp; Main</a>.

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Mason &amp; Main has been designed to be the leader of gentrification in the area, with not only an influx of well-designed apartments by Woods Bagot, but to create a central precinct that goes beyond the four walls of the home.

The five towers, a mix of build-to-rent and build-to-sell, will sit above a cool 'Eat Street', which is expected to be open later this year, with a string of yet-to-be-announced hospitality venues and retailers set to create an all-round lifestyle hub for both residents of Mason &amp; Main as well as the wider community.

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Coronation already announced the tenancy of One Playground, the popular nightclub-like workout venture that has gyms in Newtown and Marrickville.&nbsp;

A big driver in gentrification is how connected a suburb is. The more well-connected the suburb, the more likely population will grow. And with population growth comes investment.

Coronation has long known the importance of developing in a connected suburb. Mason &amp; Main is less than 400 metres from Merrylands Station, which is one stop from Parramatta Station and a short-minute commute into Central Station.

Everything is at the foot of the masterplan. Stockland Merrylands, with 180 retailers and anchored by a Woolworths, Coles, Aldi and a Kmart sits behind the project, while the Merrylands RSL, Billabong Hotel, and Merrylands best restaurants, are all centred around the heritage-listed train station.

North of Mason &amp; Main is&nbsp;Holroyd Gardens Nature Reserve, home to a number of&nbsp;playgrounds, bicycle training track, picnic areas and walking trails, while Merrylands Park and Granville Park give further nature options.

One, two and three-bedroom apartments are selling at Mason &amp; Main, and are catching the attention of every market, from first home buyers and investors to young families and downsizers.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=31751]

How the small western suburb of Merrylands is undergoing a drastic gentrification

Property developer Omira Property Group has carved out a reputation as one of the most architecturally-focused villa developers in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales and the southern areas of the Gold Coast.

Now they're bringing their classic coastal-style to Ballina, following success in the likes of Byron Bay, Currumbin and Kingscliff.

They've brought the same team down from their most recently completed development, Asana, on Byron Bay's dress circle Marvell Street. Asana comprised just three luxury villas which sold with prices ranging from $4.4 million to $4.6 million.

The new <a href="/new-townhouses/ballina-nsw-2478">Ballina</a> project, <a href="/new-townhouses/mana-ballina-86-90-norton-street-ballina">Mana</a>, comprises 14 luxury villas, each with over 220 sqm of internal space. They start from $1.95 million.

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<a href="/developers/omira-property-group">Omira Property Group</a> Director Alasdair Baker says the villas will represent an opportunity for prospective purchasers to live in something Ballina hasn't seen before.

"Ballina has everything Byron Bay has and more at half the price tag," Baker says, calling the area a "sleeping giant of opportunity that's just about to wake up."

"The focus in this region has always been on Byron Bay, but when people travel north or south, they realise the same lifestyle opportunities, with multiple beachside precincts, exist up and down the coastline."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144558 project_image_fid=264608]

<a href="/architects/c2-architecture">C2 Architecture</a>, whose concept embodies an iconic coastal aesthetic with architecture inspired by Palm Springs, is working with designer Mon Palmer of Bare Cabo design studio who has developed an interior scheme that emanates calm.

Marble features predominantly throughout the three-bedroom villas, with stone cladding, timber-look panels and white render on the exterior to create a cool coastal effect.

Hit-and-miss brickwork serves to protect the home from the heat while welcoming summer breezes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144558 project_image_fid=264613]

Baker says the project will suit the local downsizer market, those who have been on acreages in the region, as well as those from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane who are looking for the Byron Bay-style lifestyle.

Baker says a project of this calibre needs to have a location to match, which is why they settled on a prime site on Norton Street,&nbsp;a literal stone's throw from&nbsp; North Creek and just over a kilometre to Ballina Fair Shopping Centre.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144558 project_image_fid=261478]

Pacifico Property, who sold Omira's Asana <a href="/new-townhouses/byron-bay-nsw-2481">Byron Bay</a>, is marketing Mana, which is slated for completion in 2025.

One of the villas has already been snapped up pre-launch for $2.4 million, bought by a downsizer from Byron Bay.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144558]

Omira Property Group bring luxe villas to Ballina as Mana launches

The Sydney unit market continued to outperform house market growth in 2024, property data analytics firm CoreLogic found.

CoreLogic’s Monthly Hedonic Index showed the median value of units, which incorporates both townhouses and apartments, rose by 0.4 per cent in March to be one per cent up over 2024. Comparatively, house values rose 0.3 per cent in March to be 0.9 per cent up so far this year.&nbsp;

Sydney's median unit value is now at $839,000, compared to the median house value of $1,414,000.

March marked the 14th straight month of the house market upswing.&nbsp;Since declining -7.5 per cent between April 2022 and January 2023, the national home value index has increased 10.2 per cent, or, in dollar terms, by around $71,832, rising to new record highs each month since November last year.

<h2>What happened in Sydney's off the plan apartment market in March?</h2>

Sydney's off the plan apartment market could see an increased demand in 2024 as Sydneysiders grapple with the cost of living in the most expensive capital in the country, Charter Keck Cramer forecast.

The property advisory giant's Metro Sydney State of the Market H2 2023 said there is considered an enhanced opportunity for apartment projects to receive increased demand in the Harbour capital, given that buy-to-sell apartments represent the most affordable dwelling typology. They note however there needs to be an expectation recalibration due to budget constraints.

CKC believes the “cascade" effect will continue to play out in 2024. "The “cascade” effect can be described as the trade-off/s made by occupiers in terms of the type of housing, number of bedrooms, location, type of tenure and number of people per household," the report read, adding that the trade-offs are primarily driven by buy or rent price points and availability of stock."

However, while the "cascade" effect may influence some buyers to prioritise affordability, there is still a significant market segment interested in apartments at the higher end of the market. Revelling in the demand is Aqualand's <a href="/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a> and First Quadrant Properties recently launched Willoughby Grounds.

<a href="/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a> recorded over $100 million in sales in February at the North Sydney apartment development, set to be completed later this year. It was their biggest sales month to date, not including the month the project was launched in.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=253830]

Aqualand’s Head of Sales and Marketing, Alex Adams, said the figure represented the biggest jump in sales activity on any project he’d experienced.

“We’ve found potential buyers who had previously enquired, but weren’t quite ready to commit, have recently returned to the market. Those waiting to transact closer to the building’s completion have now seen its construction progress and have made the decision to buy,” Adams said.

Families continue to be the lead clientele, while the stabilising interest rates, and the ability to now see the product at the new display apartments, are also attracting more investors, who are showing more interest in their searches.&nbsp;

Recently, downsizers have also come back, with more four-bedroom sales at around $7 million.

“With the housing market stabilising, and even increasing, they now have confidence in selling their home. Also, with the interest rates steadying they can list their homes until they get the price they want."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/aura-by-aqualand-secures-record-100-million-in-sales-in-february">AURA by Aqualand secures record $100 million in sales in February</a>

It's been a similar story at&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/willoughby-grounds-5-walter-street-willoughby">Willoughby Grounds</a> on the Lower North Shore, where buyers have snapped up the largest apartments of all, which saw apartments amalgamated in the plans to create more of the larger scale homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=218392]

<a href="/project-marketer/link-project-marketing-0">LINK Project Marketing</a> Director Ben Hamblett says they've created something that fits a major gap in the market.

"Four-bedroom apartments don't exist in Willoughby, even in some of the other new developments. However there is a strong underlying demand for them," Hamblett says, adding that the only opportunity to buy four bedrooms is in the housing market, and that can cost upwards of $4 million.

Indeed since the launch of the project, which will be delivered in five stages housing a total of 160 apartments, reflective of the number of buildings there are in the mini-masterplan, over 20 per cent of the enquiry on Urban have been on the four-bedroom configurations, with a further 20 per cent on the large, 200 sqm three-bed apartments on offer.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/buyers-look-for-size-on-sydneys-lower-north-shore-as-large-apartments-snapped-up-at-willoughby-grounds">Buyers look for size on Sydney's Lower North Shore as large apartments snapped up at Willoughby Grounds</a>

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135512 project_image_fid=251218]

There's also been great success at&nbsp;<a href="/developers/podia">Podia</a>'s new luxury&nbsp;<a href="/developments/neutral-bay-nsw-2089">Neutral Bay</a> apartment development, <a href="/new-apartments/wirra-neutral-bay">Wirra</a>, where the penthouse sold for $13 million.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The size of the apartment, at 200 sqm, and the location of Wirra, on Ben Boyd Road next to Neutral Bay Village, were the two contributing factors for the local downsizing couple. The apartment has three bedrooms, four bathrooms, and parking for three cars.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/13-million-wirra-penthouse-sets-neutral-bay-off-the-plan-apartment-record">$13 million Wirra penthouse sets Neutral Bay off the plan apartment record</a>

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Luxury apartment developer <a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a>&nbsp;filed plans for their $50 million Bondi Beach site in March. They're planning seven luxury residences on the amalgamated 2,050 sqm site fronting Sandridge and Wilga streets.

At the top of the site fronting Sandridge Street, there will be two duplex-style homes above a turntable parking system which will offer each residence two parking spaces.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-exclusive-central-elements-ultra-luxe-bondi-beach-plans-revealed">First look exclusive: Central Element's ultra-luxe Bondi Beach plans revealed</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112253 project_image_fid=193246]

Sydney builder developer <a href="/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property Group</a> has also kicked off construction on the second stage of their Ashbury Terraces residential project in Sydney's inner west.&nbsp;

Ashbury Terraces, designed by acclaimed architects <a href="/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, will be a combination of 127 apartments and townhouses on a sprawling 16,500 sqm site on Milton Street in <a href="/developments/ashbury-nsw-2193">Ashbury</a>, complemented by a range of communal amenities, green spaces and landscaping by Daniel Baffsky of 360 Degrees.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112966 project_image_fid=213736]

Prominent Lower North Shore apartment developer <a href="/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen Group</a>&nbsp;appointed iCIRT-rated <a href="/developers/decode-group">Decode Group</a> as the builder for two of their upcoming residential developments in March.

They'll be building&nbsp;<a>The Villas</a> in Neutral Bay and <a>Northcote Collective</a> in Naremburn.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-villas-neutral-bay-7-11-premier-street-neutral-bay">The Villas</a>, located on Premier Street near Forsyth Park, is a five-level residential development comprising 18 spacious two and three-bedroom apartments, while&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/northcote-collective-naremburn-2-6-northcote-street-naremburn">Northcote Collective</a> will bring the first new residential project in <a href="/developments/naremburn-nsw-2065">Naremburn</a> for several years, offering 58 Rothelowman-designed apartments across a seven-storey and four-storey residential building.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112613 project_image_fid=231687]

<a href="/developers/thirdi-group">Third.i Group</a> has also appointed iCIRT-rated builder <a href="/builders/dilcara">Dilcara</a> as the builder for its boutique <a href="/developments/potts-point-nsw-2011">Potts Point</a> apartment development, <a href="/new-apartments/muse-potts-point-30-34-brougham-street-potts-point">Muse</a>.

Charter Keck Cramer believe that, with expected rate cuts, or at least rate retention, coupled with the introduction of Federal Government Stage 3 tax cuts, the outlook for the residential property market is expected to be more favourable by mid-2024.

What happened in Sydney's off the plan apartment market in March 

City Beat April 2024: Sydney unit growth continues to outstrip houses in 2024

Wahroonga is set for a rare new apartment development with the upcoming launch of The Residences, marking the first stage of the&nbsp;regeneration of a 64-hectare site on Sydney’s Upper North Shore.

Developer <a href="/developers/capital-corporation">Capital Corporation</a> has lifted the lid on the first opportunity in what will become a thriving new precinct in Wahroonga, with the first release of apartments coming soon.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=262185]

The Residences, the first new development in Wahroonga for several years, has been designed by&nbsp;international award-winning architects&nbsp;<a href="/architects/group-gsa">Group GSA</a>&nbsp;with interiors by&nbsp;<a href="/interior-designers/coco-republic-interior-design">Coco Republic</a>.

There are one, two and three-bedroom configurations on offer, catering to a wide range of buyers. The apartments have been designed to maximise views of the surrounding tree canopy and leafy ridgeline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=262184]

Floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors provide connection to the outdoors, whether it be a balcony or a garden courtyard. The one and two-bedroom apartments have one parking space, while the three-bedroom apartments have two.

The Residences will also have on-site amenities available, including a private pet-friendly "Green Spine" with exercise and relaxation zones, a BBQ pavilion, a dog wash bay, and a lounge equipped with a large boardroom-style table and kitchenette, ideal for remote work or social gatherings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=262186]

The location of The Residences on Fox Valley Road puts future residents near the vibrant villages of both <a href="/new-apartments/wahroonga-nsw-2076">Wahroonga</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/turramurra-nsw-2074">Turramurra</a>, in the heart of some of the best educational institutes in Sydney and&nbsp;and 100m to the renowned San Hospital.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135247]

Wahroonga welcomes rare new apartment development as The Residences approaches launch

Developer DM Property has appointed the reputable construction firm&nbsp;<a href="/developers/hamilton-marino">Hamilton Marino</a>&nbsp;to build its debut Geelong apartment development, Motif.&nbsp;

<a href="/new-apartments/motif-geelong-1-york-street-geelong-vic-3220">Motif</a> is <a href="/developers/dm-property">DM Property</a> and joint venture partner&nbsp;<a href="/developers/icon-developments">Icon Kajima</a>'s first apartment project on the Bellarine, representing <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a>'s first apartment launch in several years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136615 project_image_fid=241453]

DM and Icon Kajima has partnered with renowned architecture firm Rothelowman to design the five-level, 129-apartment building which is <a href="/news/vic/motif-geelong-apartments-race-to-60-sold">already over 60 per cent sold</a>.

Motif is fossil fuel-free, and the electricity consumption is offset by significant solar panelling, making it a 7-star NAThers-rated building.

The various configurations on offer and price points will appeal to everyone, from first home buyers, young professionals, downsizers, and investors, both local and interstate. Motif has already sold 60 per cent of its 129 apartments.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136615 project_image_fid=241456]

Ideally located at 1 York Street on the fringe of the CBD, Motif is just a stone's throw from Pakington Street's cafes, restaurants and bars, and the Little Malop Street precinct, home to The Geelong Library and Heritage Centre, the most striking piece of architecture in town, while all being one street away from the water.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/motifs-prime-position-on-the-fringe-of-the-heart-of-geelong">Motif's prime position on the fringe of the heart of Geelong</a>

Construction is expected to commence this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136615]

DM and Icon Kajima has partnered with renowned architecture firm Rothelowman to design the five-level, 129-apartment building which is already over 60 per cent sold.

DM Property appoint Hamilton Marino to build Motif Geelong apartments

Brisbane's unit market will not slow down.

CoreLogic's Monthly Hedonic Index showed growth in the apartment and townhouse market across the Queensland capital outstripped houses again, with value gains of 1.5 per cent in March.

The median unit value in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/brisbane-qld">Brisbane</a> is now at $587,000, continuing to close the gap on Melbourne, whose median unit value is $612,000.

Brisbane unit values are now 4.1 per cent up over 2024, the second best performing capital behind Perth. Comparatively, Brisbane houses are up 2.8 per cent over the same period.

<h2>What happened in Brisbane’s off-the-plan apartment market in March?</h2>

While prices continue to boom across the unit sector, there's still little new movement in Brisbane's tightly held new apartment supply.

Charter Keck Cramer says the Brisbane market will be <a href="/news/qld/brisbane-market-to-be-chronically-undersupplied-for-next-two-to-three-years-charter-keck-cramer">chronically undersupplied for the next two to three years</a>.&nbsp;

Charter Keck Cramer's Metro Brisbane State of the Market H2 2023 found there were just 1,100 apartments launched in 2023, -76 per cent less than the decade average, while low completions are forecast for the next three years.

They did note that recently launched projects are achieving strong sales results.

"These are priced predominantly at the upper end of the market and targeted towards those who can accept the higher price points required to offset increased build costs," the report noted.

They said other local buyer segments remain priced out of the market or are disincentivised to buy given the uncertainty with interest rates and the significant upfront financial handbrake of stamp duty.

<a href="/architects/urbis">Urbis</a> also noted that the stock levels in Brisbane have shrunk toward five-year lows.&nbsp;

The Urbis Apartment Essentials Report showed there were 112 sales in Q4 2023 in Brisbane, with the lowly stock levels resulting in just 512 apartments available to buy.&nbsp;

Supply has been dwindling since Q1 2023 when there were nearly 1,400 apartments on the market with around 500 of those being sold.

In response to strong demand at the upper end of the market,&nbsp;<a href="/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui</a>&nbsp;launched the Opulent Release in their penultimate stage of their $1.2 billion West End master planned precinct, West Village.

The Opulent Release comprises just four and five-bedroom apartments toward the top of the towers of Uno and Duo, which together form the <a href="/new-apartments/the-allere-collection-west-village-mollison-street-west-end">Allere Collection</a>, which comprises two towers, Uno and Duo.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/sekisui-release-final-apartments-in-west-villages-allere-collection">Sekisui release final apartments in West Village's Allere Collection</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204872]

Uno and Duo, which are 95 per cent sold, will be the second to last buildings in the 2.6-hectare West Village precinct which Sekisui started developing in 2016.

The appeal of the Allere Collection spans a diverse demographic, attracting first-home buyers, pet owners, and both young and established families.&nbsp;

The prime location on Mollison Street, close to seven schools, further enhances its allure among families seeking convenient access to education hubs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204843]

The broader West Village precinct also showcases the heritage-listed former Peters Ice Cream Factories, a nod to the area's industrial heritage.&nbsp;

Upon completion, West Village will comprise 1,200 residences, accompanied by 20,000 sqm of commercial space, an 18,000 sqm retail precinct, and a one-hectare expanse of open parklands and heritage laneways.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107029 project_image_fid=251119]

Elsewhere <a href="/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a> sold out their <a href="/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> apartment development, <a href="/new-apartments/the-prescott-by-mosaic-toowong-24-28-lissner-street-toowong">The Prescott</a>, with all 100 apartments snapped up before its completion.

The Prescott is Mosaic’s third project in Toowong following the successful <a href="/new-apartments/the-patterson-by-mosaic-15-archer-street-toowong">The Patterson by Mosaic</a> and <a href="/buildings/kensington-by-mosaic-36-sylvan-road-toowong">Kensington by Mosaic</a>.

Mosaic partnered with <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO</a>, their second collaboration following the rapid sellout of <a href="/buildings/the-mowbray-73-northcote-street-east-brisbane-qld-4169">The Mowbray</a> in <a href="/developments/east-brisbane-qld-4169">East Brisbane</a>. The architectural design incorporates cascading and climbing plants on each facade, creating green spines throughout The Prescott.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107029 project_image_fid=251124]

Prospective residents of The Prescott can anticipate a lifestyle that takes advantage of Brisbane's subtropical climate with rooftop recreation spaces that include a pool, a gym with a yoga lawn, and multiple dining areas with panoramic views of the Brisbane River, Mount Coot-Tha, and the city skyline.

Mosaic's building arm, <a href="/builders/mosaic-construction">Mosaic Construction</a>, has already completed the ground-level and level-two concrete slab pour in the last two months.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/how-mosaic-became-one-of-the-most-trusted-developers-in-south-east-queensland-five-minutes-with-brook-monahan">How Mosaic became one of the most trusted developers in South East Queensland: Five minutes with Brook Monahan</a>

What happened in Brisbane’s off the plan apartment market in March?

City Beat April 2024: Brisbane unit market outstrips house growth as boom continues

National apartment developer GURNER™ has submitted revised plans for its $800 million Barangaroo apartment development.

The plans – a modification to the existing approved scheme – will be mostly focused on the internal design to deliver a high-end vision aimed at owner-occupiers, including more three-bedroom residences, a reduction in apartments from 125 to 91, and an increased focus on health and wellness amenities and resident services akin to the best hotels in the world.

The revised scheme will take all the learnings from GURNER™'s Saint Moritz and Hawksburn Place, both of which set a new benchmark for high-end living in Melbourne, and bring it to the Sydney market at the landmark harbour site.

The new vision includes a strong focus on high-end amenity and service, more of which will be revealed closer to launch in mid-2025.

The crown jewel of the new scheme will be an opulent 400 sqm, double-level penthouse that will afford unrivalled views across Sydney Harbour.

At the ground floor, 189 Kent Street will feature a new restaurant and bar, and large lobbies for residents. This will come with further resident-focused services like a concierge, butler, prestige car share, and on-site health and wellness practitioners.

Most of the three and four-bedroom residences will be full-floor apartments of circa 250 sqm, with private lift access and outdoor terraces, affording panoramic views of the CBD skyline and across Sydney Harbour.

The building is designed by FJC Studio, which won an international design competition to lead the architecture.

Tim Gurner called the Kent Street site "one of Australia's most important sites."

"We are very focused on bringing our signature high-end residences to the location, where owners can live their ultimate life with unsurpassed views of the harbour.

“We get many enquiries from Sydney residents wanting us to bring the prestige, amenity and service of Saint Moritz to Sydney, and that is exactly what we will be doing.

“The building is now fully focused on owner-occupiers, with large two, three and four-bedroom options that are almost all full-floor residences, with direct access lifts, incredible views and very high security."

Gurner said they know the&nbsp;appetite is there for larger floorplans, particularly if they’re full-level, for wealthy downsizers and right-sizers, high net-worth individuals and international buyers, who are flooding back into the Australian market.

Tim Gurner called the Kent Street site "one of Australia's most important sites."

Gurner revises luxury Barangaroo apartment tower plans

Tim Gurner's&nbsp;GURNER™&nbsp;has put its foot on the accelerator in Australia's property market.

For years Gurner was well known for his high-end, boutique apartment developments dotted across some of Melbourne's coolest suburbs, as well as wellness facilities only accessible by Melbourne's elite.

Now the developer, with a development pipeline well into the billions of dollars, is operating across four states, with key, game-changing projects in both his native Melbourne as well as in Adelaide, Sydney and the Gold Coast. There's even a hotel-like project in Port Douglas in the mix.

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Tim Gurner says they have strong convictions in the Melbourne market, as well as Australia more broadly.

"Record-low supply continues to strain the market and isn’t showing any sign of improving any time soon," Gurner says.

"Meanwhile, demand is soaring, and planning issues, government inaction and record population growth have stretched supply even further.

"Governments Australia-wide simply must take more action to unlock housing supply, starting with bringing back stamp duty exemptions and encouraging foreign buyers back into the market. If there’s no action, this problem is going to become an inter-generational issue."

While Gurner's boutique arm will aim to deliver six to eight small-scale, luxury developments per year, it's Gurner's city-shaping projects which are catching the eye. It's these projects that Gurner says&nbsp;are the only real solutions to the current supply issues.

"We need more residences that meet different sectors of the market from short and long-term rentals through to build-to-rent offerings, alongside quality build-to-sell housing stock that’s anchored with true mixed-use offerings to create community and place-making, so that we can not only cater to record-high demand but create new cities that look to the future needs of those who live here&nbsp;

"The fundamental problem facing most capital cities is that it’s extremely challenging to deliver new supply – this is pushing prices up, having a knock-on effect of higher rents and resulting in record-low vacancy rates across most of the country."

We're going to take a look at every major development Gurner has across the country.

<h2>Location: Docklands, Melbourne</h2>

<h2>Project: Elysium Fields</h2>

<h3>Address: 208-226 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands</h3>

GURNER™ has recently submitted plans for the first stage of its <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a> mega-project, Elysium Fields.

Elysium Fields aims to create a biosphere-like environment integrating advanced wellness principles, including access to anti-ageing treatments, a medical clinic, and various wellness facilities.&nbsp;

At Elysium Fields, residents will have access to advanced anti-ageing protocols and equipment like cryotherapy, IV infusions, dry and infrared sauna, red light therapy, grounding and PEMF beds, alongside access to visit the Elysian Reverse Ageing Medical Clinic that will provide medical-grade treatments including MRIs, DEXA scans, brain scans, blood testing and personalised health plans.&nbsp;

<img alt="Elysium Fields" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="05c466f8-85bc-4d6e-96f8-2dedf5a67b1a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E04%20-%20Central%20Pier_DJI_0696_Crop2.jpg?VersionId=5a6lYbxVKXPEt2h5Z2byWCcWKbYn2i6a" />

The 27,000 sqm site precinct will include over 1,350 BTR and BTS apartments, a retail and hospitality precinct, a 4-star short-stay hotel of circa 100 keys and another premier 5-star hotel in the main tower of over 250 keys, with state-of-the-art conference facilities, a business club and hospitality offerings.&nbsp;

The residential units, hotels, and retail spaces will sit amongst 3,700 sqm of much-needed immersive public landscapes and gardens, including a landscaped pedestrian-focused ‘path of life’ that runs the entirety of the north-south ground floor/podium plane that will be designed for running track, Yoga, meditation, training, exercise and recovery, alongside a rooftop sports court, a private wellness club, a pool club and 5,000 sqm of retail, dining and public realm amenity.&nbsp;

The <a href="/architects/fraser-partners">Fraser &amp; Partners</a>-designed precinct will also feature its very own botanical gardens, be geared for a 24/7, interactive retail, &nbsp;dining and entertainment experience, and include a stunning, futuristic glass dome over the site, &nbsp;modelled on the concept of Elysium being the utopian afterlife. &nbsp;

The first stage of Elysium Fields comprises three towers, with plans to launch the first tower in Q3 of the year.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/gurner-submits-plans-for-first-stage-of-1-7-billion-docklands-precinct-elysium-fields">GURNER submits plans for first stage of $1.7 billion Docklands precinct, Elysium Fields</a>

<h2>Location: St Kilda Road, Melbourne</h2>

<h2>Address: 424-426 St Kilda Road, Melbourne</h2>

GURNER™'s St Kilda Road project is gathering momentum. Recently it was announced&nbsp;Chicago-based, international architecture firm SOM, would design the $800 million mixed-use project facing Albert Park.

SOM, who designed&nbsp;the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the One World Trade Centre in New York, has put pen to paper for around 200 apartments across 19 levels, with a focus on large two to four-bedroom apartments alongside retail spaces, food and beverage outlets, and extensive wellness amenities.

<img alt="424-426 St Kilda Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a89aabfc-4493-4613-bba4-fbf91060d327" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/424-426%20St%20Kilda%20Road.png?VersionId=Q9mfkBWwcXsKIWVG18Pm1n5RUu1O0XVv" />

The 4651 sqm corner site at&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/illoura-house-424-426-st-kilda-road-melbourne">424-426 St Kilda Road</a> – which boasts three frontages on the corner of St Kilda Road, Toorak Road and Queens Lane – will offer uninterrupted views over the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain precinct and Albert Park Lake.

Once complete, the project will boast walkability to Anzac Station, Albert Park Lake, the Royal Botanic Gardens and Fawkner Park, and be close to South Yarra’s retail and dining precinct.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/burj-khalifa-one-world-trade-centre-architect-to-design-gurners-latest-melbourne-apartment-development">Burj Khalifa, One World Trade Centre architect to design Gurner's latest Melbourne apartment development</a>

<h2>Location: Adelaide</h2>

<h2>Address: 237 Grote Street, Adelaide</h2>

GURNER™ announced itself into the <a href="/developments/adelaide-sa">Adelaide</a> market late last year, teaming up Kennards Self Storage to propose plans for a $1 billion mixed-use precinct to&nbsp;redevelop Adelaide's former Australia Post site.

The proposed plans, designed by long-time GURNER™ collaborator&nbsp;<a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a>, the huge precinct will deliver a new lifestyle destination for Adelaide. It will feature a five-star hotel, 600 apartments, extensive retail, food &amp; beverage, wellness and recreation spaces, and a work club.

<img alt="237 Grote Street, Adelaide" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8b958e2-67f6-41d4-aa0f-e4e28bbb4d43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/237%20Grote%20Street%20Adelaide.png?VersionId=Ept8o7LrFYr3CevlI0rFpK4wrDINqUgS" />

In keeping with the Greener by GURNER™ vision, the development features an environmentally sustainable design to target a 5 Star Green Star Building certification, an inset energy network and a net-zero energy emissions outcome. With low cost, 100 per cent renewable energy available, and an all-electric precinct, the development is set to be carbon neutral in operation.

The inclusion of self-storage space alongside the GURNER™ residences is a unique point of difference, particularly for downsizers looking to make a move to a new apartment residence from a large, furnished family home.

<h2>Location: Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast</h2>

<h2>Project: La Pelago</h2>

<h3>Address: 108 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217</h3>

Gurner's debut Gold Coast project, La Pelago, will be one of the largest projects ever completed on the Gold Coast.

The $1.7 billion development, being developed in a joint venture with&nbsp;<a href="/developers/wingate">Wingate</a>&nbsp;comprises four towers on Ferny Avenue.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108339 project_image_fid=206588]

The Resort Residences is the first stage available in the masterplan, located in the first 28 storeys of the project’s first tower, <a href="/new-apartments/aquia-la-pelago-108-ferny-avenue-surfers-paradise">Aquia</a>, which will soar 65 levels and have a total end value of $1 billion.

The Resort Residences have a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from $525,000 up to $1.8 million, ranging in size from 60 sqm to 200 sqm.

Aquia boasts an exclusive private wellness club, the three-level resort-style podium deck with its ‘private island’ Archipelago of pools, lagoons and relaxation areas, and direct access to a signature restaurant, bars and cafes located throughout the tower and on ground level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108339 project_image_fid=206593]

After the overwhelming demand for stage one, GURNER™ is gearing up for the new release of Crystal Club, an exclusive collection of luxury residences from floors 44 to 63.

La Pelago, inspired by some of the world’s most exclusive private Archipelago resorts, has been imagined as a series of island precincts among a vast expanse of lagoon pools, with private bookable lounges and private dining areas, cabanas, sundecks, swim-up bars, restaurants and soaring mature palm trees over a three-level resort podium.

<h2>Location: Geelong</h2>

<h2>Address: 20-28 Brougham Street, Geelong</h2>

GURNER™ is also debuting in Victoria's second-largest city, having acquired a prime 2100 sqm parcel site at 20-28 Brougham Street, 300 metres from the Geelong Waterfront.

Gurner enters the&nbsp;<a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a>&nbsp;market with a $300 million sustainable mixed-use precinct designed by <a href="/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, featuring an activated ground plane, a hotel and urban gardens, and residential apartments above the hotel.

<img alt="20-28 Brougham Street, Geelong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2a195dd4-df28-4187-a3c1-6bcf40ffe562" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/20-28%20Brougham%20Street%2C%20Geelong.jpg?VersionId=pXCqhLwgFOSA4V5yTy0LC9XMXXuz9RlK" />

“We will be bringing an incredible 5-star hotel to this location that will feature a retail and hospitality offering at the ground floor that will be reminiscent of Chelsea Market in New York," Gurner says.

“Sitting on top of the hotel will be a collection of large luxury owner-occupier residences for locals and downsizers."

Gurner has teamed up with the local property identity Dean Montgomery to restore the heritage façade of the historic four-storey, red brick building on site to house a new ground-floor food and beverage precinct.

The building will be fully carbon neutral, and will offer an environmental point of difference not seen in Australia to date.

<h2>Location: Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast</h2>

<h2>Address: 1929 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads</h2>

Gurner has an approved project in <a href="/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a> which will be his second project in the&nbsp;<a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> after La Pelago.

In partnership with&nbsp;<a href="/developers/maxcap-group">MaxCap Group</a>, the $150 million development will be more boutique, with just 55 apartments across an 18-level buildiing on the Gold Coast Highway.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111880 project_image_fid=200329]

The rooftop will be landscaped with a deck and a pool.

Designed by Warren and Mahoney in collaboration with GURNER™’s in-house design studio, the development integrates Singaporean landscaped oasis elements with elegant Japanese interior design.

Gurner is expected to launch the project in 2024.

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>Location: South Yarra</h2>

<h2>Project: Jam Factory</h2>

<h2>Address: 500 Chapel Street, South Yarra, VIC 3141</h2>

Gurner's&nbsp;once-in-a-generation plan to transform Chapel Street’s Jam Factory into a world-class retail, residential, hotel and commercial precinct will form the cornerstone of Chapel Street's future renaissance.

The five-tower redevelopment, another joint venture with Newmark Capital and Qualitas, will deliver 18,500 sqm of new retail space, 20,000 sqm of commercial office and 400 residences across 42,020 sqm of residential space, alongside a 5-star 200-room hotel, a cinema upgrade, and a new public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5351 project_image_fid=23488]

The redevelopment, signed off by the City of Stonnington in 2022, will inject more than $800 million into the Victorian economy annually, in addition to $500 million in construction alone. Workers and residents are expected to spend more than $28 million at the precinct annually, while hotel guests will bring in over $12 million every year.

“We’ve been working closely with the project team, as well as council, to deliver something truly world-class – the redevelopment will put Chapel Street back on the map, not only as a retail hub, but as a luxury travel and lifestyle destination as well,” Gurner said.

<h2>Location: Barangaroo</h2>

<h2>Address: 189 Kent Street, Barangaroo</h2>

Gurner's $800 million Barangaroo project will sit among some of the country's most expensive apartments.

With Lendlease's One Sydney Harbour starting to settle, eyes will look toward Gurner's project which was secured from&nbsp;Greg Shand's <a href="/developers/barana-group">Barana Group</a>&nbsp;last year.

The project marks the first capital deployment within Gurner's $2 billion Build-to-Sell development fund, backed by a global institutional investor.

<img alt="189 Kent Street, Barangaroo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="602a34ae-4927-4c14-88ee-b3c22465349c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/189%20Kent%20Street%2C%20Barangaroo.png?VersionId=8D4wz0Q36dY9C19UuGhBmJLroX9kVt3P" />

The 1,195 sqm site at 189 Kent Street, adjacent to <a href="/developments/barangaroo-nsw-2000">Barangaroo</a>, received planning approval for two residential towers, ground-floor retail, restaurants, bars, a health and wellness component, and basement parking.

The site currently houses a commercial office tower with existing tenancies. GURNER™ plans to hold these tenancies until lease completion, following which it will commence residential development.

Award-winning architect <a href="/architects/fjc-studio">FJC Studio</a> has been appointed as architect, having won a competitive design competition between local and international architects.

<h2>Location: Port Douglas</h2>

<h2>&nbsp;Project: The Davidson by GURNER™</h2>

<h3>Address: 97-113 Davidson Street, Port Douglas QLD 4877</h3>

Last year Gurner revealed plans for a mixed-use hotel and residential villa development on Davidson Street in <a href="/developments/port-douglas-qld-4877">Port Douglas</a>, just behind the Sheraton Mirage.

GURNER™ had local architecture firm <a href="/architects/hunt-design">Hunt Design</a> create what is called <a href="/new-townhouses/the-davidson-by-gurner-97-113-davidson-street-port-douglas">The Davidson by GURNER™</a>. The application reveals the central pool as the focal point of the development.

Around the pool will be a kids club, with a play area and a separate pool, a treatment space, a yoga room, a lounge, a cafe, and a separate restaurant and dining space.

<img alt="The Davidson by GURNER™" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="85ff223c-a368-4779-b2da-2e55ae2afebd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Davidson%20by%20Gurner.png?VersionId=JmFKhH5zRcb6nJpDxMr4gBg9ICVPcoaM" />

Flanking the pool will be a 107-room hotel, a mix of Garden Suites and Poolside Suites. The ground-floor Garden Suites have private access to another pool, exclusively for guests. Each Garden Suite room is 40 sqm, with a further 14 sqm of balcony space. The Poolside Suites are a touch larger. The low-rise hotel will also be home to a sky bar on level three.

45 two-level private villas then complete the resort-style development, on blocks ranging in size from 155 sqm to 470 sqm.&nbsp;

Hunt Design describes The Davidson by GURNER™ as a new benchmark for luxury travel, reminiscent of a Beach Club experience. The project reflects a trend in the tourism industry towards mixed-use developments that offer a range of accommodation types, including private homes.&nbsp;

"The real solution to the current supply issues": How Tim Gurner is solving Australia's dwindling housing supply

Builder developer DASCO has secured one of the most anticipated developments in Sydney's inner east.

The <a href="/builders/dasco-australia">iCIRT-rated builder</a> has secured a 1.7-hectare site at <a href="/new-apartments/danks-st-district-903-921-bourke-street-waterloo-nsw-2017">903-921 Bourke Street</a>, a former industrial site on the corner of Bourke, McEvoy and Young streets, which was sold with development approval for Young Street Village, a new mixed-use precinct with 376 apartments and retail and commercial spaces.

DASCO&nbsp;General Manager Michel Najjar said the company is acutely aware of the city’s chronic housing shortage.

"This is an opportunity to deliver a landmark lifestyle community that benefits from the highly desirable Redfern and Surry Hills villages that will be extremely popular with owner-occupiers, investors and tenants.”

The plans had been submitted by the Melbourne-based developer Dahua Group in early 2022, with approval from the City of Sydney Council coming just over a year ago.

The six buildings, four of which will be new and two heritage-listed buildings which will be restored, will be focused around a central plaza with retail space and new parks.

<a href="/new-apartments/danks-st-district-903-921-bourke-street-waterloo-nsw-2017"><img alt="Dahua's $220 million Waterloo apartment precinct plans" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-02-02_at_8.46.27_am.png" /></a>

Two buildings will flank Bourke Street, one being the tallest tower proposed. Described as a stepped tower with family-targeted terraces which address the park, the building will have 147 apartments across its 20 levels.

Next door will be a six-storey plaza building with 26 apartments, defined as "quirky" by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/bates-smart" target="">Bates Smart</a>&nbsp;and Richards and Spence, who worked in collaboration on the tower and the plaza.

"The quirky 6-storey plaza building defines the heritage square, with clear reference to the industrial brick buildings of the past," the design statement as part of the development submission noted.

There will be a further two buildings facing Young Street, designed by architect Fieldwork&nbsp;in collaboration with MHNDU. They will have a combined 202&nbsp;apartments, taking the total number of apartments across the precinct to 375 apartments.

<a href="/new-apartments/danks-st-district-903-921-bourke-street-waterloo-nsw-2017"><img alt="Dahua's $220 million Waterloo apartment precinct plans" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-02-02_at_8.01.25_am.png" /></a>

At the foot of the two Young St buildings will be fit-out for another cafe or restaurant.

Two heritage buildings in the centre of the site will be retained, the 1922 Pumping Station and the 1935 Valve House.

"The Pumphouse is a convergence of geology and water, tracks and narratives, indigenous and non-indigenous peoples and cultures across the site," further documentation noted.

"It sees the transformation of a disused water precinct into a rich, active mixed-use proposition - where water continues to play an important role in recasting the identity of the precinct.

<a href="/new-apartments/danks-st-district-903-921-bourke-street-waterloo-nsw-2017"><img alt="Dahua's $220 million Waterloo apartment precinct plans" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-02-02_at_8.02.32_am.png" /></a>

"At the heart of the proposal is a green oasis and oculus connection between a public ground plane, and a semi-public landscape terrace that serves the precincts residents.

"This oculus is designed to be populated on the ground plane with lively hospitality dining, and a visual connection back to the site’s heritage plaza."

DASCO's co-director, Daniel Nicolas, acknowledged the city’s housing crisis and the desperate need for a stronger pipeline of projects that will help alleviate rapidly increasing rents and provide a greater diversity of housing within the inner city.

“Research shows inner-city approvals have plummeted to record low levels in recent years and new project releases and completions have also stalled,” Nicolas said.

“All the metrics indicate there is a dire problem with low vacancy rates and soaring rents. Net overseas migration figures have returned to pre-COVID levels and the demand for quality residential living, particularly in this location, remains as high as ever from students, singles, couples and young families.

“With fewer development sites of this scale and calibre available in prime and prestigious locations, we see this as an essential opportunity for us to deliver an impressive legacy project.”

There were 2020 plans submitted by Dahua that would have seen higher density towers built, with 469 apartments across four buildings.

Exclusive: DASCO secure Waterloo mixed-use development from Dahua Group

For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

Joel Robinson

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