BLVD is the newest address in Melbourne's cultural Southbank hub.

It's the latest stage of OSK Property's $2.8 billion masterplan, Melbourne Square, which is becoming one of the most impressive precincts ever developed in the Victorian capital.

With everything going on at Melbourne Square, Apartments.com.au CEO Mike Bird recently caught up with OSK Property Business Development Manager Michael Koschar in their recently opened display suite to discuss Melbourne Square, and BLVD, in more detail.

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Koschar says the project has been getting attention since day one.

"It's a massive site of huge importance, not only for us, but also the council and the City of Melbourne," Koschar says.

"Anytime you developer such a large site in the aerts precinct of a city, it's going to get a little bit of attention, and certainly it was no different for us selling our stage one."

Koschar says as a developer it was extremely important that they found a large enough site that enabled them to buildessentially a city within a city, not just a singular site where they put up one tower with limited space and amenity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The amenity and community has been a big drawcard for buyers, with Koschar suggesting a car just isn't needed at Melbourne Square.

"You can walk to almost anywhere you need to&nbsp;get to," Koschar says.

"Here we've got the two-storey Woolworths downstairs under our stage one, we've got a Nido&nbsp;Child Care which is also a huge benefit for locals that live around here. They can&nbsp;drop the kids off and perhaps take the tram into the city to get to work, so we're seeing a huge&nbsp;change in how people are living and how they're choosing to live in this area."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=211870]

While the amenity is plentiful outside the building, BLVD in particular is set to bring facilities which are more commonly seen in high-end resorts.

There's a level eight podium with a gym, 25-metre swimming pool, spa and sauna, as well as a zen garden with alfresco dining and barbecue facilities.

Cleverly taking advantage of how tall BLVD will be, OSK Property had COX Architecture locate some of the amenity as high up the building as possible.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214126]&nbsp;

The 55th level is occupied by&nbsp; the Horizon dining rooms with unbeatable views over Melbourne. On the 55th and 56th floors is the Co-Quarter co-working space with a choice of meeting rooms, individual pods, lounge and break-out area to work from whilst enjoying inspiring views over the bay.

Also on level 55 is the Skye Club for the exclusive use of premium residences located on levels 56 and above. Here you’ll find a luxurious lounge with cocktail bar, a private dining room and another gym.&nbsp;

There's also a golf simulator, cinema room, and even a karaoke room.

The lifestyle&nbsp;factor at BLVD, paired with the approach to sustainability within the apartments, see OSK Property push for&nbsp;WELL pre-Certification for healthy living. BLVD would be the first residential project in Australia to secure the certification.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

With everything going on at Melbourne Square, Urban.com.au CEO Mike Bird recently caught up with OSK Property Business Development Manager Michael Koschar to discuss BLVD in more detail.

Joel Robinson

Everything a buyer needs to know about buying a BLVD, Melbourne Square apartment: Five minutes with OSK Property's Michael Koschar

Central Park is one of the most picturesque spots in Malvern East.

The 19-acre park, which has been the heart of the affluent suburb since 1908, is bordered by just three streets, which makes <a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a>, the new collection of just seven apartments facing the gardens, an incredibly rare opportunity.

<a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a> is the first development by the newly minted Abadeen Victoria, which is being led by developer and former CBRE executive Andrew Leoncelli. Abadeen Property Group is an established developer of luxury apartments in Sydney's North Shore.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141969 project_image_fid=222388]

<a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a>&nbsp;has been designed by Ewert Leaf to maximise the garden atmosphere in Malvern East.

Ewert Leaf Managing Partner Will Leaf says <a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a> manifests a new direction of contemporary boutique living in coveted Malvern East.

"The&nbsp;stoic, enduring form unites with a textural palette, combining textural brickwork, layered concrete planes, and sleek metalwork," Leaf says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141969 project_image_fid=222392]

Sustainability and responsibility to the environment were key considerations in the design phase of&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a>, which is aiming to achieve a minimum 6.5-Star Green Energy Rating. The apartments feature double glazing, concrete walls and floors, limited gas usage, rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and provision for future electric vehicle battery storage in the basement.

There are three garden terraces in the building expertly designed by John Patrick and Associates to create an indoor outdoor living environment. The front&nbsp;garden beds are planted with Pine Oak trees, while rows of fragrant magnolias grace the&nbsp;boundaries.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141969 project_image_fid=222404]

The project is ideally located just a stroll from the vibrant Malvern East village.

Jellis&nbsp;Craig&nbsp;Projects Director&nbsp;Stephen&nbsp;Bowtell says the project epitomises everything people love about Malvern East.

"Malvern East is all about nature, and <a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a> reflects that," Bowtell says.

"It's such a rare proposition in this pocket for there to be a new development, particularly one of this calibre."

Bowtell expects a lot of interest to come from locals, many of whom either live near the park or visit it frequently. He's launching the project next weekend, November 18 and 19, at the Jellis Craig Armadale office at 1215 High St, Armadale where he will give private appointments a full insight of the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141969 project_image_fid=222396]

Leoncelli says <a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a> is the culmination of many years of experience working in this community. He says to have secured a site directly opposite Central Park, one of the very final sites in Malvern East, is a phenomenal opportunity.&nbsp;

"It's an amazing community hub at your doorstep and where we are opposite Central Park Road, which is one of the best in all of the Gascoigne Estate, is one of the last opportunities to secure a park fronted luxury residence, and we are very excited to be bringing this to the market."

Leoncelli is no stranger to Burke Road. He's developed on the street before, further north in Camberwell. That project, Victoria &amp; Burke, secured record-setting penthouse sales at $5.5 million each.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141969]

<ul>
</ul>

The luxury apartments, which start from $2.5 million, have been designed by Ewert Leaf to maximise the garden atmosphere in Malvern East

Live parkside in Malvern East: Abadeen Victoria reveal luxury Maléa apartments on Central Park

The <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> has experienced a dramatic uptick in apartment sales in positive signs for a market further constrained by supply due to rising construction costs, new data from Urbis has found.

Apartment sales rose to 470 over the third quarter of 2023, from just the 200 registered in the previous quarter.

Urbis Director Paul Riga said&nbsp;the majority of sales were centred around the traditional apartment precincts of <a href="/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise</a>, <a href="/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> and <a href="/developments/main-beach-qld-4217">Main Beach</a> – while the remainder of sales along the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> were limited due to a lack of new projects.

<img alt="Urbis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13951573-f5ee-4e87-bc64-12af4c85fcf4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-10%20at%2010.40.33%20am.png?VersionId=MOu7KN7wEcP9gEWNMXeWgj0BvedzYnp9" />

“What the data tells us quite simply is that the demand for apartments has remained strong, with new developments harnessing the purchasers,” Riga said.

“This is great for the property market, underpins property prices but creates further problems with supply – meaning if new projects don’t get underway the supply will continue to diminish.”

Urbis noted a new trend, with three projects that were developed to be build to rent, switching to build to sell. One building went in the other direction.

There were five new project launches during Q3 2023, four in <a href="/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> and <a href="/developments/main-beach-qld-4217">Main Beach</a>.

There were&nbsp;1,770 apartments remaining for sale at the end of September – 82 per cent of which are in <a href="/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise</a>, <a href="/developments/main-beach-qld-4217">Main Beach</a> and <a href="/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a>.

The Gold Coast's north shore, coastal fringe, and southern beaches precinct all have&nbsp;limited supply, with just 264 apartments remaining for sale.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108324 project_image_fid=232460]

Highland CEO David Highland, whose Sydney-based company has expanded its operations to the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> and is marketing one of the city’s key apartment projects, <a href="/new-apartments/coast-surfers-paradise-43-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise">Sammut Group’s Coast apartments</a> under construction on Garfield Terrace at <a href="/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise</a>, said the data underpinned the resilience of the market.

“What this shows us is that demand for the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> has not diminished since the boom times brought about after the Covid pandemic,” Highland said.

“We are still seeing very strong interest from Sydneysiders keen to either move to the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> or at least take a stake in the Gold Coast’s future by purchasing an apartment here.

“The problem is that unless construction costs stabilise there may not be the stock required to meet demand, so buyers getting into the market now are in an enviable position where there may be considerable upside in the value of their apartments.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=204484]

Highland said the current inflationary pressures and construction costs were drawing buyers to quality developers which had the capacity to deliver.

“Projects under construction or with a builder locked in are certainly at a distinct advantage in the eyes of buyers. There’s a flight to quality – people want certainty in an uncertain environment where we don’t know where prices are going to."

Highland said it is encouraging&nbsp;people to get into the market sooner rather than later and it is perhaps why there has been an uptick in sales in the third quarter.

“We expect this will continue as we head into the peak selling periods for apartments over Christmas and New Year where hundreds of thousands of people will be holidaying on the Gold Coast and inspecting property.”

Apartment sales rose to 470 over the third quarter of 2023, from just the 200 registered in the previous quarter

Gold Coast apartment sales jump in Q3 2023: Urbis

Melbourne's inner-city suburb Caulfield is best known for its famed racecourse, which has served punters since opening its door way back in 1876.

But the area, south-east of the city, is officially split up into four separate suburbs, <a href="/developments/caulfield-vic-3162">Caulfield</a>, <a href="/developments/caulfield-north-vic-3161">Caulfield North</a>, Caulfield South, and Caulfield East. No Caulfield West unusually.

There's no obvious point in time when or why it was decided Caulfield would have a number of different suburbs, rather just the changing of planning and urban development in Melbourne over the last two centuries has seen it so.

The track, home to the Caulfield Cup, one of the biggest Group I races on the calendar, is located in Caulfield East, which is the least populated suburb of the Caulfield's due to the size of the suburb, and the fact the racecourse covers nearly two thirds of the whole suburb. The Caulfield train station also sits in Caulfield East, as does Monash University Caulfield Campus.

<a href="/developments/caulfield-north-vic-3161">Caulfield North</a> is the largest suburb at 4.2 square kilometres, with over 16,000 calling it home. <a href="/developments/caulfield-north-vic-3161">Caulfield North</a> has Hawthorn Road dissecting it, bringing both connectivity through public transport and amenity. Caulfield Park and playground draws families to the suburb. Over 50 per cent of the population have at least one child, according to the latest ABS census data.&nbsp;

<img alt="Caulfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bee3085b-73ea-4290-9475-86387d6cd568" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-10%20at%209.48.13%20am.png?VersionId=GAKgPhe0WAgCkhkxs1FHzxvdpzbPJg.D" />

Caulfield has the biggest split of apartments in the dwelling count, nearly 40 per cent of the suburb.

Only 20 per cent of <a href="/developments/caulfield-north-vic-3161">Caulfield North</a> is apartments. Caulfield and <a href="/developments/caulfield-north-vic-3161">Caulfield North</a> is split by&nbsp;Glen Eira Road. Hawthorn Road continues to run through the suburb, where there's also the Caulfield Hospital. Caulfield has just under 6,000 residents.

Caulfield South has over 12,000 residents. It has the least number of apartments, just 14 per cent of the suburb. It is also the most dominated by families, namely due to the Caulfield South Primary School and the popular Princes Park.

The domination of family homes across the <a href="/developments/caulfield-vic-3162">Caulfield</a> suburbs has proven difficult for developers to acquire land to create an apartment building.

Some developers have managed it however, and are reaping rewards as they're bringing something to the suburbs which don't often see too much in the way of new development.

We've wrapped up the top three apartment developments for sale in Caulfield, <a href="/developments/caulfield-north-vic-3161">Caulfield North</a>, Caulfield South in November 2023.

<h1>Project: Caulfield Rise</h1>

<h1>Address: 649 Glen Huntly Road, Caulfield VIC 3162</h1>

<h1>Prices: From $750,000</h1>

Circa Property Group recently launched <a href="/new-apartments/caulfield-rise-649-glen-huntly-road-caulfield">Caulfield Rise</a>, a six-level building with 47 two and three-bedroom apartments.

Prior to the launch last month, 60 per cent of the apartments were snapped up, given the rare opportunity to buy into the Caulfield market.

Designed by Ewert Leaf, <a href="/new-apartments/caulfield-rise-649-glen-huntly-road-caulfield">Caulfield Rise</a> incorporates light brickwork, timber-toned soffits, and abundant, lush balcony plantings, creating a seamlessly integrated look with the streetscape. The charcoal metalwork and vertical modules infuse a contemporary flair and enhance the building's facade.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136400 project_image_fid=218694]

Upon entry, a designated key drop area welcomes residents with marble and wood elements, providing space for artwork or a mirror. The layout offers spaciousness, accentuated by floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the interiors with natural light. Generous balcony and terrace areas offer views of the city and the bay.

The kitchens centred around an island bench, are well-appointed by Miele appliances and are finished with elegant timber and natural stone surfaces. Each bedroom features full-height, double-glazed windows for abundant natural light with a mid-century touch.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136400 project_image_fid=218708]

Residents can access communal amenities that include a barbecue and a landscaped garden terrace offering extensive views of Melbourne.

<a href="/new-apartments/caulfield-rise-649-glen-huntly-road-caulfield">Caulfield Rise</a> offers convenient access to Coles Elsternwick, Hopetoun Garden, and dining and coffee options such as Vegi and Coffee Lover Pty Ltd, Next of Kin and Bep Viet.&nbsp;

<h1>Project: Wanda Terraces</h1>

<h1>Address: 14-16 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield North VIC 3161</h1>

<h1>Prices: From $1,035,000</h1>

Inspired by the heritage and distinct character of <a href="/developments/caulfield-north-vic-3161">Caulfield North's tree-lined streets</a>, Platinum's <a href="/new-apartments/wanda-terraces-caulfield-north-14-16-hawthorn-rd-caulfield-north">Wanda Terraces</a> is set to offer timeless architecture and interiors along with verdant landscaping and a range of amenities.

<a href="/new-apartments/wanda-terraces-caulfield-north-14-16-hawthorn-rd-caulfield-north">Wanda Terraces</a> comprises 24 two- and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 90 to 262 square meters, each with two bathrooms and two secure parking spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112388 project_image_fid=208642]

Designed by the award-winning Ewert Leaf, the spacious apartments showcase pale oak flooring, textured stone surfaces, and bespoke detailing with cutting-edge home technology, such as biometric finger access and an app-enabled video intercom.&nbsp;

The open living spaces, designer kitchens, and dining areas open into expansive private ground-floor courtyards or elevated terraces. The upper balconies overlook established gardens and the lush expanse of Caulfield Park.

<a href="/new-apartments/wanda-terraces-caulfield-north-14-16-hawthorn-rd-caulfield-north">Wanda Terraces</a> also feature modern amenities such as electronic parcel lockers, electric car charging stations, number plate recognition systems, and car and dog washing facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112388 project_image_fid=208648]

A five-minute drive north of the property, residents can find Malvern Central, Glenferrie Road Shopping Precinct, and High Street Shopping Village.&nbsp;

To the south of the property, along Hawthorn Road and Balaclava Road intersection is Caulfield Park, the North Caulfield Medical Centre, and various international cuisine restaurants, bakeries, and cafes.

With a tram stop at the property's doorstep and Malvern Train Station just 500 metres away, a commute of eight kilometres to the CBD.

<h1>Project: Olive Green</h1>

<h1>Address: 380 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield South VIC 3162</h1>

<h1>Prices from: $1.03 million</h1>

Freeman Group's <a href="/new-apartments/olive-green-380-hawthorn-road-caulfield-south">Olive Green</a> presents a rare opportunity to invest in the sought-after <a href="/new-apartments/caulfield-south-vic-3162">Caulfield South</a> area.

<a href="/new-apartments/olive-green-380-hawthorn-road-caulfield-south">Olive Green</a> consists of 44 two and three-bedroom apartments above four ground-floor retail stores, two secure basement levels for parking, and a residential lobby with secure mailboxes and courier drop-off lockers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138452 project_image_fid=218817]

Upon entering the apartments, residents are greeted by timber floorboards, plush carpets, and ample natural light streaming through expansive double-glazed windows and spacious private balconies.

The master bedrooms feature generous robe space and en suite bathrooms with floor-to-ceiling tiles, designer tapware, and high-quality stone.

The kitchen is a chef's dream with an expansive island bench, Gaggenau appliances, designer tapware, an induction cooktop, and a bar for entertaining.

All residents have access to a communal rooftop terrace with barbecue facilities, communal Wi-Fi, and a covered function area offering 270-degree views of the CBD, Dandenong Ranges, and Port Phillip Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138452 project_image_fid=218820]

Olive Green's residents are conveniently located just nine kilometres from Melbourne's CBD, with the north-south tram passing directly in front of the property on Hawthorn Road and an east-west tram on Glen Huntly Road. Glen Huntly and Elsternwick Train Stations are both reachable within a five-minute drive.

<a href="/new-apartments/olive-green-380-hawthorn-road-caulfield-south">Olive Green</a> is situated directly behind Caulfield Primary School and is less than three kilometres from Caulfield Grammar School, Wesley College Elsternwick Campus, and Glen Eira College.

An Aldi and Woolworths are located nearby, while top-rated dining establishments are all within a convenient one-kilometre walk from Olive Green.

Residents can take a 15-minute stroll to Princes Park or a short drive to Elwood and Brighton Beach.

There's no obvious point in time when or why it was decided Caulfield would have a number of different suburbs, rather just the changing of planning and urban development in Melbourne over the last two centuries has seen it so

Caulfield, Caulfield North or Caulfield South: Where should I live?

Brisbane has become the first of the eastern capital cities to erase to losses in the property market in 2022, CoreLogic's latest Home Value Index found.

Dwelling values in the Queensland capital have gone so well over 2023 that they've rubbed out the -8.9 per cent decline to reach a new record high.

Both the house and unit market have contributed significantly. Houses are 10.3 per cent up year to date, units 9.8 per cent.

Units, which incorporates both apartments and townhouses, posted another 1.3 per cent gain over October to be the best performing capital city unit market alongside Perth, although bested by their Gold Coast neighbours whose unit market posted 1.6 per cent growth.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/city-beat-october-2023-southern-boom-continues-in-gold-coast-off-the-plan-apartment-market">City Beat October 2023: Southern boom continues in Gold Coast off the plan apartment market</a>

The rolling quarterly average of Brisbane units is now up 3.5 per cent, taking it to a new median high $545,000. It is now on track to overtake Canberra and become Australia's third priciest capital unit market, behind Sydney and Melbourne. Canberra's median unit value is $589,000.

<h2>What's happening in Brisbane's off the plan apartment market?</h2>

The chronic undersupply in Brisbane was alleviated somewhat by two new projects hitting the market in October.

National developer Kokoda Property, who submitted <a href="/news/qld/kokoda-propose-1-5-billion-triple-tower-riverside-development-in-teneriffe">plans for their $1.5 billion Tenneriffe masterplan</a> last month, has just launched <a href="/new-apartments/ruby-ruby-milton-12-crombie-street-milton">Ruby Ruby</a>, their second apartment development in Milton.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139032 project_image_fid=231172]

The <a href="/new-apartments/ruby-ruby-milton-12-crombie-street-milton">145-apartment project on Crombie Street</a> has already seen huge success, selling down around 90 apartments in the space of a few months before its public launch.

Spanning 21-levels and designed by Cottee Parker, <a href="/new-apartments/ruby-ruby-milton-12-crombie-street-milton">Ruby Ruby</a> features a suite of wellness amenity, the majority of it on the rooftop. It&nbsp;will feature an wet-edge swimming pool with several cabanas and day beds and a heath and wellness space with a gym, infrared sauna, spa, plunge pool and a yoga studio.&nbsp;

360 Property Group's Jeremy Gilmore is marketing <a href="/new-apartments/ruby-ruby-milton-12-crombie-street-milton">Ruby Ruby</a>.&nbsp;Gilmore says due to the lack of supply, for those that can get to market are getting good prices.

"The good developers are really shining through at the moment," Gilmore says. "They're favourable for the banks, builders and buyers, who all want to see a long track record to invest their money into the project."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139032 project_image_fid=232277]

A true test of the appetite for off the plan apartments is when both ends of the market are firing, which is certainly the case in Brisbane.

YPM Group have seen a similar demand and uptake at their recently&nbsp;launched <a href="/new-apartments/sorano-house-kangaroo-point-12-hamilton-street-kangaroo-point">Sorano House</a>, just seven full floor apartments on Kangaroo Point's dress circle Hamilton street.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6206 project_image_fid=227100]

YPM has already sold over half of the apartments to downsizers from both Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

YPM Group Projects Director Phillip Rand says the successful start to the campaign has been underpinned by the decision to start construction before&nbsp;launching to market.

"Buyers at this end of the market want to have full confidence in the delivery of the project&nbsp;before they commit, and the biggest confidence driver&nbsp;in the current climate&nbsp;is construction&nbsp;certainty," Rand says.

"Our Sorano House buyers have been drawn to both the rarity and exceedingly high quality of the project as well as the development around it.&nbsp;The Kangaroo Point Green bridge is less than 100m away, connecting you with Brisbane's City and the new Waterfront Brisbane by foot, plus just 500m from the site Queen's Wharf will bring 50 new restaurants and cafes within walking distance."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6206 project_image_fid=231550]

Rand says the rarity of projects like <a href="/new-apartments/sorano-house-kangaroo-point-12-hamilton-street-kangaroo-point">Sorano House</a> means demand is always likely to outstrip supply.

"It&nbsp;can take years for&nbsp;developers to source and amalgamate&nbsp;true luxury sites, either fronting the river&nbsp;or with incredible never to be built out views, so buyers&nbsp;in this end of the market recognise&nbsp;how rare an opportunity like this is when an&nbsp;exclusive&nbsp;project like Sorano House comes to market. "

McGrath's Head of Projects QLD, Jo Prince-Gillies, says the landscape of new luxury apartments and terrace homes is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by a scarcity of supply.

"This scarcity has shifted buyer preferences, placing a premium on quality, prime locations," Gillies says.

"The higher end projects we take on have resonated with the discerning affluent downsizer and empty nester market, mirroring a growing desire for sophisticated living experiences."

Gillies says their buyers, now more discerning as ever, are seeking certainty before they commit.

"We recognize the importance of providing reassurance, and we're diligently working towards confirming builders and construction timelines to instil confidence in our clients."

On interest rates, Gillies says that while the fluctuations have impacted the broader property market, our niche segment has exhibited resilience, particularly among buyers with budgets exceeding $2.5 million.

"Projects less than $1 million is where we have had to be a little creative to get buyers across the line due to finance and rising interest rates."

Dwelling values in the Queensland capital have gone so well over 2023 that they've rubbed out the -8.9 per cent decline to reach a new record high

City Beat October 2023: Brisbane property market reaches record highs as off the plan demand continues

Wattletree and Dorman Capital’s newest development is bringing something completely different to what South Yarra has seen in recent years, on one of the sought-after suburbs last remaining riverside sites.

Firstly, the $190 million project presents itself as a high-rise building at 20 levels, considerably lower than some of the towers dotted in central South Yarra, but higher than the compact low-rises on the fringes of the suburb. However there's only 58 apartments in the building designed by SJB. It's owner-occupier focused on a grand scale.

Because of the size of the building, Wattletree were able to provide amenity as if it was a true high-rise tower. There's a rooftop with a&nbsp;swimming pool, alfresco dining space with a barbecue kitchen, and an indoor dining area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112970 project_image_fid=214717]

The second major point of difference compared to other towers is the location. It's quietly tucked away off the busy Chapel Street, offering the prospect of being near the activity without being disturbed by it. Chapel Street is one of Melbourne's coolest strips, lined with bars, restaurants and cafes.

It's also got the outlook back to Melbourne from a number of the apartments as well as the roof. The views aren't only on offer from the higher apartments, due to the fact the site sits in front of the protected&nbsp;Melbourne High School's football ground, so views can't be built out.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112970 project_image_fid=214702]

The address is well connected, with South Yarra Station just a five-minute walk, while nature is abundant with the Yarra River on the doorstep and the expanse of Fawkner Park and the Royal Botanic Gardens a short walk down Toorak Road or the riverfront Alexandra Avenue.

Families have shown interest in the project due to the proximity to a number of child friendly recreational activities and educational institutions.

There's five university campus's within two kilometres, five high schools in just over a kilometre, and five primary schools in under 900 metres. Christ Church Grammar School is one of the best primary schools in the state, while Melbourne High School is one of the best public schools.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112970 project_image_fid=214708]

Of course, and potentially the biggest point of difference in South Yarra House, is the size of the apartments and the architecture.

SJB's vision was to&nbsp;pay homage to South Yarra's rich architectural heritage, with a brutalist-style facade making it stand out from surrounding buildings.

"South Yarra House takes subtle cues from its surrounds and the heritage buildings dotted throughout and blends it with a modernist sensibility to create an outcome of clarity, elegance and distinction," SJB said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112970 project_image_fid=214724]

SJB were inspired by&nbsp;South Yarra's iconic Art Deco and Spanish mission homes and apartment blocks, such as the Beverley Hills flats and 31 Marne St SJB's design concept merges a timeless New York tower aesthetic with these local references.

They worked hand in hand with interiors expert Hecker Guthrie, to design a building that will stand the test of time for both the streetscape and South Yarra, as well as its residents.

South Yarra House is slated for completed in late 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112970]

How South Yarra House represents the rarest of opportunities in the inner-city suburb

Developer Wickton has decided now is the right time to push the go button on their two Hampton apartment developments.

Wickton, led by property industry veteran Blanco Norton and well known architect Will Leaf, have brought to the market two different kinds of projects, albeit both developed for the owner-occupier.

The first project, Linacre Rise, comprises 27 modern apartments, while the latest release, 58 Beach, has just six apartments with views to both Hampton and Sandringham Beach. Both were designed by Leaf's architecture firm Ewert Leaf.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/wickton-launch-new-hampton-apartment-development-linacre-rise">Wickton launch new Hampton apartment development, Linacre Rise</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141530 project_image_fid=229653]

The timing of completion of both 58 Beach and Linacre Rise, late 2024 and mid-2025, is something which North thinks will make sense for a downsizer.

"There's an opportunity for downsizers coming out of their family home," Norton says.

"They can lock in the apartment at 2023/24 prices, then benefit of selling into a market where values are expected to have increased off the back of interest rate drops."

Both projects have been well received by the market within the first few weeks of the campaign, Norton adds.

58 Beach has been designed by Ewert Leaf to take advantage of its location. The ground floor apartments feature landscaped wraparound courtyards by John Patrick, while the terraces above take in never to be built out water views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141530 project_image_fid=229649]

The kitchen, with natural stone benchtops, brushed nickel handles and tapware and premium Swiss V-ZUG Appliances arranged in a tower setup, meets the open plan living and dining space which opens to the outdoors.

The two-bedroom apartments at 58 Beach start from $1.65 million, and the three-bed units are priced from $2.15 million.

Linacre Rise brings a little more supply to Hampton, with 27 two and three-bedroom apartments, but with the same intent as 58 Beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=229694]

"Capitalising on a location in one of Hampton’s highest areas, each residence at Linacre Rise has been carefully designed to capture superb views in every direction," the architecture firm said.

"Here, among the calm of a peaceful leafy boulevard, you can relax and recharge, with everything you love about Hampton close by," the architecture firm said.

The 15 two-bedroom apartments start from $1,275,000, while the 12 three-bedroom apartments are priced from $2.05 million.

Wickton has another two projects in the pipeline, another in Bayside and one in Stonnington.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141530]

The timing of completion of both 58 Beach and Linacre Rise, late 2024 and mid-2025, is something which Norton thinks will make sense for a downsizer

Wickton launch second Hampton apartment development in as many weeks

Leading Australian integrated property development group Aqualand will pay homage to the distinctive <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> landscape on the ground plane of their <a href="/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a> mixed-use tower.

Rising 28 storeys above the streetscape at located at <a href="/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">168 Walker Street</a>, and in the final stages of construction completion, the $1 billion Woods Bagot-designed residential community will comprise 386 luxury apartments above a richly landscaped precinct, including a two-storey retail and commercial podium.

Aqualand’s collaboration with award-winning landscape architects Turf Design Studio has resulted in a design that successfully integrates the project with the unique local environs of the characterful suburb. Landscape works are set to commence in early 2024.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/why-aqualand-is-committed-to-north-sydneys-transformation-five-minutes-with-aqualands-alex-adams">Why Aqualand Is committed to North Sydney's transformation: Five minutes with Aqualand's Alex Adams</a>

<img alt="Aura" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c791f80e-63fe-4104-89d0-8f1bc2d8ed7b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-09%20at%206.45.43%20pm.png?VersionId=3_JEMAeaFyCqrIFnjMjdRVSoA7duvTyj" />

Turf Design Studio Director Mike Horne said the design will reflect the <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> gully landscape.

“When you’re walking around <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a>, the generously terraced lush green gardens of the traditional cottages and beautiful old houses imbue a gully setting, with its slightly humid air thick with a concentration of cool fragrances," Horne says.

“We’re trying to extend and deepen this character. <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> is changing, and has been for years, so we’re trying to discover the quintessential character of the place and amplify it.

Horne says&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> is undergoing a step change in terms of urban growth and density.

"On the border of this change, this site is interacting with the lower-scape buildings, establishing a ground-level connectivity allowing the senses to connect, as well as\ rationally bring this experience into the building to make you feel as if you’re still in a garden.

“Due to the site’s significant level change, a tiered series of curvy sandstone walls, two to three metres high will step down, creating a series of tiered terrace gardens full of cascading plants to immerse you in greenery. This will reflect a gully landscape with the sandstone walls disconnecting you from the actual building structure, making the landscape a device which allows you to exist ‘within’, to create moments of connection, where people can interact with the plantings."

<img alt="AURA by Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a06f9577-a5ba-4890-a7a6-42c7f2458970" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-09%20at%206.48.48%20pm.png?VersionId=o2IFKuPd3ceuiUYJg5gvB9zx1zbztooD" />

The garden beds immediately outside the hospitality spaces will reflect their individual offerings. For example, outside the contemporary Japanese restaurant, species such as Japanese maples, purple leaf plums, Japanese red pines, camelias, wisterias, azaleas and Japanese box will be used.

Desert species, including curly jade plants, prickly pears, foxtail agaves, kentia palms, cordylines, golden barrel cactuses and succulents, will be planted outside the All Day Diner.

The providore, bakery, café and wine bar’s garden beds will feature Mediterranean species, such as rosemary, oregano, thyme, lavender, agapanthus, liriope and lemon and olive trees. Inside the building, the lift lobbies on each level, being key areas for resident interaction, will carry greenery throughout the building with interior gardens sitting against the glass next to the lifts from levels one to 26. The level 26 Sky Deck will also feature coastal cliff-style plantings.

"We’re not just providing garden beds, but offering the community a landscape experience that begins at the street, and as they move through the sites’ threshold and entries it intensifies the landscape experience," Horne added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=218393]

"The ground plane will connect to the experience and quintessential character the local homes are holding onto by connecting AURA to the ground and earthing it to that gully-style cultural landscape of old <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a>. We want to be respectful of the original suburb’s distinct character with its southern aspect offering shelter from hot north-easterlies.

“Although AURA is not a heritage project, we’re still respecting the local heritage by wrapping it around the building to create harmony and build a context for living that feels right for the area."

Aqualand has also commissioned a public art piece from international artist Richard Sweeney to adorn the Walker Street entrance. The piece was also inspired by <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney’s locale</a>, and will feature unique, organic curves inspired by the natural elements of sandstone, water and the landscape synonymous with the harbour-front. The artwork component will be woven into the fabric of the garden in a way that amplifies the arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=202986]

Aqualand Group Managing Director, Jin Lin, says he’s excited by the final landscape scheme as it is testament to Aqualand’s commitment to building communities that reflect the local area.

“We’re deeply committed to creating projects that not only fit comfortably within their neighbourhood, but also enhance it," Lin said.

"We’re with our projects for the long-term, well after the final residence is sold, as we retain ownership of the retail spaces, so we need to be in harmony with the local community on an ongoing basis.

“These plans will help integrate AURA into <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney’s beautiful fabric</a> and the network of landscaped laneways will welcome our neighbours into the precinct so they can comfortably enjoy our retail offerings.

“AURA’s construction is progressing well and we can’t wait to welcome our <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> neighbours to our new precinct in mid-2024."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Aqualand’s collaboration with award-winning landscape architects Turf Design Studio has resulted in a design that successfully integrates the project with the unique local environs of the characterful suburb

The importance of landscaping in a city development: How AURA by Aqualand is bringing nature to North Sydney

Sydney property developer <a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a> (CE) and joint venture partner Develotek has appointed builder Trescon to build their luxury harbourfront apartment development, <a href="/new-apartments/bianca-drummoyne-2c-2d-wolseley-street-drummoyne">Bianca Drummoyne</a>.

They'll kick off construction in early 2024 on the project of just 12 large-scale apartments, each encompassing three and four-bedrooms with&nbsp;views of <a href="/new-apartments/drummoyne-nsw-2047">Drummoyne</a> Bay, the harbour, and the city skyline.

The rarity of <a href="/new-apartments/bianca-drummoyne-2c-2d-wolseley-street-drummoyne">Bianca</a>,&nbsp;the first new waterfront project to be released in <a href="/new-apartments/drummoyne-nsw-2047">Drummoyne</a> since 2020, has seen it achieved record prices for the area. Prices start from the mid to high $3 million range and into the high $8 million bracket for the apartments with direct waterfront access.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/central-element-and-develotek-set-to-launch-bianca-drummoyne-apartments-following-council-sign-off">Central Element and Develotek set to launch Bianca Drummoyne apartments following council sign off</a>

<img alt="Bianca" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9bd8552f-2d2f-4cf1-9573-d30ec69df187" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-09%20at%201.14.06%20pm.png?VersionId=kKp5zEKFoQjOenXP6wpjrcPpYjuY9ej8" />

Cameron Porter, <a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element’s</a> Head of Sales, says what sets Bianca apart is its generous floorplans, rare position and harbour views.

"The extravagant north-facing residences range from 120 to 290 square metres internally with 10-13 metres of water frontage," Porter says.

"In terms of the buyer, we’re seeing that downsizer or empty nester, primarily from Hunters Hill, Balmain, Longueville and Drummoyne, drawn to the product for its house-like proportions and prime waterfront position as they are often coming from large waterfront homes themselves.”

Following a considered selection process, CE has appointed the iCIRT certified and renowned Sydney construction company Trescon to bring the creative vision for Bianca to life. Trescon boasts strong experience across a diverse portfolio of projects with a passion for high-end luxury residences, notably the revamp of a 1928 Wunulla Road, Point Piper residence led by architect Richard Stanisich which recently sold for $69 million.

<img alt="Bianca" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a6fd6e99-2283-478d-8604-51c09eb1736b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-09%20at%201.14.11%20pm.png?VersionId=eW.ED2vvbPFegQecfLlMZ7bDgxGz8ceo" />

&nbsp;

The architectural design of Bianca by SJB is refined, built around the framing of the glittering waterfront views with the expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing and large open rooms exuding the opulence of a stand-alone house. The materials used all tie back to light and neutral tones, while elegant brickwork with refined details speak to the longevity of the design.

Nathan Chivas, Managing Director of <a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a>, said they are&nbsp;proud to partner with Trescon on the development.

"Our vision at CE is to redefine luxury living through the creation of house-like apartments in prime locations that consistently surpass expectations and establish new benchmarks for the areas," Chivas said.

"It is important to us that we have partners who share this vision, and it was clear by Trescon’s reputation and proven track record for delivering projects to the highest standards that they were the perfect choice to execute this project."

Trescon will kick off construction in early 2024 on the project of just 12 large-scale apartments

Central Element appoint builder for luxury Bianca Drummoyne apartment development

Builder developer 5Point Projects is aiming to set a new benchmark of luxury living on the Palm Beach beachfront with the reveal of their $60 million project, Ophira Palm Beach.

Ophira Palm Beach, just seven full-floor apartments and a two-level penthouse, is the only off the plan beachfront apartment development in market on Jefferson Lane, which has become the southern Gold Coast's millionaire's row in recent years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138441 project_image_fid=221546]

Each full-floor apartment will offer between 290 sqm to 317 sqm of internal and outdoor living space. The living areas have been designed to take in as much of the ocean views as possible, through the floor-to-ceiling windows and the full-width balconies that open from the living space.

The apartments have three bedrooms, each with an ensuite, as well as a study and a multi-purpose room. The kitchens feature stone benchtops, a tucked away scullery, and wine storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138441 project_image_fid=221548]

Ophira’s two-level penthouse will deliver an expansive 637 sqm of living space with four bedrooms, four bathrooms and its own private outdoor entertainment area featuring a pool, spa, sundeck with teppanyaki bar, and a sunken lounge with a fire pit.

Ophira Palm Beach residents will enjoy a sanctuary of calm with shared amenities on level one including an exclusive plunge pool and sun deck plus a communal garden which will be a focal point for relaxation and wellbeing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138441 project_image_fid=221545]

5Point have a long track record of constructing some of the most premium projects in Palm Beach.

“We are salivating over delivering Ophira to the market because of its sublime absolute beachfront location over two blocks at a time when there just aren’t any beachfront sites in the market,” said 5Point director Damian Dove.

“There is also incredible demand in Palm Beach for luxury apartment living but just not the stock or the capacity to build.

“We are fortunate that we are in a position to build immediately and the inquiries for Ophira despite having little marketing attention until now has been quite remarkable.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138441 project_image_fid=221553]

Dove says Ophira has been highly anticipated by the local market, close to the cosmopolitan heart of Palm Beach, combined with its spacious living and the supreme privacy.

Jamie Bourke and Dylan Molloy of ARC Project Marketing said Ophira presents a unique opportunity for downsizers looking for high-end product where there are very limited opportunities.

"Not only is there nothing like this in the market, but we have gone to extraordinary lengths to create a project that will be an absolute icon for the southern Gold Coast,”&nbsp;Molloy said.

“5Point have infused Ophira with lavish coastal elegance, taking the best of beachfront living back to its roots with each of these residences offering the ultimate in privacy where homeowners can truly immerse themselves in this beautiful part of the Gold Coast.”

Prices start from $6.35 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138441]

Dove says Ophira has been highly anticipated by the local market, close to the cosmopolitan heart of Palm Beach, combined with its spacious living and the supreme privacy



5Point to set new Palm Beach apartment benchmark with Ophira Palm Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD Group</a> has set a new residential price record in Queensland with the $30 million sale of the penthouse at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-burleigh-88-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads-qld-4220">ONE Burleigh</a> development in Burleigh Heads.

The sale equates to around $37,500 per sqm.

The two-level, 800 sqm penthouse, featuring five bedrooms, five bathrooms, five car spaces, and a private infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean, was acquired by a Gold Coast-based entrepreneur, highlighting continued demand for ultra-premium beachfront product.

Selling agent Freddie Tehle of PRD Burleigh Heads said the result reflects tightening supply of high-quality, large-format apartments in Burleigh.

“There’s very limited opportunity to secure this level of scale and absolute beachfront position in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a>,” Tehle said.

“Buyers are increasingly seeking apartments that genuinely replace a standalone home, and this penthouse delivers that with its size, privacy, and direct ocean frontage.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323057]

The sale comes as construction progresses on ONE Burleigh, a boutique development of 17 full-floor residences at 88 The Esplanade, scheduled for completion in early 2027.

Developed by MAYD Group and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mas-architecture-studio">MAS Architecture</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/sici-design">Sici Design</a>, the project has been positioned as a collection of house-sized beachfront apartments, each occupying an entire floor with around 381 sqm of internal and external living space.

When construction commenced, MAYD director Todd Mould pointed to the long-term resilience of premium coastal real estate as a key driver behind the project.

“Real estate, particularly at the premium end, remains one of the most resilient and proven long-term investment avenues,” Mould said.

“Our ambition is that anyone who buys a MAYD-built product can genuinely feel the care, craftsmanship and commitment we bring to every detail.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323055]

Each residence has been configured with four bedrooms, multiple living zones, a private office, and expansive ocean-facing terraces. Interiors draw on a restrained material palette, including travertine stone, timber joinery, and integrated premium appliances.

Interior designer Sici Design said the approach was to reflect the project’s coastal setting through both materiality and spatial planning.

“ONE Burleigh is our vision of luxury living, designed to bring the essence of Burleigh Heads' vibrant coastal beauty into an unparalleled residential experience.”

Residents will have access to a suite of wellness-focused amenities, including pools, sauna facilities, and dedicated relaxation spaces, reflecting a broader shift toward lifestyle-driven apartment design on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323052]

The project occupies a southern Esplanade site with uninterrupted beachfront frontage, an increasingly rare offering in Burleigh Heads, free from the Norfolk Pines that line much of the coastline and often limit direct ocean outlook.

Mould said the design intent was to balance that outlook with a sense of retreat.

“Living at ONE Burleigh is about how your day naturally unfolds, morning light across the ocean, coffee on the balcony, and being in Burleigh but elevated above the noise.”

The result further reinforces Burleigh Heads’ emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held and supply-constrained beachfront markets, where boutique, owner-occupier-focused developments are increasingly setting new price benchmarks.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146358]

MAYD Group sets Queensland record with $30 million penthouse sale at ONE Burleigh in Burleigh Heads

Apartment developers in the Gold Coast are finding new, creative ways to differentiate themselves from competing projects, as new supply starts to flow through up and down the Coast.

Developer Big Projects brought in the renowned Sydney-based design studio YSG to craft the interiors for The Frederick, Big Projects' new Mermaid Beach project and YSG's first move into the multi-residential development space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5346]

It was a strategic move for Big Projects to bring in a Sydney eye to the development.

“Our role is to give our design partners the space and freedom to explore,” says Matt Barrett, Director of Big Projects.

“We wanted YSG Studio to capture the essence of Nobby’s, to design a building that embraces life, light and connection, while creating a genuine sense of place.”

There are only 39 apartments in The Frederick, including a striking beach house, just 100 metres from the booming Nobby Beach precinct.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5347]

Yasmine Ghoniem, Director of YSG Studio, says their vision&nbsp;for The Frederick "reinvents coastal living."

“Nobby’s has such an iconic energy, it’s one of those rare pockets of the Gold Coast where the community, the beach, and the streets all feel connected,” Ghoniem says.

"Responding to the neighbouring coastline, soothing curves add a relaxing regional overlay, while unique detailing really sets it apart. It’s a place that feels lived in from the moment you step inside.”

A standout feature of The Frederick is its rooftop terrace, an uncommon inclusion for a boutique, low-rise building, where amenity is typically concentrated at ground level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5360]

Positioned to capture panoramic views from the hinterland to the ocean, the rooftop has been designed as a series of intimate zones. It includes a pool, sauna, sun decks, workspaces and dedicated entertaining areas.

“The rooftop was conceived as a collection of spaces where residents can unwind and connect, an extension of the Nobby’s lifestyle,” Barrett says.

Architecture for the project was led by Plus Architecture, with landscape design by LDG.

SRQ Projects Director Nick Clydsdale, who is handling sales at The Frederick, says the majority of enquiry is coming from South East QLD and Victorian buyers who have been actively searching between Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach for some time.

"They’ve reviewed a number of projects, however this one has stood out for its design flair/ appeal,"&nbsp;Clydsdale says.

Site demolition is slated for this month, with construction commencing soon after. Big Projects is targeting a late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110588]

Big Projects taps Sydney’s YSG for first multi-residential project at The Frederick Mermaid Beach

Melbourne-based property developer ALTA Property has this week achieved planning approval for the adaptive re-use of a former commercial tower into a $200 million, 169-apartment project at 10 Queens Road, one of the last developable sites along the Albert Park Lake-fronting boulevard.&nbsp;

Set within one of Melbourne’s most sought-after precincts and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser and Partners</a>, the illustrious building will offer unparalleled views across Albert Park Lake, Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;

The mix of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom residences will be complemented by a ground-floor amenity featuring private dining, a lounge bar, gym and wellness spaces, co-working, outdoor communal gardens, and retail.&nbsp;

The 17-storey building is a masterclass in adaptive re-use, with the existing commercial building’s façade, shell and internal structure to be retained, before high-end residences are built from the ground up in a newly built Albert Park facing addition to the building.&nbsp;

Sitting atop the building will be two 320+sqm penthouses with private rooftop terraces, which are expected to be priced between $9 - $11 million.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa11211b-5581-43f9-940c-fc84d30a0e61" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/C_04.png?VersionId=Yhf5p_1EgGDu_zOIMFgvA8Ug8j3sTFQs" />

Architecturally, the building will feature a curved, geometric façade that celebrates and elevates the existing structure, with warm, muted tones which were selected to extend the materiality of the existing building rather than contrast it.&nbsp;

Interiors will bring together three metre high ceilings with waffle concrete in some spaces, natural timber, granite and Australian materials, culminating in crafted, generous and considered spaces that are defined by authenticity.&nbsp;

The adaptive re-use means that the Queens Road project will be a sustainability led, high-quality finished product, with a 62% saving in carbon emissions by re-using the existing structure rather than knocking it down and rebuilding.&nbsp;

ALTA Property was launched by Nigel Givoni in 2023, bringing over 25 years of experience in multi level residential delivery.&nbsp;

Melbourne’s property market growth is currently led by apartments. According to RPM VIC Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report (April 2026), units are outpacing houses, especially in the middle ring suburbs where median prices hit $757,500 – a four-year high that represents 2.9 percent growth quarter-on-quarter.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="647e13d7-b4bc-433a-9bc9-fe3c3dd4f2ec" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/V_06.png?VersionId=ou4NUCWUgA3NAy.6CQJlEdKX50j3dOk6" />

For ALTA Property Founder Nigel Givoni, this performance speaks to the confidence he has in the Melbourne market.&nbsp;

“Queens Road represents a rare opportunity to continue to shape our presence in the Melbourne market.,"&nbsp;Givoni says.

"With a considered project team and a premier site along one of the city’s most sought-after boulevards, we look forward to contributing to the fabric of this established address.

“Other Australian markets are getting a lot of attention, but I believe the depth of value in Melbourne is being overlooked. The fundamentals are strong, population growth is steady and, based on our preliminary conversations with a leading builder, construction costs are beginning to normalise, creating further opportunity."

Givoni says the project is a&nbsp;highly considered example of adaptive re-use, delivering quality, high-end residences, premium hotel-inspired amenities and an architecturally striking façade, all achieved without the need to remove the existing structure.

"We are really looking forward to the market’s response,” he said.&nbsp;

ALTA Property to deliver $200 million Queens Road apartment tower

Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.

The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.

Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366285]

The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.

Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.

All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.

The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150128]

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

A rare new apartment development has been proposed on the fringe of St Ives Village.

Developer Newquest Property has lodged plans for a low-rise apartment project designed by well-regarded architecture firm Warren &amp; Mahoney, which is best known for its work in the multi-residential sector in Melbourne.

The building, proposed for a 1,916 sqm site on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-ives-residences-3-5-memorial-avenue-nsw-2075">Memorial Avenue</a> opposite St Ives Village Green, has been designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c1c7437-2fba-4345-a6d7-05321714ad3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.28.46%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=KrYyMaJvNqR7vbx0xbB3Ef8sJ6FuHpmn" />

“Drawing inspiration from the pale trunks and flowering canopies of the scribbly gums and blue gums prevalent in the area, a considered material palette was developed,” the architectural design report states.

“This palette references the established materiality of the suburb while elevating it through refined finishes to achieve a more luxurious architectural expression.”

Of the 33 apartments proposed, 21 will be three-bedroom residences. The remaining mix includes nine two-bedroom apartments, one one-bedroom apartment and two four-bedroom residences. The development will be supported by 62 car parking spaces and 33 secure bicycle spaces.

The proposal would replace two single-storey brick buildings currently on the site.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21422eaf-09a9-4439-9278-b9bd9daf22a1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.38.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=v.fXSgcUcEscvOZzqcjG5nk3gVqk_Amt" />

St Ives remains a relatively untapped market for new apartment development. North Shore developer WINIM has a number of projects in the area, while INCA is nearing completion of Ellis Residences.

More recently, Traders In Purple has lodged plans for one of the denser projects proposed in the suburb, a 75-apartment development on a 5,900 sqm site on Cowan Road.

NewQuest, a construction, design and development firm, has delivered over 24 projects across commercial, residential, industrial, and lad markets.&nbsp;

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Joel Robinson

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