<html><body>
Following a minor dip due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sydney property values have now recovered to surpass their 2017 peak, according to property date firm CoreLogic. 
Tim Lawless, CoreLogic’s executive research director, says he’s not surprised that the recent strong capital gains in housing values have led another capital city to move to new record highs.  
“The recovery trend in Sydney following the -15.3% decline from July 2017 to May 2019 was interrupted by COVID-19, with housing values falling by -3.0% through the worst of the pandemic.

<img alt="" height="895" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/corelogic_sydney.jpg" width="1200"> 
“Since housing values found a floor in October last year, Sydney home values have risen 5.7% to reach a new record high today.

"The fresh record high is great news for Sydney home owners, but highlights the challenges for non-home owners looking to participate in the housing market as values rise faster than incomes,” Lawless says. 
According to CoreLogic’s daily hedonic home value index, Melbourne dwelling values remain -1.3% below their pre-COVID high and Perth values are still -16.9% lower relative to their 2014 peak.

<h2>Projects in Sydney</h2>

Auburn Square, Auburn 
Address: 26-36 Northumberland Road, Auburn NSW 2144 
Two-bedroom apartments from $600,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317]

Developed by Tian An LFD, Auburn Square boasts the ultimate liveability in the heart of western Sydney.

Designed by Rothelowman, the development’s design provides perfectly considered spaces to deliver a sense of community, with facilities including an expansive rooftop, communal dining areas, outdoor fitness equipment, and impressive cityscape views.

Auburn Square is one of the few Sydney developments eligible for the HomeBuilder Grant extension, potentially saving $15,000 for first home buyers.

Castle Residences, Sydney 
Address: 203 Castlereagh Street, Sydney NSW 2000 
One-bedroom apartments from $1.23 million

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7758]

Castle Residences is one of Sydney's most anticipated projects to be completed in 2021.

The luxury $380 million is being developed by United Development Sydney, which operates under the umbrella of Shanghai Lian Yao Investment Co, a $19 billion company established as a joint venture by 10 Chinese real estate groups.

The project, currently under construction by Hutchinson Builders and nearing its topping out stage, will have 131 apartments, a mix of studio, one, two and three bedroom units across 36 levels.

 

 
</body></html>

Since housing values found a floor in October last year, Sydney home values have risen 5.7% to reach a new record high



Joel Robinson

Sydney property values reach record high

<html><body>
Mirvac has tweaked its plans for its Build-to-Rent tower in its Brisbane, Newstead project.

They've sought to make the project more renter friendly, lodging a minor amendment with Brisbane City Council to add more resident amenities.

Mirvac say in the plans submitted to the council that the Build-to-Rent designs are different to the more traditional Build-to-Sell design.

Mirvac's Build-to-Rent general manager, Angela Buckley, said they have learnt from their flagship community, LIV Indigo in Sydney Olympic Park, and further refined their renter-centric approach in the design.

“Build-to-Rent reimagines the rental experience by putting the focus on people, with improved customer service, greater certainty and security and an extensive range of onsite amenities, and the proposed design is in-line with this philosophy,” Ms Buckley  said.

“We have adjusted internal apartment layouts, sizes and mix to appeal to the key renter demographic and more than trebled the onsite amenity to provide generous spaces for connection, health and wellbeing and coworking, along with new initiatives such as a car share fleet and electric share bikes.

They will now seek to have 395 apartments in the development, a mix of studios, one and two dual key apartments across the 23 and 25 level buildings, as well as 3,000 sqm of residential amenities and 1,000 sqm of retail space.

Key worker affordable housing will be available for 25 per cent of apartments, which will be indistinguishable and transferrable to any apartment if the applicant meets the State’s eligibility requirements.   

The proposal will target sustainability benchmarks of 5 Star Green Star and average 7.5 Star NatHERS.

The amendment sees general plan modification on level one to accommodate Build-to-Rent requirements for onsite staff.

There will be further amenities for residents, including an outdoor fitness area, co-worker space and meeting rooms, a cinema, children's playroom and playground, a games room, a yoga studio and a pet park and dog wash. The extra amenities will be as well as the already approved swimming pool and gym, barbecue areas, communal gardens and communal dining spaces.

The proposed project, located at 60 Skyring Terrace in Waterfront Newstead, is set to be one of the first Build-to-Rent projects in Brisbane and is part of a growing trend toward a ‘third’ housing choice in Australia.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90553]

Mirvac was named as one of two proponents in the Queensland Government’s Build-to-Rent Pilot Project in 2020 and will design, deliver, own and manage the new apartments exclusively for renters, under its established Build to Rent model, LIV Mirvac.

Pending approval, Mirvac is anticipating starting construction in late 2021, with the building program expected to take about two and a half years to complete.

<h2>QLD properties selling now:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94829]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26879]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27839]

 
</body></html>

Mirvac have sought to make the project more renter friendly, lodging a minor amendment with Brisbane City Council to add more resident amenities.



Mirvac tweak Newstead Build-to-Rent tower to be more renter friendly

The well-known architect turned developer Joe Adsett has officially lodged plans for his new Coolangatta tower, Rockpool at Rainbow Bay.

Adsett secured the site at 154-156 Marine Parade late last year from Sunland, who had demolished the two smaller apartment developments on the 1,194 sqm block.

<a href="/new-apartments/rockpool-rainbow-bay-154-156-marine-parade-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="1181" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/joe_adsett_rockpool_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

They were planning on constructing four separate towers on the site, which also included&nbsp;the adjoining Greenmount Resort site which Sunland owned. The plans were for&nbsp;247 apartments across four buildings ranging in height from 15 to 17 storeys.

The proposed building height exceeded the 38 metre Code Assessable building height limit, so the Gold Coast City Council requested more information, which triggered Sunland to pull the application.

Adsett&#39;s plans are for a 20 unit development across 13 storeys on the southern side of Marine Parade. The development&nbsp;is oriented to the north and will benefit from views from Snapper Rocks to Surfers Paradise.<a href="/new-apartments/rockpool-rainbow-bay-154-156-marine-parade-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="1333" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/joe_adsett_rockpool_1.jpg" width="1600" /></a>

The ground level will comprise a single three bedroom unit, a secondary lobby and resident storage.

The grand lobby will be located on level one, with another three bedroom unit, as well as the communal&nbsp;recreation where there&#39;s a pool, deck area, gym, sauna, a business room and a meeting room.

Levels two to nine&nbsp;will be made up of two three bedroom units per level. Level 10 will contain&nbsp;a single level five bedroom penthouse and Level 11 will home a double storey, four bedroom penthouse.

<a href="/new-apartments/rockpool-rainbow-bay-154-156-marine-parade-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="445" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/joe_adsett_rockpool_4.jpg" width="1600" /></a>

The development will contain three car parking levels and access to be obtained via Eden Avenue through the adjacent site to the west.&nbsp;

<h2>Other developments for sale on the Gold Coast</h2>

Shoreline, Surfers Paradise

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22057]

Shoreline is the latest Surfers Paradise tower to be created by Marquee Development Partners.

The boutique 27 apartment development across 17 levels offers residents a luxury unseen in the between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach for a number of years.

Miles Residences, Kirra Beach

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575]

The Miles Residences Kirra Point will be one of Kirra Point&#39;s most impressive towers when it&#39;s completed in 2023.

The development of 118 apartments is part of the redevelopment of the&nbsp;Kirra Beach&nbsp;Hotel. The brains behind the operation is the family-ran KTQ Group, led by Peggy Flannery, who are behind the award-winning Elements of Byron Bay.

&nbsp;

Adsett's plans are for a 20 unit development across 13 storeys on the southern side of Marine Parade.

Tower reveal: Architect Joe Adsett officially lodges plans for Rainbow Bay tower Rockpool

The South East Queensland development firm Mosaic Property Group have sold 95 per cent of their luxury Mermaid Beach project Dawn after just two weeks of a pre-release to their database.

Dawn, a collection of 87&nbsp;two and three bedroom residences designed in partnership with Plus Architecture and Lat27 Studios, is located on&nbsp;Peerless Avenue. just one row back from Mermaid Beach&#39;s dress circle Hedges Avenue, considered the millionaire&#39;s row of the area.

<img alt="" height="1173" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/dawn_mosaic_main.jpg" width="1600" />

Dawn sits just a few doors down from another one of Mosaic&#39;s success stories, its $128 million sister development Bela by Mosaic, which has also sold out.

Sales started from $750,000 for the two bedroom, two bathroom apartments which are now all sold out, to the three bedroom, two bathroom apartments which saw prices start from $1.42 million.

There are only a handful of three bedroom apartment remaining, priced from $1.8 million.

Residents at Dawn have access to a resort-style swimming with in-water lounges,&nbsp;barbecue and dining areas, sun deck with day beds, outdoor shower,&nbsp;spa, and a gym with a sauna and steam room.

<img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/dawn_mosaic_pool.jpg" width="1200" />

There&#39;s also the Resident&#39;s Sky Lounge on level nine, complete with&nbsp;a private dining room with kitchen, wine cellar and tasting room, a lounge area and a generous outdoor terrace complete with a teppanyaki bar.

Construction on the development has been fast-tracked due to the flurry of sales, with building work to commence in late May.

Mosaic founder and managing director, Brook Monahan, said while they expected a positive response based on existing demand for ultra-premium, particularly Mosaic, product in Mermaid Beach, the strength and velocity of Dawn&#39;s record-breaking sales performance has far exceeded all expectations.

&quot;We are incredibly humbled by how the market, particularly local owner-occupiers, quickly recognised the rare opportunity on offer at Dawn by Mosaic.&quot;

&quot;There was such extraordinary anticipation for this release, from the moment the market realised we had secured a second site in Mermaid Beach, metres from Bela.&quot;

&quot;We haven&#39;t even had to advertise Dawn, given we had a significant waitlist from our VIP database, along with multiple repeat buyers and a high proportion of referral purchasers. Several Bela buyers have also invested knowing already how scarce an opportunity it is to buy premium product in one of the best locations on the east coast of Australia.&quot; &nbsp;

<img alt="" height="1067" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/brook_monahan.jpg" width="1600" /> 
Brook Monahan, who founded Mosaic Property Group in 2012

Among the sales was the four bedroom Masterpiece Penthouse which was secured by a local buyer for just under $6 million.

The full-floor apartment spanning over 350 sqm of internal space and over 120 sqm of outdoor areas features its own home office, separate living and retreat areas as well as a sprawling 105 sqm master suite.

Floor to ceiling windows span the width of the apartment which takes in the uninterrupted ocean and coastline views.

Dawn is Mosaic Property Group&#39;s fourth luxury Gold Coast release within two years. Following Bela, Elan by Mosaic in Kirra was released in late 2019, selling out within three months. Mosaic&#39;s last release, Grace by Mosaic in Burleigh Heads, was released in late October 2020 and is now over 95% sold.&nbsp;

&quot;Having four best-selling Gold Coast developments within the short space of two years is an achievement the entire Mosaic team, and I are hugely proud of, and we have more exciting plans for the region in 2021 and beyond.&quot;&nbsp;

Oversized floor plans include expansive, cantilevered balconies, some of the largest on the Gold Coast, that account for at least 20% of total living space.&nbsp;

Opulent finishes, bespoke detailing, and expert craftsmanship have been applied throughout to create living spaces that not only look but feel beautiful.&nbsp;

Other developments for sale on the Gold Coast

Shoreline, Surfers Paradise

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22057]

Shoreline is the latest Surfers Paradise tower to be created by Marquee Development Partners.

The boutique 27 apartment development across 17 levels offers residents a luxury unseen in the between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach for a number of years.

Miles Residences, Kirra Beach

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575]

The Miles Residences Kirra Point will be one of Kirra Point&#39;s most impressive towers when it&#39;s completed in 2023.

The development of 118 apartments is part of the redevelopment of the&nbsp;Kirra Beach&nbsp;Hotel. The brains behind the operation is the family-ran KTQ Group, led by Peggy Flannery, who are behind the award-winning Elements of Byron Bay.

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Dawn sits just a few doors down from another one of Mosaic's success stories, its $128 million sister development Bela by Mosaic, which has also sold out.

Mosaic Property Group achieve near sell-out of Mermaid Beach development Dawn in just two weeks

<html><body>
Westpac have followed ANZ and NAB and cut their two and three year fixed mortgage rates for new owner-occupiers.

They now have the lowest two year fixed rate on the market at 1.79 per cent, having chopped 20 basis points from their record-low 1.99 per cent offering.

Westpac's three year rate has seen an 11 basis point cut, now at 1.88 per cent.

The rates are only for owner-occupiers paying principal and interest with an LVR ratio of 70 per cent or less.

The two year investor fixed rates have also been cut by 0.2 per cent.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22584]

RateCity.com.au database shows that 57 lenders now have home loan rates under two per cent, including three of the big four banks.

“Westpac has thrown down the gauntlet to its competitors today proving there’s still heat in the fixed rate market.” RateCity.com.au research director Sally Tindall said.

“While we’re nearing the bottom of the rate cycle, provided the cash rates remains above zero, it’s likely there’ll be more cuts in the weeks to come as banks compete for the record levels of new lending coming through the door.

“Lenders are currently in a strong position to offer low fixed rates, which also have the benefit of locking a customer in for the fixed term.

“Westpac is now offering the lowest 2 year fixed rate, and was already offering the lowest 4-year fixed rate in the market – an unusual position for a big four bank.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2772]

Tindall says home loans at the nation's largest lender, Commonwealth Bank, are starting to look outdated, with just one fixed rate under 2 per cent.

“Westpac group is reserving its sharpest rates for people who own at least 30 per cent of their home.

“Property price rises aren’t just helpful for people planning to sell. If you’ve had your home loan for a few years you might find you have more equity than you think and qualify for one of these low-rate loans."
</body></html>

RateCity.com.au database shows that 57 lenders now have home loan rates under two per cent, including three of the big four banks.

Westpac offer lowest two-year fixed rate mortgage after cutting home loans

Downsizers, empty nesters and families moving to the area have been the dominant buyers in&nbsp;Mulpha Australia&#39;s Norwest apartment development Haven.

Haven, completed in late 2018 at 2 Natura Rise in the Hills District suburb around 35km north-west of Sydney,&nbsp;saw a number of its apartments taken by those looking to downsize but keen for a&nbsp;good-size apartment.

Haven&#39;s floor plans suited the demand, with one bed apartments spanning up to 60 sqm internally, with an extra 11 sqm to 33 sqm externally.&nbsp;

Each of the 11 one bedroom apartments in the development of 80 are sold out. There are just five two bedroom apartments for sale, priced from $925,000. They start from&nbsp;77 sqm and can reach 112 sqm internally.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5882 project_image_fid=24231]

There are three three bedroom apartments left, which can span nearly 150 sqm. They can be secured between $1,045,000 to $1.09 million.

Each apartment features&nbsp;Caesarstone benchtops, Miele appliances and Parisi tapware.

There&#39;s a fresh launch of the last remaining penthouse, one of four, which is for sale at $2,595,000. The two level apartment with its own private lift features a wide outdoor balcony with district views. It has four balconies in total, as well as three bedrooms and a media room.

<a href="/buildings/haven-norwest-2-natura-rise-baulkham-hills"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/haven_mulpha_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Architect Krikis Tayler designed Haven&nbsp;which has&nbsp;interiors by SJB Interiors. Haven was&nbsp;landscaper Site Image Landscape Architects.

&ldquo;The architectural vision was to create a variety of luxury apartments with a high level of amenity catering for the needs of contemporary life,&quot; Nick&nbsp;Tayler&nbsp;of Krikis Tayler Architects said.

&quot;The building incorporates a large variety of apartment types and sizes designed to cater for an equally wide variety of resident&rsquo;s needs.&rdquo;

Tim Spencer, Mulpha Norwest general manager, said the family and community lifestyle development has been designed to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle offering a heated swimming pool, on site gym, bike sharing facility and beautifully landscaped walkways throughout.

&ldquo;Haven is a premium example of a modern community that provides all the lifestyle and security demanded by the ever increasingly sophisticated owner,&rdquo; Mr Tim Spencer said.

Haven residents have access to the onsite amenities including an indoor heated pool, gym, private media room, music room, a residents&#39; kitchen and private dining area and lounge. There&#39;s also a residents only concierge service.

On street level there&#39;s a cafe and food store and the wellness centre City Cave.

&nbsp;

Haven was completed in late 2018 at 2 Natura Rise in the Hills District suburb around 35km north-west of Sydney.



Why Mulpha's Norwest development Haven was a hit for downsizers and empty nesters

<html><body>
Purchasers at Rise have the unique opportunity to secure a six month settlement at the brand new, two and three-bedroom apartments in Moonee Ponds, helping to take the stress out of selling their existing property.

This means downsizers only need to pay a five per cent deposit while they sell their current home, and if they sell sooner they can settle sooner. 

Rise is the final release of Caydon’s Mason Square precinct, located just 6km from the CBD and walking distance to the bustling Puckle Street.

The 29-level Fender Katsalidis-designed development is made up of two apartment types; Residences and Skyhomes. Located on Levels two to 21, Residence apartments are a mix of one, two and three bedrooms. 

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5328]

On the top eight levels of Rise, Skyhomes are penthouse-style two and three-bedroom apartments with open plan living areas that open onto large balconies. Skyhomes have been designed to maximise space and the views from Melbourne’s north.

Exclusive to Skyhome residents and their guests is access to The Conservatory.

<a href="/buildings/rise-15-everage-street-moonee-ponds"><img alt="" height="1194" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/rise_caydon_roof_bar.jpg" width="1600"></a>

The bar in the sky is complete with a lounge area around a fireplace, a number of banquettes and an outdoor deck.

Located on level two is Stonewater, comprising of an indoor heated pool and spa. On the same level is Club Rise, the building’s health and fitness centre with a fully equipped gymnasium with sauna and a yoga studio.

<a href="/buildings/rise-15-everage-street-moonee-ponds"><img alt="" height="1194" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/rise_outdoor_terrace.jpg" width="1600"></a>

Mason Terrace, an indoor-outdoor entertaining space, is situated on level four. A full-sized indoor kitchen can be booked for entertaining, while outside is a barbecue area.

Rise has its own concierge and resident app, Caydon HQ, allowing residents to manage deliveries, place repair requests and more.

Caydon’s sales and marketing director, Steve Williams, says “Many of our downsizers appreciate the community at Rise, along with the abundance of shared spaces on offer. Alongside the amenities available at Rise, there’s also half an acre of open space throughout the Mason Sq. precinct, so downsizers can enjoy a leisurely lifestyle without the upkeep of a backyard.”  

One-bedroom Residence apartments are priced from $447,000, two-bedroom apartments from $631,000 and three-bedroom apartments from $936,000.

Two-bedroom Skyhome apartments are priced from $864,000 and three-bedrooms start at $1,403,000

 

 
</body></html>

Buyers can secure a Rise apartment with just a five per cent deposit.



Downsizers and upgraders flock to Caydon Homes Moonee Ponds development Rise

Vitale Property Group have pushed the boat out at the sales display centre for the Australian-first $400 million Mondrian Gold Coast Private Residences at Burleigh Heads.

The new centre, located on part of the future site at 48-58&nbsp;The Esplanade, is offering buyers a state-of-the-art experience and deep dive in to&nbsp;Mondrian and its collaborators,&nbsp;including&nbsp;the hotel giant Accor and management firm sbe, who will be responsible for the hotel element, architects Studio Carter and Elenberg Fraser, as well as Vitale themselves.

Private appointments will see prospective buyers receive a tour of the development, from&nbsp;exclusive building artist impressions to the interior design and panoramic views, as well as all the details on the five-star hotel amenities and services that will be integrated with the&nbsp;apartments.

The dual tower development will be built on an expansive 4,037 sqm site on the beachfront The Esplanade. The&nbsp;Mondrian Gold Coast Private Residences is a 25-level residential tower comprising of 83 two, three and four-bedroom residences, skyhomes and penthouses.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1196" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mondrian_4.jpg" width="1600" />

The tower beside will be The Mondrian Gold Coast hotel which will home a 5-star hotel tower with 208 guest rooms.

The apartment owners&nbsp;will receive&nbsp;full access to five-star hotel amenities and services, including a 24-hour concierge and 24-hour room service, valet car parking and personal drivers while also enjoying the privacy of residents-only amenities in their own building.

Two-bedroom apartments starting at $799,000 while three-bedroom apartments with ocean views are priced from $1.95 million.

The selection of Skyhomes, with three and four bedrooms, start from $3.74 million, which the penthouses are priced from $4.89 million.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="738" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mondrian_gold_coast_2.jpg" width="1200" />

Construction is expected to start half way through the year, with completed slated for mid-2023.

Vitale Property Group managing director Chris Vitale said the Mondrian Residences sales display centre was designed to showcase the superior level of luxury and the world-class destination for buyers of prestige property to experience first-hand.

“The Mondrian Residences Sales Display Centre is engaging and informative, enabling interested buyers to feel, touch, and see for themselves what a future would look like living in a Mondrian Gold Coast Residences at Burleigh Heads,” Mr Vitale said.

The sales of Mondrian Gold Coast Private Residences is being managed by luxury apartment marketing agency TOTAL Property Group, which has been receiving strong interest from local, intrastate and interstate buyers.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1142" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mondrian_3.jpg" width="1600" />

TOTAL Property Group managing director Adrian Parsons says the sales display centre is a unique opportunity for prestige property buyers to learn more about the development and its residences, skyhomes and penthouses and how they are integrated within the five-star hotel and the services on offer.

“The centre has been designed to reflect the ultimate luxury of The Mondrian, down to the finest interior design details that show the level of quality and thought that has gone into this landmark development,” Mr Parsons said.&nbsp;

“Prestige property buyers who are wanting to secure an apartment of the highest quality can experience The Mondrian Gold Coast in the state-of-the-art the sales display centre, where they can take their time to discover these&nbsp;superbly-designed&nbsp;apartments and the spectacular views on offer.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The dual tower development will be built on an expansive 4,037 sqm site on the beachfront The Esplanade

Vitale Property go all out with 5-star display centre experience at Mondrian Gold Coast Private Residences 

<html><body>
The ASX-listed developer AV Jennings has seen a wave of local owner-occupiers and downsizers snap up apartments in their latest residential tower Empress Apartments.

Empress Apartments, designed by Elenberg Fraser, is part of the Waterline Place community, a stone's throw from Williamstown Beach. There will be around 450 residences across the project, a combination of apartments and townhouses.

Empress is the third apartment tower of four planned. Due for completion in June, around 75 per cent of the eight level tower has sold. 

[smartcode_project:default project_id=92660]

Caleb Smith, principal architect at Elenberg Fraser, says the sculptural form of Empress reflects the nautical heritage of Williamstown, with profiled corners inspired by the classic bow-wave of ships slicing through water.

"The horizontal profiles of the upper storeys give the building a lightness while reducing glare within the interior spaces," Smith said.

"The interiors have been thoughtfully designed to take full advantage of breathtaking bay scenes and abundant natural light. Extensive glazing to all apartments draws the views into the interior spaces, while dual and corner aspects layouts are designed to capture the sea breezes."

<a href="/buildings/empress-apartments-7-windsor-terrace-williamstown"><img alt="" height="693" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/waterline_empress.jpg" width="1600"></a>

Crowning Empress is a rooftop with 360 degree views. In one direction is the beach and the other the Melbourne skyline.

AVJennings sales agent Susan Lindblom says the owner-occupiers and local down-sizers have been attracted to the development so far. They're selling their family home and downsizing - having accumulated some capital growth from their house and buying an apartment with a small mortgage and banking the rest in to their super.

<a href="/buildings/empress-apartments-7-windsor-terrace-williamstown"><img alt="" height="1068" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/waterline_rooftop.jpg" width="1600"></a>

One of Waterline Place's newer apartment buildings GEM, sold out recently, with just the penthouse remaining.

Following the completion of Empress, there will be just one apartment building left. Dubbed The Merchant, the development will comprise around 140 one, two and three bedroom apartments, as well as a selection of upper level skyhomes.

It has been proposed to be seven levels, which will be the last building of that height in the City of Hobsons Bay. Recent regulations has put a cap on residential apartment developments which can't be higher than two or three storeys in the city.

The Merchant is set to launch this toward the end of the year.

Also launching this year, in the next few months, is Piper Townhomes. There will be 14 three-storey townhomes, 10 fronting Nelson Place, four set at the rear on Waterline Place.

They follow the nearly complete Bower Townhomes, two banks of six three storey townhomes which have been favoured by professional couples with dual income and no kids, as well as families.

<a href="/buildings/the-bower-residences-kanowna-street-williamstown"><img alt="" height="899" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/bower_townhomes.jpg" width="1200"></a> 
The Bower Townhomes

The Bower Townhomes arguably have the best location of the townhouses, set opposite Point Jelly Brand Reserve with water views. They range in price from $1.9 million up to $2.35 million.
</body></html>

Local owner-occupiers and downsizers snap up Empress Apartments in AVJennings Waterline Place, Williamstown development

<html><body>
Cedar Woods are offering to match the Victorian Government's $15,000 HomeBuilder Grant, which expires at the end of March, at its new Williams Landing development Lincoln Apartments.

The offer from Cedar Woods, paired with the $10,000 First Home Buyers Grant from the Government, gives buyers $40,000 worth of savings.

That puts the remaining two bedroom apartments for sale at $379,000 instead of $419,000, and that's without further stamp-duty concessions for eligible buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27675]Investors too can benefit from Cedar Woods offer.

Despite the HomeBuilder Grant only being eligible for owner-occupiers, Cedar Woods are offering investors the same $15,000 they're giving to owner-occupiers.

That puts a two bedroom purchase for investors at just over $400,000, well below the Melbourne median apartment price of $582,833, calculated by CoreLogic.

Lincoln Apartments form part of Cedar Woods' wider masterplanned community west of Melbourne's CBD.

<a href="/new-townhouses/addison-walk-williams-landing"><img alt="" height="770" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/lincoln_apartments_2_0.jpg" width="1200"></a>

The DKO Architecture-designed five storey building has just 69 one and two bedroom apartments. There are only two bedroom apartments left starting from $419,000, which includes a parking spot. Two bedroom, two bathroom apartments are priced from $458,000.

The contemporary entry features sculptural awning elements which form a shelter around the lobby.

Buyers get the opportunity to tailor their apartments, with light or dark palette options of textured timbers, honed stone, loop pile carpet and large format porcelain tiles.

<a href="/new-townhouses/addison-walk-williams-landing"><img alt="" height="881" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/lincoln_apartments_cedar_woods.jpg" width="1200"></a>

North facing balconies frame views over the surrounding green spaces. There's a resident's gym and a rooftop garden with barbecue facilities and seating areas.

The project is conveniently located across the road from Williams Landing Shopping Centre and a short walk Williams Landing Station where there's a 30-minute train in to Flinders Station.
</body></html>

The remaining two bedroom apartments can be bought from $379,000 instead of $419,000


Two bedroom Williams Landing apartments from $379,000 as Cedar Woods match $15k HomeBuilder Grant until March 31

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/smith-by-valli-collingwood-224-228-smith-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Smith Collingwood</a> is a new boutique apartment development bringing a refined, design-led approach to one of Melbourne’s most established inner-city neighbourhoods.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pandolfini-architects">Pandolfini Architects</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/lisa-buxton-interiors">Lisa Buxton</a>, Smith by Valli sits on iconic Smith Street and comprises just 22 residences tailored toward owner-occupiers seeking a more considered style of apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367540]

The design of Smith focuses on a north-facing orientation across all residences, a relatively uncommon feature in dense inner-Melbourne settings. Each apartment has been planned to maximise natural light and outlook, alongside a material palette defined by warm tones, custom joinery, and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances.

The development comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with pricing currently ranging from just under $1 million to around $4.85 million for the premium penthouse-level residences, reflecting growing demand for luxury owner-occupier product in Melbourne’s inner urban market.

Residents will also have access to a private rooftop garden designed as an elevated retreat above the city, &nbsp;featuring curated landscaping, veggie boxes, intimate seating areas and spaces for relaxed gatherings. Sustainability has also been integrated into the project through a 7-star energy rating and two secure bicycle facilities for every residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367529]

Smith by Valli sits in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most established retail and hospitality strips, within walking distance of venues such as Falco Bakery, Carnation Canteen and Alimentari, alongside parks and everyday services. With a Walk Score of 99, the location reinforces the project’s positioning toward buyers prioritising walkability and access over car dependency.

With only a limited number of residences, Smith reflects growing demand for smaller, highly curated apartment developments that prioritise design quality, liveability, and connection to neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140747]

Smith by Valli delivers a refined collection of luxury residences to Melbourne’s inner north

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a>’s 640 Bourke Street stands as a testament to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a>’s ability to bridge its storied past with a bold vision for the future.&nbsp;

Rising above the heritage-listed Eliza Tinsley building, the development reflects a broader shift toward adaptive reuse in the city, where historical assets are retained and reinterpreted as part of new residential development.

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> incorporates the Eliza Tinsley building as its foundation, housing a grand gallery and lobby space that serve as both a functional and symbolic centrepiece. The heritage façade informs the tower’s design, creating a connection between Melbourne’s past and its contemporary skyline.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365684]

Above this historic base, the 68-storey tower will deliver just over 600 residences, a notable reduction from earlier schemes, reflecting a deliberate move toward larger-format apartments and a stronger owner-occupier focus.

Unlike traditional CBD developments that prioritised investor stock, 640 Bourke Street has been repositioned to respond to changing buyer expectations.

"The discussion was all around making 640 Bourke Street the best residence to live in, to be much more focused on the people in the building rather than people looking at the building," Marsland explained.&nbsp;

This shift is evident in the development’s interiors, which emphasise practical luxury with spacious layouts, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.&nbsp;

“What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Lauren Sheldon, Far East Consortium’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365687]

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang added, "We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."&nbsp;

Amenities spanning more than 3,000 sqm across multiple levels further reinforce this focus on resident experience. These include a pool, gym, co-working areas, and a range of hospitality-inspired spaces such as a whisky lounge, library, and private dining rooms, many drawing reference from traditional bathhouses and Melbourne’s laneway culture.

"We wanted to make both the pool and the gym area to be absolutely destinational, and when you traverse across to these spaces, there is a gentle familiarity to the beautiful notions of the hammams and the Roman baths, a gentle nod to history," Chang noted.

At street level, the project contributes to the ongoing transformation of the western CBD, with upgrades to Langs Lane and the introduction of retail, hospitality, and gallery spaces designed to activate the precinct and strengthen its connection to the surrounding city fabric.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

The location places residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and the Docklands waterfront, positioning the development within a rapidly evolving inner-city neighbourhood.

"We believe it's the best site left in the city of Melbourne," Craig Williams, Executive Director at Far East Consortium, said.&nbsp;

640 Bourke Street is Far East Consortium’s 14th building in Melbourne’s western CBD.

"A very elegant designed building. It's going to be a Melbourne statement for many, many years to come."

One-bedroom apartments are priced from around $640,000, with 640 Bourke Street targeting completion in 2029.

Renders shown are Artist's Impressions correct as of May 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Heritage-led design anchors Far East Consortium’s 640 Bourke St, Melbourne

<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 Studio to craft the interiors for The Frederick, BIG Projects' new Mermaid Beach project and YSG Studio'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 Studio, with landscape design by LDG Landscape Architecture.

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 unique detailing and compelling design,"&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]

Sydney’s YSG Studio makes Gold Coast multi-residential debut with BIG Projects at The Frederick

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;

Joel Robinson

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Joel Robinson

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News